Metal Vs Asphalt Roof Comparison: What Minnesota Homeowners Should Know

Minnesota homeowners face a choice between metal and asphalt roofs. Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years and stand up well to harsh weather, while asphalt shingles usually need replacing after 15 to 30 years. You’ll pay more upfront for a metal roof, but it saves money over time and might make your home worth more. The upkeep is different too – metal roofs need checking every 3 to 5 years, but asphalt needs a yearly look. Metal roofs are also better for the earth since they can be recycled and help cut down on energy use. Both options have their good points, and knowing these key facts helps you pick what works best for your home.

Key Takeaways

• Metal roofs can withstand severe Minnesota weather, providing durability and longevity, lasting 40 to 70 years with proper installation.
• Asphalt shingles are less expensive upfront but typically last only 15 to 30 years and may require more frequent repairs.
• Homeowners can save on insurance costs with metal roofs due to their fire resistance and potential to increase property value.
• Routine maintenance for metal roofs is less demanding; checks every 3 to 5 years contrast with annual inspections for asphalt roofs.
• Metal roofs are environmentally friendly, made from up to 90% recycled materials, while asphalt shingles contribute significantly to landfill waste.

Overview of Roofing Materials

Roofing materials make a big difference in how well a building holds up over time. Two common choices are metal roofs and asphalt shingles, and each works differently.

Metal roofs are light, tough, and stand up well to bad weather. Asphalt shingles cost less and are easier to put on.

Installing these materials is also quite different – metal roofs need special tools and careful attachment to keep water out, while asphalt shingles are more basic, using overlapping rows to keep rain and snow away.

For homeowners in Minnesota, knowing these key differences helps them pick the right roof that will work best in their local weather.

Durability and Longevity

When choosing a roof, how long it will last and how well it holds up are key things to think about, especially in places with tough weather.

Metal roofs are very strong and can handle strong winds, heavy snow, and big changes in temperature without much damage. They can last between 40 and 70 years, depending on whether you use steel or aluminum.

On the other hand, asphalt roofs usually last only 15 to 30 years and can get damaged more easily in bad weather.

How well the roof is put on matters a lot too. If asphalt roofs aren’t installed right, they might start leaking and have problems sooner than they should.

Metal roofs, when installed correctly, have special features like panels that lock together, which helps them stand up better to weather. This makes them last longer and work better for homeowners in Minnesota.

Cost Analysis

Looking at the costs of metal versus asphalt roofs, money plays a big role alongside how long they last and how well they hold up.

The money breakdown looks at:

• Setup Costs: Metal roofs cost more to put on than asphalt ones, which means you’ll need more money upfront.
• How Long They Last: Even though metal roofs cost more at first, they last much longer than asphalt, which can save money over time.
• Lower Insurance Costs: Metal roofs might cut down your insurance bills because they resist fire better and are tougher overall.
• Home Value: A metal roof can make your house worth more than an asphalt one when you sell.

These money matters help Minnesota homeowners understand what each roof type means for their wallet.

Maintenance Requirements

Keeping up with roof care affects how well and how long your roof will last. Metal roofs need less care than asphalt ones. Both types need cleaning and regular checks, but in different ways.

Roofing Type	What You Need to Do
Metal	Check now and then; clean off dirt and watch for rust.
Asphalt	Check often; clean off green growth and loose bits.

You might only need to check a metal roof once every three to five years. Asphalt roofs need checking every year. Good cleaning helps both types last longer, but metal roofs are easier to take care of. Think about this when picking your new roof.

Energy Efficiency Comparison

Looking at what makes roofs save energy can help you pick the best one for your home. Metal roofs do a better job keeping homes warm and cool than asphalt shingles, which helps cut down on energy bills.

If you live in Minnesota, here’s what you should know:

• Heat Control: Metal roofs bounce heat away from your house, making it easier to keep cool in summer.
• Long Life: Metal roofs last longer, so you spend less on energy over the years.
• Air Flow: Many metal roofs help air move better through your home, saving more energy.
• Earth-Friendly: Metal roofs are often made from reused materials, which saves energy from the start.

