A cursory search on Google for “roofing shingles” often yields vague definitions like “a type of roofing installation where the roof is covered with shingles.” This definition doesn’t provide much clarity, does it? To truly grasp the concept of roofing shingles before delving into metal shingle roofing, it’s essential to define what roofing shingles entail and why this term can sometimes lead to confusion. Roofing shingles refer to overlapping elements laid in rows to cover roofs, typically made from asphalt, wood, metal, slate, or composite materials. Understanding this basic definition sets the stage for exploring the nuances of metal shingle roofing and its benefits.
What are Roofing Shingles?
In the past, a wood roof placed in an overlapping pattern from the bottom to the top of the roof was referred to as having roofing shingles. In places like Central and Eastern Europe where wood roofs are a characteristic of traditional architecture, this is still the case.
Before the early 1900s, wood roofs were quite common in the United States; but, when more contemporary and long-lasting roofing materials were produced during the 20th century, their appeal quickly declined.
These days, various roofing materials like asphalt, metal, wood, clay, and slate are all categorized as roofing shingles. Despite the differences in materials used, installers typically follow the same guidelines, such as placing them exclusively on structures with pitched or sloped roofs.
For instance, asphalt shingle roofing, which is a rectangular piece of asphalt applied from the base of the roof upwards, is one of the most popular forms of roofing shingles in the United States.
Tile shingle roofing, consisting of overlapping terracotta or slate tiles placed in parallel rows, is the most popular type of roofing shingle outside of the United States.
We think we’ve made it clear that roofing shingles is a rather broad term that refers to a range of roofing materials that are laid on pitched roofs in a comparable, overlapping manner.
What is a Metal Shingle Roof?
Another general word for roofing products made of several kinds of metal is “metal roofing,” which includes:
- Aluminum roofing.
- Standing seam roofing.
- Corrugated roofing.
- Copper roofing.
- Stone-coated steel roofing.
The industrial sector used metal as their preferred roofing material for more than a century. Metal roofing offers numerous advantages that warehouses, factories, and other industrial structures have adopted, such as:
Durability: Because of their resistance to the elements and capacity to shield structures from fire, hail, hurricane-force winds, and other hazards, metal roofs are among the most resilient roofing materials available.
Longevity: Compared to conventional roofing materials like asphalt, tile, or wood, metal roofs can last up to three times longer.
Low Maintenance: Metal roofs require little to no upkeep, save from the sporadic clearing of leaves and other debris following a significant downpour.
Currently regarded as the second most popular roofing material, metal roofing has spread far beyond the industrial sector.
When stone-coated metal roofing was first launched in 1957, metal roofing’s appeal skyrocketed. Stone-coated metal roofing products also provide the benefits of industrial metal roofing goods, catering to homeowners’ aesthetic preferences in terms of color, texture, and style.
Like industrial metal roofing goods, stone-coated metal roofing products begin as steel sheets. During the manufacturing process, manufacturers stamp steel sheets into roofing panels that replicate the form and aesthetic of residential roofing materials.Stone granules that replicate the texture, dimension, and vibrant hues of conventional roofing materials like wood shake, clay tile, and asphalt shingles are then applied to the roofing panels.
So, what is a metal shingle roof?
A metal shingle roof can mimic the appearance of wood, tile, or asphalt shingles. With metal shingle roofing, homeowners can enjoy the best of both worlds: the classic aesthetic of a roof combined with the robust, long-lasting sturdiness of metal.
Metal Shingle Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Over 70% of American homes had asphalt shingle roofs at one point in time, when they were the most common roofing material. Asphalt shingles are among the least expensive roofing materials available, which is one of the key factors contributing to its popularity. However, homeowners are becoming more conscious of the fact that quality matters and that low cost doesn’t always equate to better because asphalt roofing has some significant drawbacks, such as:
Lifespan: Traditional asphalt roofing materials typically have an expected lifespan of 12–20 years, which is shorter compared to the three times longer lifespan of metal shingle roofing.
Energy Efficiency: When it comes to energy efficiency, asphalt shingles rank among the least effective roofing materials. Long after the sun sets, they continue to transmit heat into the house below by absorbing it like a sponge.
Impact on the Environment: Every year, asphalt provides 11–13 million tons of garbage to landfills, which is the same as 3,068 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Benefits of Metal Shingle Roofing
- Durability: Metal shingles are highly durable and able to withstand extreme weather conditions including hail, high winds, and fire.
- Longevity: With a lifespan of up to 50 years or more, metal shingle roofs outlast traditional asphalt shingles by a significant margin.
Our Recommendations
Considering the benefits of metal shingle roofing, we recommend homeowners explore this option for its durability, energy efficiency, and minimal environmental impact. Shumaker Roofing specializes in installing and maintaining metal shingle roofs, ensuring your home receives the highest quality roofing solution available. Contact us today to learn more about how metal shingle roofing can enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, metal shingle roofing represents a modern and sustainable choice for homeowners seeking long-term roofing solutions. Its durability, longevity, and energy efficiency advantages make it a compelling alternative to traditional asphalt shingles. At Shumaker Roofing, we commit to delivering superior craftsmanship and excellent service to safeguard your home with the finest roofing available.
Embrace the future of roofing technology with metal shingle roofing and enjoy peace of mind knowing your investment will endure for decades to come.
FAQs About Metal Shingle Roofs
What materials do manufacturers use to make metal shingle roofs?
Manufacturers craft metal shingle roofs from aluminum, copper, steel, or metal alloys, often applying coatings or treatments to enhance durability and weather resistance.
How long can I expect a metal shingle roof to last?
Metal shingle roofs are renowned for lasting a long time. On average, they can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance, far outlasting traditional asphalt shingles.
Will a metal roof make a lot of noise during rain or hailstorms?
Modern metal shingle roofs feature insulation and underlayment that actively reduce noise levels. Making them as quiet as other roofing materials during inclement weather.
Are metal roofs energy efficient?
Yes, metal shingle roofs offer excellent energy efficiency. They reflect solar heat, lowering cooling costs in warmer climates, and many are ENERGY STAR® certified for superior energy performance.
How do the costs of metal shingle roofs compare to traditional roofing materials?
Initially, metal shingle roofs may have a higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles. However, their durability and minimal maintenance needs often make them a cost-effective investment over the long term.
