May 4, 2023
If your roofing needs to be replaced, there are several options available to you. When it comes to metal roofs vs. asphalt shingles, the aesthetic appearance of your roof is one thing, but the performance of your roof is another matter. Of course, the cost of a new roof is significant, and there is a large range of pricing depending on the type of roofing you choose.
There are two major categories of roofing available, with several options for each. The key decision is choosing between a metal roof and an asphalt shingle roof. Both are popular, and each has its own set of pros and cons. We created this ultimate guide to help you decide between metal vs. shingle roofing.
The term “metal roofing" describes a fairly wide variety of options. The primary difference is the type of metal used. These vary in terms of durability, appearance, and cost. Here are some variations of metal roofing you will find:
Stone-Coated Steel / Clay Tile
Stone-Coated Steel Panels / Tile
Standing Seam / Steel or Aluminum
Decorative Copper
Standing Seam / Copper
It might come as a surprise, but variety among asphalt shingles doesn’t just have to do with their color and appearance. There are also different types of asphalt shingles. Differences among asphalt shingles impact the durability and cost of the shingles. These options include:
What if you’re not ready to choose between specific types of asphalt or metal roofs yet? Then simply decide between asphalt or metal. These tables help you compare the pros and cons of metal roofs vs. asphalt shingles:
Metal vs. shingle roofing offers different advantages in terms of appearance. Here is a quick breakdown:
As mentioned above, metal roofing can look rural and out of place in suburban settings. Depending on your preferences, this can be seen as both an advantage and a disadvantage. One issue regarding the appearance of metal roofing is that prices tend to go up significantly to access more stylish and versatile materials.
The appearance of asphalt roofing is very familiar to people in suburban environments. That also can be good or bad. An asphalt roof will blend in, not calling attention to itself as much as other materials—but that can be viewed as bland to those seeking to stand out. Asphalt roofing does come in a variety of colors and styles. Like metal roofing, the more expensive options offer more design choices at a lower price than their metal counterparts.
With more types of materials to choose from than asphalt roofing, metal roofing offers a great deal of variety. From steel and slate to aluminum and corrugated metal, the different materials are conducive to variety.
Varieties of Metal Roofing:
While asphalt roofing tends to come in just three categories, significant variety is available in each category—especially dimensional and luxury shingles. The cost of upgrading to these types of shingles is still less than the price range of metal roofing.
Varieties of Asphalt Shingle Roofing:
In addition to more expensive materials, you must account for installation when considering metal roof vs. asphalt shingle cost. Installing metal roofing requires specialized personnel and equipment, which raises the overall price tag.
For an average ranch home roof of 2,000 square feet, a metal roof can cost $10,000–$18,000, including installation.
Installation costs for asphalt roofing range from less than most types of metal roofing to next to nothing for those who choose to install it themselves. Asphalt roofing is easier to install, so labor costs can be eliminated altogether by those seeking to do it themselves.
For a 2,000-square-foot roof, an asphalt roof can cost between $5,000–$10,000 before installation.
There are a number of factors that impact the overall cost of a new roof. This includes:
Another factor that may influence the installation cost is if repairs need to be made before installation. For example, if you decide to go with an asphalt roof, you’ll have to pay to remove and dispose of old shingles before new ones can be installed. On the other hand, metal roofs can be installed on top of asphalt shingles, reducing costs.
These are just some of the factors that affect the cost of metal vs. shingle roofing. We recommend contacting local contractors to better understand what installation, labor, and materials will cost in your area.
As with installation, the repair cost tends to be higher for metal roofing. However, the durability of the materials also means fewer repairs and replacements.
Asphalt roofing is usually less expensive to repair. Individual shingles or areas of shingles may need attention, but with smaller parts and less expensive materials, minor repairs typically cost less.
As with the initial cost, replacing a metal roof is relatively expensive in comparison to asphalt roofing. The materials cost more, as does the labor. That said, metal roofs typically last a long time.
Asphalt roofing generally costs less than metal roofing. Even factoring in the longer lifespan of metal roofing, the cost of asphalt can be much lower.
As mentioned above, the cost of installation for metal roofing is higher due to the relatively technical nature of the installation.
In terms of how long it takes, both metal roofing and asphalt shingles typically take around 2–3 days to install, depending on the house's size and the roof design's complexity. Both roof types will typically involve taking off and disposing of old materials, bringing new roofing materials to the site, and installing them.
The key difference when it comes to installation is the complexity of the work. Professionals can install asphalt roofing, or the property owner can do it. It’s less technical than installing metal roofing, which requires more expertise and typically more personnel—accounting for the higher installation cost.
Metal roofing lasts a long time. Weaker materials like aluminum and corrugated metal tend to have shorter lifespans, from 15–30 years. Meanwhile, though much more expensive, steel and copper can last up to 100 years.
Depending on the location and climate, asphalt roofing typically lasts anywhere from 10–30 years. Dimensional and luxury shingles last longer than three-tab shingles. Additionally, there are ways to rejuvenate the ability of asphalt shingles to stand up to the elements and add up to 15 years of life to them.
The durability of metal roofing varies depending on the material. Softer metals can be susceptible to damage from debris, while harder materials like steel are much more durable.
And that durability comes without much increase in weight. Metal roofing tends to weigh less than other types of roofing.
Asphalt roofing is surprisingly durable. While the occasional shingle can come loose in strong winds, asphalt roofing tends to hold up well. Shingles can dry out over time, but there are ways to rejuvenate asphalt shingles to last longer.
Asphalt shingles are relatively light and suitable for most roofs. The lighter weight of the materials makes them versatile and appropriate for a wide range of structures.
Metal roofing can be painted or sealed, which can add to its visual appeal and longevity. Different materials require specific products, so the recommended type of seal or paint needs to be used.
Seals can be applied to asphalt roofing, and the right product can add years to asphalt shingles. Certain types of paint can be used, but the right product and primer must be applied.
The return on investment for a new roof is often quite high. The longer the expected life of the roof and its visual appeal, the higher the ROI and resale value will be. Metal roofing made of materials such as steel and copper tends to have the highest resale value.
Architectural and luxury asphalt roofs add the highest resale value for asphalt roofing. If the shingles have been sealed or treated with a product that prolongs roof life, the resale value will likely increase that much more.
Yes, a metal roof tends to last about 2–3 times longer than an asphalt roof.
Depending on the material, a metal roof can cost twice as much as an asphalt roof.
Metal roofing is made of natural materials that last a long time(over 30 years). That makes them very environmentally responsible.
Asphalt roofing can be made more sustainable by treating them with natural products that extend their lifespan. They can also be made of recycled materials.
You can inspect your roof up-close or with binoculars. Look for inconsistencies in color, parts of the roof pulling away from the rest, or other signs of wear and tear.
Looking to extend the life of your asphalt shingles? Roof Maxx’s roof rejuvenating technology can extend the lifespan of your roof up to 15 years or more. When you combine the more affordable asphalt shingle roof with the life-giving power of Roof Maxx, you can get longevity at a discount.
Our affordable roof restoration treatment costs a fraction of roof replacement and keeps your shingles out of landfills. Contact us today to learn more about what Roof Maxx can do for your asphalt roof.
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