Asphalt vs. Metal Roofs

Metal Roofing

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It keeps you, your family and your belongings safe throughout all seasons. That’s why it’s important that you take your time in considering what roof material is the right choice for your circumstances. There are many benefits to asphalt roofs and metal roofs alike, but they vary in several key ways.

Asphalt Roof Pros and Cons

Asphalt roofs come in two different varieties: a newer fiberglass shingle option and traditional organic shingles. Both asphalt options cost significantly less than metal roofs and are easier and faster to correctly install and repair.

Fiberglass shingles have a fiberglass core covered with an asphalt layer, while organic shingles have heavy felt that is then covered in asphalt. Fiberglass is the more durable option and has fire resistance. Asphalt roofs can last for several decades with the proper care and are often backed by 15- to 30-year warranties.

Pros of Asphalt Roofs:

  • Traditional, layered appearance extremely popular in urban and suburban settings
  • Highly customizable to match the home for greater aesthetic appeal
  • Absorb and retain winter sunlight to keep the whole house warmer
  • Higher-quality soundproofing than metal roofs
  • Often contain recycled material and use less energy during manufacturing than metal roofs
  • Can now be recycled after use and turned into valuable materials for road construction and maintenance projects
  • Make it easier to properly ventilate to avoid condensation under the roof
  • Broader selection of materials, price ranges and contractors who can do the work properly

Asphalt Roof Cons:

  • Old roof needs to be removed before installation
  • Heavy, slightly less durable material that can be damaged by heavy wind and hail
  • Absorbs summer heat and can make the home less energy-efficient in hot climates
  • Cheaper to repair but sometimes requires more frequent repairs than metal roofs

Metal Roof Pros and Cons

Metal roofs can come in panels, tiles or shingles and cost significantly more than asphalt roofs in almost all instances — sometimes by up to 30 to 50 percent or more. They come in a variety of materials like aluminum, which doesn’t need coating, and steel, which requires specialized treatment for the prevention of rust. Metal roofs can also be made of titanium, copper, stainless steel and zinc.

Metal Roof Pros:

  • Stays cool in the summer, as the reflective surface diminishes transfer of heat into house, adding energy efficiency to your home
  • Light enough to be installed over an old roof
  • Made of more durable, fire-resistant material that can withstand outside elements with little maintenance
  • Often comes with a 50-year or lifetime warranty
  • Eligible in some areas for tax credits, insurance discounts and energy-saver rebates
  • 100 percent recyclable
  • Need repairs less often

Cons of Metal Roofs:

  • More difficult and expensive to repair — full sheets often need to be replaced
  • Unpopular appearance suited to agricultural setting but rarely seen in most residential areas
  • Less extensive variety of colors than asphalt and often requires additional coatings over time to maintain original color
  • Can rust over time
  • Often requires additional parts like snow guards to prevent heavy snow from falling
  • Condensation can form underneath
  • More difficult to install
  • Can be noisy if not installed properly
  • Inferior soundproofing in comparison to asphalt roofs

Roof Options at Sunshine Contracting Corp.

At Sunshine Contracting Corp., we offer superior asphalt roof options, installation, replacement and repair services so you can have your dream home starting with the right roof on top. We offer quality customer service throughout several Virginia counties and an expert crew of professionals who know how to work quickly and correctly to save you time and money.

Contact us right away to learn more about our quality roofing options and make the right choice between an asphalt and metal roof.

Schedule Your Free At-Home Consultation