Long Island Homeowners Are Making Smarter Roofing Choices: Why 2024’s Weather-Resistant Materials Are Changing the Game
As Long Island faces increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, from nor’easters to hurricane-force winds, homeowners are rethinking their roofing material choices. The growing risk of extreme weather has led to increased demand for weather-resistant roofing materials, with homeowners increasingly seeking roofs that can withstand these conditions. The debate between traditional asphalt shingles and modern metal roofing has never been more relevant for coastal properties.
The 2024 Roofing Revolution: Weather Resistance Takes Center Stage
As extreme inclement weather becomes more and more frequent, the demand for resilient roofing materials is beginning to skyrocket. This trend is particularly pronounced in coastal areas like Long Island, where coastal storms and high humidity necessitate wind-resistant materials and regular inspections to prevent water intrusion and mold growth.
In 2023 alone, the United States experienced 28 extreme weather events that caused at least 1 billion dollars in damage–the most ever recorded in a single calendar year. This has made demand for roofs that can withstand severe weather a top trend in 2024.
Asphalt Shingles: The Traditional Choice Under Pressure
Asphalt shingles have long been the go-to roofing material for Long Island homes, and for good reason. When you compare the cost of shingles vs. a metal roof, asphalt shingles come out ahead. Basic three-tab shingles cost $1–$3 per square foot. More premium architectural shingles cost $2–$4 per square foot.
However, Long Island’s coastal environment presents unique challenges for asphalt shingles. During the sweltering summer months, Long Island’s roofs endure extreme heat that can cause significant wear and tear. One primary concern is thermal expansion, a process where roofing materials expand due to high temperatures. Shingles, tiles, and other materials absorb heat as the sun beats down, causing them to expand and contract. This constant fluctuation can lead to cracking, warping, and a compromised roof structure.
While architectural and luxury shingles are very durable, asphalt shingles in general may not hold up as well as other materials in extreme weather conditions. Asphalt shingles are more susceptible to storm damage and wear over time, making them a less ideal choice for Long Island’s challenging coastal climate.
Metal Roofing: The Coastal Weather Champion
Metal roofing has emerged as the superior choice for Long Island’s coastal conditions. Metal’s reflective properties reduce energy costs significantly in hot climates, while thermal characteristics and profile design minimize ice dam formation compared to asphalt shingles. Coastal areas benefit from superior resistance to salt spray and harsh weather conditions, with metal panels shedding water more effectively than shingles.
For Long Island homeowners, metal roofing offers exceptional wind resistance. Metal roofs excel in wind resistance, with interlocking panels rated for gusts exceeding 140 mph, which maintain structural integrity during Category 4 storms. This is crucial considering coastal storms, particularly nor’easters and hurricanes, pose significant risks to the structural integrity of roofs on Long Island. These storms bring high wind speeds that can easily lift shingles, break flashing, and even cause structural damage to the roof deck. Additionally, the salty air from the ocean accelerates salt corrosion, weakening roof materials.
Metal roofing addresses these coastal challenges effectively. Metal roofs are resistant to rust and oxidation from salt air and humidity, and non-porous metal roofs can withstand repeated freeze and thaw cycles from snow and ice.
Long-Term Value: The Numbers Don’t Lie
While metal roofing requires a higher initial investment, the long-term value proposition is compelling for Long Island homeowners. Traditional asphalt shingle roofs typically last around 20 years, while metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 80 years. That kind of extended service life makes metal a clear step up from asphalt shingles.
Considering the longevity of shingles compared to metal roofs in humidity, heavy rain, and Gulf South storms, metal roofs can last 50+ years without curling, cracking, or mold growth, while shingles typically last 20–30 years and are more prone to moisture and wind damage. This durability makes metal a more dependable long-term investment despite higher upfront costs.
Some insurance providers offer discounts for homes with metal roofs because of their durability and resistance to fire, wind, and hail. These features reduce the risk of damage, which can lower the cost of claims, and that savings can be passed on to you through reduced premiums.
Expert Installation Matters: Choosing the Right Contractor
Regardless of material choice, proper installation is crucial for Long Island’s challenging climate. When selecting a Roofing Contractor Long Island, it’s essential to work with experienced professionals who understand coastal weather challenges.
Expressway Roofing & Chimney, a family-owned company serving Long Island for over 22 years, exemplifies the expertise needed for coastal roofing projects. Expressway Roofing & Chimney is Long Island’s premier, full-service, licensed roofer and insured home contracting roofing company serving Suffolk County, NY and Nassau County, NY. We’ve been a Long Island-based, family-owned and operated roofing, chimney, siding, gutter and home contracting company for over 22 years now because we only adhere to the highest standards for quality.
Their free, fair and honest quotes are completely transparent. In fact, their business model was designed around that concept of fairness, openness and honesty – just for fellow homeowners across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Making the Right Choice for Your Long Island Home
For Long Island homeowners, the choice between asphalt shingles and metal roofing ultimately comes down to priorities and long-term planning. While asphalt shingles offer lower upfront costs, for homes in Texas, weather resistance particularly matters. Steel vs shingle roof comparisons show differences in how each material handles heat, wind, and precipitation – a consideration equally relevant for Long Island’s coastal climate.
Metal roofing was a major trend in the past year, and it’s expected to continue into 2025 as homeowners increasingly prioritize durability, energy efficiency, and long-term performance. With the ability to withstand severe weather, metal roofing is the go-to choice for those seeking both strength and style.
As Long Island continues to face increasingly severe weather events, investing in weather-resistant roofing materials isn’t just a trend – it’s a necessity. Whether you choose upgraded asphalt shingles or make the leap to metal roofing, partnering with an experienced local contractor who understands coastal challenges will ensure your investment protects your home for decades to come.