Are you looking to upgrade or replace your current roof? Then, you have a big decision ahead of you: what roofing material do you choose?

Many homeowners wonder whether a metal or asphalt shingle roof is better for their house. While much of the answer to that is subjective, there are some hard-set pros and cons to each material. Take a look!

Asphalt Shingles Pros

• Known Track Record: Asphalt shingles have been around seemingly forever and have a track record of durability and effectiveness to prove it. Additionally, contractors are familiar with it, which means there is no learning curve.
• Affordable: Cost is probably the main selling point for asphalt shingles. They generally run much cheaper than other types of roofing materials while still being high in quality.
• Easy to Work With and Repair: This type of shingle is easy to cut, mold, and affix to a roof. Their individual size also aids in repairing shingles that have been damaged.
• Many Styles: You can build the roof of your dreams with asphalt shingles, as there are endless styles and colors to choose from.

Asphalt Shingles Cons

• Weather Vulnerable: Weather like high winds and hail can do a lot of damage to asphalt shingles that don’t have a high-quality sealant. In that particular case, it is not uncommon to need emergency roof repair in Philadelphia during thunderstorm season.
• Longevity Issues: Asphalt shingles don’t last as long as other materials. They also suffer from premature aging in some cases, but, for the most part, they outlive the warranty.

Metal Roofing Pros

• Lightweight: Metal roofing is about the lightest roofing material available for installation, so it can easily be installed on top of the previous roof.
• Last Forever: Metal roofing weathers well and can last for decades with proper maintenance.
• Good in Extreme Weather: You do not have to worry about inclement weather — metal roofing is fireproof, waterproof, hail resistant, etc.

Metal Roofing Cons

• Expense: As a high-quality roofing material, metal roofing is known to be more expensive.
• Appearance: Although it holds up well, aging can make a metal roof look out of place.
• HOA Rules: Some HOAs prohibit metal roofs or have restrictions on them. Make sure you double-check about metal roofing guidelines before you make any decisions.

That is the lowdown on metal versus asphalt roofing. You should consult with Philly Roofing, the trusted experts in roofing and siding services in Philadelphia, before making any major decisions. Contact us for more information!