One common question that homeowners ask: Is a Metal Roof Cheaper than Shingles? Both these roofing materials have their advantages and disadvantages along the lines of cost, durability, aesthetic appearance, and maintenance. It is important to understand not only the initial costs but also the different long-term expenses tied to either solution so as to arm yourself with more satisfactory knowledge to make a better decision.
This in-depth guide lays out a comparison of the cost of metal roofs and shingle roofs, taking into consideration installation, material lifespan, energy efficiency and maintenance. Therefore, by the end of the article, you will be far more enlightened on what roofing option would suit your home and budget situation best.
Understanding Metal Roofs
Although metal roofs have been around for several years, they were not commonly used, but they are now often seen in houses because of the development of materials and technology. Metal roofs used to be limited to businesses, commercial centres, or even barns, but nowadays, many houses use metal roofs.
Types of Metal Roofs
Several types of metal roofing materials are available, each with varying costs and characteristics:
Steel Roofing: Another frequently used metal roof type, steel, offers great endurance efficiency and, in most cases, is galvanized.
Aluminum Roofing: Quite flexible and resistant to corrosion, aluminium is suitable for dwelling units in regions with a marine climate but is costlier than steel.
Copper Roofing: One of the most costly materials is copper, which is famous for its duration and looks. Copper can last for over a century with regular maintenance.
Zinc Roofing: Zinc has its own natural weathering ability that forms a patina over time, and it is environmentally friendly. However, it is relatively steeply-priced.
Tin Roofing: While tin is not used as a roofing material much in today’s world, some residents opt for it because of its country look.
Of the above materials, cost differentiation exists, with steel and aluminium being the most preferred by those with residential roofing needs.
Metal Roof Costs
Upfront Cost: The expense of a metal roof is relatively higher than that of a shingle roof. On average, metal is estimated to cost around $8 to $16 per square foot plus installation, depending on the type of installation and complexity involved. This means, therefore, that for an ordinary 2000-square-foot house, the cost of having a metal roof can vary between $16,000 and $32,000 and more.
Longevity: It is probably one of the well-known features offered by a metal roof. Metal roofs last, on average, around 40 to 70 years, depending on the type of metal, which would still be much longer than asphalt, tile, and stone-surfaced roofing if you consider the lifespan of a home. That means a metal roof will not normally require any replacement for the life of a home, which certainly could save you money in the long run.
Advantages of Metal Roofs
Durability: Metal roofs are very sustainable and resistant to weather changes such as storms, rainfall and even snow storms.
Longevity: As stated above, a metal roofing system can last for about three times longer than that of a shingle one, meaning fewer service callouts for replacement.
Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect heat from the sun, thus making them Energy efficient during hot periods. This can lead to a large-scale reduction of energy bills, particularly in arid regions of the world.
Low Maintenance: Shingles also need to be repaired often, while metal roof installation only needs minimal maintenance after installation is done.
Fire Resistance: Metal roofs are fire resistant and, in fact, are fire-rated, while shingles can catch fire easily.
Disadvantages of Metal Roofs
Higher Initial Cost: The initial cost of the metal roof is much higher than that of shingle roofs.
Noise: Metal roofs are noisy during rainy periods, especially if there is no adequate insulation.
Aesthetic Preferences: Although there are many styles and colours of metal roofing, some people prefer the look of shingles to the sleek, modern appearance of metal.
Understanding Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of shingles throughout North America. It is economical and versatile and provides many homeowners with a reliable yet attractive roof.
Types of Shingle Roofs
There are several types of shingles available, including:
3-Tab Shingles: They are the simplest and least expensive type, provide a flat profile, and are easy to carry in the pocket.
Architectural Shingles: Also known as dimensional shingles or laminated shingles, these are thicker and stronger than 3-tab Shingles. It provides a more textured finish and is made to replicate higher classes of roofing materials such as wood or slate.
Luxury Shingles: Premium quality, are thicker and closely replicate the looks of slate or wood shakes. They lend exceptional durability but are rather expensive.
Shingle Roof Costs
Upfront Cost: The average price for installing an asphalt shingle roof is in the approximate range of $3.50-$5.50 per square foot, which amounts to around $7,000 to $11,000 for a 2000-square-foot dwelling. As you have noticed, this is lower in initial cost when compared to the use of a metal roof.
Longevity: These roofs have a life span that ranges from 20 to 30 years on average; however, it may extend depending upon the quality of the material and other environmental conditions. Although shingle roofs are not as costly as metal roofs in the beginning, you’ll be more likely to replace the shingle roof before you do a metal roof, and this will increase the overall lifetime cost.
Advantages of Shingle Roofs
Affordability: Whilst being one of the most economical forms of roofing, shingles are still very popular among homeowners.
Installation: Shingle roofs are generally cheaper and quicker to install, thereby reducing labour costs.
Aesthetic Variety: Asphalt shingles come in different styles, colours and textures, allowing homeowners to select the preferred style of the roof.
Repair Costs: Shingle damage is cheaper compared to that of metal roofs, and in case of damage, broken shingles are usually fixed easily.
