Asphalt vs Metal Roofing in Lancaster PA - What Is Best?
When it's time to replace your roof, the decision goes far beyond curb appeal. The type of roofing material you choose will shape how your home looks and how well it stands up to Lancaster's hot summers, snowy winters, and everything in between.
For most homeowners, the choice comes down to two contenders: asphalt shingles or metal roofing. Asphalt remains the budget-friendly staple, while metal has surged in popularity for its strength and sustainability. But which is the smarter investment?
Comparing Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal Roofing
When weighing your roofing options, asphalt shingles and metal roofing stand out as the two most common choices for Lancaster homeowners. Both materials offer unique advantages, from affordability and accessibility to durability and long-term performance.
Let's break down how each one works and what sets them apart so you can make the best decision for your home.
Overview of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles have been a part of American roofing since their introduction in 1903, when they quickly replaced wood and clay as a more practical option. Today, they remain the most widely used roofing material in the country.
Made from a fiberglass or felt base coated with asphalt and topped with protective granules, homeowners appreciate their affordability, easy installation, and broad selection of colors and textures. The wide range of benefits of asphalt shingles makes them an accessible choice for nearly any budget.
The tradeoff, however, comes in longevity and upkeep. Most asphalt roofs last just 15–30 years and require regular roof maintenance to prevent leaks or storm damage. They're also less eco-friendly, as they often end up in landfills after replacement.
Overview of Metal Roofing
Once seen mainly on barns and industrial buildings, metal roofing has rapidly gained traction in residential neighborhoods. Part of this growth comes from the variety of metal roofs offered. Homeowners can choose from steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, or even stone-coated options that mimic traditional shingles.
What also draws many to metal roofing is its impressive list of benefits. A well-installed metal roof can:
- Last 40–70 years or more
- Withstand harsh weather
- Reflect heat for better energy efficiency
- Require far less maintenance than asphalt shingles
- It's recyclable, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious families
All that said, metal roofing is significantly more expensive upfront when compared to asphalt shingles and requires skilled installation. It can also be noisy during heavy rain or prone to denting in hail-prone areas.
Cost Comparison of Asphalt Shingles vs Metal Roofs
When comparing roof costs in Lancaster, PA asphalt shingles and metal roofing sit at very different price points. Asphalt shingles typically cost between $4.25 and $4.95 per square foot, including installation. Metal roofing, on the other hand, ranges based on the type of metal used for your roof:
- Aluminum shingles: $8.50-$13.75
- Copper shingles: $21–$39.70
- Corrugated metal panels: $5.50–$11.50
- Standing-seam metal panels: $10–$17.05
- Steel shingles: $8–$12.65
The upfront cost difference is clear, but so is the long-term value. A metal roof lasts two to three times longer than an asphalt roof, meaning fewer replacements over the life of your home. In short, asphalt vs metal roof cost comes down to budget today versus investment tomorrow.
Roof Maintenance and Durability
When it comes to roof durability, asphalt shingles and metal roofing perform very differently over time.
Asphalt shingles need yearly roof inspections to catch issues like cracked or missing shingles, damaged flashing, or water pooling. Without routine care, they're vulnerable to leaks and storm damage. On average, an asphalt roof lasts about 20–30 years (and tends to come with a 15-30-year warranty), though harsh weather or poor upkeep can shorten that lifespan considerably.
Metal roofs, by contrast, are built to last. They typically come with 30-50-year warranties and often outlast those warranties by 10-20 years. The durability of a metal roof extends to fire resistance, pest protection, and the ability to handle severe weather.
Metal roof maintenance is minimal, though fasteners on exposed systems may need replacement, and softer metals can dent under heavy impact. Trimming tree branches on your property can help minimize the threat of a fallen branch causing damage to your metal roof.
Energy Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness
When considering eco-friendly roofing in Lancaster, PA, asphalt and metal differ sharply. Asphalt shingles are made from petroleum-based materials and contribute more than 11 million tons of waste to landfills each year. While affordable, they're not designed with sustainability in mind.
Metal roofing tells a different story. Most systems are produced from recycled content, and they're 100% recyclable once they reach the end of their long life. Beyond that, metal's reflective surface helps lower cooling costs (sometimes by as much as 40%) by bouncing heat away from the home. In Lancaster's hot, humid summers, that efficiency can make a real difference on energy bills, while in winter, durability ensures strong performance against snow and ice.
Which Roofing Option is Best for Your Lancaster, PA Home?
Deciding on the best roof in Lancaster, PA, isn't just about your preferred style. You should consider how well your roof can stand up to the region's unpredictable climate. Hot, humid summers, cold, snowy winters, and the occasional heavy storm all put roofing materials to the test.
Asphalt shingles remain the go-to choice for many because they're affordable and practical. They make sense for homeowners on a budget or those who don't plan to stay in their home for more than 10–15 years. Metal roofing, however, is built for the long haul. With its superior durability, energy efficiency, and ability to lower long-term costs, it's ideal for families who see their home as a decades-long investment.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your goals and your budget. Sunnyside Roofing, your trusted roofing contractor in Lancaster, can help you weigh the pros and cons of asphalt vs metal roofing in Lancaster, PA, so you can choose the option that truly fits your needs.
Get an Expert Opinion from a Local Amish Roofer on Asphalt vs Metal Roofing in Lancaster County
When it comes to roof replacement in Lancaster, PA both asphalt shingles and metal roofing bring something valuable to the table.
The truth is that the "best" choice isn't one-size-fits-all. Expert guidance can help you zero in on a roofing material that makes the most sense for you. Contact Sunnyside Roofing, your trusted roofing experts in Lancaster County, today for a free estimate and personalized advice tailored to your home.
Other Roofing Articles You May Like
