Is it time to replace your old asphalt roof? Are you wondering if you can do a metal roof and asphalt shingle combination for your new roof?
Most homeowners don’t know just how customizable getting a new roof is. You’ll choose the roofing material, the types of roof vents you want, what metal you want the roof flashing to be, and more to fit the exact look you want and your budget.
And with the rise of metal roofing in the United State, some homeowners want to take customization a step further by combining asphalt shingle with metal roofing. But is this possible? And if it is, what do you need to know about it?
For over 35 years, Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners get the perfect roof by providing transparent information so they feel confident making decisions. So, let's at if you can combine metal roofing and asphalt shingles.
In this article, you'll learn:
- Can you do a metal roof and asphalt shingle roof combination?
- What should you consider before doing an asphalt and metal roof combination?
Can you do a metal roof and asphalt shingle roof combination?
Yes, you can do a metal roof and asphalt shingle roof combination. In roofing industry terms, this is called adding a metal accent.
(Red standing seam metal roof combined with asphalt shingles)
Adding metal accents is becoming increasing popular in residential roofing for roof areas like covered porches, bay windows, arches, or dormers. However, you can also use metal on full roof facets that are separate or touching the asphalt shingles.
Either way, combining metal roofing with asphalt shingles greatly increases curb appeal.
What should you consider before doing an asphalt and metal roof combination?
Now you know it’s possible to do a metal roof and asphalt shingle roof combination. However, there are some things you need to consider before combining metal and asphalt roofing.
Let's break down the following things to consider about combining metal roofing with asphalt shingles:
- Standing seam is the recommended metal roof
- You need an experienced roofing contractor
- Metal roofing will outlive the asphalt shingles
- Combining metal roofing and asphalt shingles is expensive
- Metal roofing has a different material warranty than asphalt shingles
- There are multiple metal types to choose from
Standing seam is the recommended metal roof
There are two types of metal roof systems, but a standing seam metal roof is recommended when combining metal roofing and asphalt shingles. Standing seam panels are locked together at the seams or seamed mechanically under each rib (seam) by a clip.
This installation style allows the panels to glide back and forth when the metal goes through thermal expansion. And it's because of the expansion and contraction capabilities that a standing seam metal roof is the recommended type of metal roof for residential purposes in general.
You need an experienced roofing contractor
Metal roofing requires a completely different skillset, materials, and experience than standard asphalt shingles. Well, doing a combo takes even more skill, especially if the metal roof has to be tied into asphalt shingles.
So, it’s crucial to hire a roofing contractor with experience installing both types of roof systems and the correct way to install them together. If you don't, you'll be looking at extensive roof leaks and widespread water damage.
Metal roofing will outlive the asphalt shingles
Metal roofing and asphalt shingles have different lifespans. For example, an architectural (aka dimensional) asphalt shingle roof will last around 22 to 25 years, while a standing-seam metal roof lasts 30 years up and can get up to 50 years.
So, the metal roofing sections will last longer than the asphalt shingle roof section, which means the asphalt shingles will need replacing much sooner. Now, keep in mind that multiple factors ultimately determine how long the two roof systems last.
But as long as you invest in quality materials, your attic is adequately ventilated, and the roofing contractor follows proper installation techniques, both the metal roof and asphalt shingle roof should get as close as possible to their maximum lifespan.
Combining metal roofing and asphalt shingles is expensive
Getting a new asphalt shingle roof is a large investment, but metal roofing is more expensive. Not only do the metal panels themselves cost more than asphalt shingles, but remember, it also requires more skill and labor to install.
So, adding metal roofing increases the cost of an asphalt shingle roof replacement even more. In fact, a standing seam metal roof can be up to three times more expensive than asphalt shingles per square foot.
Metal roofing has a different material warranty than asphalt shingles
When getting a new roof, you’ll have a warranty on the roofing materials themselves from the manufacturer. However, metal roofing and asphalt shingles have different material warranties that cover separate things.
For example, an architectural asphalt shingle comes out of the package with a 30-year prorated warranty for manufacturer defects on the shingles themselves. On the other hand, metal roof panels come with a warranty that covers the painted finish that's applied to and protects the panels instead of the panels themselves.
There are multiple metal types
Adding metal roofing to an asphalt shingle roof improves your home’s curb appeal. However, there are multiple metal types, with some greatly increasing curb appeal.
The most common type of metal used in residential roofing is prefinished steel, which comes in plenty of colors to match your home. Aluminum is also common, but steel is more durable.
(Copper metal roof installed over back porch on luxury shingle roof)
But if you want to really increase curb appeal, copper is a great metal material. On top of the look, it's considered a lifetime material.
Just remember that metal roofing will be expensive, and copper is the most expensive metal available.
How does metal roofing and asphalt shingles compare separately?
After reading this article, you now know you can do a combination of metal roofing and asphalt shingles. Metal accents are becoming increasingly popular, but so is metal roofing in general.
Metal roofing is actually closing the gap between asphalt shingles when it comes to popularity. But as I touched on a bit, there are major differences in lifespan, warranties, cost, and more.
So, if you’re serious about an asphalt and metal roof combination, you need more specific information. In fact, maybe a full metal roof is actually what you're looking for. Or maybe you still need to pick the right asphalt shingle.
Either way, you can't make a confident decision without having all the information. That's why I wrote another article breaking down and comparing everything a homeowner needs to know about metal and asphalt shingles.
Check out Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles to learn the pros and cons of each one, plus specific pricing, lifespans, and much more.
