Pros and Cons Between Cedar Roof vs. Metal Roof

Ceramics. Asphalt. Terra cotta. Rubber. These are just a few of the many roofing options Chicagoans have at their disposal. Today, though, we are going to focus on two styles growing in popularity: cedar and metal. Both are high-quality and practical investments that offer a significant return on investment over much of their mainstream competition.

Our goal at Cittrix Roofing is to give you the essential information you need to decide between the two. We understand personal preferences, needs, and aesthetic preferences vary, which is why we strive to be impartial. Therefore, without further ado, here is everything you need to know about cedar and metal roofing.

Life Expectancy

Metal roofs come in many different flavors, including galvanized steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper. These metals have a wide variety of life spans with each metal having its own distinct properties. Generally speaking, homeowners can expect their metal roofs to last 40 to 70 years.

Cedar roofs are slightly less durable because of their vulnerability to climate, fire, and moisture. These conditions can deteriorate cedar shingles more quickly than metal roofs. The lifespan of cedar roofs typically spans 30 to 40 years. Advantage: Metal.

Aesthetics

Metal roofing is the look of the future. It can add an aura of modernity and sleekness to any home. Of course, some homeowners might find that same edginess to be restrictive or dull.

Cedar shingles work best with older homes, but we’ll be damned if they don’t look gorgeous on any rooftop. The wooden finish provides anatural aesthetic that works perfectly in a suburban or rural area. For our money, cedar is among the most beautiful and versatile looking roofing materials on the market. Advantage: Cedar.

Costs

Cedar shingles cost between $2 to $3 per square foot installed. Depending on the material, metal shingles can run anywhere from $7 to $12 per square foot installed. Now, this head-to-head might seem like a clear win for cedar, but it is not quite so simple.

For instance, you will probably have to replace your cedar roof twice before replacing a metal roof, which doubles the overall installation costs in the long term. Metal is also significantly easier to repair because the materials are recyclable and simple to maintain. That means you will spend less time and money on repairs and replacements. Advantage: Tie.

Eco-Friendliness

Global warming has put homeowners on red alert when it comes to making their homes eco-friendly. Metal is one of the most durable options available because the materials are simple to replace and recycle. Metal also reflects solar radiation and provides improved insulation of traditional roofing material.

If you go for a cedar roof made of composite materials, you can rest assured knowing that 95 percent of each shingle is recycled. Cedar roofing also minimizes a roofer’s reliance on industrial plastics, rubber, and oil. These combine to reduce emissions and landfill waste. The only con here is that you need to cut down trees to make them possible. Advantage: Metal.