Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal Roofs: Which Is Better for North Carolina Homes?

Looking for the right roof option in North Carolina? Here’s all the help you need!

Roof management is a concern for many in North Carolina. While choosing the best roof material or type for you, you may encounter choices that can be confusing solely because they all look great! We’re here to tell you more about it and to guide you in making the right choice.

There are two types of roof choices: Asphalt shingles and Metal roofs. Asphalt shingles give you a naturally balanced look that is also aesthetically pleasing. There are various sturdy and durable choices from within asphalt shingles to protect your roof. However, it requires renewing this roof or regular management, without which it cannot work alone. This is what makes metal roofs a more practical and permanent choice. They are costlier, but it is a one-time investment. You don’t have to spend thousands every other year to ensure it’s working correctly. Once installed, it sustains itself forever. While it seems like it’s initially more money than the obviously asphalt shingles, they cost you way more in the long term than metal roofs will. Asphalt shingles are sturdy, but every time you sleep, you have to wonder when they require any changes or caretaking, while metal roofings are so assured that you can at least rest and live in peace.

Climate Considerations in North Carolina

North Carolina faces its fair share of climatic mood swings. During hurricanes, thunderstorms, extreme heat, UV exposure, rain, hail, and natural fires, you need a roof that knows how to do its job. Remember, a roof is meant to protect you, not the other way round. It will save you a lot of stress, apart from the noticeable climatic changes you’ll face.

Depending upon the specific location, the extremes of weather may differ; a weather-resilient and sustainable roof that can withstand it all is necessary. When we say strong, sustainable, and eco-friendly, we don’t just mean one that doesn’t harm the environment to protect you, we mean one that blends and adapts with the environment effortlessly, and before you know that it does or has to manage it at all. It is essential to see the roof’s strength by knowing the properties and material combinations that go into making it. This will help you understand what is strong enough to withstand extreme climatic changes and adapt to them, as if it belongs in that environment.

Metal vs. Asphalt – Weather & Sustainability Considerations

While metal doesn’t seem like something that feels like a part of the climatic changes, it is permanent, withstands any harsh conditions, and does not impose its structure on the environment, making it less manageable, sturdier, and therefore, more sustainable. On the other hand, asphalt shingles seem very natural due to the material they are made of. Still, they are not long-lasting, need constant management, are easily installed, are way cheaper than metal, are less insulated, and are a quick fix rather than a long-term benefit. It seems resilient and sustainable only as long as you put in the effort to make it seem so.

Overview of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the traditional roofing systems that come in various colors, designs, types, and materials. They are usually installed with a wooden base. They are relatively easier to install than metal roofs. They give off a very well-built and sturdy vibe. They can be installed in one or two days, and don’t require a professional to learn exactly what to do with them to put them over a building. They can be worked on by anyone who knows a basic method of roof installation.

Asphalt shingles can combine fibres, including glass fibres mixed with Asphalt to create a sound structure for the roof.

• Easily installed
• Doesn’t require specific artistry
• Basic requirements for installation
• Available in various types, customizable as per design
• Cheaper than metal

• Lifespan and durability are less than half of those of metal roofs
• Prone to deteriorate faster
• Requires maintenance and constant attention
• The overall costs are higher
• Not as durable and long-lasting
• Not environmentally friendly or sustainable
• Less value for money

Overview of Metal Roofs

The thing about metal roofs is that they are durable and permanent, which is just half their beauty. It is available in various shades, types, and finishes- matte, metallic, and wooden. A metal roof that doesn’t look like a typical metal roof but a designer, crafted to precision with exclusive artistry, offering permanency over any other material. You can choose from a selection of metals, but each is pretty weather-resistant and can last at least 60 years, regardless of which material you opt for. It is available in tin, aluminum, steel, and other metal alloys.

• Most durable and longest-lasting roof choice
• Can be styled to look unlike metal, if you wish
• It is available in various price ranges, depending on how luxurious you want it to be
• A permanent option, withstanding all adversity like a boss!
• Will last at least 60 years
• Engineered to precision, looks sharper and well-put together, and is.
• Sustainable over asphalt shingles
• Doesn’t disintegrate easily
• Requires less maintenance and looks as good as new for decades
• Let you sleep in peace

• Requires exclusive craftsmanship and professional expertise
• Takes a longer time to install
• Not so cheap

Cost Comparison: Metal vs. Asphalt

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles cost about one-third of steel buildings and take one-fifth of the roof installation time. You can expect an average of $3.50–$5.50 per square foot, depending on the type of roof, material, and other customizations. While the initial, upfront cost is lower with easier roof installation to make it seem easily adaptable and on the pocket, they require constant maintenance due to deterioration and other factors such as weather conditions, and the costs go higher over time. They cannot be installed anymore and are not resistant to extreme weather, which increases costs. They may require a replacement much before metal roofing.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs require thrice the amount of Asphalt shingles and professional expertise, which may add to the already higher costs. The higher costs are simply because of the material’s quality, durability, and permanence. Metal roofs do not deteriorate, irrespective of the strongest storms; they do not fall or wear off due to the general weather conditions or over time. Once installed, you may never require any replacement, which is the sole reason for a higher price. They usually cost you $4 to $30 per square foot, which can seem high initially, but the rewards are forever. They require little to no maintenance and do their job as they should, while looking like it was newly installed.

Energy Efficiency & Utility Savings

Metal is generally energy efficient, as depending upon which metal you opt for, they can be up to 100% renewable sources, being sustainable in the long term. Their wear & tear isn’t something you need to worry about, as compared to Asphalt, which generally does not offer resilience and can fall off comparatively easily. Asphalt shingles don’t last very long and require replacement sooner, while metal roofs can be as good as permanent, lasting at least 60 years. In the long term, it doesn’t take much of your mind over maintenance, which saves a lot of time and energy for life, being easier on the pocket.

While Asphalt shingles might appear cost-effective initially, they do not offer durability and, in most cases, require maintenance almost every other month or a complete replacement in a few years, with a considerable amount of wear & tear, keeping the climatic conditions of North Carolina in mind.

Which Roof is Best for You?

• You live in an area with harsh or unpredictable weather.
• You want a long-lasting investment that requires minimal upkeep.
• You’re willing to invest more upfront for durability over decades.
• You’re looking for a roof that can withstand extreme conditions and last 40–70 years.

• You need a quick installation due to time constraints.
• Professional metal roof installers aren’t easily available in your area.
• You’re looking for a budget-friendly roofing solution.
• You prefer a lower initial cost, even if it means replacing or repairing the roof every 10–15 years.
• You live in a moderate climate with minimal temperature fluctuations and stable weather conditions.
• You’re okay with ongoing maintenance and occasional repairs.

Where to Find your Roofing Specialists?

At Statewide Roofing Specialist, we provide the best roofing throughout North Carolina, as per your choice. Our expert professionals are here for you from the initial quote to the final installation. We ensure you get the best roofing for yourself at affordable prices. The entire process from the order to the payment and finance options is entirely transparent and flexible. Depending on where you are, we guide you toward the right choice for your area. To learn more, call us at 336-480-1824.