Homeowners in areas that are prone to severe weather often experience a disproportionate amount of roof damage. This damage can be frustrating and costly to repair. It can also lead to other undesirable outcomes like leaks that promote wood rot and structural damage.
Some roofing materials are better suited to these storm-prone regions than others. One material stands out above the rest for durability – metal roofing.
Choose Metal Roofing Over Asphalt Shingles in an Area that Experiences Frequent Hurricanes or Tornados
Wind is one of the most damaging aspects of a severe storm, like a hurricane or tornado. Gusts can lift asphalt shingles and even remove them completely. On the other hand, metal roofing is far more durable in windy conditions.
Metal roofs are rated to withstand gusts up to 140 mph, or the equivalent of at least a Category 3 hurricane. Conversely, three-tab asphalt shingle roofs are only rated to withstand winds up to 60 mph. Architectural shingles can withstand stronger winds – up to 110 mph – but they still fall far short of the durability of metal.
Metal Roofs are A Better Choice Than Asphalt Shingles in Areas with Frequent Hailstorms
Metal roofing is highly resistant to damage from hailstorms. In fact, a recent study showed that metal performed the best of all studied roof materials in a hail test, withstanding even golf-ball sized hail without compromising performance.
On the other hand, hail is often a nail in the coffin for asphalt shingle roofs. Hailstorms typically impact hundreds or even thousands of buildings at a time. This means roofers are very busy following a storm and some homeowners can go weeks before receiving service. In that timeframe, a leaking shingle roof can lead to significant property and structural damage.
Choose A Metal Roof Over Asphalt Shingles If You Experience Frequent Snow and Ice
Winter weather is another common cause of roof damage. As homeowners in snowy regions know, the weight of snow can cause a roof to collapse. Metal roofs help to prevent this outcome. In most cases, snow and ice slide off a metal roof, greatly reducing the weight the roof must bear. For many homeowners, however, falling snow and ice can be a danger. Fortunately, metal roofs can be equipped with snow guards to keep snow and ice on the roof where heat from the home rises and melts it. Then the melted snow slides off the roof as harmless water.
On the other hand, asphalt shingle roofs can be greatly damaged by winter weather. A heavy blanket of snow can compromise the roof’s integrity and cause a catastrophic collapse. Additionally, ice can freeze between shingles, pushing them into new positions which leave gaps. As the snow thaws, water can sink into these vulnerable gaps, leading to leaks, wood rot, and structural damage.
Choose a Metal Roof Over Asphalt Shingles When You Want Versatility
A home’s roof can make or break curb appeal. After all, very few people will notice beautiful landscaping if their eye is drawn to a faded, damaged roof. Metal roofs are available in a wide range of options and colors, allowing homeowners to create virtually any appearance for their home.
For traditional homes, a metal roof that looks like shingles provides the durability of metal without disrupting curb appeal. Mediterranean style homes can benefit from lighter-weight metal options that give the appearance of tile. Southern homes can achieve the tin-roof look with a durable steel option. And it would be foolish to discuss curb appeal without mentioning the possibility of a stunning copper roof.
Metal roofs are also available in a variety of colors to match any style of home. With the variety of styles, installation techniques, and colors, asphalt shingle roofs cannot compete with the versatility of metal.
Metal Roofs Are a Better Option than Asphalt Shingles If You Want Longevity
A roof is a significant investment, and you want to get the most longevity for your money. Metal roofs routinely last longer than 50 years, giving you the peace of mind that your investment was worth the upfront cost.
Asphalt shingle roofs typically need to be replaced every 15 – 30 years. With such a short lifespan, you may be constantly saving for the next time your roof needs to be replaced.
Choose A Metal Roof Over Asphalt Shingles If You Need a Lower Long-Term Cost
Many homeowners are hesitant to consider metal roofing due to the higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles. However, metal roofs are actually less expensive than asphalt shingles in the long run. This is due to the much longer lifespan of a metal roof.
Consider this cost analysis which shows that metal roofs are $3,700 – $28,600 less expensive than asphalt shingles over a 20-year timeframe, depending on the type of material and installation. Over a 45-year period, the cost savings are even more apparent. Homeowners with metal roofs would save between $34,400 and $104,300.
Choose A Metal Roof Over Asphalt Shingles for Curb Appeal
It’s no secret that metal roofs are beautiful. So, even if you don’t live in a severe weather-prone area, metal can provide a level of beauty that just can’t be matched by asphalt shingles.
Combine the beauty of metal roofing with the longer expected life and the extra durability and a metal roof can be a cost-effective option for any home. When you choose metal, you could save money in the long run while enjoying one of the most beautiful homes in your neighborhood!
Choose Metal Roofing for Your Last Roof Replacement
A metal roof provides peace of mind for decades, even in storm-prone areas. In fact, a metal roof might be the last roof you ever purchase for your home! With superior protection from wind, hail, and snow, you can relax knowing your metal roof is as safe as possible during a storm. Contact an experienced, local roofing contractor to get a quote for your new metal roof today!
Choose Complete Roofing for Your New Metal Roof
Our company, Complete Roofing, offers a variety of metal roofing options that can help keep your home and family safe in hurricane-prone areas. We have local offices and crews across the Gulf Coast region including coastal Mississippi, coastal Alabama, and the greater New Orleans area.
When you choose Complete Roofing, you get stellar service from a local roofer with experience in coastal areas. You also receive a range of top-quality metal roofing options to match the style of your home and expert installation to improve the longevity of your roof.
To contact your local roofing expert, use the following links for our 3 general areas or choose your city for express service.
Roofing and Gutter Installation and Repair Services are available in the following locations:
- Coastal Alabama Main Office with local agents in:
- Coastal Mississippi Main Office with local agents in:
- Greater New Orleans Main Office with a local agent in: