Homeowners are increasingly steering away from cookie-cutter homes and driving toward authentic styles. As a result, many have turned to mixed material roofs to boost their curb appeal. So, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about how to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles. But let’s talk about why these blended roofs are so popular in the first place.
Why is there so much hype around mixed metal and shingle roofs?
Metal roofs and asphalt shingles are two popular roofing materials that offer a range of benefits to homeowners. Metal roofs are known for their durability, long lifespan, and energy efficiency, while asphalt shingles are a cost-effective and attractive option. So, combining the two can create a unique look that enhances the curb appeal of any home while saving money in the long run.
Enhanced aesthetics
By incorporating a mix of shingles and metal into your roofing, you can achieve a distinctive appearance that sets your home apart from those of your neighbors. In turn, you’ll have a unique place to call home rather than a cookie-cutter home on a street of twelve other lookalikes.
But not every shingle and metal roof will automatically boost your curb appeal. So, we’ll tell you how to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles later in this article.
Cost-effective
While a new roof can be a considerable expense, mixing roofing materials can be an effective way to maximize your budget. Generally speaking, the expense of installing a metal roof is higher compared to asphalt shingles. So, if you’ve been undecided about opting for a metal roof due to its steep price, a combination of both metal and asphalt shingles can be a cost-effective alternative. This is largely due to the low cost of asphalt shingles– a durable yet economical roofing option that prevents you from putting a dent in your wallet.
Also, blending metal and shingle roofs allows you to incorporate high-end, visually impressive options, such as stone-coated steel roofing. You can use these high-end options in prominent areas of your home that are easily visible to visitors. For the less visible areas, like the back of your home or a tool shed, you can use affordable asphalt shingles to help balance out the cost.
How to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles: Tips and tricks
While it’s tough to go wrong with a mixed metal and asphalt shingle roof, there are a few tips that can point you in the right direction. Below, we’ve shared some ideas to help you get started on your next mixed materials roofing project.
Use the right materials
When thinking about how to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles, you need to consider the materials you’ll use. The roofing materials should match the overall style of your house to ensure a consistent and harmonious aesthetic.
For instance, let’s say you have a traditional-style home with classic architectural features like gables, dormers, or chimneys. In this case, you may want to opt for roofing materials that reflect that style. A metal and asphalt shingle combination in a classic color like brown, gray, or black would complement the traditional architecture and add a timeless appeal.
You’ll also need to consider the texture of your mixed roofing materials. Different roofing materials have different textures, and combining materials with clashing textures can create an unbalanced look. For example, combining a rough asphalt shingle with a smooth metal roof can create a jarring contrast that detracts from the overall aesthetic.
Use an analogous color palette
A mixed-material roof should have an analogous color palette. This type of color scheme involves selecting colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel. This creates a cohesive look as the colors have a similar tone. In contrast, selecting colors that clash or are too different from each other can make your roofline look disjointed and awkward.
While a roof with an analogous color pattern can appear plain or monotonous, you can add a pop of color to create a more interesting aesthetic. So, let’s talk about how to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles using a burst of bold colors.
Pop of color
A metal and asphalt shingle combination roof should reveal a pop of color to break up the pattern and add some visual interest.
This pop of color can be any color that’s different from the analogous color palette you choose for your roof. So, if your roof is mostly decorated in shades of blue-gray, a pop of orange or copper could be used to break up the visual pattern.
The metal should be your dominant color
When choosing the colors for your roof, it’s important to consider the overall aesthetic that you want to achieve. Since the shingle portion of the roof typically covers a larger surface area, selecting the right color can have a significant impact on the overall look of the roof.
Choosing a recessive color for the shingles can help create a cohesive look that’s not dominated by any one color. The recessive color of the shingle roof can also help inspire your choice of color for the metal portion of the roof. By picking a color that complements the overall aesthetic of the roof, you can create a harmonious and visually pleasing color scheme.
Consider the pitch
Wondering how to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles when you have a steep pitch? Well, it’s important to pay attention to the flashing and ventilation systems whenever you’re working with a roof that has a high pitch.
The flashing and ventilation help keep your roof sealed properly and prevent water leaks and damage. Plus, they help control the temperature and moisture in your attic so you don’t get mold and mildew. So, make sure the flashing and ventilation systems you choose work well with both the metal and asphalt shingles.
How to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles without an underlayment
Underlayment for roofing is a thin, water-resistant material that is installed on the roof deck before the installation of the primary roofing material (such as shingles, tiles, or metal panels). Its main purpose is to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture infiltration and to improve the overall performance of the roofing system.
Although not mandatory, using underlayment while installing metal roofing over shingles is highly recommended. This is because it helps alleviate the stress on the underlying shingles, reducing the risk of potential damage to the roof. Without it, the previous shingles could be under continual stress. This can lead to roof damage and more repairs over time.
Will a metal and shingle roof combination match my home?
When it comes to roofing design, a mixed-material roof can be a versatile option that can be tailored to a range of architectural styles. But, they tend to be most effective and popular when incorporated into contemporary home designs.
Metal and shingle roof combination for the modern farmhouse
Curious about how to combine a metal roof with asphalt shingles for a modern farmhouse look? By employing a combination of different roofing materials, homeowners can accentuate the contemporary and refined look of their farmhouse property.
A popular approach is to utilize more conventional shingles on the main house roof and gables while incorporating a durable and attractive standing seam metal roof for porches, covered walkways, and add-on carports. The combination of these two materials creates a dynamic and unique appearance that adds personality to the home.
How to combine metal roof with asphalt shingles: The bottom line
Combining a metal roof with asphalt shingles is a savvy way to give your home a stunning new look while keeping it protected from the elements. By following the tips we’ve shared, you’ll be on your way to achieving a stylish and durable roof that perfectly complements your home’s unique style.
Remember, it’s important to choose materials that work well together in terms of color and texture and to ensure that your roof is properly installed and maintained over time. So whether you’re planning a full roof renovation or just looking to spruce up your current roof, it’s always a good idea to call on a roofing professional to get an expert’s opinion. After all, the last thing you want is a summer DIY project going south because of some avoidable roofing mistakes.
But, with the right approach and a little bit of inspiration, combining a metal roof with asphalt shingles can be a truly rewarding experience.
