Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Holds Up Better in Fall Storms?

When the fall months roll around, leaves begin to, well, fall. The air gets crisper and the colorful leaves scattered on the ground can make for some beautiful scenery and plenty of enjoyable days spent outdoors. However, there can be an unpleasant reality that arrives with the fall months, too, and it’s that fall storms become a real concern. High winds, heavy rain, flying debris, and even hurricanes can become a significant worry in the fall, which means you need to be sure that your property is capable of handling the elements. Chief among your priorities should be making sure that your roof is ready to withstand whatever fall storms come its way. It’s especially pressing to make sure you invest in a roof replacement if you feel that your current system is nearing the end of its lifespan or it simply won’t hold up throughout the fall and into the winter.

Of course, if you are going to have a new roof installed on your home, which material should you go with? Perhaps you’re choosing between a metal roof and an asphalt shingle roof and you’re wondering which one holds up better in fall storms. If that’s the case, your friends at Alpha Omega Construction Group, Inc. have you covered with the answers you’re looking for.

Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles: Understanding Both Roofing Options

Before you consider their overall performance amid the elements, you’ll want to get an understanding of both of these roofing types so that you can have a good idea of what you might be investing in for your home. In terms of metal roofing, you’re usually looking at a system made from steel, aluminum, or copper panels that is designed to provide unwavering strength and longevity. These roofs are known to last anywhere between 40 and 70 years depending on the quality of the material and the installation work.

As for asphalt shingles, these roofs are made from fiberglass mats coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules. These systems are known for their affordability and versatility, and as such, they’re among the most popular roofing choices in the U.S. However, shingle roofs are going to have lifespans more along the lines of 20 to 30 years, which is shorter than that of a standard metal roof.

Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles: How Do They Each Hold Up in Fall Storms?

There are several factors to consider when it comes to deciding which of these roofing options can better withstand the fall storms that may impact your area. Let us give you the rundown on each factor as you get closer to making the right choice for your home:

Wind Resistance

When it comes to their performance in the face of high-speed winds, metal roofs have a decided advantage. They feature interlocking panels that create a tight seal, preventing any movement. The result is most systems being capable of withstanding winds of up to 140 mph or more.

Asphalt shingle roofs can hold up against strong winds as well, but to a lesser extent. These roofing systems usually handle winds between 60 and 110 mph pretty well, with some of the higher-end options capable of withstanding even higher speeds.  

Rain & Moisture Protection

The smooth, hard surfaces of metal roofing systems allow for water to quickly roll off, minimizing the risk of water pooling and leaks. With fewer seams than other roofing types, metal roofing allows for less water infiltration, too.

Asphalt shingles are reliant on their granule coating and underlayment to keep water from infiltrating the interior of your property. Granules will eventually wear away due to exposure to the elements, which can lead to your shingles developing a vulnerability to leaks and potential moisture damage.

Impact Resistance

Fall storms can bring falling branches and even hail, and both metal roofs and asphalt shingle systems can be impacted in different ways. Metal roofing can dent as a result of heavy impact, but the good news is that it typically won’t crack or puncture, which maintains its ability to protect your home.

On the flip side, asphalt shingles can lose granules or crack when facing heavy impact. Even minor damage to the roof can expose the underlayment and compromise your system’s ability to keep water from seeping in and causing damage.

Work With the Professionals to Find the Right Roofing System to Protect Your Home

What’s great is that as a homeowner in the Southeast U.S., you don’t have to look far for a team you can trust to help you get the best roof for your property. Alpha Omega Construction Group, Inc. is here to help no matter which choice you think you’re interested in for your project. It’s clear by now that metal roofs are better known for their performance and ability to withstand the effects of fall storms, so if you’re prioritizing the endurance factor with your roofing upgrade, we can provide you with access to a phenomenally designed metal roof.  

However, it’s not as if asphalt shingles can’t provide you with what you’re looking for. There’s still plenty of appeal with these roofs, given their cost effectiveness as well as the classic look and the ease of their short-term repairs. So, if you find that an asphalt shingle roof is the right investment for your property, we have you covered on that front, too. And of course, if you’re still not sure which one you’d prefer for your project, we’d be happy to further discuss your options with you.

Contact Us Today

If you want more information about whether metal roofs or asphalt shingles hold up better during fall storms, or if you’re simply ready to invest in a new roof for your home to better prepare it for the fall and winter months, we’re the team to call. Contact AOCG today to get a free quote for your project in the Southeast U.S.