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Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Roofing
If you’re planning a Denver roof replacement, you likely know that many different residential roofing materials are available. While there’s no harm in going off the beaten path, selecting a popular and time-tested roofing material is a great way to gain reliability in your new roof. Asphalt shingle roofing and metal roofing are the two most popular roofing materials used for homes in the U.S. Despite the fact that both of these materials are widely-used and practical, there are several differences between them.
If you’re struggling to choose between metal and asphalt roofing, we’re here to help. Let’s how these materials differ for your Denver roof replacement.
Durability and Longevity
Between metal and asphalt roofing, metal is significantly more durable. In fact, metal roofs often come with warranties of 30 to 50 years. While asphalt shingle roofs typically only withstand 15 to 20 years, metal roofing can last for 40 to 70 years.
Asphalt shingles are particularly susceptible to damage from prolonged water exposure. Excess moisture can lead to the development of mold and algae, and ponding water can lead to roof leaks. Ice dam formation on asphalt shingle roofing can also lead to cracked shingles, ultimately reducing the lifespan of the roof.
While metal roofs are more durable than asphalt shingle roofing, they may still become damaged due to falling branches or extreme hailstorms. Certain types of metal are more durable than others, so you should discuss your metal roofing options with your Denver roofing company before making a final decision.
Style Options
When it comes to style options, the battle between metal and asphalt roofing is a tie. Both of these roofing materials come in a range of colors, styles, and designs. Additionally, metal and asphalt roofing can be manufactured to look like other types of roofing, including wood and slate.
That said, metal roofing tends to have a more appropriate look for sleek, contemporary buildings, rather than cabins and rustic homes. Metal has a naturally sleek look and may look out of place on country-style homes.
However, with so many style options available for both metal and asphalt roofing, roof style shouldn’t be the main factor that you consider in your choice of roofing material.
Weather-Resistance
Here in Denver, where the weather is often unpredictable, weather resistance is an important element of any roofing material choice. While both metal and asphalt roofing provide good protection against the elements, metal roofing provides greater resistance against a range of weather conditions. Protection against leaks, high winds, and excess moisture is a big perk of metal roofing.
Asphalt shingle roofing offers protection against uplift. However, this roofing material doesn’t provide the best protection in severe weather conditions. Additionally, if your asphalt shingle roof isn’t exposed to sunlight enough, it may develop water damage.
Affordability
When it comes to affordability, asphalt roofing is king. It’s the most affordable roofing material available, allowing homeowners to complete a Denver roof replacement on a tight budget.
While metal roofing does have a significantly longer lifespan than asphalt roofing, it’s also much more expensive. You can expect a metal roof to cost about triple the price of an asphalt roof. Of course, the metal that you choose will impact the overall cost of the new roof. Copper, zinc, and stainless steel are premium metals that will largely increase the price of your new roof.
Ease of Installation
Ease of installation is a factor to consider in your new roof because it will alter the duration of the project. Asphalt roofing is the easiest to install, and it typically only takes one day to install an asphalt roof. This means that your home won’t be under construction for long. Installing metal roofing is a more involved process, though it won’t take as long as the installation process for heavy roofing materials like slate and concrete.
Environmental Benefits
Having an environmentally-friendly roof is a priority among many homeowners. Between metal and asphalt, metal is the more sustainable option. Metal roofing can typically be fully recycled at the end of its lifespan, reducing the amount of waste heading to a landfill. Additionally, metal roofing doesn’t need to be replaced as often as asphalt roofing.
Contact All Seasons Exteriors today to learn more about your material options for a Denver roof replacement.