Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Right For You?
When it comes to choosing the right roofing material, metal roofs and asphalt shingles are two of the most common options. Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on factors like budget, climate, and personal preferences.
Below is a detailed comparison of metal roofs and asphalt shingles, highlighting key considerations such as lifespan, cost, energy efficiency, environmental impact, noise, aesthetics, and installation.
Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingle Comparison
| Feature | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingles |
|---|---|---|
| Average Lifespan | 50 to 70 years or more, depending on material and maintenance | 15 to 30 years depending on shingle grade and climate |
| Durability | Highly resistant to wind, hail, snow, and fire; minimal cracking or warping | Good weather resistance but can be subject to cracking, granule loss, and wind uplift over time |
| Maintenance | Low; occasional inspections and debris removal | Moderate; periodic repairs and replacement of damaged shingles |
| Energy Efficiency | Reflects sunlight, reducing cooling costs by up to 25% | Absorbs heat; higher attic temperatures increase cooling costs |
| Appearance Options | Wide variety of colors and styles (standing seam, corrugated, shingles) | Traditional look; available in 3-tab, architectural, and designer styles |
| Environmental Impact | Often made from recycled materials and fully recyclable at end of life | Petroleum-based; less eco-friendly and harder to recycle |
| Weight | Lightweight; often suitable for installation over existing shingles | Heavier; typically requires roof deck replacement during re-roofing |
| Noise | Can be louder in heavy rain unless insulated properly | Quieter under rain; naturally sound-dampening |
| Resale Value | High; long lifespan and premium appearance increase home value | Moderate; boosts curb appeal but requires more frequent replacement |
Which Is More Durable: Metal Roofing Or Asphalt Shingles?
One of the most significant differences between metal roofs and asphalt shingles is their lifespan and durability.
Durability of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are renowned for their longevity, often lasting 50 to 70 years or more when properly maintained. They are highly resistant to extreme weather conditions, including high winds, hail, and even fire. Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roofs are less prone to issues like cracking, warping, or leaks. A properly installed metal roof can withstand decades of wear and tear, making it an excellent long-term investment.
Durability of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting 15 to 30 years. While modern asphalt shingles are designed to withstand moderate weather conditions, they are more vulnerable to damage from high winds, heavy rain, and hailstorms. Over time, shingles can crack, curl, or lose their granules, reducing their effectiveness and necessitating replacement sooner.
Wind and Hail Ratings on Asphalt Shingles
An asphalt roof is more than the shingles. It also includes the underlayment, a water-shedding layer beneath them, the vents that move air through the attic, the metal flashing around chimneys and walls, and the starter shingles along the edges, and the manufacturer’s wind warranty depends on those parts too.
Owens Corning’s Duration shingles come with a wind warranty of up to 160 mph, but only when the roof uses Owens Corning’s full set of components and has starter shingles along both the eaves and rakes (the sloped edges at each end of the roof). For hail, Owens Corning’s Duration FLEX and Duration STORM shingles have a Class 4 rating on the UL 2218 impact test, the highest rating the test gives.
Verdict: If durability and longevity are priorities, metal roofs are the clear winner. For homeowners seeking a budget-friendly short-term solution, asphalt shingles may be enough.
What’s the Cost Difference Between Metal Roofing and Asphalt Shingles?
Cost is often a major deciding factor when choosing a roofing material, and asphalt shingles tend to have the advantage in initial affordability.
Cost Of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs have a higher upfront cost, ranging from $14 to $40 per square foot, depending on the type of metal (like aluminum vs. steel vs. copper) and the design. However, their durability and minimal maintenance requirements often make them more cost-effective in the long run.
Cost Of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials, with costs ranging from $3 to $12 per square foot. This affordability has made them a popular choice for homeowners on a budget. However, the shorter lifespan and potential need for more frequent replacements can add to the overall cost over time.
Verdict: Asphalt shingles are the more budget-friendly option upfront, while metal roofs are a better long-term investment due to their longevity and lower maintenance costs.
Which Is More Energy Efficient: Metal Roofing or Asphalt Shingles?
Energy efficiency is a growing concern for many homeowners, and metal roofs excel in this area.
Energy Efficiency Of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs reflect solar heat, which can reduce cooling costs by up to 25% and overall energy costs by up to 40%. Their reflective properties make them especially suitable for warmer climates or homes that receive significant sunlight. Some metal roofs also have coatings to enhance energy efficiency further (and make excellent cool roofs, pun intended).
Energy Efficiency Of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles absorb heat, which can increase indoor temperatures and lead to higher cooling costs. While some shingles are designed with reflective properties, they are generally less energy-efficient than metal roofs.
Verdict: Metal roofs are the superior choice for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and reduce utility bills.
Are Asphalt Or Metal Roofs More Environmentally Friendly?
The environmental footprint of a roofing material is another important consideration.
Metal Roofs Environmental Impact
Metal roofs are often made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. Their longevity also means fewer replacements, which reduces waste over time. These eco-friendly attributes make metal roofs a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Asphalt Shingles Environmental Impact
Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, contribute significantly to landfill waste. In the U.S. alone, approximately 12 million tons of asphalt shingles are discarded annually. While some recycling programs exist, they are not as widespread or efficient as those for metal roofing materials.
Verdict: Metal roofs are far more eco-friendly, with their recyclability and reduced waste making them the greener option.
Which Is Noisier: Metal or Asphalt Roofs?
Noise levels during rain or hailstorms can be a concern for homeowners.
Metal Roof Noise
Metal roofs can be noisier during heavy rain or hail. However, proper insulation and underlayment can significantly reduce this noise, making it comparable to other roofing materials. A new metal roof shouldn’t be particularly noisy.
