Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which is Right for You?

When it’s time to replace your roof, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between metal roofing and asphalt shingles. Both options are popular among Pennsylvania homeowners, but they each have their own strengths and weaknesses.

The Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs provide PA homeowners with many advantages, including:

• Built for Pennsylvania Weather: Metal roofs stand up to heavy snowfall in winter and resist damage from strong winds during summer storms. They are also highly resistant to ice dams - a common issue in PA’s fluctuating winter temperatures.

• Long-Lasting Investment: With a lifespan of 50+ years, metal roofing is a great option for homeowners who plan to stay in their homes long-term.

• Energy Efficient in Hot and Cold Months: Metal roofs reflect sunlight in the summer - helping to lower cooling costs. They also provide excellent insulation in the winter.

• Resistant to Moisture and Moss: Pennsylvania’s humidity can cause mold, moss, and algae growth on many different types of building materials, but metal resists these issues - keeping your home looking great for years.

However, metal roofs also have a few downsides you should be aware of:

• Higher Upfront Costs: As you might expect, metal roofs generally cost a bit more than asphalt shingle roofs. However, you may be able to offset some of that additional cost by securing affordable financing.

• Slightly Noisier in Heavy Rain: Pennsylvania sees its fair share of thunderstorms, and metal roofs can produce more noise during heavy rain. However, with proper insulation, most homeowners don’t notice a significant difference.

• Longer Installation Times: Because metal roofing requires specialized materials and installation techniques, the process can take a little longer from start to finish compared to other roofing materials.

Want to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of metal roofing? Contact us today! We’ve been installing metal roofs in PA for years, and we’d be happy to answer all your questions!

The Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Like metal roofs, asphalt shingles offer a wide variety of advantages, such as:

• Affordable and Widely Available: Asphalt shingles are one of the most cost-effective roofing materials - making them a great choice for homeowners looking for affordability without sacrificing protection.

• Performs Well in Pennsylvania’s Climate: High-quality asphalt shingles hold up well against seasonal weather changes, including snow, wind, and summer heat.

• Quick and Easy Installation: If you need a new roof fast, asphalt shingles are quicker and easier to install than metal.

Before you commit to installing an asphalt roof, however, you may want to be aware of a couple of disadvantages, like:

• Shorter Lifespan Than Metal: While metal roofs can easily last 50 years or more, you can generally expect asphalt shingles to perform for about 25 to 30 years.

• Slightly Less Energy Efficient: Shingles absorb more heat than metal - but choosing lighter-colored shingles or installing proper attic ventilation can help mitigate this.

Ultimately, with expert installation and ongoing maintenance, asphalt shingle roofing can provide strong protection for decades.

How to Choose Between Metal Roofing and Asphalt Shingles

If you’re still unsure which roofing option is right for your PA home, here are a few key factors to consider:

• Your Budget: If you need an affordable roofing solution, asphalt shingles are the way to go. If you are willing to invest in a long-term solution, metal roofing will generally provide better value over time.

• Your Home’s Style: Both roofing materials come in a variety of designs, but if you want a modern or sleek look, metal roofing may be a better fit. If you prefer a more traditional aesthetic, asphalt shingles are a solid choice.

• How Long You Plan to Stay in Your Home: If you plan to stay in your home for several decades, a metal roof is a fantastic long-term investment. If you might sell the property in the next 10 to 15 years, asphalt shingles could be the more practical option.

Whether you decide on metal roofing or asphalt shingles, choosing the right contractor is just as important as picking the perfect material. Our experienced team has been helping Pennsylvania homeowners with roof replacements for years, and we would love to do the same for you! 

Contact us online or give us a call at (814) 944-7878 to get started!