Asphalt and metal both have properties that make them excellent for roofs. Today, they are among the most popular roofing materials used by homeowners mostly due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. But the two materials have significant differences that can make one preferable to the other depending on your needs. Before you hire roofing contractors to do an installation, find out the differences between using asphalt shingles and metal panels for your roof.

How Do Asphalt Shingles & Metal Roofs Compare?

Take a look at most homes across the U.S., and you’ll notice the majority have asphalt roofing—and for good reason. Asphalt works well in most weather conditions. However, asphalt shingles are best used in colder regions and are more cost-effective than metal and other types of roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are more readily available to roofing contractors and are easier to replace when shingles get damaged.

Meanwhile, metal roof installation requires more specialized roofing techniques than ones made of asphalt shingles, which is another reason why they cost more. Metal roofing also holds up well in cold weather as snow and ice easily slide off the panels. However, they are ideal for areas that experience frequent wind and rain. That’s because metal panels are more durable than asphalt shingles and won't blow away or deteriorate as easily in hurricanes and monsoons.

Which Should I Choose?

When choosing one over the other, style, pricing, and longevity should be your top considerations. If you’re going for a more traditional style, asphalt is the better option as metal is more suited to a contemporary look. Fortunately, both materials can be fabricated to fit into almost any architectural design.

As for pricing, metal roofing materials can cost three times as much as asphalt shingles. But what a metal roof lacks in affordability, it makes up for in durability. While asphalt roofs last an average of 20 years, metal roof lasts for about 50. And ones that are made of zinc or copper can last for a century. Therefore, a metal roof will cost more upfront, but it will need fewer repairs from roofing contractors which can save you money in the long run.

Still not sure about which type of roof to install for your property? Let the expert roofing contractors at Ontario Exteriors advise you. Serving Rochester, NY, this licensed roofer can help you pick the right roofing materials as well as handle new roof installation and vinyl siding jobs. They’ll also replace your missing asphalt shingles or damaged metal roof panels. Call them at (585) 421-0880 or check out their website for more information.