Asphalt Vs. Metal: Which Material Is Best for Your Roof?

by Kevin Smith Author

Residential roof installation in Tampa should be a simple matter of choosing the best roofing material for your situation. However, the problem is that there isn't a correct roofing material; there are plenty of choices. Asphalt, tiles, and metal roofing materials are all available, but most people make their decisions between asphalt shingles and metal roofing. In this case, the choice comes down to cost and longevity of the materials being used. Your roofing is important; make sure you know what you're getting when you choose asphalt or metal.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles have long been the standard in roofing materials. There have been advancements made in their ability to withstand high winds and provide energy savings as well as look more stylish with your home. A simple asphalt shingle is the most inexpensive choice you can make in roofing material, and they last between up to 50 years. Roofs with asphalt shingles are relatively easy to repair compared to other materials. If you're a person who likes DIY projects asphalt shingles are the easiest roofing material to learn to install.

Metal Roofing

If you decide on metal roofing, make sure that you spend up for quality. A cheap metal roof will confirm the "you get what you pay for" adage. A quality metal roof will last up to 100 years, which makes it a family heirloom if you keep the property and pas it down to your children. Metal roofing is malleable; it can be shaped to create the type of look you want, even if you want your roof to look like it has shingles! Metal is also better at withstanding extreme weather events.

The Right Choice

The fact is there is no objective right choice. Instead, the right choice will be the one that makes the most sense for you, your budget, and your home. If you need to prioritize price of longevity, asphalt shingles are the way to go for your residential roof installation in Tampa. On the other hand, if you are planning on being in the house for more than a decade, you should seriously consider the year over year savings you'll get with an initially larger investment in metal roofing. Either way, calling in a professional to help you with the decision and the installation will keep your home safer from the weather its damaging effects, give you a labor guaranty, and maintain your roofing warranty.