In the eternal battle of metal roofing versus asphalt roofing, who claims the title of “Best Roofing Material” in the Savannah, Hilton Head Island, and Beaufort areas? Let’s dive deep into this age-old feud and unravel the pros and cons of each contender.
The Decline of Asphalt Shingles
“They don’t make ’em like they used to,” goes the adage, and nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of asphalt shingles. Today’s asphalt shingles are a far cry from their sturdy predecessors, as manufacturers skimp on asphalt content and load up shingles with cheap fillers to cut costs. The result? Shingles that curl, cup, and shed granules within a year, earning them the moniker of “temporary roofing.”
Enter Metal Roofing: The Permanent Solution
In stark contrast to asphalt’s fleeting reign, metal roofing emerges as the beacon of longevity and durability. Dubbed “permanent” or “investment-grade” roofing, metal roofs promise a lifetime-lasting solution for homeowners unwilling to compromise on quality. While the upfront investment may be higher, the payoff is monumental: metal roofing costs up to four times less than asphalt over a 30-year span, thanks to its superior durability, energy efficiency, and return on investment (up to 95%).
The Asphalt Saga: A Short-Lived Affair
Asphalt roofing’s Achilles’ heel lies in its short lifespan, averaging a mere five to 15 years in the Savannah, Hilton Head Island, and Beaufort regions. Subjected to relentless assault from the elements, asphalt shingles succumb to degradation within a year of installation, leaving homeowners grappling with curling, leaking, and cracking shingles. While the industry touts a 17- to 20-year lifespan, the harsh coastal climate drastically shortens this timeline, rendering warranties moot.
Energy Efficiency: Metal’s Advantage
Asphalt’s penchant for absorbing solar heat transforms homes into sweltering ovens during summer months, driving up energy bills and compromising comfort. Moreover, the environmental toll of asphalt shingles extends to over 20 billion pounds dumped in US landfills annually, perpetuating pollution and waste. In contrast, metal roofing emerges as the eco-friendly alternative, with the ability to re-emit up to 90% of absorbed solar radiation and save homeowners 30% to 40% on energy bills.
Metal vs. Other Roofing Materials
While asphalt falters, other roofing materials vie for supremacy:
Wood Shake: Despite a lifespan of five to 15 years, wood shake demands extensive maintenance and poses fire safety risks.
Clay Tile: With a lifespan exceeding 50 years, clay tile boasts resilience but requires additional roof support due to its weight and comes at a premium price.
Concrete Tile: Lasting 30 to 50 years, concrete tile offers durability but necessitates waterproof sealing and structural reinforcement.
Slate: The pinnacle of longevity, slate roofing surpasses 100 years but demands careful handling and comes with a hefty price tag.
In conclusion, the choice between metal roofing and asphalt roofing boils down to longevity, durability, and value. While asphalt shingles may offer a quick fix, metal roofing reigns supreme as the enduring, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly choice for homeowners in Savannah, Hilton Head Island, and Beaufort.
