Among the widespread options for roof replacement or installation, many homeowners in Cypress, TX, choose metal roofing and asphalt shingles. The decision is to weigh the pros and cons of each option and decide what best suits one’s specific needs, budget, and preferences. In this blog, we compare metal roofing and asphalt shingles so you can make the best decision for your home. This guide will not only provide you with suggestions if you need roof replacement but also advice for roof repair in Cypress.
Understanding Metal Roofing and Asphalt Shingles
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a type of roof made from metal materials like steel, aluminum, or copper. It’s known for being strong, long-lasting, and able to handle bad weather like heavy rain or snow. Metal roofs can last a really long time, often over 50 years, and they come in different styles and colors. They’re also good at reflecting heat, which can help keep your house cooler in hot weather.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular type of roofing made from a mix of asphalt and small pieces of fiberglass or organic material. They are lightweight, affordable, and easy to install, which is why many people choose them for their homes. Asphalt shingles come in different colors and styles, and they usually last around 20 to 30 years. They provide good protection against rain and wind but may not last as long as other types of roofing.
Understanding the Difference Between Metal Roofing and Asphalt Shingles
- Durability and Lifespan
One of the first questions homeowners will ask when deciding on a roofing material is how long it will last. In this aspect, metal roofing is clear ahead of asphalt shingles.
Metal Roofs:
Metal roofs are very durable and can last from 40 to 70 years, depending on the type of metal and installation. They are resistant to extreme weather, such as high winds, hail, or even fire. To Cypress homeowners who have a severe climate condition, a metal roof presents long-term reliability.
Asphalt Shingles:
Asphalt shingles last between 15 and 30 years. Though they are very strong and can withstand most environmental factors, they are more prone to damage due to strong winds and fluctuations in temperatures. With time, asphalt shingles become brittle. They start cracking, curling, and losing their granular finish, which calls for frequent servicing or replacement.
Metal roofing may be your best option if you want a material that requires fewer roof repairs in Cypress.
- Cost Considerations
Cost is always the deciding factor for many. That being said, the cost of Roofing materials and installation may vary considerably depending on what you choose.
Metal Roofing:
The cost of using metal is generally a bit higher in the short term. For the most part, installation costs for the various types of metals fall between $5 and $14 per square foot. So, though the material might cost more, the service life will be so long that you equate the higher cost with avoiding myriad repairs and replacements down the line.
Asphalt Shingles:
Asphalt shingles are the least expensive form of roofing, costing $1.50 to $5.50 per square foot installed. As far as budget-conscious homeowners are concerned, this is an attractive type of roofing because it has the lowest up-front cost. Keep in mind that while they are cheaper, they might have to be replaced a little sooner than a metal roof.
When comparing two options, never forget to consider long-term plans. If you are staying in your forever house in Cypress, TX, then investing in a metal roof will be worth it. However, if you want to sell the house within three years, then asphalt shingles might be the best option for you.
- Energy Efficiency
As energy efficiency plays a critical role in hot and sunny Cypress, by staying at that place under the hot Texas sun for most of your years, you would prefer driving your expenses low.
Metal Roofing:
Metal Roofs Reflect Sunlight. Since metal roofs reflect sunlight from all around them, these houses are able to keep cooler during summertime, thereby saving up to 25% of energy during these hot seasons. Some types of metal roofing also possess reflective coatings that increase their efficiency in terms of energy usage.
Asphalt Shingles:
Asphalt shingles absorb more heat from the sun and thus tend to increase cooling costs. However, there are energy-efficient options available within shingles with cooling granules for reflecting sunlight. In general, however, metal roofing is still likely to be more energy-efficient than asphalt shingles.
Metal roofing offers an evident benefit for energy-conscious homeowners interested in keeping cooling as cheap as possible. It can be very helpful in Cypress, TX, a city with extreme summer temperatures.
- Maintenance and Repairs
Every homeowner must pay attention to roof maintenance. Both metal roofing and asphalt shingles need upkeep, but the type and frequency could differ.
Metal Roofing:
Metal roofs require little maintenance. They neither crack, shrink, nor erode quickly, and they leak far less than asphalt shingles. Although more difficult and expensive to repair when damage is done, repairs to metal roofing are harder since specialized skills are needed to fix a dent or replace a damaged panel.
Asphalt Shingles:
Compared to other materials, asphalt shingles are relatively easy and inexpensive to repair, but repairs may have to be done more often. Storms, heavy winds, and general exposure to weather conditions sometimes loosen shingles, causing cracking, curling, and various other damage, and thus, roof repair in Cypress will require much more frequent.
If you want a roof that requires less hands-on work, you should settle on metal roofing. But if you can tolerate the usual repair sometimes and just want an easy fix at a lower price, then asphalt shingles would probably be fine for you.
- Aesthetics and Style Options
Its aesthetic appeal contributes much to your home’s curb appeal, so aesthetics are important. A couple of things to remember: metal roofing and asphalt shingles come in various styles and colors, but they don’t look the same.
Metal Roofing:
Metal roofs are sleek and modern, with different styles available: standing seam panels, metal shingles, and tiles. This look can be really unique for homeowners in Cypress, TX, who want something modern. It’s also available in many colors and finishes, giving homeowners a much-desired level of customization.
Asphalt shingles:
These are the most traditional. They come in the most varied colors and textures, making them suitable for most homeowners seeking to match their roofs with the style of their home’s architecture. Though not as striking as metal roofs, asphalt shingles also give a classic view to most dwellings.
Ultimately, the choice between metal roofing and asphalt shingles will depend on personal preference. For a trendy, striking roof, metal would be the best option. Asphalt shingles will have to be the best for those who opt for a more classic, sleek look.
- Environmental Impact
Going down to date, many homeowners are also concerned with the environmental impact that their roofing materials would leave in return.
Metal Roofs:
Metal roofs are eco-friendly because the material is sourced from recycled components, and they are fully recyclable at the end of their life cycle. Additionally, their energy-saving attributes help reduce the general consumption of energy.
Asphalt Shingles:
Asphalt shingles are not eco-friendly because they are made from petroleum-based products. Most asbestos shingles are dumped in landfills. They also do not have the same energy-saving attributes as metal roofing.
If being environmentally friendly is the top choice, then using metal for your roofing would be the better choice.
Conclusion
Metal roofs and asphalt shingles are known to have their areas of strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your needs and budget. Experienced roofers in Cypress, such as Blue Rhino Roofing, will be able to bring you valuable insights on which might suit you well. In a nutshell, durability, cost, and energy efficiency might make a difference in choosing between metal or asphalt roofing for your house.