What Are The Pros And Cons Of Asphalt And Metal Roofing?

Roofs are found in a wide variety of sizes, pitches, slopes, colors, and complexity.  Deciding on the best roofing material can pose an issue even when you had initially settled on one type. Additionally, if you have a roof that is leaking, you might be unclear about what to pick. A seasoned roofer, such as Quarve Contracting, Inc., can help you greatly on whether to use asphalt shingles or metal roofing. Both of these materials are widely discussed in construction work however the final decision will be yours.

There are many aspects to consider when comparing asphalt and metal roofing.  Some of these are discussed below.

Durability

Metal roofs, for years now, have been hailed for their longevity. The galbanum steel which combines the strength of carbon steel and corrosion resistant aluminum and Zinc results in a powerful component that some manufactures give up to 30-50 years guarantee. The materials prevent curling, flaking, splitting, or drying out. According to the insurance industry, the typical replacement age of say a 40 year architectural asphalt shingle is between 8-12 years as they decay in the sun with time thus contributing to your maintenance costs over time.


Cost

What determines the cost of metal roofing, just like asphalt roofing, includes a variety of things such as geographical area, size, and the complexity of the roof. The fact that metal roofing is actually a premium upgrade the up-front cost is more than asphalt with the rate going up to three times. The installation process of the metal roofing raises the cost. However, the long time cost from metal roofing is less and you can save up to 60% when it comes to maintenance and installation costs.


Energy sustainability

For starters, metal roofs are well known insulators and as reported by Metal Construction Association (MCA) you can save up to 42% on utility bills as compared to the asphalt type. In addition, this type of roofing material is recyclable thus contributing to energy conservation. The National Association of Homebuilders Research Center reports that over 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingles are dumped every year in US landfills. This means asphalt material doesn’t contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable energy practices. If you would like more related information about roofing, then you can visit the website of ehow.

Versatility in Designs and Patterns

Metal roofing gives you many options as far as design shapes, colors, and configurations. Asphalt shingles are much more limited in these choices.

Fireproofing

Asphalt shingles are highly combustible plus they can spread fires which a metal roofing can help quell as it's fire resistant.

Installation 

These are merely a few of the differences but there is always a consensus that with the complicated installation of metal roofs, the cost will keep escalating. Asphalt shingles are easy to install on rafters and hence their popularity over the years. Whatever you do, allow the roof contractor guide all your roofing work and as reported by Metal Construction Association (MCA) you can save up to 42% on utility bills when compared to the asphalt type. In addition, this type of roofing material is recyclable thus contributing to energy conservation. The National Association of Homebuilders Research Center reports that over 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingles are dumped every year in US landfills. This means asphalt material doesn’t contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable energy practices.

Versatility in Designs and Patterns

Metal roofing accords you a chance to pick many designs shapes, colors and configurations but asphalt shingles are singular in terms of all these thus denying you a choice.

Fireproofing

Asphalt shingles are highly combustible plus they can spread fires which a metal roofing can certainly help quell as it is fire resistant.

Installation 

These are merely a few of the differences but there's always a consensus that with the complicated installation of metal roofs, the expense will keep escalating. Asphalt shingles are really easy to install on rafters and hence their popularity through the years. Whatever you do, allow the roof contractor guide all your roofing work and help in your choice.