Metal vs Asphalt Roof Cost: Choosing the Right Roof for Your Maryland Home

For Maryland homeowners in Carroll County and Baltimore County, choosing the right roofing material can significantly impact both the cost of the project and the long-term performance of your roof. One common dilemma is deciding between metal and asphalt roofing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key factors that influence roofing costs, compare different roofing materials, and help you make an informed choice for your roof installation. Let’s dive into the battle of our metal vs asphalt roof cost.

Factors to Consider for Comparing Metal Vs Asphalt Roof Cost

When it comes to roofing, the cost is a major concern for homeowners. Metal roofs generally cost more than asphalt shingle roofs, but various factors come into play when determining the cost of your specific roofing project:

• Material: The type of material you choose, whether metal or asphalt, significantly influences unit costs.
• Size: The size of your roof plays a crucial role; larger roofs require more materials and labor.
• Labor: The complexity of the roofing project, especially for metal roofs, can impact installation costs. Roofers may charge more for difficult or time-consuming installations, such as steep or inaccessible roofs.

Type of Material

Metal Roofs

Metal roofing comes in a variety of materials, each with its own characteristics and price per square foot:

• Aluminum: Lightweight and recyclable, aluminum is one of the most affordable metal roofing materials. However, it’s less durable and costs approximately $4-$9 per square foot.
• Tin: Tin tiles are made from a steel core with a tin alloy coating known as Terne. Over time, they develop a unique patina and can last up to 70 years. These cost around $6-$11 per square foot.
• Zinc: Available in the form of shingles and standing-seam panels, zinc forms a protective coating that reduces the visibility of scratches and prevents corrosion. If properly maintained, it can last over a century, with costs ranging from $7-$12 per square foot.
• Steel: Steel roofing can be made of various types, including galvalume, galvanized, and stainless steel. Galvalume, often painted, is the least expensive option at $5-$13 per square foot. Galvanized steel falls in the midrange and is more durable but can corrode over time. Stainless steel is the most expensive but boasts the longest lifespan.
• Lead: Lead tiles are typically composed of a stronger steel or copper core coated in lead. While highly corrosion-resistant, lead is prone to denting and costs approximately $12-$20 per square foot.
• Copper: Copper roofing is at the high end of the cost spectrum. It has a distinctive, luxurious appearance and is extremely durable, resistant to rust and corrosion, but it comes at a higher cost of $15-$25 per square foot.

Asphalt Roofs

Asphalt roofing also offers a variety of options, including:

• Basic Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common and affordable residential roofing materials. Easy to install, they typically last 15-20 years, with costs of around $3-$5 per square foot.
• Architectural Asphalt Shingles: These shingles are thicker and sturdier than basic asphalt shingles. They can withstand more severe weather conditions and have a life expectancy of about 30 years, with costs of $4-$7 per square foot.
• Composite Shingles: Combining asphalt with fiberglass and recycled materials, these shingles are designed to mimic the appearance of wood or other materials. They can last up to 50 years, with costs ranging from $4-$8 per square foot.
• Wood Shingles or Shakes: Wooden shingles and shakes create a distinctive and beautiful look, lasting 40-50 years. However, they come at a higher price and require more maintenance. Costs vary from $6-$12 per square foot.
• Slate Shingles: Slate or natural stone shingles rival high-quality metal roofing materials in durability, with a lifespan of 100 years or more. These are expensive and heavy, often requiring roof reinforcement, and cost between $10-$25 per square foot.

Size of the Roof

The square footage of your roof directly affects the cost of your roofing project. Roofing materials are priced per square foot, and it’s important to note that your roof’s square footage will be slightly higher than your home’s floor area due to the roof pitch and overhangs.

Labor Costs

Metal roofing installation is typically more labor-intensive than asphalt roofing installation. Installing metal roofs, being a specialty job, often requires more time and effort, leading to higher installation costs. In addition, any factors that make installing a new roof more complicated or time-consuming, such as steep or inaccessible roofs, may incur additional labor costs.

Additional Costs to Consider For Metal Vs Asphalt Roof Cost

Depending on your specific project, the following factors may contribute to the total cost:

Removal of Old Materials

Installing a new roof often requires the removal of existing roof materials and the repair of any damage. While it is possible to install a second layer of basic asphalt shingles over the first, it’s not recommended. Some metal roofing types can be installed over an old roof, but this won’t repair any existing decking damage. The cost to remove and dispose of old shingles and underlayment typically falls between $1 and $5 per square foot.

Style of Metal Roofing

The style of your chosen metal roofing, whether it’s flat or corrugated sheets, shingles, or standing-seam panels, can also affect costs.

Why Choose Roof Right for Your Roof Installation in Hampstead, MD

For a reliable and expert roof installation in Hampstead, MD, Roof Right is your trusted choice. Here are several compelling reasons to consider Roof Right for your roofing project:

• Fully Licensed & Insured: We prioritize safety and security with comprehensive licensing and insurance.
• A+ Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau: Our A+ rating reflects our commitment to high-quality service.
• Recognized by Remodeling Magazine: We have been recognized as the 80th largest replacement contractor in the United States.
• Angie’s Super Service Award Winner: Our consistent recognition as a Super Service Award winner by Angie’s List highlights our top-tier service.
• Home Advisor Screened & Approved: Our Elite Service Rating on Home Advisor showcases our commitment to quality.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our 98% overall customer satisfaction rating, based on an independent survey conducted by Guild Quality, reflects our dedication to exceeding your expectations.
• References and Documentation: We can provide references from previous customers, banks, and vendors. Additionally, we will supply before and after photos of your project.
• Unparalleled Service: We are committed to providing top-notch service, and a member of our management team is always just a phone call away to assist you, even after hours.
• Flexible Financing: We offer 100% financing (with approved credit) to help make your roofing project more manageable.

In conclusion, the choice between metal and asphalt roofing involves various considerations, with costs playing a significant role. Roof Right stands as a reputable and experienced choice for your roof installation in Hampstead, MD, offering a blend of quality, experience, and customer satisfaction.