INSTALL FIBERGLASS SHINGLES OR UPGRADE TO METAL ROOFING?

SHOULD I INSTALL FIBERGLASS SHINGLES OR UPGRADE TO METAL ROOFING?

Roof replacement Arlington Heights IL projects can be stressful for Midwest homeowners, especially if those homeowners are confused about what type of roofing materials are best. Often times homeowners are left comparing metal roofing over the more common fiberglass shingles.

Will the premium price of metal roofing or rubber roofing products be worth it in the end?

And how long can you expect a typical fiberglass roof to last?

You are wise to ask questions and find out all of your options, resulting in the very best roof for your home and family.

LOOK AT BOTH THE PROS AND CONS OF HIGH QUALITY FIBERGLASS SHINGLES AND CONSIDER THE ADDED EXPENSE OF METAL ROOFING BEFORE MAKING YOUR FINAL DECISION.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Fiberglass Shingles

If you are having your roof replaced in the warmer months of spring, summer and autumn the benefits of fiberglass asphalt shingles have a chance to shine.

Manufacturers used to make asphalt shingles from organic materials such as waste paper and fibers. This allowed for greater flexibility during the cold winter months, but resulted in a shorter product lifespan and more problems with roof leaks. Today most roof replacement jobs are completed using fiberglass asphalt shingles, made from inorganic materials that withstand time and the elements with ease.

FIBERGLASS SHINGLES COME IN A WIDE RANGE OF COLORS AND PROFILES,

with many that mimic the classic looks of clay tile or slate. Many homebuilders use fiberglass shingles because of the affordable cost and attractive appearance, as well as the relatively quick installation and ease of roof repairs.

However, fiberglass roofing shingles will rot or fall apart over time. A metal roof provides a lifetime of dependability in any climate, eliminating the need to replace your roof after ten or fifteen years.

Although the lifespan of asphalt shingles varies widely, based on the quality and manufacturer, you can only expect to get fifteen or twenty years of reliable coverage on most Midwest homes. If you are planning on remaining in your home for a few decades, you should plan on replacing your asphalt shingles at least twice, or possibly more, if heavy storms persist. Some fiberglass shingles manufacturers partner with expert roofing contractors and allow them to pass along better shingle and installation warranties. This option does cost a bit more but will pay off over the long run when the product is not pro-rated at a lesser amount each year. Meaning, if your shingles fail before the warranty expires, they can be replaced at a full dollar amount vs a lesser amount due to depreciation.

Premium Prices for Premium Performance

Metal roofing does cost a significant amount more than fiberglass shingles. Material prices are higher, and this product requires special installation procedures and fasteners, pushing the cost even higher.  This typically requires more oversight during the installation of the metal roofing product by a quality control specialist.

Depending on the age of your home and the size and pitch of your roof, some metal roofing may demand additional support. Most modern products are designed to be lightweight and efficient, but it is wise to have a professional roofer assess the project before investing in metal roofing materials.

The premium price of metal roofing improves the value of your home, although not enough to offset the initial investment. You need to value the product performance and plan to live with the assurance of metal’s dependability for years in order to fully appreciate the return on investment.

Many homeowners are leaning toward the benefits of metal roofing, but the popularity of fiberglass shingles continues to hold out. Affordable, reliable and easy to repair after storms or damage, fiberglass shingles remain a top choice for Midwest roof replacement projects. Call Revived Exteriors to learn more.