Aesthetic Appeal

A roof’s look plays a big part in how attractive a house appears. When picking between metal and asphalt roofing, you need to think about how they match different house styles and what colors you can choose. Metal roofs look clean and new, making them perfect for modern homes, but they also come in many colors that work well with older-style houses. Asphalt shingles give homes a more old-fashioned look that fits many house styles, from early American to seaside cottage designs.

Feature	Metal	Asphalt
Color Options	Extensive, customizable	Limited, traditional
Architectural Styles	Modern, Industrial	Traditional, Versatile
Lifespan	40-70 years	15-30 years
Maintenance	Low	Moderate

Weather Resistance

Weather resistance plays a key role when choosing roofing materials, as it affects how long your roof will last and how well it works in different weather.

In Minnesota, roofs need to handle cold winters, heavy snow, and strong winds.

When looking at metal and asphalt roofing, these factors matter most:

• Wind resistance: Metal roofs hold up better in high winds and are less likely to tear off than asphalt.
• Snow shedding: Snow slides off metal roofs more easily, which helps prevent ice buildup and heavy snow loads.
• Moisture handling: Metal roofs keep water from pooling better than asphalt, which means fewer leaks and less rust.
• Temperature changes: Metal roofs can handle hot and cold changes without breaking, while asphalt might crack.

This is why picking the right roofing material is so important for Minnesota homeowners.

Environmental Impact

When choosing a roof, the impact on the environment is important to many homeowners.

Metal roofs are better for the environment since they’re made with up to 90% recycled materials and can be fully recycled when replaced.

Asphalt shingles don’t last as long and usually end up in dumps because they’re harder to recycle.

Metal roofs also help save energy by bouncing heat away from the house, while asphalt soaks up heat and makes homes warmer, leading to higher cooling bills.

For homeowners who care about the environment, picking materials that can be recycled and last longer makes a big difference, which is why carefully choosing the right roofing material matters.

Return on Investment

When choosing a roof, many people forget to think about return on investment (ROI), which shows how much value you get back from your roofing choice over time.

If you own a home in Minnesota, it’s smart to look at how different roof types affect your money, both when you sell your house and in what you pay for insurance.

What affects your ROI:

• Starting costs: Metal roofs cost more to put on than asphalt shingles.
• How long it lasts: Metal roofs usually last much longer, so you spend less on replacements.
• Power savings: Metal roofs help cut heating and cooling bills, saving you money.
• Insurance costs: Metal roofs can lower your insurance payments because they’re strong and resist fire.

When you understand ROI, you can make better choices about which roof to buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Installation Time Differ Between Metal and Asphalt Roofs?

Metal roofs take longer to put on because they need special skills and tools, while asphalt roofs go up faster since they’re easier to install. This time difference affects both how long the job takes and how much you’ll end up paying.

Are There Insurance Benefits for Installing Metal Roofing?

Metal roofs can help you save money on insurance because they last longer and don’t catch fire easily. Many insurance companies give better rates to homeowners who put on metal roofs since these roofs are less likely to get damaged and need to be replaced.

Can Metal Roofs Affect Home Resale Value Compared to Asphalt?

Metal roofs can boost a home’s resale value thanks to their long life and good looks. Many buyers see metal roofs as better quality than regular asphalt shingles, which can make homes worth more money, especially in areas where metal roofs are popular.

What Are Common Sound Issues With Metal Roofing During Storms?

Metal roofs can be louder during storms than other types of roofs. When rain and hail hit the metal surface, they create more noise inside the building. While metal roofs are strong and long-lasting, you might need to add extra layers underneath to keep things quieter when bad weather strikes.

How Do Local Building Codes Affect Roofing Material Choices in Minnesota?

Minnesota building rules shape what roofing materials you can use. These local rules set standards for safety and make sure roofs can handle heavy snow and strong winds. Following these rules isn’t optional – you need to pick materials that meet all local requirements.

Conclusion

Looking at the differences between metal and asphalt roofing, Midwest Construction and Remodeling helps Minnesota homeowners understand key factors like durability, cost, maintenance needs, and energy savings. Metal roofs last longer and save energy but cost more upfront, while asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and have a classic look many people prefer. When choosing between these options, MWCR Homes recommends considering your specific needs and Minnesota’s weather conditions to make the best choice for your home.