Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof Comparison

Replacing your home’s roof requires choosing the right materials. You might be wondering about metal roofs and how they stack up against shingle roofs. If you currently have a shingle roof and want to minimize your worries and maintenance over your years of home ownership, metal roofing in Indianapolis is a smart choice.

Jackson Contracting is a top choice for metal roofing installation in the area. We have a solid reputation for providing comprehensive roofing solutions and highly skilled installation teams capable of precision when taking on these projects. Above all, we use premium materials that are built to last. Read on to learn more about metal roofing and why you might want to choose it over asphalt shingles or other materials for your roof replacement.

Introduction to Metal Roofing Indianapolis

Metal roofing was primarily used in commercial and industrial roofing projects, but over the years, it has become a popular choice for homeowners. Metal roofs are made from durable metals like steel, copper, aluminum, and zinc, which provide greater protection for your home.

Gone are the days when this type of roof looked like a sheet of metal on a home. There are many styles, even some that mimic wood and tiles for an upgraded appearance. They come in a variety of colors and finishes, making them more aesthetically pleasing than ever before. Homeowners are choosing them more and more for their durability, energy efficiency, and attractiveness when re-roofing their homes. If you replace your roof with a metal one, it will likely be the last time you’ll ever have to make this type of home improvement.

Why Choose Jackson Contracting for Indianapolis Metal Roofing? 

Jackson Contracting has decades of experience in roofing and specializes in metal roofing installations. We never settle for less, always choosing the best quality metal roofing materials and upholding industry standards for installation to ensure long-lasting protection.

We stand behind our work with warranties that provide you with added peace of mind on our workmanship. You’ll never be pressured by anyone on our team to sign a contract immediately, and our upfront pricing means that you will never get stuck with hidden costs on your bill.

Contact us today and let us help you create customized roofing solutions. If you’re trying to decide between a metal roof and a shingle roof, or you have any questions at all, we’re always happy to provide detailed information that allows you to make the best possible decision for your needs.

Benefits of Metal Roofs in Indianapolis

Why should you consider metal roofing over shingle roofs or other materials? There are several benefits to installing a metal roof in Indianapolis:

Durable and Long-Lasting

Metal roofs outlast most other types of roofing materials with a lifespan that ranges from 40 to 80 years, or even longer, depending on the type of metal used. They can take a beating from the harsh weather in winter and summer, making it less likely that you’ll need repairs.

Energy Efficient

Metal roofs reflect solar energy from your home, and they retain your interior temperature better. You won’t have to overwork your HVAC system to keep you cool in summer or warm in the winter.

Sustainable

If you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, you’ll be happy to know that metal roofing is eco-friendly since it’s made from recycled materials. It’s also fully recyclable once it reaches the end of its lifespan.

Low Maintenance

When installed correctly, metal roofs require very little maintenance over the years. Protective coatings can keep them lasting even longer, and since they don’t absorb water and resist mold, algae, and mildew growth, you won’t have to worry as much.

Fire Resistant

Since metal is non-combustible, metal roofing has a Class A fire rating, the highest possible. You will have added assurance that your home is protected from fire and flames.

Aesthetics

With modern styles, metal roofs today don’t look like the metal roofs of yesteryear. They can be harmoniously paired with a variety of architectural styles, elevating your curb appeal and property value.

Comparison with Other Roofing Materials

Want to think about your roof less as the years roll by? Metal roofing may be the right answer, though there are other things to consider when making this decision. Here, we compare metal roofing with asphalt shingles and tiles to help you look at the bigger picture and make the right choice.

Metal vs Asphalt Shingles

When it comes to durability and lifespan, metal roofing is the clear winner. Asphalt shingles usually last between 15 and 30 years, and while they can resist high winds, they are less adept at doing so compared to metal. Metal roofs last 40 to 80 years, and even longer in some cases.

However, shingles are much less expensive to install. Metal roofing has a much higher upfront cost. If you’re willing to make that initial investment, you’ll save over the years by not needing a roof replacement and having lower maintenance costs.

Metal roofs reflect sunlight, making them better at energy efficiency. Shingles can help with energy efficiency with better grades, but they absorb more heat. If energy efficiency is a huge concern, it may be best to choose metal.

Metal vs Tile

While tile made of concrete or clay is strong, it can crack or break from impact. Metal roofs don’t have that kind of vulnerability. The biggest concern is in ensuring that metal roofing is installed properly, and when it is, it can outlast just about anything.

Both may require adding structural support to your home to support the added weight. Maintaining metal is less costly than maintaining tiles, and you may find that its benefits make it stand apart from other materials.

Metal Roof Installation Process

The process of installing a metal roof requires expertise. Here is a brief rundown of what you can expect when you schedule a metal roof installation:

Preparation of Your Home

Your old roofing materials will all be completely removed to make way for your new metal roof. We look at the roof deck and make any necessary repairs to it to ensure its strength. We then add underlayment and drip edges to keep water from intruding into your home.

Installing the Panels

We plan the metal panels needed for your roof and cut them down to size, taking care to make cut outs for chimneys and vents. The first row of panels will go along the eave on top of the drip edge, and then it will be secured. After that, the rest of the panels are installed in a row until complete.

Finishing and Inspection

Flashing is then installed around chimneys, vents, and other protrusions to prevent leaks. At the peak, ridge caps are added to secure the seam where each side meets. Once done, the entire roof is carefully inspected to check that all panels are aligned, all screws are firmly in place, and that everything is done right. Clean up and debris removal are the last steps of the process.

Maintenance Tips After Metal Roof Installation Indianapolis

When you have a new roof, you have fewer worries, especially when it’s a metal roof. However, it is vital that you have it inspected once a year and cleaned to keep leaves and debris away. While coatings can protect metal roofing from rust, you will want to uphold its aesthetics. Professional cleaning is recommended to protect yourself from injuries as well as to use the right cleansing agents that won’t destroy your finish.

Talk to your landscaper about trimming trees back from your home. Branches can come loose and dent or penetrate your metal roof. Gutters should also be cleaned seasonally to avoid issues with water flow onto the roof.

When it snows, make sure you safely remove large piles of it from your roof. A soft-bristled broom can help you prevent ice dams and added weight on the roof. Although metal is a hardy material, it is a good idea to have an inspection conducted if severe weather, particularly high winds, have come through the area.

Environmental Impact

Why should you choose a metal roof? The environmental impact can make a big difference. Since metal roofs don’t need to be replaced as often, they create less waste. When they do age to the end of their lifespan, they’re completely recyclable.

Along with that durability comes less maintenance and repairs, and that means less consumption of resources. One of the biggest reasons metal roofs are better for the environment is that they are energy efficient. You will have a cooler interior in the summer that stays warm and cozy in the winter. This reduces your carbon footprint while enhancing your comfort, which is a win-win.

All told, metal roofing has some enticing benefits that make it a top contender when compared to shingle roofs. Contact Jackson Contracting today to get a free estimate and learn more about how we can install your new metal roof.