Know What You're Buying:
Sheet Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home's structure and choosing the right material can make all the difference in terms of longevity, performance, and curb appeal.

If you're in the process of building a new home or replacing your roof, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right roofing material. There are many options available, but the two main types of residential roofing materials are sheet metal and asphalt shingles. In this article, we'll take a closer look at these two options and help you make an informed decision for your home.

Should I Choose Sheet Metal Roofing?

Sheet metal roofing is a popular choice for homeowners who want a roof that will last a lifetime. This type of roofing material is incredibly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for homes in areas with harsh climates—like Kingston, where our weather is worsened due to our close proximity to Lake Ontario.

Advantages of Sheet Metal Roofing

Unlike asphalt shingles, sheet metal roofing is less prone to damage from hail, wind, and debris. And as we said before, sheet metal roofs have a long lifespan, which means you won't have to worry about replacing your roof.

But another key benefit of sheet metal roofing is its versatility. It can be installed on almost any type of roof, as long as it isn't over complex. This makes it a great option for homes with simple roof designs--however, if you're house is unsuited for sheet metal, there are metal shingle options. Plus, sheet metal roofing comes in a variety of colours and finishes, so you can choose a style that complements the overall look of your home.

However, it's important to note that sheet metal roofs may not be the best choice for homes with many "valleys" in their roof. With this in mind, it's important to reach out and get an expert opinion before deciding on which material to use on your roof.

One often overlooked advantage of sheet metal roofing is its fire resistance. Unlike other roofing materials, such as wood shingles or asphalt, sheet metal roofing won't catch fire easily in the event of a lightning strike or other electrical event. This can provide peace of mind for homeowners who live in areas with frequent thunderstorms or other severe weather conditions.

Overall, sheet metal roofing is a great choice for homeowners who want a roof that is durable, low-maintenance, and versatile. While it may be more expensive upfront than other roofing materials, its long lifespan and other benefits make it a great investment in the long run.

Should I Choose Asphalt Roofing?

Asphalt shingle roofing is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its affordability and versatility. Unlike other roofing materials that can be costly, asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for homeowners on a budget.

Advantages of Asphalt Roofing

When it comes to choosing asphalt shingles, it's important to note that there are different grades available. Higher-grade shingles tend to have longer lifespans and better wind ratings. For areas with high wind speeds—like Kingston—it's recommended that you choose shingles with a wind rating of at least 177 km/h.

While asphalt shingle roofing may not be as durable or long-lasting as sheet metal roofing, it can be a more reasonable choice for certain roof shapes. Homes with simple, straight roof lines can benefit from the affordability and versatility of asphalt shingles. And for complex roofs, where sheet metal is not as easily installed or too costly, the ability to mould and cut asphalt shingles to fit around various roof features provides a level of customization that may make them worth the maintenance.

If you do choose asphalt shingles, it's a good idea to purchase a long warranty. While many shingles come with warranties that range from 15 to 25 years, some manufacturers offer warranties of up to 50 years. Choosing shingles with a longer warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment—and it can save you a lot of money in the future too.

What type of roofing material is best for solar panels?

Solar power considerations for your home are more important than ever. With rising energy costs and increasing concerns about the environment, many homeowners are turning to solar power as a way to reduce their energy bills and decrease their carbon footprint. And luckily for us Kingstonians, our city boasts an average of almost 2,000 hours of sunlight per year—making it an ideal location for solar power.

When it comes to choosing roofing materials for your home with solar panels, sheet metal roofing is often the better choice. Sheet metal roofing can help to reduce the risk of damage to your solar panels during severe weather events because they provide a stronger, more reliable foundation. This can be especially important in Kingston because we also receive a lot of snow. Sheet metal is also less likely to need replacement during the lifespan of the solar panel.

So, while the simplest answer is that sheet metal is better for mounting solar panels, if you live in an area where you're not experiencing a lot of severe weather, asphalt can still reliably support mounted solar panels.

Ultimately, the best choice of roofing material for your home's solar panels will depend on a variety of factors, including your budget, your location, and your aesthetic preferences. Working with qualified professionals can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your solar power system is installed safely and securely.

How Do I Budget For A New Roof?

Choosing a material for your roof can be a lot simpler when you consider your budget. Typically, sheet metal roofing is going to be more expensive upfront than asphalt shingles. But, as we've said, sheet metal roofing is going to be a better long-term investment due to its durability and longevity.

Then again, who's to say you're still in that house in 20 years when your asphalt shingles need to be replaced? Why spend the upfront cost on sheet metal when replacing these asphalt shingles is coming out of the future owner's budget?

These are all important factors to consider, and ultimately, the choice between sheet metal and asphalt shingle roofing will depend on your specific needs and budget. So, if you're looking for further guidance, please reach out to us—we are more than happy to help!

In Conclusion

Choosing the right roofing material for your home is a crucial decision that can impact your home's longevity, performance, and curb appeal. Sheet metal roofing is a great option for homeowners who want a durable, low-maintenance, and versatile roof, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or want to install solar panels. On the other hand, asphalt shingle roofing is a more affordable and versatile option that can be a good choice for homes with simple roof designs.