Picking a roof can feel overwhelming. The good news is that for most homes in Northeast Georgia, there are really only four options: two kinds of shingles and two kinds of metal.
We install all four, so we have no reason to push one over another. Every one of them is a good roof when it’s installed right. This guide explains each one in plain English and compares them side by side, so you can decide what fits your home and budget.
The 4 Options in a Nutshell
- Architectural shingles: the most common roof around here. Layered shingles with a textured look, in lots of colors.
- Designer shingles: thicker, heavier shingles shaped to look like slate or wood shake.
- Exposed-fastener metal: ribbed metal panels held down by screws you can see on the surface.
- Standing seam metal: smooth metal panels that lock together at raised seams, with the screws hidden underneath.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s how they stack up against each other. These are general comparisons; your own roof, the products used, and the quality of the install all make a difference.
| Category | Architectural shingles | Designer shingles | Exposed-fastener metal | Standing seam metal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Lowest | Higher | Higher | Highest |
| How long it lasts | Long | Longer than architectural | Long | Longest |
| Look | Classic and textured | Looks like slate or cedar shake | Ribbed panels with visible screws | Smooth panels with raised seams |
| Upkeep | Low | Low | Check screws over time | Very low |
| Repairs | Easy | Easy | Fairly easy | Needs a metal specialist |
| Wind | Good | Very good | Very good | Excellent |
| Hail | Can lose granules or crack | Can lose granules or crack | Can dent | Can dent |
| Rain noise | Quiet | Quiet | Quiet over solid decking | Quiet over solid decking |
| Fire | Good | Good | Excellent (doesn’t burn) | Excellent (doesn’t burn) |
| Summer heat | Standard | Standard | Reflects more heat | Reflects more heat |
| Watch out for | Moss and algae in shade | Moss and algae in shade | Loose or worn screws | Higher cost; needs a skilled crew |
Scroll the chart sideways to see all four.
Architectural Shingles
These are the shingles on most homes you drive past. They’re made of layers glued together, which gives them a thicker, 3D look compared to old-style flat shingles.
Pros
- Lowest upfront cost of the four
- Lots of colors that fit almost any home or HOA
- Easy and inexpensive to repair
- Quiet in the rain
Cons
- Doesn’t last as long as metal, on average
- Can grow moss and algae under heavy shade
- Hail can knock granules off or crack shingles
Designer Shingles
Designer shingles are a step up from architectural shingles. They’re thicker and heavier, and they’re cut and colored to look like natural slate or cedar shake, without the cost and weight of the real thing.
Pros
- Standout, high-end look and more curb appeal
- Heavier shingles hold up better in wind
- Easy to repair, like other shingles
- Quiet in the rain
Cons
- Costs more than architectural shingles
- Fewer colors and styles to choose from
- Same moss, algae, and hail concerns as other shingles
Exposed-Fastener Metal
This is metal roofing made of ribbed panels that are screwed straight through the face into the roof. You can see rows of screw heads, and each screw has a rubber washer that seals the hole. It’s common on farmhouses, cabins, barns, and shops.
Pros
- Lasts a long time
- The more affordable way to get a metal roof
- Great in wind, and metal doesn’t burn
- Reflects more summer heat than shingles
Cons
- The rubber washers wear out over time, so screws should be checked and some replaced over the years
- Visible screws aren’t everyone’s style
- Large hail can leave dents
Standing Seam Metal
Standing seam is metal roofing with smooth, flat panels that lock together at raised seams running from the peak to the edge. The fasteners are hidden under the seams, so there are no screw holes exposed to the weather.
Pros
- Longest-lasting of the four
- Very little upkeep, since there are no exposed screws
- Clean, sharp look that suits modern and farmhouse homes
- Excellent in wind, and metal doesn’t burn
Cons
- Highest upfront cost of the four
- Repairs take a crew that knows metal
- Large hail can leave dents
More about our metal roofing →
Things People Usually Ask
Is metal loud in the rain?
Not on a house. Metal on a home goes over solid wood decking and underlayment, which quiets it down a lot. The loud “tin roof” sound people picture comes from metal on a barn with open rafters.
Is metal worth the extra cost?
It depends on how long you plan to stay. Metal costs more up front but usually lasts longer and needs less upkeep. If you’re moving in a few years, shingles often make more sense. If this is your forever home, metal is worth a look.
Will my HOA allow it?
Some neighborhoods have rules about roofing material or color. Check before you decide. Architectural shingles are the safest bet if you’re unsure.
Which One Is Right for You?
- Architectural shingles if you want the best value, a classic look, or might sell in the next several years.
- Designer shingles if you want a high-end look and the feel of a shingle roof.
- Exposed-fastener metal if you want metal’s long life on a tighter budget, or a rustic farmhouse or cabin look.
- Standing seam metal if you plan to stay for the long haul and want the least upkeep.
Still torn? That’s normal. The easiest way to decide is to see real prices for your home. We’ll give you an honest recommendation with no pressure either way. Want a rough idea first? Try our Roof Price Estimator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a metal roof attract lightning?
This is a common myth. Metal roofing does not make a home more likely to be struck by lightning, and metal is non-combustible.
Which roof is best for Northeast Georgia?
There isn’t one best roof. All four hold up well in our weather when they’re installed right. The best choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay, and the look you want.
Can I get prices for more than one option?
Yes. At your free inspection we can price more than one option side by side so you can compare.
