Choosing roofing materials is one of the most vital decisions when it comes to building, renovating, or repairing a home. Given that picking the wrong option can lead to weather-related disasters and other emergencies, you can’t point your finger and pick at random for this particular decision. 

While structural integrity certainly isn’t the only factor to consider, it should be at the forefront of picking which roofing material to go with. Other contributors include price, ease of installation, maintenance costs, and how it will work with the building style. 

So, what’s better, asphalt or metal roofing? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. It’s important to weigh all of the pros, cons, and personal factors before settling on which option best fits your home. 

Getting to Know Asphalt Shingles

When it comes to affordability, asphalt shingles win that race. They’re often a favorable option for anyone working with a tight budget. Additionally, the lightweight nature of the material makes it a breeze to install, which cuts down on both labor costs and the amount of time it takes to get the job done. 

For anyone weighing aesthetics into their decision, asphalt shingles come in a slew of different styles and colors. That allows personalization with color and style coordination that pairs well with a wide variety of traditional and modern homes.

Alternatively, while upfront costs are cheaper, asphalt shingles only last around 15-30 years, depending on factors like weather and wear. That makes it a great starter roof option, especially for anyone on a budget who may want to upgrade in the future but isn’t specifically looking for something long-term. With that being said, it’s not an ideal choice for locations with severe weather. Conditions like hail, strong winds, and even extreme temperatures can affect their longevity. 

The Ins and Outs of Metal Roofing

As far as quality and durability go, metal roofing is the superior choice. Not only does metal roofing have a long lifespan that typically lasts 50 years or more, but it also requires minimal maintenance, which contributes to overall costs. Appearance-wise, metal is a great option for contemporary or industrial designs.

As a bonus, metal roofing is resistant to extreme weather conditions like high winds, hail, and snow. With that in mind, it can be the budget option for anyone dealing with inclement weather, as the need for replacement and repairs is less than asphalt. This option is also great for energy efficiency. The metal reflects sunlight, lessening pricey cooling costs during warm weather. 

On the flip side, the upfront material and installation costs are higher, so it’s up to the homeowner to decide which option works best for their current budget: cheaper upfront or less costly in the long term. Anyone who loves the sound of rain pattering won’t be swayed by the heightened noise during rain or hailstorms, but if that kind of white noise bugs you, metal might be less appealing. 

Consulting an Expert

On top of doing your own research, it’s always a good idea to consult experts like Chris Feniello Roofing Contributor. The Long Island Roofs expert can help walk you through the pros and cons of asphalt and metal roofing that hinge on cost, durability, aesthetics, and weather conditions. 

For anyone looking for Long Island roof repair, there are options in Huntington, Rockville Centre, and Babylon.

Published by Stephanie M.