Metal roof vs. shingles – which one should you choose?

Can't decide between an asphalt shingle and metal roof? We’ll break down metal and asphalt roofing, so you have a better understanding of these two materials and make the best decision for your home. 

Metal roof basics, pros and cons.

Residential metal roofs are normally composed of steel, aluminum or copper. Metal roofs no longer look like flat, corrugated panels one would normally find on a shed or a barn. These days, metal roofs can now emulate wood, stone, clay or even asphalt shingles, making them attractive options for homeowners everywhere. 

There are several other benefits to installing a metal roof. The primary one is its lifespan. Depending on the type of material used, metal roofs can last 40-80 years. An additional manufacturer's warranty of several decades keeps a well-maintained metal roof on your home for several generations. Metal roofs are able to last this long because they are durable. When properly installed with the proper roofing components, they can withstand wildfires, high winds and hail. They can also handle heavy loads of snow and ice (but you should still clear your roof to avoid damage). 

Another benefit of metal roofing: energy efficiency. A metal roof doesn't absorb the sun's UV rays to increase its radiant heat; instead, they bounce off the surface. As a result, your home is cooler in the summer, and you can save up to 40% in energy costs.

Metal roofing pros and cons:

Of course, metal roofs also come with a few drawbacks. For example, when you compare the cost of a metal roof vs. asphalt shingles, metal roofs are almost always more expensive. Metal roofs do get noisy at times, particularly during heavy rain or a hailstorm. The sound of these elements falling against this material may be alarming to some. Although metal roofs are durable, they could be dented if the metal isn’t strong enough.

Another disadvantage to a metal roof is the durability of its fasteners. Though the metal panels are designed to expand and contract as they cool down and heat up, their fasteners don't have the same capacity. Therefore, screws can loosen and corrode over time.

Asphalt roof basics, pros and cons.

Asphalt shingles became the common way to roof a home at the start of the 20th century. Today, they're considered the most popular material for roofing.

There are two forms of asphalt shingles: three-tab shingles and architectural shingles. Three-tab shingles lay flat and have three tabs or cutouts on each strip. Architectural shingles are laminated shingles. Compared to three-tab shingles, they’re thicker and provide more depth and dimension to your roof.

Asphalt roofing pros and cons:

The main advantage of an asphalt roof is its cost, which is far lower than wood timbers or increasingly used metal sheets. Another plus to asphalt is its wide range of thicknesses and colors. Most likely, there's a set that matches the style and shades of your home's exterior. You can even find asphalt shingles that mimic the appearance of wood or slate.

On the other hand, the lifespan of asphalt shingles is limited. Even with a product warranty, the average cycle of this material is approximately 20-30 years. Furthermore, shingles are affected more by the environment. Excessive sunlight can cause cracks in the asphalt coating, and powerful winds might cause these shingles to blow off of your roof. As a result, you pay more for repeated repairs over something like a metal roof.

Metal vs. asphalt shingles: differences and similarities.

There are several differences and similarities between asphalt and metal roofing. Let’s dive into them.

Differences.

The primary difference between metal vs. asphalt roofing is the price. The lightweight asphalt is easier to manufacture. Thus, the price point is much smaller when it comes to units and installation. On the other hand, metal plates cost more depending on the material and design.

How they're installed is another difference between the two materials. Because asphalt shingles are lighter and smaller, do-it-yourself (DIY) homeowners have the power to add them on their own with the proper education. It's harder to do this with metal sheets.

Meanwhile, metal sheets are more efficient and long-lasting than asphalt shingles. They handle the sun's rays differently, making it easier to keep your home cool in the summer. 

Plus, metal roofs last much longer than ones covered in asphalt shingles. The latter has a lifetime of only a few decades. Metal roofs can last almost twice as long. Put it this way: a house owned by the same family for over seven decades never needs to completely replace the metal roof. 

Similarities.

Metal and asphalt roofs have some similarities. First of all, they protect your home from both UV and infrared rays. Where metal plates move rays away from the house, the asphalt coating absorbs them, so they don't reach your interior.

The variety of styles is another similarity when comparing a metal roof vs. shingles. Both come in several shapes and colors. Where asphalt was once the only type of material to be consistent with neighborhood homes, the increase in metal's popularity now matches its competitor.

Metal roof vs. shingles cost.

"Is a metal roof cheaper than shingles?" The short answer is no. When it comes to installation and potential repairs, a metal roof will likely always be the more expensive option. Here’s a look at the different factors that impact the cost of metal roofs and asphalt shingles. 

Metal roof costs.

The average cost of a metal roof starts at $4,400 and can be nearly $9,000 or more. However, the Metal Roofing Alliance states metal roofing costs $800-$1,500 per square. The final amount depends on the square footage of the surface and the type of metal. How it's installed is another factor. Professional roofers cost more than if you decided to install the metal panels yourself.

Asphalt shingles cost.

Asphalt shingles are far less expensive than metal roofs. Costs range from approximately $65-$350 per square.

Like metal roofs, there are other cost factors related to asphalt. An item that plays a large part in the final price is the roof's size. Professionals must include this to decide how many shingles are required, along with underlayment and plywood.

The brand or style of roof shingle is also a consideration. Though they're inexpensive overall, certain shapes, colors and thicknesses cost more.

Overall, calculating the estimated cost of a replacement roof on your own is a two-step process. First, know its size. This is normally found in county records or paperwork received upon purchasing the home. Second, take the total square footage and multiply it by the average cost of materials. Of course, you’ll need to factor in the labor cost as well. For the most accurate price estimate, get quotes from at least three different roofing companies in your area.

How to choose between metal and asphalt roofing.

