Shingle vs. Metal: Which is Right for Your White County Home?

If you are facing a roof replacement in Searcy or the surrounding White County area, you have likely reached the biggest fork in the road: Should you stick with traditional asphalt shingles, or make the switch to a metal roof?

It is the number one question we get asked at Absolute Roofing & Construction. The honest answer is that there is no single “best” material—only the best material for your budget, your aesthetic style, and your long-term goals for the home.

Arkansas weather puts roofs to the test with blistering summer heat and violent spring hail. Both materials can handle the challenge, but they do it in different ways. Here is an unbiased look at the pros and cons to help you decide.

The Case for Asphalt Shingles: The Proven Classic

Asphalt shingles are on about 80% of homes in North America for a reason. They offer a reliable, attractive, and cost-effective solution for most homeowners.

The Pros:

• Affordability: This is the biggest factor for many families. The upfront cost of an asphalt shingle roof is significantly lower than metal.
• Modern Durability: Forget the flat “3-tab” shingles of the past. Today’s “architectural” or “dimensional” shingles are thicker, layered, and offer excellent wind resistance and warranties ranging from 25 to 50 years.
• Easy Repairs: If a tree limb falls during an Arkansas storm and damages a small section, shingles are relatively easy and inexpensive to match and replace.

The Cons:

• Heat Absorption: Dark asphalt shingles absorb the Arkansas summer sun, which can keep your attic hotter and make your AC work harder.
• Lifespan: While durable, they will likely need replacing in 20-25 years, whereas metal can last twice as long.

The Case for Metal Roofing: The “Forever” Roof

Metal roofing has grown massively in popularity around Central Arkansas, moving from barns to high-end residential homes. It is an investment in the future of the property.

The Pros:

• Longevity: A quality metal roof, installed correctly, can last 50 to 70 years. It is very likely the last roof you will ever buy.
• Energy Efficiency: This is huge for White County homeowners. Modern metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat instead of absorbing it, which can lower cooling costs by 10-25% during our hot summers.
• Storm Resistance: Metal is incredibly tough. It sheds heavy rain and snow easily and offers superior resistance to hail damage and high winds compared to standard shingles.

The Cons:

• Higher Upfront Cost: A metal roof is a significant capital investment, often costing two to three times more than an asphalt roof initially.
• The Noise Myth: Many people worry about rain noise. On a residential home with proper decking and insulation, rain on a metal roof isn’t much louder than on shingles—it’s certainly nothing like an old tin barn.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When choosing for a home in Searcy, consider your timeline. If this is your “forever home” and you want to minimize maintenance and energy bills over the next 40 years, metal is a fantastic investment.

If you are looking for a beautiful upgrade that improves curb appeal without breaking the bank, modern architectural shingles are an excellent choice that fits the aesthetic of almost any neighborhood in town.

Still can’t decide? You don’t have to guess.

Because Absolute Roofing & Construction installs both systems expertly, we can give you an honest, side-by-side price comparison for your specific home. We will show you samples, explain the warranties, and let you make the informed choice.

---