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Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better?

Comparing metal roofing and asphalt shingles on upfront cost, lifespan, energy savings, and long-term value.

Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better? comparison

The Bottom Line

Metal roofing wins on longevity, energy savings, and weather resistance. Asphalt wins on upfront cost and broad availability. For homeowners planning to stay 20+ years or in high-risk weather regions, metal's premium often pays back. For most others, quality architectural shingles remain the right call.

Material information and relevant data are maintained by Remodel Your Home’s editorial research team. Learn about our editorial standards.

Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles

Metal roofing has moved from commercial buildings and barns into mainstream residential use, and for good reason. But it still carries a significant price premium over asphalt shingles. The question is whether that premium pays off over the life of the roof. The answer depends heavily on how long you plan to stay in the home.

Asphalt Shingles Overview

Architectural asphalt shingles remain the most installed roofing material in the US for a simple reason: they offer solid performance at an accessible price point. A full replacement on a 2,000 sq ft home runs $9,300–$27,900* with 30–50 year architectural shingles. They handle most climates well, are universally available, and are straightforward for any roofing crew to install. Their weakness: they're petroleum-based, absorb heat, and in extreme climates (high UV, severe hail, coastal salt air) can degrade faster than rated.

Metal Roofing Overview

Standing seam metal roofing (steel or aluminum) costs $15,900–$54,200* installed for the same home, but carries a 50-year warranty and in practice can last 70+ years. Metal reflects UV radiation, reducing cooling costs by 10–25% in warm climates (DOE data). It's Class A fire-rated, highly wind-resistant (up to 140 mph), and hail-resistant. Some insurance carriers offer discounts of 20–35% for metal roofs in hail and wildfire zones. The premium pays back most clearly when you stay in the home 20+ years or are in an extreme-weather region.

*All cost estimates on this page are planning estimates, not quotes. Actual costs vary by location, project scope, materials, site conditions, and contractor. See methodology and sources.

Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles Comparison*

FactorMetal RoofingAsphalt Shingles
Installed Cost (2,000 sq ft)$15,900–$54,200$9,300–$27,900
Lifespan50–70+ years25–50 years (architectural)
Energy Savings10–25% cooling reduction (DOE)Minimal
Wind ResistanceUp to 140 mphUp to 110–130 mph (architectural)
Hail ResistanceClass 4 (highest)Class 3–4 depending on product
Insurance Discount Potential20–35% in risk zonesStandard rates
Resale AppealPremium in right marketsExpected standard
Best ForLong-term owners, extreme climates, high-wind/hail zonesMost homeowners: best value

Frequently Asked Questions

Metal roofing can increase resale value, but rarely enough to recover the full premium over asphalt. Metal is not separately tracked in the Cost vs. Value edition we license, so we do not publish a recoup percentage for it. The financial case is stronger for long-term owners, who get the extra service life, than for sellers.

Not on a properly installed residential system. Standing seam and metal shingle installed over solid decking with insulation beneath is no louder than asphalt shingles. The rain-noise concern applies to agricultural pole barns with exposed decking, not modern residential applications.

In many cases, yes. Metal can be installed over one existing layer of shingles, which saves on tear-off costs. However, some contractors and manufacturers recommend tear-off to allow full deck inspection. Confirm your jurisdiction allows it and that the deck is in good condition first.

No. Lightning strikes the highest point in an area regardless of material. Metal roofing does not increase lightning risk. If struck, metal roofing is non-combustible and actually safer than wood shake or asphalt in terms of fire spread.

Reflective metal roofing can reduce cooling costs 10-25% per DOE data. The actual savings depend on your current roof color, insulation, and climate. In hot, sunny climates with high cooling loads, the savings are more meaningful than in moderate climates.

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