What is a Metal Shingle Roof?

Choosing the right roofing material for your home can leave you with a plethora of options. One increasingly popular choice is metal shingle roofing, known for its longevity, durability, and efficiency. But what exactly is a metal shingle roof, and how does it compare to traditional asphalt shingles?

In this article, we'll cover:

 

What is a metal shingle roof?

 

The difference between metal shingles and asphalt shingles.

 

Why metal shingle roofs are growing in popularity.

 

Before we dive into the details of metal shingle roofing, it's important to first understand what "roof shingles" mean.

Today, "roof shingles" are available for a wide variety of materials, including asphalt, metal, wood, clay, and slate. In the United States, asphalt shingles are the most common and are installed from the bottom of the roof upwards. Outside of the United States, terracotta or slate shingles are more common and are placed in overlapping rows, a style known as a shingle roof.

 

What is a Metal Shingle Roof?

 

Metal shingle roofing is a roofing material that replicates the look of traditional asphalt shingles but is constructed from high-quality metal (galvanized steel).

 

It is important to note that while there are several types of metal roofing, not all are created equal. While metal roofing has been used in industrial settings for centuries, it was not until the introduction of stone-coated metal roofing in 1957 that it became widely accepted in the residential market.

 

During the manufacturing process, steel sheets are "stamped" into roofing panels and then coated with natural basalt granules using acrylic resin as a binder. The result is a texture and size that mimics a variety of traditional shingle types, such as asphalt shingles, wood grain shingles, etc., but without the typical drawbacks, such as cracking or warping.

 

For example, metal shingle roofing products, such as JHL ROOF, look very similar to products such as asphalt shingle roofing, but have the durability and longevity that only metal can provide.

 

 

 

The Difference Between Metal Shingles and Asphalt Shingles

Longevity

 

One of the main benefits of metal is its long lifespan. Metal shingle roofs can last 50 to 70 years. Asphalt shingle roofs, on the other hand, typically have a shorter lifespan of 10 to 20 years. The extended lifespan of metal shingles means fewer replacements, saving homeowners time and money on roof maintenance in the long run.

 

Durability

Metal shingles outperform asphalt shingles when it comes to durability, especially in extreme weather conditions.

 

Wind: Have you ever noticed that shingles are missing from your roof after a strong wind? Asphalt shingles are particularly susceptible to wind lift, often curling or cupping at the edges. Metal is an inherently durable material that can withstand hurricane-force winds and wind-driven debris without cracking, breaking, or shifting.

 

Hail: Metal roofs are highly impact-resistant and can withstand large hail without cracking or puncturing like asphalt shingles.

Snow and Ice: As a porous material, asphalt shingles can crack and warp after repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Metal roofs, on the other hand, are nonporous and unaffected by snow and water.

 

Fire Protection: Asphalt is a petroleum-based product, and petroleum is highly flammable. Non-combustible roofing materials, such as metal shingles, inherently resist ignition and do not contribute to the spread of fire, providing superior protection.

 

Why Metal Shingles Are Growing in Popularity

Today's homeowners are increasingly concerned with longevity, durability, and efficiency when choosing a roofing material, which has led to the popularity of metal shingles. While metal shingle roofs have a higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles, their longer lifespan allows homeowners to recoup much of their investment over time through lower maintenance and replacement costs.

 

 

Metal Tile Roofs by JHL ROOF Metal Roofing
JHL ROOF metal roofs are a smart investment for homeowners who want a roof that lasts, protects, and increases the value of their home.

Ready to see and feel the JHL ROOF difference? Request a free sample today.