MN Meal Roofing vs. MN Asphalt Roofing Materials

Two of the most popular types of roofing are steel and asphalt materials. They both are energy efficient, they are both durable, and they both can withstand severe weather. The roof installation process has changed over the years, as more and more property owners are choosing metal roofing materials over asphalt. But why?

While they are both relatively efficient, each has its advantages and disadvantages, and there is a lot to consider before installing either a steel roof or asphalt roof on your home. We have broken down pros and cons of each. We are a licensed asphalt & metal roofing contractor located in Hopkins, MN.

Here we explore some of the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Steel Roofing Pros –

Gone are the days when steel roofs were solely used on warehouses or other commercial buildings or storage units. More and more residential homes are installing new steel roofs.

Strong & Durable –  One pro to new steel roofs is that they are strong and durable, holding up against elements much better than competing materials.

Energy Efficient – Another positive attribute about metal roofing is it reflects the sun’s heat, increasing efficiency inside the property.

Green Roofing Product – Metal roofing is environmentally friendly and safe, as steel is 100% recyclable.

Professional Appearance – New steel roofing products give your property a tremendous new look when completed. Offering a slate or cedar shake appearance if desired.

Steel Roofing Cons –

Install Price – On the other hand, new metal roofs can have a higher install price due to the metal fabrication skills required by the installers and higher cost for materials.

Qualified Metal Roofing Installers – Metal fabrication skills are extremely difficult and scarce during this day and age.

However, property owners are discovering that with their longevity, durability and energy efficiency that they are worth the long-term investment and have a higher rate of return.

Asphalt Roofing Pros –

Quick Install Time –  Asphalt shingles are easy to install and readily available in the United States, as they are the most common type of shingle installed on the residential home.

Variety Shapes & Colors – Asphalt shingles come in various textures, shapes and colors offering property owners a chance to decorate the home.

Lower Upfront Costs – Asphalt shingles have a lower upfront installation costs due to availability, cost of materials and ease of installation.

Asphalt Roofing Cons –

Lack Energy Efficiency – Asphalt shingles have a lower return on investment when a property owner looks toward long-term savings. Asphalt shingles tend to absorb the sun and increase attic temperatures when compared to metal roofing products. This increases A/C usage and can lead to roof deck damage.

Short Term Solution – Asphalt roofs tend to last 15-20 years max, compared to 40-50 years a metal roof. This means you may install 3 asphalt roofs in the span of one metal roof, with inflation of costs.

Conclusion

Finally, although experienced professional roofers are seeing a growing trend in steel residential roofing over the last decade, asphalt roofs are still very popular product.

While both roofing types have their advantages and disadvantages, metal roofs are longer lasting, offer great color and styles and are energy efficient. Your future roof will be determined by price and longevity when comparing the two products.

Contact your local metal roofing contractor for more information on new steel roofs and how our team might be able to help you with a new roof installation.