Metal’s upfront price tag is rough, but I rarely find major issues unless it was installed badly.
I get what you’re saying about metal lasting longer, but I’m still kind of on the fence. My neighbor had a metal roof put on last year and it’s LOUD when it rains—like, can’t-hear-the-TV loud. Is that just a Phoenix thing or maybe their install wasn’t great? Also, I’ve heard some HOAs around here don’t even allow metal roofs. Anyone run into that? I’m leaning shingles just because it seems less hassle with the rules, even if they don’t last as long.
That rain-on-metal noise is definitely a thing, but it shouldn’t be TV-drowning loud if the roof’s installed right with proper insulation. I’ve been on a few jobs where they skipped sound-deadening underlayment and, yeah, it’s like living in a drum. As for HOAs, I’ve seen a couple around here (Tempe and Chandler) that just flat-out ban metal roofs, or only allow certain colors. Shingles are less drama with the rules, but you trade that for more repairs over time. Ever had shingles blow off in a monsoon? Not fun...
Ever had shingles blow off in a monsoon? Not fun...
You’re not kidding about that. I’ve seen more than a few roofs where the shingles just peeled right off after a big storm—especially if they weren’t nailed down properly or the adhesive strips didn’t seal. Metal’s got its quirks, but I agree, with the right insulation it shouldn’t sound like a hailstorm in your living room. HOAs can be a pain, though. Sometimes it feels like you’re picking between noise and paperwork.
Shingles blowing off is way more common than most folks think, especially in spots that get those wild summer storms. I’ve inspected roofs where the only thing holding the last few shingles on was gravity and luck. Usually comes down to a combo of poor nailing (too few, wrong spot, or not deep enough) and the adhesive strips not sealing—sometimes installers just rush it, or the weather’s too cold when they go on.
That said, shingles aren’t all bad. They’re affordable, easy to repair in small sections, and if they’re installed right, they’ll hold up decently in most climates. But yeah, if you’re in a spot with regular high winds or monsoons, you’re gonna see more issues. Metal’s a solid option for durability, but it’s not for everyone—cost, noise, and like you said, HOAs can be a real headache about it.
If you stick with shingles, just make sure whoever installs them actually follows the manufacturer’s nailing pattern and does it in the right weather. It makes a bigger difference than most people realize. And hey, at least you won’t have to worry about rust...
“They’re affordable, easy to repair in small sections, and if they’re installed right, they’ll hold up decently in most climates.”
I get the appeal of shingles for the price, but I’m not totally convinced they’re the best value long-term. My last roof was shingles and yeah, it was cheaper up front, but after a couple of windstorms I had to pay for repairs almost every year. The “easy to repair” part is true, but those costs add up, especially if you’re not handy.
I’ve been looking into architectural shingles vs. the basic 3-tab ones, and it seems like the better quality stuff holds up a lot better in wind. Still, even the upgraded shingles don’t seem to last as long as metal or tile. I’m in a spot where hail is a thing too, so that’s another headache.
Honestly, I’m starting to wonder if paying more for metal up front would actually save money over time. The noise and HOA stuff is annoying, but constant shingle repairs are too. Anyone else feel like the “affordable” part is kind of misleading once you factor in all the patch jobs?
