When homeowners are deciding on which roofing material to use for their home, they face a tough decision between metal and shingle roofs. Both have pros and cons that should be carefully considered. Before you hire a roofing contractor in Lake Norman, know the facts to make the most informed choice!
Shingle Roofs are the Most Common Types
Shingle roofs are the most common type of roofing material used for homes, and for good reason. They provide excellent value for their cost, as they usually don’t require any special maintenance and last up to 20 years with proper care. They come in a variety of colors, styles, textures, and materials, so they can match the aesthetic of any house. Additionally, shingle roofs have an excellent fire rating due to their composition.
Metal Roofs Do Provide Many Advantages
Metal roofs, however, offer protection from weather conditions that can damage traditional shingles over time. Wind, rain, snow, and other inclement weather will not affect metal roofs nearly as much as traditional asphalt shingles. Metal roofs are also more energy-efficient than shingles, thanks to their reflective properties that keep the temperature inside your home cooler during the summer months while trapping heat during the winter months. This can lower your cooling and heating bills significantly over time. However, metal roofs tend to be more expensive upfront than traditional asphalt shingle roofs due to the materials used in construction.
Metal Roofs Require Expert Installation for Longevity
Another major difference between metal and shingle roofs is their installation process. Metal roofs must be installed by experienced professionals who know how to properly handle the materials used; otherwise, the roof could cause more harm than good if done improperly or incorrectly installed. Shingle roof installations can often be done by DIYers or roofers with less experience because the installation process is simpler than metal roofing installations; however, it’s still advised that even for shingle roof installations you should hire an experienced professional so there are no issues down the line due to improper installation or other factors, such as water runoff causing future damage.
Metal Roofs Last Longer. Period.
Finally, metal roofs typically last much longer than traditional asphalt shingle roofs do; they can often last 50 years or longer depending on the upkeep and maintenance schedule followed, compared to 20 years provided by most asphalt shingle warranties. Metal roofs also come with a manufacturer warranty that helps protect against any defects in craftsmanship or materials used in construction. It also provides peace of mind that you’re covered if anything goes wrong due to faulty installation or manufacturing errors resulting in premature wear and tear over time.
Both metal and shingle roofs offer various benefits and drawbacks that must be carefully considered when making a decision. Which one is better for you? That really depends on your budget and aesthetic preference. Metal roofs are more expensive but last longer, while shingle roofs are more budget-friendly and require less of an investment. If you are ready to replace your old roof, contact our roofing contractor in Lake Norman experts to get the ball rolling today!
