Key Takeaways
- Asphalt shingles offer the lowest upfront cost and broad style options, making them a practical choice for many homeowners.
- Metal roofs cost more initially but last longer (often 40+ years), resist extreme weather, and can lower energy bills.
- Choose based on priorities: budget and easy replacement favor asphalt; longevity, low maintenance, and energy savings favor metal.
- Roof condition, roof pitch, local climate, and HOA rules often determine the best option — inspect or consult a pro before deciding.
Metal Roofing (Standing Seam & Metal Shingles)
Best For: Homeowners seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance roof who are willing to invest more up front and who want improved energy efficiency and weather resistance.
Price Range: Typical installed cost: $6.00–$12.00+ per sq ft (approx. $600–$1,200+ per 100 sq ft). Final price depends on metal type, complexity, and region.
Pros
- Long lifespan: commonly 40–70 years with proper installation and maintenance.
- Excellent durability: resists wind, hail, fire, and rot better than asphalt.
- Energy efficiency: reflects solar heat, lowering cooling costs in hot climates.
- Lightweight: less structural load on the home compared with tile or slate.
- Low maintenance: fewer repairs over the life of the roof; often backed by long warranties.
- Recyclable: many metal roofs contain recycled content and are recyclable at end of life, improving environmental footprint.
Cons
- Higher upfront cost: materials and installation are typically 2–3 times asphalt shingles.
- Noise: rain and hail can be louder unless underlayment and attic insulation are upgraded.
- Appearance concerns: some homeowners prefer traditional shingle aesthetics, though metal styles have improved.
- Installation complexity: proper flashing and fastener details are critical; poor installation can lead to leaks or warranty denial.
- Thermal movement: metal expands and contracts, requiring attention to attachment methods and trims.
Asphalt Shingles (3-Tab & Architectural)
Best For: Homeowners on a tighter budget or those who want a traditional look and plan to replace the roof every few decades rather than invest in a longer-term solution.
Price Range: Typical installed cost: $3.00–$6.00 per sq ft (approx. $300–$600 per 100 sq ft). Architectural (dimensional) shingles are at the higher end.
Pros
- Lower initial cost: most affordable roofing option up front, especially 3-tab varieties.
- Wide availability and variety: many colors, styles, and architectural options to match curb appeal.
- Easier to repair and replace: roofers are familiar with shingles and replacement materials are common.
- Good performance in varied climates: modern shingles are engineered for wind and algae resistance.
- Lower noise: typical shingle roofs reduce rainfall noise compared with uninsulated metal.
Cons
- Shorter lifespan: 15–30 years typical, depending on shingle quality and climate.
- Higher lifetime maintenance/replacement cost: may require full replacement more often than metal.
- Heavier relative to some metal types and less recyclable: many shingles end up in landfills.
- Susceptible to wind uplift, curling, and algae in some climates without proper ventilation and maintenance.
- Energy performance: absorbs more heat than reflective metal, increasing cooling loads in hot climates.
Our Recommendation
For most homeowners, high-quality architectural asphalt shingles are the best balance of cost, appearance, and performance. If you prioritize longevity, energy savings, and minimal maintenance and can afford the higher initial investment, metal roofing is the superior long-term choice.
Architectural asphalt shingles deliver strong performance at a lower upfront cost and are suitable for most climates and home styles, offering predictable maintenance and easier repairs. Metal roofs make sense when long-term durability, energy efficiency, and extreme-weather resistance are top priorities despite higher initial costs.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed roofing contractor when you plan a full roof replacement, if your roof has active leaks, extensive rot, structural concerns, or if your home has a complicated roofline (multiple valleys, steep slopes, chimneys). Always hire a pro for metal roof installation — proper flashing, underlayment, and fastener technique are critical to performance and warranties. Also consult a structural engineer if you’re converting to a heavier roof type or if attic ventilation, insulation, or building codes may affect the job. For safety, do not climb on a damaged roof yourself — falling and electrocution risks are significant. Obtain written estimates, check licenses, insurance, and references before hiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does each roof type last?
Metal roofs typically last 40–70 years depending on material (steel, aluminum, copper) and maintenance, with many manufacturers offering 30–50 year warranties. Asphalt shingles usually last 15–30 years: 3-tab shingles at the lower end and architectural (dimensional) shingles at the higher end. Lifespan varies with climate, ventilation, and installation quality.
Will a metal roof save me money on energy bills?
Yes, metal roofing reflects more solar radiation than asphalt, often reducing cooling costs in hot climates. The extent of savings depends on the roof color, reflective coatings, attic insulation, and your local climate. In cooler climates, energy savings are smaller, and the higher upfront cost may take longer to recoup.
Are metal roofs noisier when it rains compared to shingles?
Metal can be noisier if installed directly over open framing. Proper underlayment, solid sheathing, and attic insulation dramatically reduce noise. In most residential installations with proper underlayment, noise levels are comparable to asphalt. Discuss underlayment and insulation options with your contractor if noise is a concern.
Can I install metal over existing asphalt shingles?
In many areas you can install metal roofing over one layer of asphalt shingles, which saves tear-off costs. However, local codes and manufacturer warranties may restrict this, and installing over existing shingles can hide roof deck issues and affect attachment. A professional inspection is recommended to determine if a tear-off is necessary.
Which roof is better for hail-prone areas?
Metal roofing generally resists impact better than asphalt and often performs better in hail storms, particularly standing-seam and thicker gauge metals. Some high-grade impact-resistant asphalt shingles are designed for hail resistance too. Check impact ratings and local installer experience for the best choice in hail-prone regions.