Choosing the Best Roof for Your Barn: Metal or Asphalt Shingles?

When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for a barn, there are several factors to consider. Your roof plays a crucial role in protecting the structure, equipment, and livestock inside the barn. Two popular options for barn roofing are metal and asphalt shingles.

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each material can help you make an informed decision. At AIC Roofing and Construction, we’ve helped property owners replace the roofs on their livestock and horse barns quickly and efficiently. It’s important to carefully consider your options before investing in a new roof. To help you make informed, confident decisions about your property, we have barn specific resources answering all of your questions in our Learning Center.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at barn roofing and analyze the pros and cons of metal roofs and asphalt shingles.

Roofing Materials for Your Barn

Before comparing metal and asphalt shingles, it’s important to choose the right barn roofing material. Barn roofs must withstand harsh weather, provide insulation, and resist damage. The material you choose affects durability, maintenance, and long-term performance.

Cost is a key factor. Metal roofs cost more upfront than asphalt shingles but last longer and need less maintenance, offsetting the initial expense. Lifespan is also important: standing seam metal roofs can last 50 years or more, while asphalt shingles typically last 20–30 years.

Maintenance matters too. Barns face rain, snow, wind, and animal activity. Metal roofs, especially standing seam types, require minimal upkeep, while exposed fastener metal roofs need more attention.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your barn’s needs. Evaluate cost, lifespan, and maintenance, and consult a roofing company experienced with horse barns to make the most informed decision.

An Overview of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs have gained popularity in recent years due to their durability and longevity. They are typically made from steel, aluminum, or copper, and offer several benefits for barn roofing. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of metal roofing:

Pros of Metal Roofing

Long Lifespan: Metal roofs have an average lifespan of 50 years or more, outlasting most other roofing materials.
Durability: Metal roofs are highly resistant to fire, wind, hail, and other external elements, offering excellent protection for a barn.
Low Maintenance: Metal roofs require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean.

Metal roofs are known for their exceptional longevity. With an average lifespan of 50 years or more, they outlast most other roofing materials. This durability makes them an excellent choice for barn roofing, where protection from the elements is crucial. Metal roofs are highly resistant to fire, wind, hail, and other external elements, providing peace of mind for barn owners. Additionally, their low maintenance requirements make them a convenient option for those looking for a long-term solution.

Cons of Metal Roofing

Higher Cost: Metal roofs tend to have a higher initial cost compared to asphalt shingles, although their long lifespan can offset this expense. Cost is largely dependent on the type of metal roofing you choose. There are options that range greatly in price.
Noise: Metal roofs can be noisy during heavy rain or hailstorms, which may not be ideal for barns with livestock. Depending on the construction and insulation of your barn, this may be something to consider before selecting a material.
Expansion and Contraction: Metal expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations, which can lead to potential issues if not installed and maintained properly.

While metal roofs offer numerous advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. One of the main drawbacks is the higher initial cost compared to traditional asphalt shingles. However, it’s important to note that the long lifespan of metal roofs can offset this expense over time. Another factor to consider is the potential for noise during heavy rain or hailstorms. This may not be ideal for barns housing livestock, as it can cause stress and discomfort to the animals. Lastly, metal roofs have a tendency to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. Proper installation is crucial to ensure that this natural movement does not lead to any issues down the line.

An Overview of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most commonly used roofing materials for residential and commercial buildings. They are made from a composite mixture of fiberglass or organic materials, coated with asphalt for weather resistance. Here are the pros and cons of using asphalt shingles for barn roofing:

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

Affordability: One of the key benefits of asphalt shingles is their affordability. Compared to other roofing materials like metal, asphalt shingles are generally more budget-friendly, making them a cost-effective option for barns.
Easy Installation: Another advantage of asphalt shingles is their ease of installation. Unlike some roofing materials that require specialized skills or equipment, asphalt shingles can be easily installed by roofing professionals. We always recommend hiring a reputable Lexington roofing contractor who has experience working on barns.
Wide Range of Styles: Asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of colors and styles, offering barn owners the opportunity to customize their roofs to match the overall aesthetic of the barn. Whether you prefer a traditional look or a more modern design, there is a style of asphalt shingle that can complement your barn’s appearance.

While asphalt shingles have many advantages, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a decision. Let’s explore the cons of using asphalt shingles for barn roofing:

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Shorter Lifespan: Asphalt shingles typically last 20 to 30 years, meaning barn owners may face more frequent repairs or replacements.
Lower Durability: While fine for normal weather, asphalt shingles are vulnerable to strong winds, heavy rain, and hail, which can cause damage.
Environmental Impact: Asphalt shingles are difficult to recycle and contribute to landfill waste. Barn owners who value sustainability may prefer alternative roofing materials.

When deciding on the roofing material for your barn, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option. While asphalt shingles offer affordability, easy installation, and a wide range of styles, they also have a shorter lifespan, lower durability in extreme weather, and contribute to landfill waste. Consider your budget, location, and environmental concerns before making a final decision.

Final Thoughts: Metal or Asphalt Shingles for Your Horse Barn

The right roofing material horse barn truly depends on your unique structure and project goals. Once you’ve researched roofing materials, the next step is to contact 2-3 roofing contractors for a consultation and estimate. This ensures you’re getting a fair assessment and price.

AIC Roofing and Construction has served homeowners in Central Kentucky since 2003. We are in the top 2% of roofing contractors in North America to obtain the GAF MasterElite certification.

We would love to see if we would be a good fit for your project. If you’re ready to get a free estimate on your roof repair or replacement, contact us today!