A good roof protects a home’s inhabitants from the fiercest storms and the most sweltering heat. Replacing a roof is a big investment, but it’s also an opportunity to make an important choice: asphalt or metal roofing?
Nelson Contracting has been installing, repairing, and replacing roofs in Lincoln, NE, for over 20 years. Our experts know all the pros and cons of each material, and they’re standing by to discuss them with you at (402) 464-2418. Meanwhile, here is a comparison to help you understand some of the differences between asphalt vs. metal roof materials.
Asphalt Vs. Metal Roofing – What Are the Main Differences
#1: Cost
With an installation cost of between $120 and $900 per 100 square feet, metal roofing is more expensive than asphalt shingles, which cost between $100 and $200 per 100 square feet. The installation of metal roofs is also more complicated, making it more expensive.
However, while an asphalt roof will have to be replaced after 20 or 30 years of use, a properly maintained metal roof could last as long as the home it’s on. Some insurance companies offer discounts to owners of metal-roofed homes, and there can also be tax credits for installing them. These factors make metal roofs more affordable than they at first appear.
#2: Durability
Metal roofs last much longer than asphalt and are much stronger, making them less likely to need repair. The homeowner has different metals from which to choose. Steel roofs are stronger than copper, though either can still be damaged by the occasional falling branch or extreme hail.
Asphalt roofs have much shorter life spans than metal, even without unexpected events. Asphalt is also vulnerable to rot, mold, and ice, which can lift off shingles and let water into the house.
#3: Environmental Friendliness
Metal roofs are environmentally friendly; homeowners may qualify for tax credits for installing them. Manufacturers often fabricate roofs from recycled metal, and an unwanted metal roof can be recycled again. Because they reflect heat away from the house, metal roofs can lower homeowners’ cooling bills. Special paints can further enhance the reflectivity of metal roofing.
Asphalt shingles are not made from recycled material or recyclable after use. They need to be replaced regularly and approximately 11 million tons of old asphalt shingles enter American landfills every year. In addition, asphalt shingles are petroleum-based, adding to the world’s fossil fuel problem.
#4: Installation and Repair
Installing metal roofing requires specialized knowledge, so a correctly trained roofer must complete the project. The metal sheets have to be laid very precisely to avoid errors that could result in costly refabrication. Because of this, installing metal roofing is a slower process than installing asphalt. However, some lighter metals can be placed over existing roofing, avoiding the need for its costly removal. Once laid, repairs of metal roofs are infrequent, but they can be more costly than asphalt roof repairs.
Asphalt shingles are quick and easy to install. Depending on the number of layers, asphalt can sometimes be placed over existing tiles, saving the homeowner a considerable cost. A professional roofer can normally complete the installation of asphalt tiles in one or two days. Although vulnerable to damage, repair of asphalt tiles is fairly straightforward and relatively inexpensive.
Contact Nelson Contracting Today
Brothers Toby and Aaron Nelson opened Nelson Contracting in 1998. Since then, they’ve been proud to offer their friends and neighbors in Lincoln, NE, roofing services that can be relied on at great prices and are fully guaranteed.
Call today at (402) 464-2418 to speak to a friendly representative and learn more about Nelson Contracting’s full range of services.
