Do you have a negative impression of metal roofs or feel that metal roofs are unsightly? What if we told you there’s a metal roof that looks like shingles but provides better protection than common asphalt? Yes, you can have both – a durable metal roof, with aesthetically pleasing shingles.
You may already know that metal roofs range from steel to zinc to aluminum to copper, each with different styles, designs, purposes, and longevity. However, did you also know that metal shingle roofs are available in a variety of styles, designs, and colors and provide a durable, long-lasting roofing solution?
Stone-coated steel metal roofs mimic the look of asphalt shingles, wood shake, or clay tile combining the benefits of a metal roof with the curb appeal of more common roofing. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
In This Article
Metal Roofs That Look Like Shingles
When you want a metal roof that looks like shingles, consider stone-coated steel metal roofs. With the durability and longevity of metal roofs, stone-coated shingles top your home with style and finesse.
To withstand exposure to harsh weather conditions, steel panels are shaped into shingles, tiles, or shake and coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy. The alloy is then bonded to stone granules.
So instead of flat sheets of metal or corrugated aluminum, your home can be outfitted with a more stylish and appealing look, similar to asphalt shingle roofs.
Advantages of Metal Shingle Roofs
The advantages of metal shingle roofs outweigh any disadvantages metal roofs may have. Some of the benefits include:
- Metal shingle roofs last longer than traditional asphalt roofs. Installed properly, metal shingle roofs can last up to 50 years.
- By reflecting the sun, metal shingles help to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Because metal roofs last for decades, they’re also environmentally friendly, as you don’t have to replace them as often as asphalt shingles—meaning less waste.
- Metal shingles are lightweight, and in some cases, can be placed right over your existing roof.
- Metal roofs can add value to your home, and those that come with a transferable warranty (like Erie Home metal roofs) add additional value.
Potential Disadvantages of a Metal Shingle Roof
Though you may think a metal shingle roof has the disadvantage of being noisy, this isn’t the case with stone-coated shingles. Layers of insulation help keep the noise down.
Other potential disadvantages may include:
- Upfront costs: Metal roofs can increase the overall value of your home, but they typically have a higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles. However, metal roofs are cost-effective when you consider their expected lifespan of up to 50 years — twice as long as the typical lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof.
- Possible denting: A metal roof could possibly dent due to inclement weather, such as hail, or accidents that may occur as a result of walking on it. Stone-coated shingles are stronger than some other metal roofing materials and, therefore, less prone to damage. In fact, Erie Home metal roofs have a Class 4 hail impact resistance rating, meaning they can withstand hail stones up to 2 inches in diameter.
- Expanding and contracting: Due to fluctuating outdoor temperatures, a metal roof may expand and contract in colder and warmer air. However, this is typically a result of exposed fasteners, which are not a part of the stone-coated metal shingle installation process.
Erie Home metal roofs are expertly installed by local professionals and come with a 50-year, limited lifetime transferable warranty. We can also help with financing, should you require it. Call us today at 1-800-862-6400 for a free consultation and estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can metal roofs look like shingles?
Yes, metal roofs can look like shingles. Though you may be thinking of large, flat sheets of aluminum or tin, metal roofs can be created to look like asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or wood shake.
Are metal shingle roofs good?
Metal shingle roofs are suitable for almost any house in hot or cold climates. Thanks to their energy efficiency and easy maintenance, stone-coated metal shingle roofs keep your home cooler in summer, protect against extreme weather, and can help to reduce ice or snow dams in winter.
Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?
There are several potential causes of roof leaks, from damaged shingles to clogged gutters. The potential for a leaky roof depends on the quality of the material and the state of the roof.
Natural wear and tear of any roof can lead to leaks, but metal roofs provide better protection and have a longer lifespan than asphalt shingles.
How much more expensive is a metal roof compared to shingles?
Metal roofs have higher upfront costs compared to traditional asphalt shingle roofs, but they last twice as long (or even longer) than asphalt shingles, making them a cost-effective investment over time.
What is the average lifespan of a metal roof?
A metal roof can last up to approximately 50 years. However, with proper installation and maintenance, metal roofs can last even longer.