Asphalt Shingles Noise
Asphalt shingles naturally provide better soundproofing due to their composition and installation methods. They are generally quieter during storms without requiring additional insulation.
Verdict: Asphalt shingles are quieter by nature, but the noise issue with metal roofs can be mitigated with proper insulation.
What Looks Better: Metal or Asphalt Roofs?
Both metal roofs and asphalt shingles offer a variety of design options to suit different tastes.
Metal Roof Aesthetics
Metal roofs come in over 100 colors and can mimic other materials such as wood, slate, or tile. Their sleek, modern appearance makes them a popular choice for contemporary homes, though certain styles also work well in traditional designs.
Asphalt Roof Aesthetics
Asphalt shingles are available in 15 to 20 colors and a range of styles. While they may not offer as much versatility as metal roofs, they are a classic option that complements most architectural styles.
Verdict: Metal roofs offer more variety and customization, but asphalt shingles provide enough options to suit most traditional homes.
What’s Easier to Install: Metal or Asphalt Roofs?
The installation process can affect the overall cost and timeline of a roofing project.
Metal Roof Installation Process
Installing a metal roof requires specialized skills and takes longer than asphalt shingles. The complexity of the installation process can increase labor costs, but the quality of the installation contributes to the roof’s longevity and performance.
Asphalt Roof Installation Process
Asphalt shingles are easier and quicker to install, making them a more convenient option for homeowners who need a roof replacement on a tight schedule. Many contractors are the most familiar with asphalt shingles, so it’s easier to find an experienced installer.
Verdict: Asphalt shingles are faster and easier to install, while metal roofs require more time and expertise.
How Do Metal Shingles Compare to Asphalt Shingles?
Metal shingles consist of steel or aluminum stamped into individual pieces shaped like asphalt shingles, wood shakes or slate. This gives the roof a traditional look but adds the strength characteristics of metal.
Compared to asphalt shingles, metal shingles cost more up front and last longer. They typically cost less than standing seam panels, and some lines can be installed with a nail gun like asphalt shingles. Metal shingles are perfect for a homeowner who wants a metal roof on a house where long vertical panels would look out of place.
Can You Mix Metal and Asphalt Shingles on One Roof?
Yes. A combination roof usually keeps asphalt shingles on the main, steeper sections and puts metal on smaller ones: a porch roof, a low-slope section where water drains more slowly, or a garage. Some homeowners add a metal accent for the look alone. The seams between the two materials need sealed metal trim so water can’t get under either one.
Should You Choose a Metal Roof or Asphalt Shingles?
Who Should Choose a Metal Roof
Choose metal if you plan to stay in the house for decades and can spend more now to replace the roof less often. The look suits a modern house, a farmhouse, or any home where you want a color beyond the usual grays and browns, and it’s especially effective if you live in an area with heavy snow or hot summers. If you want metal on a house where long panels would look out of place, consider metal shingles.
Who Should Choose Asphalt Shingles
Choose asphalt shingles if you want the lower price today, expect to sell the house within 15 to 20 years, or want to match the traditional look of the homes around you. If hail is common where you live and metal is over budget, ask about impact-rated shingles.
Find the Right Roof for Your Home
Home Genius Exteriors provides free inspections and installs both metal and asphalt shingle roofs. A Home Remodeling Expert will look at your roof, your budget and your plans for the house and walk you through both options side by side. An Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, every Home Genius installation is backed by the Genius Limited Lifetime Warranty on workmanship, with the materials covered by each manufacturer’s warranty. Call today to schedule your free inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lasts longer, a metal roof or asphalt shingles?
A metal roof lasts longer. Most metal roofs last 50 to 70 years or more, while asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 30 years, depending on the shingle grade and the climate.
Is a metal roof more expensive than asphalt shingles?
Up front, yes. Metal roofing typically costs $14 to $40 per square foot, compared with $3 to $12 per square foot for asphalt shingles. However, metal ends up more cost-effective in the long term because a metal roof will last two or three times as long as asphalt.
What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?
A metal roof costs more up front, and the installation takes longer and needs a crew trained to work with metal. Rain and hail also sound louder on metal unless it’s installed over solid wood with insulation underneath, which brings the sound close to a shingle roof.
Are metal roofs more durable than asphalt shingles?
Yes. Metal resists wind, hail, fire and heavy snow, and it doesn’t crack or curl as it ages. Asphalt shingles hold up well in most climates, and impact-rated shingles with a Class 4 rating are made for areas with frequent hail.
Is a metal roof more energy efficient than shingles?
Yes. Metal reflects more of the sun’s heat, which can cut cooling costs by up to 25%, while asphalt shingles absorb more heat into the attic. Attic insulation helps with either roof, because it slows heat moving into the house in summer and out of it in winter.
Can you put a metal roof over shingles?
In certain situations, yes. Many local building codes allow a metal roof over existing asphalt shingles when the old roof is in good condition. Codes vary by town, so have a roofer check the roof underneath and your local rules before leaving the old shingles in place.
Is a metal roof better in snow?
Metal handles snow well, because snow slides off its smooth surface instead of building up. That can reduce ice dams, which form when snow melts and refreezes at the edge of the roof. Asphalt shingles also work well in cold climates when the roof has a waterproof layer under the shingles along the edges and good attic ventilation.
How can you make asphalt shingles last longer?
Have the roof inspected once or twice a year and after a storm with large hail or high wind. Replace damaged shingles when you find them, keep the gutters clean, and remove leaves and branches from the roof. Good attic ventilation also helps, because it keeps heat and moisture from building up under the shingles.
Does a metal roof increase home value?
A metal roof can add to resale value, because buyers see its long lifespan, low upkeep and lower cooling costs. How much it adds depends on your market and the home.
