Whether you’ve just recently started a business or bought a family home, the sentiment remains the same–you’re now a new property owner. Congratulations! However, something’s missing. You’ve taken a look at the state of your new building’s roof and found it… lacking. Or maybe you’ve only just bought a few acres and are in the stages of drawing out a blueprint for what you’ll be building, and are stuck on what to do for the roof.
Generally speaking, metal is most commonly used for commercial metal roofing systems. However, metal has become more and more popular with homeowners in recent years, so it’s never too late to jump on the bandwagon! Whether it’s for commercial roofing or residential, metal is created equal for all.
However, shingle roofing is mostly found on residential homes and very rarely on commercial structures.
So, there are two choices before you: the modern, sleek look of metal roofing, and the timelessly classic design of asphalt shingles. Which one should you choose?
Their Advantages and Disadvantages
Metal and asphalt shingles share more differences than similarities, and that’s not just down to their material composition. First, let’s take a look at what sort of benefits metal roofing brings:
- Longevity: Of all its counterparts, metal roofs are one of the ones to last the longest. With the proper care, they can last up to at least 60+ years.
- Durability: They’re more durable than asphalt shingles. They protect well against ice and snow during the winter months, and are incredibly fire-resistant for those living in warmer climates.
- Reflective: The surface of a metal roof can easily reflect the sun’s rays, reducing energy costs in your building and leading to an overall lower energy bill.
There are drawbacks to metal roofing, though. These are:
- Expense: Metal is on the pricier side from asphalt. The costs can really add up if you’re looking at a huge area to cover, and if there are any valleys, dips, vents, and chimneys to account for.
- Difficulty: Metal roofs are more difficult to install; keep this one out of your weekend DIY project if you’re a novice! Their installation requires a careful and professional hand. The same goes for repairs, too–you should trust reliable roofing contractors with the task of patching up your metal roof.
- Weight: This ties into their price range and difficulty of installation–metal is much heavier than any of the other roofing materials and could pose a complication for roofers not familiar with metal.
That’s the gist for metal roofing, but how do asphalt shingles compare? Let’s look at some of their advantages:
- Expense: Whereas metal roofing’s disadvantage is its price, this is one area where shingle roofing reigns supreme. They’re cheap to manufacture, sell, and install. Almost every roofing company worth its salt can work with asphalt shingles!
- Availability: Asphalt shingles are abundant on the market and can be bought by anyone, at any time, anywhere.
Now, let’s go over a few of the cons of asphalt shingles:
- Vulnerability: Asphalt shingles aren’t as durable as metal, so, during high winds or storms, you may find casualties on your roof more often than not! Shingles can easily be blown off, cracked, lifted, or curled.
- Longevity: Because they’re lighter, cheaper, and more prone to damage, the life expectancy of asphalt shingles is drastically reduced. Most shingles last up to 15-20 years.
At the end of the day, each roofing material is unique in its own way. Every single one will have its own pros and cons! What works for one material may not work for the other. To find the best roofing system for your property–commercial or otherwise–it’s best to find a reputable roofing company in your area first and go over your options.
The #1 Commercial Metal Roofing Contractors Are at Your Service
Titan Roofing & Construction is a locally-owned, family-run, and nationally recognized roofing contractor in TN. Our service expands throughout Jackson, Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville, and we’re always willing to lend a hand to our neighbors.
We have over 75+ years of combined experience working with asphalt shingles and metal, along with many more. Claim your free, no-hassle quote on your next roofing project today!