There are several key elements to consider when choosing a roof covered with asphalt shingles or metal panels. Below are the components to always keep in mind as you move through the process.

Step 1: Determine your budget. 

As mentioned, metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt roofs in terms of covering, hardware and labor. Some of the higher-end traditional shingles aren't nearly as pricey as copper plates. On the other hand, there's a greater return on your initial investment with a metal roof over an asphalt roof because it lasts several decades longer.

What you have to do is review your existing budget and factor in the cost of potentially replacing and repairing your roof. Additionally, consider how long you expect to stay in the house. If a move is imminent due to a job change, then a metal roof may help raise your property's value. 

Step 2: Consider your environment and climate.

If you live in an area that’s prone to extreme heat, high winds and severe storms, metal may be your best option. Metal roofs can take a beating. They withstand the sun's powerful rays and easily drain rainwater from their surfaces. Studies reveal that properly secured roofs covered with this material can withstand winds up to 140 mph. 

A roof covered with asphalt shingles is also durable. Instead of reflecting UV rays, the granules within the coating absorb them. Furthermore, because they're waterproof, rain and snow quickly flow into gutters. However, asphalt shingles aren't as wind resistant as metal. When an uplift occurs, the shingles are loosened. So if you live in a windy area, asphalt shingles may not be right for you.

Step 3: Be realistic about maintenance and repairs.

There's not much maintenance to do with a metal roof. The main considerations are with the fasteners and the sublayers of plywood and rafters, which can falter due to extreme weather, water damage or termites.

Asphalt roofs also have a low maintenance threshold. However, extreme weather conditions do cause shingles to crack and blow away. This means repairs are often more frequent. For instance, asphalt roofs in the Southwest and other hot, sunny environments may need several repairs throughout their lifespans due to cracking and fading. Though repairs are a way to lengthen its usefulness, the mismatched colors eventually lead to an entire replacement. 

Step 4: How long do you plan to stay in your home?

By far, metal roofs have a longer lifespan than asphalt, lasting up to 80 years. Add warranties, and the life of a metal roof may reach the 100-year mark (if catastrophic damage doesn't occur). Asphalt shingles last approximately a quarter of a century. If you want to spend your entire life in your home without having to replace your roof, a metal roof is your best bet. 

Step 5: Estimate your return on investment.

The return on investment (ROI) between an asphalt and metal roof depends on a few factors. First, what's the purpose of the property? Is it a forever home, a flip, a rental or a middle ground until something better comes up? If it's a house you're flipping or renting, research the trends in your neighborhood and consult with an expert for guidance. Potential homebuyers might be interested in an asphalt — or they may pay more for a metal roof. If it's a forever home (especially one you hope to pass on to other generations), a metal roof might be a better choice because it will last longer. 

Step 6: Browse through different colors and styles.

Both asphalt and metal roofs come in different colors and styles. Find one that fits your vision the best. 

Asphalt shingles come in a variety of shapes, thicknesses and colors. Though some styles do cost more than the standard three-tab, their uniqueness may be worth the initial investment. Today's metal roofs have the same versatility. Manufacturers can emulate different styles to fit most home categories.

Step 7: Do you plan to DIY your roof installation?

Of the two roof types, asphalt is the easier one to install for both professionals and DIYers. The hardest part is moving all the materials up to the roof. After this, the teardown and replacement of an asphalt roof are relatively simple (as long as the installers have the proper equipment and training).

It's not as easy to add a metal roof to your property. The materials aren't as light or small as asphalt tiles. It's more difficult to attach them to unusually designed roofs. Hiring professional roofers is highly recommended to complete the task.

Step 8: Look up your community guidelines.

This is a factor that some homeowners don't consider when choosing between a metal and asphalt roof. Some neighborhoods may adhere to strict design guidelines when it comes to exterior materials. This is particularly true in historically significant areas or communities with a homeowners association. 

So, which is better – a metal roof or shingles?

After you complete Steps 1 through 8, it’s time to make a decision. In most cases, an asphalt roof will be your choice if you have a smaller budget and find a style that you like. If you have a larger budget and live in an area with extreme weather, you’ll probably lean toward a metal roof. 

If you’re still not sure, do a bit more research. You may find that you actually prefer a slate or clay tile roof, for example. Getting a professional’s opinion can also help you make a decision. Contact several local roofers to find out how much they charge to install a roof made of asphalt, metal or other materials. 

Hire a roofer on Thumbtack today. 

Now that we've detailed the pros, cons, and costs of metal and asphalt roofs, it's time for you to take the next step. Choose what’s right for you in terms of price, design and ROI. Your first step: start searching for roofers near you. 

Don't immediately hire the first one you contact, however. Pick a few with high ratings, and read their customer reviews. Check out how many hires they've had on Thumbtack, and look at their before-and-after photos of past roof installations. Then, contact at least three professionals to set up a consultation.

During your conversations and consultation, give the roofers details about your home and priorities when it comes to new roofing. They should provide you with an estimate of material and labor costs, but don't be afraid to ask plenty of questions.

FAQs.

Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?

Metal roofs may leak if they are not installed properly. The same is true of asphalt shingle roofs. Prevent your roof from leaking by making sure a top-rated, reputable and experienced roofing professional is performing the installation.

Do you need gutters with a metal roof?

Yes, you will need gutters with a metal roof. In fact, you should always consider installing gutters with any type of roofing system. 

Do metal roofs rust?

Metal roofs can rust. To help prevent this from happening, talk to your roofer about technologies and protective coatings they can apply to your metal roof. Note that aluminum tends to be more resistant to rust, but it’s still worth it to apply a coating. 

A note about project costs included or linked in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros and additional research. These figures are provided for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs.