A new roof is a big investment. After all, you’re going to be spending thousands of dollars on something that’s expected to last decades. Of the wide variety of options, asphalt shingles and metal are typically touted as the best bang for your buck. But it begs the question, which is better? When deciding on a new roof, it’s paramount that you understand the advantages and drawbacks of these two popular options. Learn all about the benefits and advantages of asphalt shingles with the roofing professionals from Shanco below!

Why Choose Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are by far the most common type of roofing in the United States, and for good reason. Estimates claim four out of five roofs are covered with some form of asphalt, and shingle roofs are by and large the top choice for roof replacements. By using asphalt as the main form of waterproofing, these shingles are easily maintained and offer superior protection for years to come. Affordable and reliable, there is a range of benefits to choosing an asphalt shingle roof over a metal one.

Asphalt shingles are more affordable than metal roofing

Asphalt shingles are extremely cost-effective. Typically costing between $100-$200 per square (a 10 foot by 10-foot area) asphalt shingles are a fraction of the cost of metal roofs. Metal roofs are often triple the price and are more costly to install.

Asphalt shingles are extremely effective in any climate

One of the main reasons asphalt is such a common choice is that it’s effective. Asphalt shingle roofs are fire-resistant, weather-resistant and wind-resistant. They’re known to resist algae in moist climates and they hold up in the heat. Asphalt shingles are resilient, easy to maintain, and can perform well for their entire lifespan.

Asphalt shingles are easily installed

Asphalt shingles are extremely easy to install. For smaller projects, it can even be done in a day or two, to keep inconvenience to a minimum! This means that repairs are also very quick, and improvements can be completed in as little as a single afternoon. Metal, on the other hand, is a much more labor-intensive, costly and difficult process.

Asphalt shingles offer more customization and choice

There are significantly more choices in styles and colors of asphalt shingles than any other type of roof. This can make your home blend in nicely with the neighborhood or act as a highlight! Asphalt shingles can easily match whatever aesthetic your home fits into, from southwestern to victorian.

Asphalt shingles are quieter

While this may seem like a negligible benefit, you’ll notice it during the first rainstorm of the season. Asphalt shingles are significantly better at filtering out noise than metal. Whether it’s general neighborhood noise, construction, or rain, the difference is noticeable. They serve as a dampener, quieting the surrounding area, whereas metal roofs tend to amplify everything.

Asphalt shingle roofs are the industry standard for a reason. Their ease of installation, affordability, and reliability make them the obvious choice for any new roof. While they may not last as long as some materials such as slate or ceramic, a properly installed asphalt shingle roof will last between 20-30 years. They require limited maintenance, provide top-quality protection against the elements and come in a variety of colors. Some types are so efficient that they meet Energy Star requirements, allowing for tax credit eligibility. If you’re looking for a top-quality, affordable roof, asphalt shingles should be your top choice.

Asphalt Shingles from Shanco Roofing

If you’re unsure of the right material for your new roof, the first step should be a free roof inspection and consultation from the experts at Shanco. We have been providing home improvement services to Maryland, Washington, DC, & Virginia for over 20 years, and can help you decide the best material for your roofing project. Contact us today to learn more!​