Who doesn’t want to live in a snowy area? Absolutely no one! Everything looks beautiful when covered with snow, except for one thing, and that’s your roof. Along with the snow, there are additional cons, including ice dams, frozen water, and extremely low temperatures. This can damage your roof in the long run.
This makes you question which roofing material will last through intense weather.
There are two common options to look for: metal roof vs asphalt shingles. To know more about which one is better among the two winter roofing options, you’ll have to read this blog till the end. So, why wait when you can read it now!
1. Understand the Performance of Both
Metal Roofs
Roofs made with metal are a great choice for such weather. Their slippery but smooth surface allows ice to easily slide off without extra force. Due to this, there won’t be extra weight on your roof and the risks for ice dams will be less too.
Besides this, metal roofs play an important role in protecting the attic on the roof, the gutter system, and the structure in the winter season. They can also enhance the durability of the roof against harsh climate conditions.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a great option in regions with extreme cold weather. The issue is that the granulated surface can become a trap for the snow and ice inside. The worst part is, without proper ventilation and insulation, your roof can go through issues like ice dams, leaks, and permanent structural damage.
Although new shingles have been introduced in the market, they can perform better, but only if properly maintained.
2. Energy Efficiency and Comfort
Metal Roofs
We know that metals are good heat reflectors, which is a good thing to keep indoor temperatures a bit stable in cold weather. And when these roofs are installed with proper insulation, you’ll notice lower energy bills. Especially, the latest metal roofing is coming with better coatings to prevent loss of energy and to make it more sustainable in the long run.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are best known for offering natural insulation. However, they aren’t as energy efficient as metal. Especially in the freezing temperatures, you’ll heavily rely on proper attic insulation to store heat to avoid ice dams.
3. Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles Cost
The biggest factor that lets you decide which one you are going to buy, between a metal roof vs asphalt shingles, is cost.
Metal Roofs
So far, we have concluded that metal roofs are better in every manner, but not this time either. Because the upfront costs for these are higher than the asphalt ones. Their price varies between $10,000 and $20,000 for a normal home.
But, believe us, it can last up to 50+ years with minimal maintenance. This means it is a beneficial investment for longevity.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles get the point here, being a budget-friendly choice in comparison to metal roofs. They usually cost around $5000 to $12,000 based on the quality and size.
Although at a low price, you’ll be getting a shorter lifespan, around 15 to 30 years, which means you’ll have to replace them once or twice in the same timeframe.
4. Sustainability & Maintenance
Metal Roofs
In fact, metal roofs are usually made up of recycled material and are completely recyclable till the end of their lifespan. Also, they need very little maintenance, but you have to do the insulation properly to prevent any leaking or thermal expansion issues.
Asphalt Shingles
Although shingles are a great, eco-friendly choice, they are not good enough for recycling purposes. But, they are very easy to handle for the repair of the minimal fixes without needing to call professionals.
A Quick Comparison of Both Types of Roofing
| Features | Metal Roof | Asphalt shingles |
| Ability to handle Snow | Best- easily remove the snow via slides, no buildups at all | Moderate- risks of ice dams |
| Longevity | 50-70 years lifespan | 15-30 years lifespan |
| Price Range | $10–$20k costs | $5k–$20k |
| Energy efficiency | Highly energy efficient with proper insulation | Less efficiency (Relies on attic insulation) |
| Maintenance required | Less | More oftentimes |
| Eco-friendly | Fully recyclable | Less sustainable, tough to recycle |
| Ideal for | Intense winters and heavy snow | Budget constraints |
Which one is the Best Roofing for Cold Climates?
Now you have to choose which option, among metal roofs vs asphalt shingles, suits you best.
By any chance, if you are living in an area with heavy snow, rain, and long winter seasons, metal roofing is perfect to go with. Because of its ability to shed the snow, staying sustainable and energy efficient, it’s a perfect choice to bear harsh winter seasons.
The biggest and only reason why asphalt shingles win is in the budget. If pricing is your main concern, it’s a better choice for you. But you might need potential replacements in the future to keep it for the long run.
Final Thoughts
Now, you understand that whenever you have to choose between a metal roof vs asphalt shingles, you have to consider a bunch of factors. Like, if you are looking for a winter roofing option for handling heavy snow, strong climate conditions, metal roofing is best.
However, if you want a roofing under your budget and easy to install, asphalt shingles will be a great match for your needs.
Lastly, if you are looking for a professional company that offers the installation of both types of roofing, Rick’s Main Roofing is your go-to partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do metal roofs make noise during the rainy seasons?
Yes, these types of roofs can make noise when it’s raining. But this can be avoided with modern insulation with proper installation.
2. Which type of metal roof is the best?
The best material for installing a metal roof is aluminum, because it’s very lightweight and offers a great strength-to-weight ratio.
3. What is an asphalt shingle made up of?
They are composite products made of either fiberglass, cellulose, asphalt, or mineral granules.
