Metal Roof Shingles: Costs, Benefits, and Maintenance

Shingles are one of the common roofing materials in the country. With the changing patterns and trends in the roofing industry, metal shingles are gaining popularity among homeowners. Metal shingles can provide the look of shingles and the durability of metal to your home. 

At BRH Enterprises, LLC, we are known for providing professional roofing services in Mayville and the surrounding areas of Wisconsin. As reputable roofers, we aim to provide useful information to our state’s homeowners, so in this complete guide, we will cover everything about metal roof shingles that you should know prior to installing them on your home. 

What Is A Metal Roof Shingle?

Metal roof shingles are a durable roofing option that beautifully mimics the look of asphalt, slate, or tile roof shingles while also providing superior, strong performance. 

Metal shingles are generally made through modern manufacturing techniques like precision stamping and specialized coatings to make them more durable.

There are a lot of options for you to choose from, including stone-coated and simulated slate designs. They also come in classic options such as steel, aluminum, and copper.

What Are The Pros Of Metal Roof Shingles?

There are some good reasons why metal roof shingles are among the popular choices for residential buildings. Here, we will have a quick overview of the pros they offer: 

#1 Good Lifespan

The primary reason behind them being a valuable investment is their lifespan. Metal roof shingles can protect your home for 40 to 70 years. This makes them an intelligent long-term investment for homeowners who are looking for durability and reliability. 

You might also like: How long does a metal roof last?

#2 Improved Energy Efficiency

Another compelling benefit of metal roofing shingles is their energy-saving potential. Metal shingles can reflect solar radiant heat, potentially reducing cooling costs by up to 40%. Thanks to the advanced heat-reflective paint options, even dark-colored metal roof shingles can meet energy efficiency standards.

#3 Good Resistance Against Harsh Weather

Metal roof shingles are made to withstand extreme weather conditions. This makes them a valuable investment for Wisconsin’s homes. In our state, where our roofs experience plenty of changes in weather like snow, hail, and harsh storms, metal roof shingles can provide the necessary protection.

#4 Aesthetic Versatility

Perhaps one of the most attractive features of metal roof shingles is their incredible design flexibility. As we have already discussed, you can find metal roof shingles in a comprehensive range of styles, colors, and finishes. Whether your home has a vintage, modern, or contemporary design, there is an option that will complement your architectural style perfectly.

What Are The Cons Of Metal Roof Shingles?

While there are many good reasons behind why you should purchase metal roof shingles, there are challenges with this option as well.

#1 They Generally Have A Higher Price Tag

A common problem with metal roof shingles is that they can feel expensive to homeowners with budget constraints. However, the higher cost comes with better durability. So, it is better to look forward to this increased cost as an investment. 

#2 Metal Roofs Dent More Easily

While metal roof shingles handle harsh weather better than other roofing options, that does not mean they will survive unscathed. Rain and snow will not cause any significant damage, but the same cannot be said for hail.

As strong as metal is, it can dent very easily, which is not good because it can make your home look worn, reducing its curb appeal. Large branches falling onto the roof during storms can also create dents on the surface, and they may even lead to repair needs.

#3 Moisture Can Get Trapped Under Metal Shingles

Unfortunately, another common problem with metal shingles is the way that water can affect their performance. This occurs if there are poorly done repairs, or simply because of a bad installation job.

When this happens, water can seep between the shingles, where moisture becomes trapped. This creates the perfect breathing ground for mold, fungus, and other kinds of bacteria. Following this, rot may begin to take place along the interior framing, creating a much bigger safety issue.

#4 Bureaucratic Reasons

Many HOAs forbid metal shingles from being on homes within their neighborhoods. If this is the case in your neighborhood, you may be out of luck. Metal roof shingles may not even be approved by your insurance company either, which could cause problems if your roof was to become damaged by hail or storms. So make sure that your local HOA and insurance company don’t have any issues with metal shingles before you make a final decision.

What Are The Different Types Of Metal Roof Shingles?

When you look for metal roof shingles for your property, you will find various types of materials available. Keep reading to find out what materials you can find metal shingles in.

