When it comes to choosing a new roof for your home in the Pacific Northwest, the climate plays a major role in determining which material is best suited for your needs. With its unique blend of heavy rainfall, occasional snow, and seasonal storms, roofing in this region must stand up to the elements while maintaining its structural integrity over time. Among the most popular roofing materials, metal and asphalt shingles are two top choices for homeowners in areas like Seattle, Tacoma, and Auburn. But which is the better option for your home?
At Tedrick’s Roofing, we’ve spent over 25 years helping residents in the Pacific Northwest find durable, long-lasting roofing solutions. Our team has worked with both metal and asphalt roofs extensively, and we’re here to share our insights on how each option holds up in our climate, including key factors like durability, cost, aesthetics, and maintenance.
1. Durability: How Well Does Each Material Stand Up to the PNW Weather?
The Pacific Northwest is known for its wet, windy climate, which can pose significant challenges for certain types of roofing materials. This is where durability becomes one of the primary considerations.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are incredibly durable and resistant to extreme weather conditions. They are known to withstand high winds, which can be common in winter storms here, and are naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and moss, which thrive in our damp climate. Metal roofs can easily last between 40 and 70 years with minimal maintenance, making them a long-term investment. Additionally, metal roofing is less susceptible to issues like cracking, chipping, or warping over time.
Asphalt Roofs
Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, are also designed to be durable and weather-resistant, but their longevity doesn’t quite match that of metal. Standard asphalt shingles typically last between 20 and 30 years, though higher-grade options, like architectural shingles, can offer a longer lifespan. However, because they’re not as water-resistant as metal, they may be more prone to moss growth, especially in shady, damp areas. This can lead to frequent maintenance needs to keep them free of algae or moss.
Winner: Metal roofs come out on top in terms of durability, especially for homes in the Pacific Northwest where rain and storms are common.
2. Cost: Which Roof Material Fits Your Budget?
For many homeowners, cost is a significant factor when choosing roofing material. While both metal and asphalt roofs offer great value, there are substantial differences in initial investment.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofing generally has a higher upfront cost than asphalt. On average, you can expect to pay more per square foot for metal roofing materials and installation. However, because metal roofs last longer and require less frequent repairs or replacements, the long-term costs may be lower.
Asphalt Roofs
Asphalt shingles are more budget-friendly upfront, which is one reason they remain one of the most popular roofing materials nationwide. They’re typically less expensive to install, making them a great option if you’re looking for a quicker and more affordable roofing solution. However, asphalt shingles may need more frequent maintenance and replacement, which can add up over time.
Winner: If you’re looking for a more affordable, short-term solution, asphalt shingles may be a better fit. But for long-term savings and durability, metal roofs offer more value in the long run.
3. Energy Efficiency: Keeping Your Home Comfortable Year-Round
Another important consideration for Pacific Northwest homeowners is energy efficiency. Your roof can have a significant impact on your home’s heating and cooling efficiency.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are known for their reflective properties, which can help reduce heat absorption in the summer months. Many metal roofs are designed with reflective coatings that further improve energy efficiency, potentially lowering cooling costs. Additionally, if you’re considering a “cool roof” solution, metal is often the best choice for minimizing energy costs in warmer weather.
Asphalt Roofs
While modern asphalt shingles are available in energy-efficient varieties, they’re generally not as reflective as metal roofing. Dark-colored asphalt shingles can absorb more heat, which can increase cooling needs in warmer months. However, they do offer solid insulation, which helps retain warmth in colder months—an essential feature for Pacific Northwest winters.
Winner: Metal roofs typically offer better energy efficiency due to their reflective properties, though asphalt can still perform well in colder seasons.
4. Maintenance: What Level of Upkeep Does Each Material Require?
Maintenance is another key consideration for roofing in the Pacific Northwest, especially with the prevalence of rain and moisture, which can encourage algae, moss, and debris buildup.
Metal Roofs
One of the primary benefits of metal roofing is its low-maintenance nature. Metal roofs are resistant to moss, algae, and mold growth, making them a great choice in the damp Northwest climate. Additionally, metal roofs are easy to clean if necessary, and they’re less likely to suffer from damage due to debris or fallen branches.
Asphalt Roofs
Asphalt shingles, while durable, may require more maintenance in this region. Regular cleaning is often necessary to prevent moss and algae buildup, which can damage shingles over time. Additionally, asphalt shingles are more likely to be damaged by severe weather, which can mean more frequent repairs.
Winner: Metal roofs are lower maintenance and better suited to the climate in the Pacific Northwest.
5. Aesthetics: Choosing a Roof that Fits Your Style
Both metal and asphalt roofing materials offer a wide range of styles, colors, and textures to complement your home’s aesthetic.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are incredibly versatile in appearance, with options ranging from classic metal panels to designs that mimic shingles, slate, or even wood. This flexibility allows metal roofing to fit both modern and traditional architectural styles. Metal roofs are available in various finishes, providing a clean, polished look.
Asphalt Roofs
Asphalt shingles offer even more variety in style and color, giving homeowners plenty of options to match their home’s look. Asphalt can range from basic, flat shingles to high-end architectural shingles with dimension and texture that mimic slate or wood.
Winner: Both materials offer a broad range of aesthetics, so it’s truly up to your style preference.
The Verdict: Metal or Asphalt for the Pacific Northwest?
At Tedrick’s Roofing, we often recommend both metal and asphalt shingles, depending on our customer’s needs, budget, and personal preferences. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
- Choose Metal Roofing if… you’re looking for long-term durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency. The higher initial cost can be offset by the material’s lifespan and minimal upkeep requirements. Metal roofs are ideal for homeowners who want to invest in a high-quality, durable roof that can withstand the PNW weather.
- Choose Asphalt Shingles if… you’re working with a tighter budget and want a quick, cost-effective solution that still offers good durability. Asphalt shingles are a great choice for short-term or mid-term solutions, and they offer ample variety in styles and colors.
Contact Tedrick’s Roofing for Your Free Roofing Estimate
Whether you’re considering metal or asphalt, Tedrick’s Roofing is here to help you find the best roofing solution for your Pacific Northwest home. We’re proud to be a family-owned and operated business, dedicated to quality craftsmanship and customer service. When you choose us, you’re choosing a company that’s been trusted by homeowners in Auburn, Seattle, and beyond for over 25 years.
Don’t let the uncertainty of roofing options overwhelm you—reach out to our team for a FREE roof inspection and no-obligation estimate. Let us show you why we’re the roofing company Seattle, Tacoma, and Auburn residents trust. Contact Tedrick’s Roofing today to get started on protecting your home with a roof that will stand the test of time.