Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles: What’s Right for Your Dallas Home?

Dallas is known for unpredictable weather and temperature shifts. Homes require roofing options Dallas that not only protects your home from harsh weather but also effectively saves energy. 

Finding the right choice is important, but it can be confusing. As needs differ between houses, choices vary. One of the top confusions homeowners face is between metal roofs and asphalt shingles.  

This blog compares metal roofs and asphalt shingles to help you make a smart choice.  

Asphalt Shingles  

These shingles are the US’s most used roof as they are affordable, easy to install, and versatile. They might not have the durability of the premium materials, but they have good upfront value.  

The pros are: 

1. Cost-effective – In roofing materials, these are the most affordable. 
2. Easy Installation & Repair – Roofing laborers find shingles easy to install and repair. 
3. Design Variety – A wide variety of colors, textures, and styles are available that match every design. 
4. Readily Available – Being a commonly used material, suppliers stock this material.  

The cons are:

1. Shorter lifespan – Unlike the premium materials, shingles only live up to 15 – 30 years. 
2. Heat Absorption – Dark colored shingles absorb a large amount of heat, which will require an increase in the use of cooling technologies during summers. 
3. Storm Vulnerability – During harsh weather, the material is highly vulnerable to wind uplift, hail impact, and granule loss. 
4. Environmental Impact – This petroleum-based material is less recyclable than other materials.  

Metal Roofs  

Compared to Asphalt Shingles, this is the best roofing material for Texas. The energy efficiency, long lifespan, and durability make metal roofs a premium material. They are best used during hail, heat, and wind. Installing these roofs is a costly investment due to the high upfront cost, longevity, and low maintenance. 

The pros are: 

1. Long Lifespan – Metal roofs outlast Asphalt Shingles by 40-70 years. 
2. Energy-efficient – During summer, metal roofs reflect the solar heat. This reduces the need for using cooling devices, saving energy.  
3. Durability – Harsh weather, like hail, strong winds, fire, and heavy rain, does not affect the roof. 
4. Eco-friendly – Metal roofs are made from recycled materials, making them a fully recyclable roofing material. 
5. Low Maintenance – Among the other roofing materials, metal roofs need fewer repairs. 

The cons are: 

1. Higher Upfront Cost – As a premium roofing material, it is expensive to buy and install metal roofs. 
2. Noise Factor – Metals produce high sounds. So, without proper insulation, the roof will be highly noisy during rain or hail. 
3. Installation Complexity – Metal roofs are not easy to install. Only skilled laborers can do proper installations. 
4. Expansion/Contraction – As temperature changes, metals can expand or contract. Lack of proper installation can accelerate issues or create seam issues. 

Real-World Relevance for Dallas  

As mentioned in the introduction of the blog, Dallas is known as a city with unpredictable weather.  

Summer (May – September) in Dallas is long and extremely hot. It can go above 100 degrees. During this season, houses need intense cooling if the roofs absorb a huge amount of heat.  

From March to June, Dallas and the house roofs go through severe hailstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds.  

This is the time of Spring and early Summer. Roofing materials with hail and wind resistance withstand this weather.  

The tornado season from April to June and October – November needs strong materials like metal roofs.  

The winter season (December – February) goes by ice storms and sudden temperature changes. 

Decision Scenarios (When to Choose What)  

Knowing when to use which material is important. We have curated the roofing options Dallas to make your research easier. 

Asphalt Shingles:  

1. Tight Budget – Shingles are a budget-friendly option due to the initial minimal expenses. 
2. Short-Term Ownership Plans – If you do not own your property for more than 5-10 years, using shingles will be the best. 
3. Need for Quick Installation – If you are in a hurry to replace your roof and do not have enough money for the labor, go for shingles. 

Metal Roofing:  

1. Long-Term Value – Metal roofs are suitable for house owners who want a roof with a lifespan of more than 40 years. This material outlives shingles and reduces frequent replacement costs. 
2. Energy Savings & Lower Cooling Bills – From May to September, metal roofs reflect sunlight. This property cools down your home during the hot summer. 
3. Climate Resilience Preference – Metal roofs withstand hail, windstorms, and tornadoes better than shingles. Metal roofs do not require frequent emergency repairs like shingles. 
4. Eco-Conscious Mindset or Solar Readiness – Recyclable materials are used to make this material. This makes it recyclable, sustainable, and a strong foundation for solar panels. 

The answer to Metal Roofs vs Asphalt Shingles is up to you, house owners. Based on your preferences and needs, you must choose the right roofing options in Dallas. It is wise to consult a professional. Their experience and workmanship will help you decide whether a repair or roof  replacement is necessary and suitable material. 

Vantage General Contractors has years of experience in providing the right solutions and best emergency roofing services tailored to the homeowner’s preferences. Call us on 469-536-2040 or email us at info@vantagegc.com Our team provides services in Collin, Grayson, Denton, Tarrant, Kaufman and Fort Worth. 

For a free inspection or quote, contact Vantage Roofing, Dallas’s top roofing services.