Which Roofing Material Is Right for Your Property? Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles

Lennart Johnson • October 30, 2024

Choosing a new roof is a big deal.

You want something that lasts and fits your budget. But what’s the best option? Should you go with metal or asphalt? If you’ve been wondering about the pros and cons of both, you’re in the right place.

This guide will explain everything you need to know, so you can make the right choice for your Georgia property. A trusted roofing company can help you find the right fit for your home improvement needs.

Read on to learn more about which roofing material could be perfect for you.

What Are Metal Roofs and Asphalt Shingles?

You’ve probably seen both metal roofs and asphalt shingles, but what’s the difference?

Metal Roofs: These are usually made of steel or aluminum. They come in large panels that are fastened to your roof. Metal roofs last a long time and have a sleek look.

Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common roofing materials in the U.S. They’re made of a mix of asphalt and fiberglass. Shingles are placed one by one on your roof, overlapping each other.

What Are the Main Benefits of Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing has a lot of perks. Here’s why some property owners love it:

Long-lasting

Metal roofs can last up to 50 years or more. They don’t wear out easily and are resistant to severe weather. If you live in an area with heavy rain or snow, this could be a reliable roofing option.

Durable

Metal roofs don’t crack or warp like some other materials. They handle severe weather and can even stand up to high winds. Plus, they’re not prone to mold or mildew.

Energy Efficient

A metal roof reflects the sun, keeping your home or business cooler in the summer. This means your air conditioning won’t have to work as hard. In the long run, this could help save on energy bills.

What Are the Downsides of Metal Roofing?

Even though metal roofing has some great benefits, there are a few things to consider:

Cost

Metal roofs cost more upfront than asphalt shingles. While they last longer, the initial investment is higher.

Noise

During heavy rain or hail, a metal roof can be louder than shingles. You can add insulation to reduce the noise, but this adds to the construction cost.

Dents

Metal roofs can dent if something heavy falls on them, like a tree branch. However, some types of metal roofing are more resistant to dents than others.

What Are the Main Benefits of Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles have their own advantages. Here’s why so many people choose them:

Affordable

Asphalt shingles have a lower price point than metal roofing. This makes them an affordable roofing option if you’re on a budget.

Easy to Install

Because asphalt shingles are common, it’s easy to find roofing contractors who can install them. The installation process is also quicker, meaning you’ll spend less on labor.

Variety of Styles

Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles. This means you can choose the look that best matches your home or business.

What Are the Downsides of Asphalt Shingles?

While asphalt shingles are popular, they do have a few drawbacks:

Shorter Lifespan

Asphalt shingles don’t last as long as metal roofs. They usually last between 20 and 30 years. This means you may have to replace them sooner than you would with metal roofing.

Less Durable

Asphalt shingles can crack or curl over time. They’re also more likely to be damaged by extreme weather. You might find yourself needing to repair or replace a roof shingle or two more often because of a leak or water damage.

Lower Energy Efficiency

Unlike metal roofs, asphalt shingles absorb heat. This can make your home warmer in the summer, which may increase your energy bills.

Which Is Easier to Maintain: Metal or Asphalt?

Maintenance is another key factor when choosing a roof. So, which one requires less work?

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are easy to maintain. They don’t need much upkeep, aside from occasional cleaning. You may need to fix a panel now and then, but it’s rare.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles need more maintenance. You’ll need to check for cracks, missing shingles, or algae growth every few years. If you live in an area with lots of storms, you may have to hire a roofing company to replace your shingles more often.

How Does the Weather in Stone Mountain Affect Your Roofing Choice?

Your location plays a huge role in deciding which roof is best. In Stone Mountain, the weather can be tough on your roof. Here’s what to consider:

Hot Summers

Metal roofing reflects heat, which is helpful in hot summers. An Asphalt roof shingle, on the other hand, can absorb heat and make your property hotter.

Storms and Winds

Both roofing options can handle severe weather, but metal roofs are more resistant to wind. If you experience a lot of storms, a metal roof might hold up better over time.

Which Roof Is Best for the Environment?

If you’re concerned about the environment, here’s what you should know:

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are often made from recycled materials. They can also be recycled at the end of their life, which makes them more eco-friendly.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles aren’t as eco-friendly. They usually end up in landfills when replaced. However, some local roofing companies are starting to recycle old shingles, so this could change in the future.

Which Roofing Option Is Right for You?

Now that we’ve covered the facts, which one should you choose? It depends on what you value most:

If you want something that lasts a long time, go with a metal roof.
If you’re on a budget, asphalt shingles might be a better fit.
If you want to save energy in the summer, metal roofing is more efficient.
If you like to keep things simple, asphalt shingles are easier to install.

No matter what you choose, a roofing company in Stone Mountain can help you make the right decision.

Conclusion

Choosing between metal roofing and asphalt shingles comes down to what matters most to you as a customer.

Metal roofs last longer, are more energy-efficient, and are better for the environment. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, are affordable and easier to install. By reading this article, you now have a clearer picture of which material fits your property best.

If you still have questions, don’t worry—a reliable Stone Mountain roofing company can guide you through the process.

Reach out to us at Pineapple Express Roofing, and let’s discuss what’s right for your Georgia home or business!

