Choosing the right shingle is more than a colour decision—it’s decades of weather protection, energy efficiency, and resale value. Below, we break down asphalt and metal through the lens of Barrie roofing needs, so you can invest with confidence.
1. Service Life & Durability
| Material | Average Lifespan | Resistance Highlights | Ideal for… |
| Architectural Asphalt | 20–30 years | Class A fire rating; algae‑resistant granules | Budget‑minded homeowners who plan to move within 10–15 years |
| Standing‑Seam Metal | 40–60 years | 150 km/h wind uplift; class 4 hail impact | Long‑term owners, cottages, or net‑zero retrofits |
Ainger Roofing insight: Barrie’s freeze‑thaw cycles and lake‑effect snow put extra stress on seams. We install ice‑shield membranes under both systems to stop leaks before they start.
2. Up‑Front Cost vs. Lifetime Cost
- Asphalt: Installed price averages $6–$8 per sq ft. Maintenance (periodic granule loss, minor repairs) adds roughly $1,500 over 25 years. Replacement around year 30 doubles the total spend.
- Metal: Installed price runs $10–$14 per sq ft. Virtually zero maintenance, and you may never need another roof. When you spread costs over 50 years, metal often wins the dollars‑and‑sense test.
Ainger Roofing tip: Ask about our flexible financing and metal‑roof homeowner insurance discounts—often 5–10 % annually.
3. Energy Efficiency
Dark asphalt absorbs summer heat; attic temps can soar to 65 °C. Metal panels with cool‑roof pigments reflect up to 70 % of solar radiation, trimming A/C bills by 15–25 %. Pair either roof with Ainger’s R‑60 attic insulation upgrade for maximum payoff.
4. Barrie Roofing Sustainability
- Asphalt ends up in landfills; limited recycling exists.
- Metal (steel or aluminum) is 100 % recyclable and usually contains 25–35 % recycled content to begin with.
Ainger Roofing diverts all tear‑off material through our Eco‑Cycle program, so even asphalt jobs stay as green as possible.
5. Aesthetics & HOA Rules
Modern asphalt offers bold colours and dimensional profiles that mimic cedar. Metal shines with sleek standing seams, matte finishes, or even stamped shakes that fool the eye from curb level. Our design consultants bring full‑size samples to your home, ensuring your new roof complements Barrie’s architectural mix—Victorian, mid‑century, or contemporary.
Why Barrie Homeowners Choose Us
- Local climate expertise: Three decades battling Simcoe County snow loads and lake winds.
- Certified crews: Factory‑trained installers for both GAF asphalt and Vicwest metal systems.
- Transparent quotes: Thermal imaging, ventilation check, and no‑surprise pricing.
- One‑stop service: Roof, gutters, skylights, insulation—streamlined under one warranty.
Whether asphalt fits your budget or metal aligns with your forever‑home vision, we have the craftsmanship to make it last. Schedule your complimentary Barrie roofing consultation or call us 705‑444‑5712 today. Invest once—enjoy peace of mind for decades.
