Should You Choose Metal or Shingle Roofing When Getting a New Roof in Grand Rapids Michigan
When you are considering a roof replacement in Grand Rapids Michigan, it is important to weigh your options to choose what the best material for your covering is. The two most popular options are metal sheeting and asphalt shingles, but it can be difficult for some homeowners to make the final decision. To better help you make that decision, it is important to understand how the two materials compare in more ways than simply price alone. Here are some facts that you should consider when getting a new roof on your home in Grand Rapids Michigan.
Should You Choose Metal or Shingle Roofing When Getting a New Roof in Grand Rapids Michigan
There are many things to consider when getting a new roof installed on your home. The biggest factor that influences many home owners is price. Metal roofing is typically more expensive than asphalt shingle roofing. But you’ll also need to consider the quality of the materials. For instance, asphalt shingles that are only guaranteed for 15 years are less expensive than architectural shingles which can last 40 years. Alternatively, for metal roofing the thickness of the roofing is usually the biggest factor in price and durability. When comparing the two materials it’s best to compare them based on the warranty and how long the roof may last.
Durability
Low quality shingles are sadly notorious for being problematic when it comes to durability. For better protection you’ll need to get impact resistant shingles installed. Homeowners with shingles know the importance of checking their roofs after storms or strong winds to make sure that there are no loose or missing shingles. You also need to worry about dents, bruising, blisters, and cracks from heat and impact that you need to worry about. Metal sheeting can withstand 110 mile per hour winds, as well as having greater resistance to impact damage, heat and UV rays.
Lifespan
Shingles are designed to last between 15 and 20 years for standard three-tab shingles, and 25 to 30 years for architectural shingles before they need to be replaced. Metal sheeting on the other hand, is designed to last a minimum of 40 years, with some manufacturers offering a lifetime warranty. With longer warranties you’ll likely pay much higher prices which can sometimes be double or even triple the average costs for a shingle roof.
Affordability
Your standard three-tab shingles will be by far the cheapest option when it comes to upfront cost. But while metal does initially cost more, it will likely have a longer lifespan. Of course, storm damage can cause problems on either material and cause you to need a new roof.
Aesthetic
Both options have a lot of colors to choose from to help you get the look you want for your home. However, most homeowners prefer the look of shingles over metal sheeting on their homes. This is especially true for architectural shingles because of their thicker design and textured look.
Installation
When it comes to installing your roof covering, it is always going to be best to have a professional with experience do the job. Improper installation can lead to further problems with your roof, including moisture being trapped in under the covering. The actual installation process is going to be faster and simpler with metal sheeting because it is a solid piece applied to each slope of your roof. Shingles are many individual pieces, making it time consuming to install each piece. If one is installed wrong, it can cause issues, making you have to throw that piece away to avoid issues. You can also only install shingles in certain conditions. This is because the shingles become brittle in temperatures that are too cold, and the adhesive used to install them will not work if frozen.
Maintenance
For both shingles and metal sheeting, it is important to clear your gutters regularly and remove any debris on your roof. But the process of debris and snow removal is much easier for a metal roof than with shingles because you can use a snow rake without pulling up and loosening your covering. If you have growths like algae, mold or fungus on your roof, it is also easier to remove them from metal sheeting, whereas with shingles you may have to completely replace the impacted area.
Get a Quote
To get a quote on a new roof installation on your home be sure to contact Grand Rapids Home Pros today. We can provide pricing estimates for your new roof and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today for more details.
