When it’s time to choose a roof for your New England home, two popular options often come up: asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Each material has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice depends on what you value most—cost, durability, style, or environmental impact. This guide compares asphalt and metal roofing in detail to help you make an informed decision.
What is Asphalt Roofing?
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material in the United States. They consist of a fiberglass or organic base mat coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules that provide protection and color. Asphalt shingles are widely popular because they are affordable and versatile. They are also available in a variety of colors and textures, making them a great choice for matching almost any home style.
Why Asphalt Shingles Are Popular in New England: New England’s weather can be unpredictable, with freezing winters, hot summers, and heavy snow. Asphalt roofs are a reliable and cost-effective choice for homes across the region. They blend in well with traditional neighborhoods and provide adequate protection for most residential needs.
Pros of Asphalt Roofing:
- Affordability: Asphalt shingles are much cheaper than metal roofing, making them ideal for homeowners on a tight budget.
- Ease of Installation: Because asphalt shingles are lightweight and simple to work with, they are quicker and easier to install than metal roofs. This can save you time and money on labor costs.
- Variety of Styles: You can find asphalt shingles in nearly every color and texture, from classic black to vibrant shades like red or green. Some shingles even mimic the look of wood or slate.
- Simple Repairs: If one section of your roof is damaged, it’s relatively easy and inexpensive to replace a few shingles without redoing the whole roof.
Cons of Asphalt Roofing:
- Short Lifespan: Asphalt shingles typically last between 20 and 30 years, which is much shorter than metal roofs.
- Weather Wear: Harsh weather, like heavy snow and ice, can cause shingles to crack, curl, or lose their granules over time.
- Environmental Concerns: Since asphalt shingles are petroleum-based, they have a higher environmental impact. They are also challenging to recycle, with many ending up in landfills.
What is Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing is gaining popularity as a modern and durable roofing option. It’s made from metals like steel, aluminum, zinc, or copper and comes in various forms, such as standing seam panels, corrugated sheets, or metal shingles. Metal roofs are designed to handle extreme weather, which makes them an excellent choice for homes in New England.
Why Metal Roofing Works in New England: New England experiences some of the harshest weather conditions, from strong winds on the coast to heavy snowfall in the mountains. Metal roofs are built to withstand these challenges. Their durability and resistance to extreme weather make them a great long-term investment for homeowners in the area.
Pros of Metal Roofing:
- Longevity: One of the biggest advantages of metal roofs is their lifespan. When properly installed and maintained, a metal roof can last 50 years or more—double or even triple the lifespan of asphalt shingles.
- Durability: Metal roofs are highly resistant to damage from heavy snow, ice, and high winds, making them perfect for New England winters.
- Energy Efficiency: Metal roofing reflects sunlight, reducing heat absorption and lowering cooling costs in the summer. Some metal roofs are also designed to improve insulation in the winter.
- Eco-Friendly: Many metal roofs are made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of their life, reducing waste.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike asphalt shingles, which may need frequent repairs, metal roofs require very little maintenance.
Cons of Metal Roofing:
- High Initial Cost: Metal roofing is more expensive upfront than asphalt shingles, which can deter some homeowners.
- Complex Installation: Installing a metal roof requires specialized knowledge and equipment, increasing labor costs.
- Noise Issues: During rain or hailstorms, metal roofs can be noisy. However, proper insulation can reduce this issue.
Costs: Initial vs. Long-Term
Upfront Costs: Asphalt shingles are the cheaper option initially. This affordability makes them the go-to choice for homeowners looking to replace their roof on a budget. On the other hand, metal roofs are more expensive to purchase and install, with costs sometimes being two to three times higher than asphalt.
Long-Term Costs: While asphalt roofs cost less upfront, their shorter lifespan means you may need to replace them once or even twice during the time a metal roof would last. This can add up in the long run. Metal roofs, despite their higher initial price, often pay for themselves over time through durability, energy savings, and lower maintenance costs.
Aesthetics and Style
Asphalt Roofing: If you want your home to match the traditional look of your neighborhood, asphalt shingles are a great choice. They come in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can customize your roof to suit your home’s design. From colonial homes in Massachusetts to Cape Cod-style houses, asphalt shingles offer the flexibility to fit any aesthetic.
Metal Roofing: For those looking for a modern, sleek appearance, metal roofs are hard to beat. They can give your home a bold, contemporary look and stand out in a neighborhood of traditional asphalt roofs. Metal roofs also offer customization options, including different colors, textures, and finishes. Whether you want a bright metallic shine or a matte finish that mimics slate, there’s a metal roof style for you.
Weather Resistance
New England is known for its tough weather, and your roof needs to be able to handle it.
Asphalt Roofs: While asphalt shingles perform well in most conditions, they are more prone to damage from heavy snow, ice, and strong winds. You might need to replace damaged shingles after a severe storm.
Metal Roofs: Metal roofing excels in extreme weather. Its smooth surface allows snow and ice to slide off easily, reducing the risk of ice dams. Metal roofs are also less likely to sustain damage from wind or debris.
Environmental Impact
As environmental concerns grow, many homeowners are considering the eco-friendliness of their roofing materials.
Asphalt Roofs: Asphalt shingles are petroleum-based, meaning they contribute to fossil fuel consumption. They are also difficult to recycle, and many end up in landfills.
Metal Roofs: Metal roofs are a greener choice. They are often made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable when replaced. Plus, their energy efficiency can lower your home’s overall carbon footprint.
Maintenance Needs
Asphalt Roofing: Asphalt shingles require regular inspections and maintenance to prevent issues like leaks, curling, or missing shingles. In areas with heavy snowfall, you may need to clear snow from the roof to prevent damage.
Metal Roofing: Metal roofs are low-maintenance. Their durability means you’ll spend less time and money on repairs. Occasional cleaning and checking for loose fasteners are usually all that’s needed.
Conclusion
Choosing between asphalt and metal roofing depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-install roof with a classic look, asphalt shingles are a great option. However, if you’re willing to invest in a durable, long-lasting, and eco-friendly roof that can handle New England’s harsh weather, metal roofing is worth the higher upfront cost. By weighing the pros and cons of each material, you can make a choice that fits your budget, style, and long-term goals.