Comparing metal roofing and asphalt shingles for Asheville homes. Discover which roofing material offers the best durability, energy efficiency, and value for Western North Carolina’s unique climate.
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Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which is Right for Your Asheville Home?
Choosing the right roofing material can feel like a major decision for Asheville homeowners—and it absolutely is. With Western North Carolina’s unique climate featuring everything from summer heat to winter snow, your roof needs to handle it all. As your neighbors in Asheville, we’ve helped countless local homeowners navigate this choice. Let’s break down the key differences between metal roofing and asphalt shingles to help you make the best decision for your home and budget.
Durability in Asheville’s Mountain Climate
Living in Asheville means your roof faces some unique challenges—from summer thunderstorms to occasional winter ice and snow. How do our two contenders stack up?
Metal Roofing Durability
Metal roofs typically last 40-70 years in Western North Carolina. They stand up remarkably well to our local weather conditions, with several key advantages:
Metal roofing resists wind damage up to 140 mph—well beyond what our mountain weather typically throws at us. This material won’t crack or corrode in our varying temperatures, and it naturally sheds snow faster than other roofing types, which is helpful during those winter months when we get accumulation on the mountains.
While the upfront cost is higher, many Asheville homeowners appreciate that a quality metal roof might be the last roof they ever need to install.
Asphalt Shingle Durability
Asphalt shingles typically last 15-30 years in our region. Standard shingles hold up against winds around 60-90 mph, while architectural shingles can withstand up to 120 mph winds.
The temperature fluctuations we experience in Asheville can gradually wear down asphalt shingles, causing them to crack or curl over time. Heavy rains can also gradually wash away the protective granules, especially on roofs with less pitch.
That said, quality architectural shingles installed by a professional Asheville roofing contractor can still provide decades of reliable protection for your home.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Metal Roofing Benefits
Metal roofs reflect solar heat rather than absorbing it, which can help keep your Asheville home cooler during our warm summers. This reflective quality can reduce cooling costs by 10-25% compared to traditional dark asphalt shingles.
From an environmental perspective, metal roofing contains recycled material (often 25-95%) and is 100% recyclable at the end of its life. This makes it a more sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious Asheville homeowners.
Asphalt Shingle Efficiency
Standard asphalt shingles absorb heat, which can make your home warmer in summer. However, newer ENERGY STAR rated shingles are designed with solar-reflective granules that can help reduce your cooling costs.
The environmental downside is that asphalt shingles contribute significantly to construction waste, with approximately 11 million tons ending up in landfills annually across the country.
Cost Considerations for Asheville Homeowners
Initial Investment
Let’s talk about what matters to many homeowners—the bottom line. Metal roofing typically costs 2-3 times more than asphalt shingles upfront. For an average Asheville home, expect to pay:
Metal roofing: $12,000-$22,000
Asphalt shingles: $5,000-$10,000
However, considering the longer lifespan of metal roofing, the lifetime cost often works out lower than installing multiple asphalt roofs over the same period.
Return on Investment
Metal roofing can increase your Asheville home’s resale value by 1-6%. Many local buyers recognize the value of having a roof that won’t need replacement for decades.
Additionally, some insurance companies offer discounts for metal roofs due to their durability and fire resistance, which can save you money year after year.
Aesthetic Considerations for Western North Carolina Homes
Asheville’s diverse architectural styles—from historic craftsman bungalows to modern mountain homes—mean aesthetics matter when choosing a roof.
Metal roofing has come a long way from the corrugated barn look. Today’s options include standing seam panels with clean lines or metal shingles that mimic the look of slate, wood, or tile. These styles complement both modern mountain homes and traditional Asheville architecture.
Asphalt shingles offer versatility with various colors and styles. Architectural shingles create a dimensional look that works beautifully with craftsman, colonial, and traditional homes throughout Western North Carolina.
Get Expert Advice on Your Asheville Roof
Every Asheville home is unique, and what works best depends on your specific situation, budget, and priorities. At Lane Roofing and Restoration, we’re your neighbors who understand the specific needs of Western North Carolina homes.
We provide honest, straightforward advice on whether metal roofing or asphalt shingles make more sense for your specific situation. Our 10-year workmanship warranty backs every installation, giving you confidence in your decision.
Ready to discuss the best roofing option for your Asheville home? Contact Lane Roofing and Restoration today at 828-490-1830 for a free consultation and estimate. We’re here to help you make the right choice for your home and budget.