Have you finally decided to replace your failing roof but trying to decide on a new roof from the variety of roofing material options on the market today has you waking up in a nervous sweat at three in the morning? If so, you can relax and go back to sleep because we’re about to walk you through the pros and cons of a metal roof vs. shingles decision so that you can decide if one of these popular options fits your house and budget.
Metal roof vs. shingles
You’ve invested money and heart into your home, and it’s vital that your new roof protects your house’s structure while also raising the curb appeal of your home. The key to making a wise roofing choice is taking into account how it improves your home in a budget-friendly manner.
Take a look at the rooftops in your neighborhood the next time that you’re out for a relaxing stroll. What kinds of roofs do families in your area prefer? Chances are, you’ll see plenty of metal and asphalt shingle roofs sheltering the homes in your community. Here’s what you need to know about both types of materials.
Metal Roofs
Once upon a time metal roofs were primarily limited to vacation homes. Today’s metal roofs cover all sorts of homes since there is an incredible amount of variety in the available metal roofing designs. Whether your taste runs to modern shining metal or an old wooden shingle, you can find a metal that fits your dreams.
Along with the variety of design choices, metal roofs are a favorite of many homeowners due to the perks that built into this type of roofing. The significant perks include:
- Lifespan- A metal roof might protect your home for as long as seventy years.
- Wind protection- Florida is hit with severe wind multiple times in a year, and a metal roof is your best bet when it comes to withstanding fierce winds.
- Water-proof- No need to worry about a leaky roof when you install a metal roof as a properly installed one is impervious to water.
- Fire-proof- Property insurance companies, such as State Farm, appreciate the fact that metal roofs won’t catch fire if an ember lands on the roof.
- Energy friendly- Unlike many roofing materials, metal roofs are recyclable and won’t end up in a crowded landfill someday. Also, you’ll likely see a decrease in your heating and cooling bills.
There are some downsides to metal roofs to keep in mind when you begin shopping for a new roof. Buyers sometimes balk at (1) a higher initial price than asphalt shingles, (2) the sound that rain pounding against the metal creates, and (3) the potential for damage and rust if water pools on the roof for a while.

Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the far and away most popular choice when it comes to a roofing system. With a wide range of available colors and designs, homeowners all over Florida regularly invest in a shingle roof. Here are some pros and cons to this choice.
Shingle roofing systems are an affordable choice that will last up to twenty years with proper maintenance. You can rely on an asphalt shingle roofing system for (1) lower cost to purchase and install, (2) a style and color that fits the style of your home, (3) relatively simple installation and maintenance,(4) waterproof and fireproof and (5) a look that blends beautifully with other homes in your community.
Although asphalt shingles come with plenty of perks, no product is perfect, and shingles are no exception. A potential negative includes vulnerability to strong winds. In general, older shingle roof systems fail under the stress of severe wind at a higher rate than the newer asphalt shingles. We can help you to choose an asphalt shingle wind classification that fits your needs.
Asphalt shingles don’t last nearly as long as the standard metal roofing system. Expect to replace the shingles every fifteen to twenty years. Of course, as you might not stay in your current home more than the average lifespan of the shingle the shorter time period might not matter.
Lastly, when you look at the pros and cons regarding the metal roof vs. shingles question, the professionals at Tornado Roofing & Contracting Inc. have the experience and knowledge to help you choose the best option for your home. Contact us today for a new roof that will gracefully protect your home into the future.