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You may assume that metal roofing is heavier than asphalt shingles, but in many cases, the reverse is true.
Metal is strong and durable, yet it can be surprisingly lightweight compared with other roofing materials. Depending on the type, profile, and thickness of the material, many metal roofing systems weigh considerably less per square foot than asphalt shingles.
That combination of strength and relatively low weight is one of the reasons homeowners consider metal when replacing an existing roof.
How Much Do Asphalt Shingles Weigh?
Not all asphalt shingles weigh the same. Weight varies depending on the type, thickness, and manufacturer of the shingle product you choose.
In general, standard three-tab shingles are lighter, while architectural or dimensional shingles tend to be heavier because they contain additional layers of material.
That extra weight can add up quickly across an entire roof. Depending on the product, asphalt shingles can weigh several pounds per square foot, resulting in hundreds or even thousands of pounds of roofing material across a typical home.
You also need to consider the existing roofing material when planning a roof replacement. Removing old shingles before installing the new roofing system reduces the accumulated weight and, importantly, gives the roofing contractor an opportunity to inspect the roof decking for deterioration, moisture damage, rot, or other problems that may otherwise remain hidden.
Why Is Metal Roofing So Lightweight?
One of the interesting characteristics of metal roofing is its strength-to-weight ratio. Metal panels don't need to be extremely thick to provide a durable exterior roofing surface, allowing a properly designed metal roofing system to provide substantial protection without adding excessive weight to the structure.
Depending on the metal roofing system and proper installation, metal roofing can provide protection against challenging weather conditions, including:
- High winds
- Hail
- Heavy rain and moisture
- Snow and ice
- Freeze-and-thaw cycles
Metal roofing is also non-combustible and can provide excellent resistance to fire exposure. Specific wind, hail, and fire ratings vary by roofing system, product, installation method, and manufacturer, so homeowners should review the specifications and warranty for the particular roofing product being considered.
Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: Does Roof Weight Matter?
The weight of your roofing material is only one factor to consider when choosing a new roof, but it can be important. Your home's roof structure must support the roofing system along with other loads that may occur throughout the year, including snow in Massachusetts.
A lightweight roofing material can reduce the amount of permanent load placed on the structure. However, homeowners shouldn't choose a roofing system based on weight alone. Durability, installation requirements, maintenance, appearance, energy performance, expected lifespan, warranty coverage, and cost should all be considered.
An experienced roofing contractor can inspect your existing roof and help you compare the advantages of metal roofing and asphalt roofing for your particular home.
What Are the Heaviest Roofing Materials?
Tile and natural slate are among the heaviest residential roofing materials. The exact weight varies considerably depending on the material, thickness, style, and manufacturer.
Concrete and clay tile roofing can place substantially more weight on a roof structure than many metal or asphalt roofing systems. Natural slate can be heavier still, depending on the type and thickness of the slate being installed.
This doesn't mean these materials cannot be used successfully. It does mean that the home's structure needs to be capable of supporting the roofing system.
If you're considering a particularly heavy roofing material, it's wise to speak with an experienced Marshfield roofing contractor. Depending on the home and proposed roofing system, a structural evaluation may also be appropriate to determine whether the existing framing can support the additional load.
Is a Lightweight Metal Roof Right for Your Home?
Roof weight is just one of the advantages homeowners may want to consider when comparing metal with traditional roofing materials. Metal roofing can provide a combination of durability, weather resistance, longevity, and relatively low weight.
The best way to determine whether it makes sense for your property is to have your existing roof inspected and discuss the available roofing systems with a professional.
Contact Revered Roofing
Revered Roofing would be happy to inspect your home and help determine whether metal roofing is a good option for your property. We provide professional roofing services in Marshfield and throughout the South Shore of Massachusetts.
Contact Revered Roofing to request a free quote and consultation, or call us at 781-536-4589.
We serve the entire South Shore and lower Cape with quality metal roofing products; standing seam, metal shingle and metal panel roofs in Hanson, Taunton, Marshfield, Quincy, Needham, Medfield, Milton, Halifax, Hanover, Falmouth and Plymouth.
Paul was easy going and a pleasure to deal with. No pressure. Crew got started late but the metal roof with new sky lights over our sun room was done in a day! Quality work. I recommend Revered Metal Roofing.