Roofing protects indoor areas from moisture, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations. When you need a replacement, you might wonder whether to choose asphalt shingles or metal for your residence. Below, you'll learn more about these two materials and their benefits. 

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are pieces of rectangular-shaped fiberglass matting coated in asphalt and topped with ceramic granules. Three-tab shingles feature cutouts along the lower edge, allowing contractors to overlap and fit them together during installation. Architectural shingles feature an additional laminated asphalt layer on their lower sections, which gives them a contoured, multi-dimensional look. 

Asphalt shingles are versatile and easy to install. They have an attractive appearance that can mimic the look of wood shakes or slate tiles. 

They may withstand gusty winds, preventing indoor temperatures from fluctuating and shingles from becoming dislodged. Some asphalt shingles have a Class A fire rating, making them impervious to flames, promoting home safety. They typically last about 20 to 50 years with proper care. 

Maintain them by clearing gutters seasonally to remove leafy debris clogs. This can prevent moisture from pooling onto your roofing and leaking through weaknesses in the materials. 

A roofing contractor may provide yearly inspections to check the sealant between shingles and examine the flashing, which is the sheet metal that forms a watertight barrier around chimneys and vent pipes and in valleys. If necessary, they can add sealant or replace flashing to ensure the materials provide adequate protection against the elements. 

Metal 

Metal roofing consists of panels or tiles, often made from stainless steel, aluminum, or zinc. Contractors may use screws or clips to attach these materials to the roof substructure, overlapping them so that they form an airtight and watertight barrier. Contractors typically also apply a sealant as an extra precaution against air and moisture penetration.

Metal roofing is typically lightweight, which can make installation quick and simple. This also keeps extra weight off the roof's substructure, preventing the frame from warping or sagging. Metal is also fire resistant and can stand up to strong winds, hail impacts, and snowfall accumulations. It has a sleek and modern appearance that may enhance the look of your home exterior. Additionally, it has an impressively long life span of about 50 to 100 years. 

Metal requires very little maintenance to remain durable and high-performing. Keeping trees trimmed can prevent overgrowth from scratching the metal or large branches from falling and puncturing the material. Annual inspections may detect loose or dislodged fasteners, lost sealant, or separated tiles and panels, allowing a contractor to make any necessary repairs. 

When you need a new roof for your home, contact Action Roofing Services. This contractor provides asphalt and metal roofing installations to clients throughout Anchorage, AK. Call (907) 677-6969 to request an estimate on a roof replacement, and visit the website to learn more about how they can protect your property.