Do Metal Roofs Leak More Than Shingles?

One of the biggest debates surrounding each type of  roof is “Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?” As you probably know already, if you live in states like New York or Florida, tiles or metal roofs tend to be a better choice than shingles due to weather elements that are common. With tile, the problem of leaks is much less likely regardless of whether you have a hip roof or a flat roof. Even with metal roofs, if you do your research properly, the chance of leaks is very minimal.

Are Metal Roofs More Leaky Than Shingles?

If installed incorrectly, metal roofs can leak more than asphalt shingles. An experienced roofing contractor can help to install metal roofs correctly and prevent moisture accumulation. Because metal roofing is less susceptible to weather damage than other materials, moisture will not seep into your roof.

High-quality shingles are able to keep water out of your house, but their integrity is less likely to be maintained than metal roofs. Asphalt shingles can cause more moisture damage than metal roofs.

Pros of Metal Roofing

• Durability: Metal roofs can withstand severe weather conditions such as strong winds, rain, snow and hail. It can also resist fire.
• Eco-Friendly: Metal roofs last longer than asphalt shingles because they are made of recyclable material that can be reused again.
• Energy-Efficient: Metal roofs are more efficient because they reflect heat away from your home. This lowers the indoor temperature and reduces the wear on your HVAC system.
• Life-Expectancy: If metal roofs are properly constructed and maintained by a certified roofing contractor, they can last for over 50 years, which is twice the life expectancy of asphalt shingles.

Cons of Metal Roofing

• Avoid Chips and Dents: Metal roofs can be damaged by hailstorms, falling trees and excessive walking. The pain can also lead to chipping or fading.
• Expensive Installation: It is costly to install a metal roof over your home. Although many factors can impact the cost of your roof, you might end up paying four times as much for asphalt shingles.
• Hard To Repair: Because all of the full-length panels are interconnected it is easier to replace metal roofing than asphalt shingles.
• Noisy: Your metal roof may be tapped by hail or rain throughout the day. You can solve the problem with insulation, if you don’t like the sound of rain.

Pros of Shingle Roofing

• Cost-Effective: Asphalt roofs are more common than metal roofs and are therefore much less costly to install.
• Attractive Aesthetics: Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors and textures. This makes it easy to choose a low-cost material that will complement the house’s style.
• Easy Repair: Shingle roof repairs in Long Beach are easier and more affordable.

Cons of Shingle Roofing

• Shorter Lifespan: Although asphalt roofs are durable and can last for decades if made from high-quality materials they don’t have the same longevity of metal roofs.
• More Likely to Cause Fire: Asphalt is combustible, shingles are generally Class A fire-rated. The granules are designed to protect the asphalt layer from flames, but if the asphalt is touched by a flame, it could catch fire.
• Weather Damage: Asphalt shingles can be easily damaged by wind, hail, snow, or other weather conditions, which could reduce their lifespan. Incorrectly installed shingles could lift or pull away by one.

There are some benefits and disadvantages to both shingles and metal roofing. Metal roofing is more durable than shingles, and can add significant value to your home.

Get a Free Estimate

If you are in need of roofing services in St. Petersburg or Pinellas County area and are undecided between metal roofing and shingles, you have probably asked yourself this question: do metal roofs leak more than shingles? If you’re in the market for a new roof, you may be talking with salespeople from numerous companies. You’ll have all kinds of questions, but everyone has their own answers to the “metal vs shingle” question. Roofing Co. is here to help you figure out what’s true and what’s not. Call us today for a free estimate.