Composite shingles are definitely cheaper upfront compared to metal roofs, but durability-wise... depends on your climate. DIY install isn't rocket science, but it can get tricky around vents and edges. Did you struggle with flashing on your shed? That's usually the headache spot for beginners.
"DIY install isn't rocket science, but it can get tricky around vents and edges."
Yeah, vents and flashing are definitely the spots that trip people up. When I built my first workshop shed, I thought I had it all figured out until I got to the chimney flashing... spent a whole afternoon redoing it twice. Learned the hard way that patience and good sealant are your best friends. Metal roofs are pricier upfront, but honestly, after dealing with leaks, I'd say peace of mind is worth the extra cost.
I agree that flashing and vents can be tricky, but I'd also say valleys are another area where DIYers often get caught off guard. I've seen more than a few roofs leak because someone underestimated how much water flows through those spots during heavy rain. On the metal roof point—no doubt they're durable, but I'm curious if anyone here has experience with newer synthetic shingles? I've heard good things about their longevity and ease of installation, but haven't used them myself yet. Wondering if they'd offer similar peace of mind without the upfront cost of metal...
"Wondering if they'd offer similar peace of mind without the upfront cost of metal..."
I've looked into synthetic shingles myself, and while they do seem promising, I'm still a bit skeptical about their long-term durability. A neighbor installed them about five years ago—looked great initially—but they've already had some fading and minor curling issues. Might've been a cheaper brand, but it makes me wonder if they're truly comparable to metal in terms of lifespan. I'd definitely research specific brands carefully before committing.
"Might've been a cheaper brand, but it makes me wonder if they're truly comparable to metal in terms of lifespan."
Good point—I've seen mixed results with synthetic shingles too. A client of mine went with a higher-end synthetic option about three years ago, and so far it's holding up pretty well. No curling or fading yet, but honestly, three years isn't exactly long-term proof. I'm curious how they'll look after ten or fifteen years... especially compared to metal roofs that seem to age gracefully.
Also, aesthetics-wise, synthetics can mimic slate or cedar beautifully at first, but I've noticed some brands lose their realistic texture over time. If you're leaning toward synthetic shingles, maybe check out some homes in your area that have had them installed for a while—nothing beats seeing it firsthand. And definitely ask about warranty coverage; some manufacturers offer pretty solid guarantees, which might ease your mind a bit.
Roofing decisions are always tricky—good luck!
