This is a prevalent question nowadays; roofers get asked, especially roofers in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Naturally, with all things being equal, metal roofing is objectively better. However, metal roofing is also far more expensive, so the big question comes down to financing.
The leading reason metal roofing in Fort Lauderdale is becoming more popular is due to the threat of hurricanes combined with numerous people moving to the area that has the money to invest in metal roofing. Record numbers of people have moved to Florida over the past two years, and the one thing they share in common for the most part is a fear of hurricanes, and no roofing material protects better than metal.
Asphalt roofing has, over the years, significantly improved, so it’s not to say that the protection afforded by asphalt shingle roofing in Fort Lauderdale won’t hold up against a hurricane; it’s just not as strong as metal. Metal roofing is also fire resistant.
There is also the home value increase to consider when looking at metal roofing and the longevity of the roof; a metal roof with quality metal like copper or aluminum can last upwards of 100 years! On the other hand, an asphalt shingle roof in southern Florida usually has a shelf life of around 20 years, give or take, and hurricanes can significantly reduce that lifespan!
The deal breaker for so many homeowners comes down to pricing, as shingle roof costs substantially less than a metal roof. What should be considered is how long you plan to live in the home. If it’s a home that will be in the family for decades to come, then strongly considering metal roofing is advisable. And even if you plan on moving within 5-10 years, a metal roof holds value; not only does it increase home value, but it also makes selling the home easier when the time comes.
If money is tight, but the desire for a metal roof is strong, fortunately, there are financing options on the market to make it more accessible. Contact a local Fort Lauderdale roofing company that offers free estimates to find out the difference between metal and shingle roofing; you may be surprised how affordable the option of going metal may be!