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3 Expert Tips to Beat the Summer Heat and Enjoy A Cooler Home

By Lennart Johnson • June 4, 2024

The summer sun can transform your once-delightful home into a sweltering furnace, but before you crank up the AC and watch your energy bills soar, consider these ingenious strategies to keep your home cool naturally. By incorporating these simple yet effective tips from Pineapple Express Roofing, Stone Mountain, Georgia’s trusted roofer , you'll create a more comfortable environment while saving money and reducing your environmental impact. 1. Plant Trees Strategically Around Your Home Imagine your roof as a giant heat sink, absorbing the sun's relentless rays and radiating that heat back down into your living space. Planting trees strategically around your home can significantly reduce this effect. Their leafy canopies act as a natural umbrella, casting cooling shade over your roof during the hottest part of the day. This not only lowers your indoor temperature but also helps combat the "urban heat island" effect, a phenomenon where densely populated areas experience higher temperatures due to reduced vegetation and increased heat retention from buildings. 2. Use Specialized Reflective Coatings or Paints On Roofs Modern technology offers innovative solutions for keeping your roof cooler. Specialized reflective coatings or paints can be applied to your roof. These are specifically designed to deflect sunlight away from your home. These "cool roofs" work similarly to a white t-shirt on a hot day. While a dark surface absorbs heat, a lighter, reflective surface bounces it back into the atmosphere. According to the Department of Energy , cool roofs reflect more sunlight than conventional roofs, absorbing less solar energy. On a hot, sunny day, a dark roof can reach a scorching 150°F, while a cool roof can remain a comfortable 50°F cooler. This translates to a more pleasant living environment and reduced reliance on air conditioning. 3. Ensure Proper Attic and Roof Ventilation Just like we humans need fresh air to function optimally, so too does your attic. Proper attic and roof ventilation is crucial for releasing trapped heat that can radiate down into your living space. Vented attics not only promote comfort but also prevent moisture buildup that can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and even the spread of infectious diseases. If you're unsure about your attic's ventilation system, consider consulting a professional roofer like Pineapple Express Roofing. We can assess your ventilation needs and recommend the most effective solution for your specific roof design. Bonus Tips for a Cool and Comfortable Home In addition to the strategies above, here are some additional tips to keep your home cool naturally: Exhaust Hoods are Your Friend: When cooking, utilize your exhaust hood to remove heat and moisture generated while preparing meals. Ensure the hood vents outside your home to effectively eliminate hot air. Breathe Easier, Sleep Sounder: Consider adding a humidifier or air purifier to improve indoor air quality. This can make breathing easier and improve sleep quality, especially during hot summer nights. Bedroom Bliss: Studies have shown that maintaining a bedroom temperature between 65 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit can significantly improve sleep quality. Utilize natural ventilation, ceiling fans, or strategically placed plants to create a cooler sleep environment. Leave Your Shoes at the Door: Limiting the amount of dirt and dust tracked into your home can help minimize allergens and airborne particles that can irritate your respiratory system, especially during hot weather. Energy Star Savings: Consider using energy-efficient appliances that consume less electricity and generate less heat. This can make a huge difference in your overall energy consumption and contribute to a cooler home environment. The Importance of Roof Maintenance Throughout this guide, we've explored various strategies for keeping your home cool naturally. But it's important to remember that a healthy roof is fundamental to maximizing these benefits. A well-maintained roof reflects heat more effectively, prevents heat transfer into your attic, and ensures proper ventilation. Here's how your roofer can contribute to a cool and sustainable summer: Regular Roof Inspections Your roof is exposed to the harsh elements year-round, and summer's intense heat can exacerbate existing problems. Scheduling regular inspections with a qualified roofer allows for early detection of potential issues like: Missing or damaged shingles: Gaps in your roof's protective layer allow heat to penetrate directly into your attic. Deteriorated flashing: Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights seals these openings, preventing water leaks and heat intrusion. Damaged flashing can compromise your roof's thermal performance. Clogged ventilation: Blocked soffit vents, ridge vents, or other ventilation pathways can trap heat in your attic. By identifying and addressing these issues promptly, you can ensure your roof functions optimally to keep your home cool and energy-efficient. Preventive Maintenance Regular roof maintenance goes beyond inspections. Your roofer can perform vital maintenance tasks such as: Cleaning debris: Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate on your roof, trapping heat and potentially damaging shingles. Minor repairs: Addressing minor issues like loose shingles or flashing prevents them from becoming larger problems that could compromise your roof's thermal performance. Reflective roof coating application (if applicable): For homeowners who choose a cool roof solution, a qualified roofer can ensure the proper application of reflective coatings to maximize heat deflection. Investing in preventive roof maintenance not only keeps your home cooler in the summer but also extends the lifespan of your roof, saving you money on costly repairs or replacements down the line. Conclusion A cool and comfortable home during the summer shouldn't come at the expense of high energy bills or environmental impact. The strategies outlined above, coupled with the expertise of a qualified Stone Mountain roofer , allow you to create a sustainable haven. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a cooler summer while minimizing your environmental footprint and potentially saving money on energy costs. At Pineapple Express Roofing, we're passionate about helping homeowners achieve a comfortable and energy-efficient living environment. Our team of certified and highly experienced roofers is dedicated to providing comprehensive roof inspections, maintenance services, and cool roof solutions (if applicable) to ensure your home stays cool throughout the summer. Contact Pineapple Express Roofing today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you create a naturally cool and sustainable summer oasis.