Choosing a new roof is a major decision for any homeowner. In West Michigan, that decision can be especially important because your roof needs to handle snow, ice, rain, wind, summer heat, and changing temperatures throughout the year.
Two of the most common options homeowners consider are asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Both can be excellent roofing systems, but they differ in cost, appearance, lifespan, maintenance, and overall performance.
So, which one is right for your West Michigan home? Here’s what you should consider before making your decision.
Asphalt Roofing: A Popular Choice for West Michigan Homes
Asphalt shingles remain one of the most common residential roofing materials in Michigan. They’re available in a wide variety of colors and styles and can complement nearly any type of home.
For homeowners looking for a traditional appearance and a more affordable upfront investment, asphalt roofing is often an attractive choice.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles
Lower upfront cost: Asphalt shingles typically cost less to install than metal roofing, making them a popular option for homeowners working within a specific budget.
Wide variety of styles: Today’s architectural shingles are available in numerous colors and designs, allowing homeowners to coordinate their roof with their siding, trim, and overall exterior.
Straightforward repairs: If a section of an asphalt roof becomes damaged, individual shingles or sections can often be repaired without replacing the entire roof.
Familiar appearance: Asphalt shingles provide the traditional residential look found on many homes throughout West Michigan.
What Should You Consider With Asphalt Roofing?
Although asphalt roofing offers several advantages, homeowners should also consider its expected lifespan and exposure to West Michigan weather.
Over time, shingles can experience granule loss, cracking, curling, or storm damage. Ice, wind, temperature fluctuations, and prolonged moisture can all contribute to wear.
Regular roof inspections can help identify problems before minor damage becomes a more expensive repair.
Metal Roofing: A Long-Term Roofing Option
Metal roofing has become increasingly popular with homeowners who want durability and a longer-lasting roofing system.
Modern residential metal roofs are available in many styles and colors, so they aren’t limited to the agricultural or commercial appearance people sometimes associate with metal roofing.
Benefits of Metal Roofing
Long lifespan: One of the biggest reasons homeowners consider metal is its potential service life. A properly installed and maintained metal roofing system can provide decades of protection.
Durability: Metal roofing is designed to withstand demanding weather conditions and can be an attractive option for Michigan’s changing seasons.
Snow shedding: The smooth surface of many metal roofing systems can allow snow to slide from the roof more easily. Roof design and the placement of snow guards should also be considered where falling snow could affect entrances, walkways, landscaping, or other areas below.
Low maintenance: While every roofing system should be inspected periodically, metal roofing generally requires relatively little routine maintenance when properly installed.
Distinctive appearance: Metal can give a home a clean, modern appearance while offering several color and profile options.
What Should You Consider With Metal Roofing?
The biggest consideration for many homeowners is initial cost.
Metal roofing generally requires a larger upfront investment than asphalt shingles. Whether that additional cost makes sense depends on your budget, how long you plan to own the home, the specific roofing system, and your long-term priorities.
Installation is also extremely important. Metal roofing requires proper flashing, fastening, ventilation, and attention to expansion and contraction. Choosing an experienced roofing contractor is important regardless of material, but particularly with specialized roofing systems.
Asphalt vs. Metal Roofing: What’s the Difference?
Here’s a simple comparison:
| Asphalt Roofing | Metal Roofing | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Typically lower | Typically higher |
| Lifespan | Shorter | Typically longer |
| Style Options | Many | Many |
| Maintenance | Moderate | Generally lower |
| Repairs | Often straightforward | May require specialized experience |
| Snow Shedding | Moderate | Generally better |
| Traditional Appearance | Excellent | Depends on style |
| Long-Term Investment | Good | Excellent for the right homeowner |
Actual performance and lifespan can vary significantly depending on the product, installation quality, roof design, ventilation, maintenance, and weather exposure.
Which Roofing Material Is Better for West Michigan?
There isn’t one roofing material that’s right for every homeowner.
Asphalt Roofing May Make More Sense If You:
- Want a lower initial investment
- Prefer a traditional shingle appearance
- Want plenty of colors and styles to choose from
- Don’t necessarily need the longest possible roofing lifespan
Metal Roofing May Make More Sense If You:
- Plan to stay in your home long-term
- Are comfortable with a larger upfront investment
- Want a durable, long-lasting roofing system
- Prefer the appearance of residential metal roofing
- Want to reduce the frequency of future roof replacements
Don’t Choose a New Roof Based on Material Alone
The roofing material is only one part of a successful roof replacement.
The condition of the roof decking, flashing, ventilation, insulation, underlayment, and other components can affect how the finished roofing system performs.
That’s one reason a professional roof inspection is valuable before deciding which roofing system to install. An inspection can identify existing problems and help determine which options make the most sense for your home.
Asphalt and Metal Roof Replacement in West Michigan
If you’re considering a roof replacement in West Michigan, Great Lakes Building Concepts can inspect your current roof and discuss asphalt and metal roofing options for your home.
Rather than choosing a roofing material based solely on price, consider how long you plan to stay in your home, the condition and design of your existing roof, your budget, and what you want from your new roofing system.
Great Lakes Building Concepts offers free roof inspections and roof replacement options for homeowners throughout West Michigan.
Contact Great Lakes Building Concepts to schedule a free roof inspection and discuss which roofing material may be the right fit for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asphalt vs. Metal Roofing
Is Metal Roofing Better Than Asphalt Shingles in Michigan?
Not necessarily. Both can work well in Michigan when properly installed. Metal generally offers a longer potential lifespan and greater durability, while asphalt typically provides a lower upfront cost and a traditional residential appearance.
Is a Metal Roof Worth the Extra Cost?
It can be, particularly for homeowners planning to remain in their home for many years. However, the value depends on the type of metal roofing system, installation cost, home, and the homeowner’s long-term plans.
Does a Metal Roof Work Well With Michigan Snow?
Metal roofing can perform well in snowy climates. Because snow may slide from metal surfaces, roof design and snow-management measures should be considered around entrances and walkways.
Which Roof Requires More Maintenance?
Both roofing systems should be periodically inspected. Asphalt shingles may require more repairs as they age, while properly installed metal roofing generally requires relatively little routine maintenance.
How Do I Know Which Roof Is Right for My Home?
Start with an inspection of your existing roof. A roofing contractor can evaluate the roof’s condition and design and discuss the advantages, costs, and limitations of different roofing systems.