Which Is Better for Morganton, Valdese & Granite Falls?
Morganton, Valdese, and nearby Granite Falls sit in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The climate is humid-subtropical: hot, sticky summers and moderately cold winters, with around 48 inches of annual rainfall and about 4–5 inches of snow (bestplaces.net). That means roofs face heavy summer storms, sunny days, and occasional freeze-thaw cycles. Here’s how two popular options—metal roofing and asphalt shingles—stack up for your area.
1. Upfront Cost
Metal Roofing
Premium product: typically $7–$12 per sq ft installed. High-end metal (like standing seam) can run even higher.
Longer lifespan (40–70 years) helps offset cost over time.
Asphalt Shingles
Budget-friendly: $3–$6 per sq ft installed for good-quality architectural shingles.
Basic 3-tab shingles are cheaper but don’t last as long.
Verdict: Asphalt shingles are easier on the wallet upfront. Metal costs more but recoups value with longevity.
2. Durability & Lifespan
Metal Roofing
Extremely durable. With winds common in North Carolina’s summer storms, metal can resist wind speeds up to 140 mph.
Non-porous surface sheds rain, snow, and ice efficiently.
Common warranties extend 30–50 years; actual lifespan often exceeds that.
Asphalt Shingles
Typical lifespan is 15–25 years, depending on quality and maintenance.
High winds may lift shingles or blow off edges over time.
Heat and humidity may lead to algae growth or granule loss.
Verdict: Metal clearly wins durability, with longer life and resilience to local weather extremes.
3. Appearance & Aesthetics
Metal Roofing
Sleek, modern look; available in panel styles (standing seam) or metal shingles designed to mimic classic materials.
Wide color range, but color-fade over decades is possible—though most manufacturers provide strong paint warranties.
Asphalt Shingles
Traditional look, with architectural variants offering dimensional appeal.
Easier to match with local home styles—especially Craftsman, Colonial, or Cape Cod designs.
Granules protect from UV; colors are bold but may fade after ~10 years.
Verdict: For contemporary or rural-modern homes, metal is visually striking. For traditional curb appeal, shingles often blend more appropriately.
4. Suitability for Local Climate
Metal Roofing
Excellent water runoff helps during heavy April–July rains .
Prevents ice dams in winter due to heat conduction and smooth surface.
Reflective coatings can reduce cooling costs during hot, humid summers.
Asphalt Shingles
Good at insulating and resisting rain, though granule wear can expose the mat below.
Shingle overlap handles moderate snow but can be vulnerable to freeze-thaw cycles.
Heat and humidity can accelerate aging—proper attic ventilation helps.
Verdict: Metal’s performance edge in wet, variable weather makes it ideal for this region. Shingles work well too but demand more upkeep to stay healthy.
Pros & Cons Summary
Feature
Metal Roofing ✔
Asphalt Shingles ✒
Cost
Higher initial cost but long-term value
Affordable upfront; replacements needed every 15–25 years
Lifespan
40–70 years; strong warranties
15–25 years, depending on quality and climate
Durability
Resists wind, rain, snow, fire; low maintenance
Decent durability; can suffer hail damage and granule erosion
Climate Fit
Ideal for heavy rain, humidity, snow/ice; reflective coatings save on cooling costs
Performs well if well-ventilated; higher maintenance required
Aesthetics
Clean, modern look; many colors/styles; may not suit every home style
Classic look; wide design compatibility with local neighborhoods
Noise
Rain noise may be louder (but reduced with insulation)
Familiar sound, quieter than metal
Heat Retention
Can be noisy and hot without insulation; reflective finishes help mitigate heat
Shingles absorb heat, can raise attic temperature if unventilated
🏠 Which One Should You Choose?
Go with Metal Roofing if: You plan to stay in your home long‑term and want a long‑lasting, low‑maintenance roof that handles heavy rain, snow, and wind with ease. Ideal for modern-style homes or if you want to boost resale value with a premium look.
Stick with Asphalt Shingles if: You’re working with a tighter budget, own a traditional-style home, or don’t mind planning for roof replacement in 15–25 years. Simple, reliable, and familiar to most homeowners.
Final Thoughts
For Morganton, Valdese, and Granite Falls homeowners facing high humidity, frequent storms, and occasional snowfall, metal roofing offers superior durability and climate resilience, though at a higher price point. Asphalt shingles remain a solid, cost‑effective choice for traditional homes and homeowners more concerned with upfront cost than long-term lifespan.
Thinking about a new roof? Get tailored advice and a free quote from experts in your area. Reach out to Providence Roofing at: Providence Roofing contact Boone
Providence Roofing is your trusted, Veteran Owned and Led, local roofing contractor. Our business was formed out of a desire to build long-lasting, beautiful roofs for residential and commercial customers.
