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Metal vs Shingle: The Ultimate Comparison Guide for Homeowners

Athens cost of a metal roof

The Definitive Metal VS Shingle Comparison Guide You’ve Been Looking For!

Metal roofing or asphalt shingle roofing? That is the question!

Though you may try to avoid it, roof replacement is an inevitable stage in your home’s life. If you have a roof replacement scheduled soon, or have noticed that your roof is starting to falter, you may be considering your options.

When it comes to roof material, there are two clear choices: metal or asphalt shingles. These two roof options are quite distinct. It will ultimately come down to your home’s individual needs and the constraints of your budget, as well as personal preference.

One of the most common misconceptions we hear often is that homeowners are under the impression that a metal roof will not leak. Again, this is a common misconception. Read along further to determine the best roof system to invest in when it comes down to determining metal roof or shingle roof installation.

Read on to find out more about the costs of metal vs the cost of asphalt shingle roof systems.

Standing Seam metal Roofing

1. Installation Costs

When it comes to installation costs, metal systems will end up being more expensive than shingles almost every time. The costs mainly vary based on the size of the roof, the type of metal you select, and the amount of labor that is required.

On average, a metal roofing system can cost a homeowner anywhere from $8,000 for a small ranch home, as much as $50,000 for a complex Matterhorn roof or standing seam. While this may seem like too steep of a price to pay, metal is an investment that you will see returns on over time. 

Matterhorn Metal Roofing

2. Electricity Savings

One of the main reasons homeowners replace their roofs is because they notice their home’s outdated roofing system lacks efficiency leading to expensive & wasteful electric bills. Most metal roofing is made with reflective pigmenting, which can increase their energy efficiency and decrease your bill by 40%.

3. Longevity

Where the cost of a metal roof truly comes through is in the longevity of this roof system over shingles. For one, repairs will be much less often as metal is less susceptible to breaks and cracks over time.

On top of less need for repairs, metal systems also have a longer lifespan than shingles. Asphalt shingle systems will usually last only about 20-25 years, while metal systems can last between 40-60 years. This means you will have to replace your roof much less often, which will help your wallet in the long run!

Ga Rib Metal Roofing

4. Home Value

Home value is a final “hidden cost” that shingles do not indicate, but can eventually be a big deciding factor if you want to sell your home. Buyers are less inclined to buy homes with shingle roofs because of the need for repair/replacement and for the worse look that shingles represent.

Metal roofing, on the other hand, can increase your home’s value by up to 6%. It will also make selling your home much easier, as it will make your home more attractive both aesthetically and from a cost standpoint to your prospective buyers.

The True Cost of a Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof

While the installation cost of metal will always be more, there are many “hidden costs” with shingle roofs that might make you want to invest in metal now. Hidden fastener metal, like Matterhorn and Standing seam roofs, are definitely more cost-effective in the long term than shingles or other types of low cost metal, due to these hidden fastener systems having the longest life span.

Be sure to assess both your short and long-term situation when deciding the roof system is best for you.

If you have other questions about roofing or general home renovations, check out some of our other articles for helpful tips and advice!

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