Why Metal Roofs are Better for Hot Climates Compared to Asphalt Shingles

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July 25, 2024

For anyone native to Arkansas, you know just how hot the summers can get. However, all over the country, the summer heat is sizzling away at the asphalt shingles on most Americans homes and businesses. Asphalt roofing systems absorb heat faster than most other roofing materials, which is causing those cooling bills to skyrocket.

Did you know that with proper installation and insulation, metal roofing systems can actually lower your cooling costs? At Permasteel, our metal roofs are made with quality products, and each metal roof comes with a fifty year warranty to ensure that your cooling costs stay low in the Arkansas heat for years to come. If you’re tired of sweltering in your own home every summer due to inefficient asphalt shingle roofs, we’re here to help!

metal roofing arkansas services

Metal Roofs vs Asphalt Roofs in Hot Climates

Metal Roofing Systems

Metal roofs are known for their ability to reflect light. Because of this, metal roofs do not attract heat, and instead deflect the heat off of your home. In general, metal roofs can be up to 100 degrees cooler to the touch than asphalt shingles in the direct sun! This is because metal has a low thermal mass, meaning that its ability to absorb and store heat is low.

A metal roof will absorb less heat throughout the day, and can be customized to be even more energy efficient. The lighter the color of your metal roof, the more light it reflects, and the better its ability to keep temperatures down in your home. When you install a metal roof onto your home, consider painting the metal a light color to boost energy efficiency in the summer!

Since your metal roof will be unable to absorb as much light and heat in the summer, your cooling costs can be up to 15% less than those with asphalt shingle roofing systems. Not only will your cooling costs go down, but your home or business will have a better eco footprint than those with asphalt roofing systems.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing Systems

Asphalt roofing systems are not only less durable than metal roofing systems, but they also come with lower energy efficiency. Asphalt shingles, unlike metal roofing panels, absorb heat rather than deflect it. Asphalt will absorb large amounts of heat from not just the sun, but also from the temperature outside. Then, the heat that the shingles absorb is transferred into the home below, raising the temperature, and subsequently cooling costs. Did you know that the heat that is absorbed into asphalt roofing systems can raise a home’s temperature by 25 degrees?

asphalt roof

With that added temperature spike, buildings with asphalt shingles can become very hot, and will compete with your AC systems to cool down the temperature. This can result in higher electric and cooling bills, and ultimately increase your carbon footprint. AC units are one of the leading causes of greenhouse gasses being released into the earth’s atmosphere, which are one of the leading contributors to global warming.

If you’re considering making the switch to a metal roof because of its durability, longevity, energy efficiency, and cooling capabilities, well you’re in the right place! Metal roofs can last a lifetime or longer, and with the Permasteel fifty year warranty and financing options, the switch to a metal roof has never been easier. 

To get a quote or to ask questions about metal roofing systems and the installation process, visit our contact page! A member of the Permasteel team will be happy to help you get started on the switch to a metal roofing system today.

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