When we discuss the benefits of metal roofing with a prospective customer here in the Twin Cities, we often talk in terms of how it compares to asphalt shingle roofing.  Why?  Because even though metal roofing is fast taking over the top spot in terms of residential roofing in the U.S., asphalt is the type of roof most people are familiar with, and in fact most of the older homes in Minnesota have this type of roof.

But home by home, that's changing as people throughout the Minneapolis metro and beyond are discovering just how well metal roofing performs.  So let's line it up against its main competitor, asphalt shingle roofing, and see how it does:

WEIGHT:  This is something that should be a concern for homeowners, because the weight of a roof affects its entire structure.  In fact, building codes that specify the number of roof layers allowed are in place to limit weight.  While you might assume metal roofing is heavier than asphalt, in truth it's one of the most lightweight roofing materials available.  Most metal roofs weigh less than a pound and a half per square foot, while asphalt can be up to 5 pounds for the same area.  This is a significant point, because it may mean you can avoid a tear-off of your old roof when you replace it with metal. APPEARANCE: Although there are two different styles of shingles,  all asphalt shingle roofs look basically the same.  However, with a metal roof you have so many different choices in terms of looks.  Metal roofing is available in styles that resemble wood shakes, slate, clay tiles, even asphalt shingles.  And then there is the standing seam roof, the raised rib that most people associate with metal roofing.  EXPECTED LIFE:  Depending on the area you live in and the care you give it, an asphalt shingle roof may last 12-15 years. Maybe 20. And don't be fooled by the warranty - a 40-year shingle roof will not last 40 years, and if you make a claim under the warranty, you'll be shocked to find out that it will be prorated, depending on the age of your roof.  On the other hand, a metal roof can last upwards of 70 years or more; in general the accepted rule of thumb in the industry is that a metal roof lasts about 4 times as long as a high quality asphalt roof.   If you've got an aging asphalt roof on your home, maybe it's time to consider today's metal roofing, thought by many in the home design and building industry to be the very best there is for protecting homes.  Why not contact us for a free quote?  We are a licensed Minnesota roofing contractor serving the greater Twin Cities metro area.