Your roof is arguably the most important feature of your home, and deciding what kind of roofing material is best can be a complicated process. There is a lot to consider when choosing between asphalt shingles and metal roofing panels. As one of Ontario, New York’s most trusted local roofing companies, Ashby Exterior Improvements wants their clients to be well-informed when making this important decision. That's why they offer this list of questions and answers to help homeowners understand the differences between metal and shingle roofing:

• Is It Easy To Work With? Many roof contractors agree that asphalt shingles are the easiest roofing material to work with. They are easy to install and repair, and it’s even possible for homeowners to handle many of the repair projects on their own. Metal roofing, however, takes precision and professional equipment to install. Installing a new metal roof is a process that could take several days or even weeks.
• How Long Will It Last? While warranties on asphalt roofs are comparatively high, they are dependent on weather conditions and maintenance. Shingles are extremely susceptible to heat as well as extreme cold. If worn shingles aren’t replaced on a regular basis, the roof’s lifespan will be drastically shortened. Metal roofing material, on the other hand, is weather resistant and often comes with warranties that last up to 50 years. Many metal roofs even surpass their warranties and last for 60+ years.
• How Much Will It Cost?: The main reason why asphalt roofs are so popular is because shingles are inexpensive and easy to find. Asphalt shingles are an economical choice that will most likely save you money up front. Metal roofing material has been known to cost as much as three times the cost of asphalt, and sometimes even more depending on the specific kind of metal. Its longevity and durability often make up for the cost, however.

For more advice about the different kinds of roofing materials, call Ashby Exterior Improvements at (585) 370-0383 and start planning for your new roof installation today. You can also find the roofing experts online.