Why Metal Roofs Are Growing in Popularity Across Arkansas
When it’s time for a new roof, Arkansas homeowners have more choices than ever. While asphalt shingles remain a popular and dependable option, more homeowners are taking a closer look at metal roofing—and for good reason.
Metal roofs offer impressive longevity, energy-efficiency benefits, and durability that can be especially appealing in a state known for hot summers and severe storms. Of course, metal isn’t necessarily the right choice for every home or every budget.
If you’re deciding between asphalt shingles and metal roofing, here are some of the biggest factors to consider.
Metal Roofing Offers Impressive Longevity
One of the biggest reasons homeowners choose metal is its lifespan.
A quality metal roofing system can last several decades with proper installation and maintenance. That means homeowners who plan to stay in their homes long-term may go much longer before needing another roof replacement.
Asphalt shingles also offer dependable performance, but they typically require replacement sooner than metal.
Your roof’s actual lifespan will depend on several factors, including:
- Quality of installation
- Roofing material
- Storm exposure
- Ventilation
- Maintenance
- Local environmental conditions
For homeowners who prioritize longevity, metal roofing can be an attractive investment.
Metal Can Help Reflect Summer Heat
Anyone who has spent a July afternoon in Arkansas knows just how intense the summer sun can be.
Your roof receives hours of direct sunlight, and some of that heat can eventually make its way into the attic and living areas below. Metal roofing can reflect a portion of the sun’s energy rather than absorbing as much heat as some traditional roofing materials.
Depending on the specific roofing product, color, insulation, and ventilation system, this may help reduce heat transfer into the home.
That can contribute to:
- A more comfortable home during hot weather
- Less heat buildup in the attic
- Reduced strain on your cooling system
- Potential energy savings over time
A metal roof alone won’t solve every energy-efficiency problem, but paired with proper insulation and roof ventilation, it can be part of a more energy-efficient roofing system.
Built to Handle Arkansas Storms
Heat isn’t the only weather concern Arkansas homeowners face. Strong thunderstorms, high winds, hail, and heavy rain can put any roofing system to the test.
Metal roofing is known for its strength and durability, making it an appealing choice for homeowners concerned about severe weather.
A professionally installed metal roof can provide excellent resistance to:
- High winds
- Heavy rain
- Flying debris
- Impact from some hail events
- Moisture-related deterioration
No roofing material is completely storm-proof, and sufficiently large hail or falling tree limbs can damage metal just as they can other materials. Still, durability is one of the major reasons metal roofing continues to attract Arkansas homeowners.
Could a Metal Roof Affect Your Homeowners Insurance?
Your roof plays an important role in how your insurance company evaluates your home. Because some metal roofing products offer strong resistance to wind, fire, and impact, certain insurers may offer discounts or other benefits for qualifying roofing systems.
However, this varies considerably by insurance company, policy, location, and the specific roofing product installed.
If insurance savings are part of your decision, contact your insurance provider before selecting a new roof. Ask whether different roofing materials or impact-resistant products qualify for discounts under your policy.
Even without an insurance discount, choosing a durable roofing system may help reduce your risk of certain types of damage over the long term.
What About the Cost of Metal vs. Shingles?
There’s no getting around it: metal roofing generally requires a larger upfront investment than traditional asphalt shingles.
That initial price difference can make shingles the better choice for homeowners working within a tighter budget. Asphalt shingles also come in a huge variety of colors and styles, offer reliable performance, and can be an excellent roofing solution when properly installed.
The bigger picture, however, is worth considering.
Because metal roofs generally last longer, homeowners may avoid one or more roof replacements over the same period. Metal can also offer lower maintenance requirements and potential energy-efficiency benefits.
When comparing your options, consider:
- Initial installation cost
- Expected lifespan
- Maintenance requirements
- Energy efficiency
- Storm resistance
- How long you plan to own the home
The least expensive roof today isn’t necessarily the least expensive roof over the lifetime of your home.
Which Roofing Material Is Right for Your Home?
There’s no single roofing material that’s perfect for every homeowner.
Asphalt shingles may be a great choice if you’re looking for affordability, versatility, and a classic appearance.
Metal roofing may make more sense if you’re willing to invest more upfront for increased longevity, durability, and potential energy-efficiency benefits.
Your home’s design, budget, location, and long-term plans should all factor into the decision.
Born to Roof Installs Both Metal and Shingle Roofing
You don’t have to choose a contractor based on the roofing material you want. Born to Roof installs both asphalt shingle and metal roofing systems, which means our team can help you compare your options and choose the solution that makes the most sense for your home and budget.
For more than 30 years, we’ve helped Arkansas homeowners protect their properties with professional roof repairs, replacements, and new installations.
Thinking about replacing your roof? Call Born to Roof today at (501) 503-7785 or request your free estimate online. We’ll help you explore your options and find a roofing system built to protect your home for years to come.