Disadvantages of Shingle Roofs
Shorter Lifespan: This means that shingle roofs are less durable than metal roofs, with roofs lasting between 20 to 30 years before they are replaced again.
Higher Maintenance: Shingle Roofs are more vulnerable to damaging elements like hail storms, high winds, and heavy rains. Homeowners may probably require repairs or replacement periodically.
Less Energy Efficient: Unlike metals, shingles allow excess heat from the sun to penetrate the building with low reflection rates, making them less Energy efficient than metal roofs.
Environmental Impact: While asphalt shingles are derived from petroleum, metal roofs are more environmentally friendly since most metal roofs are often made from recycled material.
Comparing the Total Cost: Metal Roof vs. Shingles
When comparing metal roofs to shingle roofs, it is highly advised to look beyond initial prices and focus on durability, energy efficiency, maintenance, and resale value. Each roofing option provides a very different view when total cost is considered.
Upfront Cost
- Metal Roof: The initial installation of a metal roof is $16,000-$32,000 for a home of about 2,000 square feet.
- Shingle Roof: The cost of installing a shingle roof for the same size home would be between $7,000-$11,000, making it a cheaper option.
Lifespan and Replacement Costs
- Metal Roof: Metal roofs might last 40-70 years, greater than the life of the home itself. This should allow one to save the hassle of changing roofs multiple times.
- Shingle Roof: Shingle roofs normally last for 20-30 years, so you may need to change a shingle roof once or twice in your lifetime, hence doubling and tripling the total established cost.
Maintenance Cost
- Metal Roof: Metal roofs impose a lower maintenance position than shingles. Moss growth, curling, and loss of granules, which are frequent problems for shingles, are usually not encountered with metal.
- Shingle Roof: Shingles require much more frequent inspections and repairs in locations that suffer frequent rainfall or severe weather. Fixed-shingle damage or leak repairs add a great deal to the long-term cost of a shingle roof.
Energy Efficiency
- Metal Roof: Metal roofs reflect solar heat and, therefore, require a lesser amount of energy for cooling, especially if the climate is warm. The cost of energy bills shows a significant reduction for homeowners who have installed metal roofs, although the cost of installing metal roofing is higher than that of other roofing solutions.
- Shingle Roof: Shingles tend to absorb heat, which may lead to high cooling costs; this is especially true in regions with hot climate conditions. Although there are some Energy Star-rated shingles, their reflectiveness is lower than that of metal roofing.
Resale Value
- Metal Roof: Metal roofs work pretty well at increasing home resale value as they are long-lasting, durable and come with a sleek outlook. Consumers are usually ready to spend more money for the purchase of homes with roofs that last longer and need fewer repairs.
- Shingle Roof: Nevertheless, a well-maintained shingle roof will not hurt your home’s resale value; the potential concerns that may arise from buyers’ end are future maintenance or even replacement costs if the shingle roof is old.
Environmental Impact
- Metal Roof: Metal roofs are produced from recycled material, and most of them are recyclable when they reach their end. Moreover, their energy efficiency lowers a home’s carbon impact.
- Shingle Roof: Shingles are made of petroleum and usually, when replaced, are disposed of in landfills. Some recycling programs are present for asphalt shingles; however, it is known that overall environmental impact is higher than with metal roofs.
When Is a Metal Roof Cheaper?
Although there may be many factors to be considered, a metal roof may not appear cheap at first glance, but it will be cheaper in the long run. Here are some situations where a metal roof may prove to be the better investment:
- Longevity: If you have no intention of moving for several years or even decades, the lifetime of a metal roof can easily pay for the cost difference between it and the more traditional shingle roof.
- Energy Savings: The energy loss in warm climates is much lower compared to roofs made of other materials; thus, a metal roof can ‘pay for itself,’ and the costs of installation could suffice if the weather is hot.
- Low Maintenance: If one resides in an area that experiences rampant weather conditions, then a metal roof is more economical since it does not require frequent repairs.
- Environmental Concerns: Although the initial cost is significantly higher for metal roofs, the sustainability of metal roofs makes them ideal for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Conclusion
When comparing metal roofs and shingle roofs, other than cost, one needs to consider durability and efficiency in maintenance, energy use, and resale value. Although installing a metal roof costs more than an asphalt shingle roof initially, its longevity, energy efficiency and low maintenance costs make it a more economical long-term choice for many homeowners.
However, the shingle roofs cost less initially and come in a variety of designs, giving the homeowner or the architects tremendous options for styling, thus making it perfect for homeowners who may not intend to stay in that house for more than two or three decades or so. However, shingle roofs have to be replaced more frequently and this means that the cost of shingle roofs will be higher in the long run.
Ultimately, it is a matter of your requirements, budget, and life spent in that house that will earn you the verdict between metal roofs and shingle roofs.
Looking to Upgrade Your Roof? Let River City Roofing Help You Decide!
Which is better for your home you ask: metal or shingles? Our professional staff at River City Roofing will assist you and install the best roof to suit the climate, depending on your locality and your budget. Whether you’re looking for a metal roof for durability and Energy efficiency or for quality shingles for affordability and versatility, River City Roofing can cater to your roofing needs.
Contact River City Roofing today for an appointment for your free consultation and an estimate of your project.
