Definitely agree—composite shingles are underrated. I’ve seen a few projects where folks went that route and the curb appeal was still solid. Plus, not everyone wants to deal with the noise of rain on metal or the upfront cost of solar tiles. Sometimes, keeping it simple with a sustainable twist just makes sense. If it’s working for your neighbor, that’s a pretty good sign it’s worth considering.
Honestly, I get the appeal of composite shingles—they’re easy to work with and the newer ones do look pretty sharp. But I’ve seen a few jobs where they didn’t hold up as well as expected, especially in spots with wild temperature swings. Sometimes you end up swapping out sections sooner than you’d think. Metal’s noisy, sure, but it’s tough as nails. Just something to keep in mind if you want to go the low-maintenance route long-term.
Metal’s noisy, sure, but it’s tough as nails. Just something to keep in mind if you want to go the low-maintenance route long-term.
I get where you’re coming from about metal being noisy, but honestly, I think that gets blown out of proportion unless you’re talking about a barn or something with zero insulation. Most newer installs I’ve seen (and a few I’ve had put on rental properties) are way quieter than people expect once you’ve got proper underlayment and attic insulation.
Composite shingles do look nice at first, but like you said, they can be hit or miss with durability—especially if you’re in an area that gets those wild temp swings or hail. I’ve had to replace sections on a couple projects within 8-10 years, which is kind of a pain when you’re thinking long-term value.
If it’s your own place and you want to avoid headaches down the line, I’d lean toward metal or even tile if your structure can handle the weight. Upfront cost is higher, but less patchwork and fewer surprises later. Just my two cents from juggling a bunch of roofs over the years...
Metal Roofs Aren’t As Loud As People Think
I just finished building my first place last year and went with a standing seam metal roof. I was honestly worried about the noise too, but with decent insulation, it’s not really noticeable—rain just sounds like a light tapping, nothing crazy. My old house had composite shingles and after a couple hailstorms, I was patching it every other summer... kind of a headache. Metal cost more up front but so far, zero issues and no leaks. If you’re planning to stay put for a while, it’s worth considering.
Metal cost more up front but so far, zero issues and no leaks. If you’re planning to stay put for a while, it’s worth considering.
I’ve been wrestling with this exact decision for months. My current roof is asphalt shingles and honestly, after the last couple storms, I’m seeing a lot of granule loss and some minor leaks around the chimney. The idea of not having to patch things every few years is really appealing.
Did you do anything special for insulation under your metal roof? I’ve read that the underlayment and attic insulation make a big difference in both noise and energy efficiency, but contractors keep giving me mixed answers. Also, how’s the summer heat? I’m in a spot with pretty brutal sun most of the year and I’m worried about things getting hotter inside compared to shingles.
If anyone’s had experience with metal roofs in hot climates—did you notice any difference in cooling bills or indoor temps? That’s my last big hesitation before pulling the trigger.