#1 Aluminum Shingles

The very first metal roof shingle material on our list is aluminum. It’s a lightweight and corrosion-resistant metal that is designed for durability. Aluminum roof shingles provide tough protection against the outdoor elements for up to 50 years. Their low maintenance requirements and resistance to rust make them a practical choice if you are looking for a long-lasting roofing material with minimal maintenance. You can expect to spend anywhere between $7 and $9 per square foot to install aluminum shingles.

#2 Copper Shingles

Copper shingles are less popular because they are viewed as more of a premium roofing option. Copper roof shingles have a very royal and traditional appearance, which adds an ageless vibe to your home. You can expect to spend anywhere between $13.5 to $30 per square foot to install copper roof shingles. Over time, these shingles develop a protective patina that changes from a bright metallic finish to a green-blue color. While they are expensive they are well known to protect homes for longer than other options, around 60 to 100 years.

#3 Steel Shingles

Steel shingles are another common metal roofing material you’ll find in the market. They are popular because they work well for many different homes and don’t cost too much. You can get steel shingles in many different colors and styles, which means you can easily find something that matches your home. Installing aluminum shingles in your home can cost you anywhere between $3.25 to $6.50 per square foot. Many architects and homeowners say that steel shingles can last for up to 70 years. 

#4 Zinc Shingles

Zinc shingles are one of the toughest options and look interesting as they age. Just like copper, these shingles develop a protective layer over time that helps them resist damage from weather and other outdoor elements. When it comes to price, zinc shingles sit right between steel and copper. They’re not the most expensive, but they can cost you anywhere between $10 to $20 per square foot. They’re a great middle option if you want something that will last for 50 years or more.

#5 Stone-Coated Steel Shingles

Finally, we have stone-coated steel shingles. They have a strong steel base and a stone granule coating, costing you anywhere between $7.50 to $14.50 per square foot, including installation. These shingles can beautifully resist fire and handle tough weather conditions, lasting around 25 to 40 years. The stone coating not only adds extra protection but also makes your roof look more traditional, which can really improve how your whole home looks.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Metal Shingles?

The exact cost to install metal shingles on your roof completely depends on the type and quality of material that you are planning to choose. It’s also the size, complexity, and type of roof the installation is taking place on. Generally, the cost of metal roofing shingles ranges from $7 to $20 per square foot, which is two to six times more expensive than standard asphalt shingles. 

But, as we said already, when installed accurately metal shingles can provide durable performance and a pleasant appearance to your homes for many years to come. 

How Do You Maintain The Lifespan Of Your Metal Roofing Shingles?

As we always suggest, maintaining the lifespan of your roof is better than dealing with expensive damage. Following some routine maintenance practices can help you avoid major problems with your roof. 

Here are some common maintenance practices that you can follow:

👉 Annual professional inspections

👉 Occasional gentle cleaning

👉 Promptly addressing any minor issues

👉 Checking fasteners and sealants

Do Metal Shingles Require Professional Installation?

Installing metal roof shingles requires a nuanced approach where every detail is important to prevent any further damage. 

Skilled professionals carefully install the foundation with precise underlayment, providing a solid base that protects against potential vulnerabilities. 

They perform professional fastening techniques that secure each shingle with calculated precision, preventing future issues. 

Perhaps most critically, professionals have the right experience and expertise to create a seamless water-tight seal that shields the home from moisture. 

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Schedule A Professional Roof Replacement In Wisconsin Today

At BRH Enterprises, LLC, we are your professional roofing team, committed to providing professional-level roofing services to our state’s homeowners. We want to be the only name that comes to mind when you’re looking for roofing services. Therefore, our team works with the goal of providing quality service and excellent value. 
Whether you are looking forward to installing metal roof shingles or some other roofing material on your home, our team can handle it all. We will also assist you in choosing the right roofing materials to match your requirements and budget. For a no-pressure discussion with our roofing professionals, or to get a custom quote for your roof, feel free to call us today at (920) 249-4228.