I totally get where you’re coming from. When we bought our place, the inspector made a big deal about the “30-year” shingles, but honestly, after 15 years and a couple of wild Midwest hailstorms, they started looking pretty rough. We had to replace a handful after one especially bad storm—wasn’t too hard, just awkward up there on the ladder with my nerves jangling.
A buddy of mine went with metal last year thinking it’d be the last roof he’d ever need. Then a freak hailstorm left his panels looking like someone took a ball peen hammer to them. He’s still arguing with his insurance about whether that counts as “cosmetic” or “structural” damage… not fun.
Shingles aren’t perfect, but I do like being able to fix a patch myself without calling in the cavalry. Metal seems great if you’re planning to stay put forever and don’t mind the upfront cost (and maybe some extra noise when it rains). For me, I’ll probably stick with shingles next time—at least I know what I’m dealing with.
Yeah, I hear you on the shingles. My uncle’s house had “lifetime” shingles and after about 12 years, a couple of bad storms tore them up pretty good. He patched them himself too—said it was a pain but at least he didn’t have to shell out for a whole new roof. Metal looks cool, but I’ve seen those hail dents up close and it’s not pretty. Honestly, being able to fix a few shingles on your own is a big plus. Sometimes simple is just less headache.
Honestly, being able to fix a few shingles on your own is a big plus. Sometimes simple is just less headache.
That’s been my experience too. I replaced about a dozen shingles last spring after a windstorm—took maybe half a day, and all I needed was a pry bar, hammer, and some roofing nails. Not exactly fun, but way cheaper than calling someone out. Metal roofs look sharp, but I’ve seen neighbors dealing with noise and those dents you mentioned. For me, being able to patch things up myself tips the scale toward shingles, even if they don’t last forever.
