Metal Roof vs. Shingles
Asphalt shingles are cheaper upfront and easier to repair; metal roofing costs more but lasts roughly twice as long. The right choice depends on how long you plan to stay in the home and your local climate.
Asphalt shingles
The default choice for most US homes — inexpensive, widely available, and easy to repair.
$9,200–$14,000
installed, average home
Pros
- Lowest upfront material and labor cost
- Wide range of colors and styles
- Any roofer can install and repair it
Cons
- Shorter lifespan than metal
- More vulnerable to wind and impact damage
- Heavier environmental footprint over time (more frequent replacement)
Standing-seam metal
A higher upfront investment that pays off in longevity and lower long-term maintenance.
$14,000–$24,000
installed, average home
Pros
- Lasts roughly 2x as long as asphalt shingles
- Better wind and impact resistance
- Reflects heat, which can lower cooling costs
Cons
- Significantly higher upfront cost
- Fewer roofers are certified to install it
- Can be noisier in heavy rain without proper insulation
Side by side
| Factor | Asphalt shingles | Standing-seam metal |
|---|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 20–30 years | 40–70 years |
| Upfront cost | Lower | 1.5–2x higher |
| Maintenance | Periodic shingle repair | Minimal |
| Wind/impact resistance | Moderate | High |
| Resale consideration | Neutral, expected standard | Often a selling point |
Which one should you choose?
If you're planning to stay in the home for 10+ years, or live somewhere with severe weather, metal's longevity and durability tend to justify the higher upfront cost. If you're optimizing for the lowest upfront cost or plan to sell within a decade, asphalt shingles remain the more economical choice.
Frequently asked questions
Is metal roofing worth the extra cost?+
It depends on your time horizon. Spread over its longer lifespan, metal's cost-per-year can be competitive with or lower than asphalt, even though the upfront number is higher.
Is a metal roof noisier in the rain?+
With proper solid decking and insulation (standard in most modern installations), metal roofs are not meaningfully noisier than asphalt shingles.