Among the common roofing options for commercial and residential structures, asphalt shingles and metal sheets are the two top choices. Since a building’s roof is frequently prone to damage, these two materials stand the test of durability and sustainability compared to other roofing products. Although both materials have their merits, their slight differences can help you decide whether one is better than the other for your home.
For this reason, it’s necessary to choose the right material for your roofing systems. Your home’s roofing system isn’t just responsible for completing your home’s exterior appearance; it’s also for protecting yours indoors from the elements. It’s a feature that not many homeowners pay attention to, making them prone to frequent roofing repairs.
Protecting your home’s interiors
Homeowners rarely look at their roofing systems for signs of damage, mainly since it’s difficult to spot its deterioration from afar. It’s relatively easier to repair wood rot on decks than to retouch a roof’s gutters. Since not all homes have a convenient access point to clean and repair their roofs, they often forget that these areas also need regular maintenance.
Over time, sustained damage to your roofing systems can lead to long-term complications to your household. Small cracks and leaks can create poor ventilation and insulation in your rooms. Additionally, cracked-out surfaces can create small pockets of standing water. These areas are perfect places for mold and mildew to grow, contributing to the further deterioration of your roofing. This is why it’s necessary to know the potential strengths and weaknesses of your choice of roofing.
Preferring metal sheets
Most traditional roofs come from corrugated tin panels, creating a similar appearance to barn and shed roofs. However, modern metal roofing is composed of aluminum, zinc, and other galvanized metals to make them more resistant to rusting and other forms of damage. Additionally, modern metal sheet roofing comes in a variety of palette options.
Metal roofs are generally more durable than asphalt shingles as they come with over 50-year warranties to reinforce their strength. With proper maintenance, it can last a decade or two longer in the right conditions. However, one of its most significant weaknesses are strong downpours of hail and falling branches. These blunt impact dents can be challenging to mend back to their original state.
Choosing asphalt shingles
Typical residential properties usually have asphalt shingles to complement the house’s exterior design. It’s a traditional look that has evolved to mimic different contemporary patterns like slates, tiles, and even wood shakes. Unfortunately, asphalt shingles have a limited lifespan of around 20 years.
Asphalt shingles are prone to pooling water, making them more susceptible to algae and fungus growth. Additionally, ice dams and harsh sunlight create temperature spikes that can cause shingles to contract and crack over time. Although it has a shorter lifespan and is more vulnerable, this can be a more beneficial feature to some homeowners. They’re also easier to repair and install. Roofing contractors can make quick changes and adjustments to asphalt shingle roofs, unlike metal roofing replacements. This is why there’s some merit in choosing a more replaceable and less durable roofing material.
Conclusion
Whichever option you choose, it’s vital to understand the value of roof maintenance and repairs. Both roofing materials are prone to damage over time, even if they have vastly different qualities of durability. The more you know about your home’s building materials, the easier you can tailor your housekeeping tasks to keep it in good condition. Nevertheless, some treatments will require a professional touch to minimize the risk of damage to your home.
Entrusting your home to a professional roofing specialist prevents you from the risk of handling your roof’s problems yourself. At Cardinal Roofing, we understand your roof’s need to install a new roof to protect your home. If you need roofing contractors in Nashville, TN, contact us today at 205-377-8400.