Asphalt shingles and metal roofing are the two most common choices homeowners weigh when it’s time for a new roof, and both have solid track records. The right pick depends less on which material is “better” overall and more on what matters most for your budget, climate, and how long you plan to stay in the home.
Here’s how the two stack up across the factors that matter most.
Lifespan
Asphalt shingles typically last 20 to 25 years with proper maintenance, while metal roofing can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years depending on the material and coating. This gap is one of the biggest factors in the decision, especially for homeowners who don’t want to think about another roof replacement for the rest of the time they own the home.
The metal roofing contractors at The Roofing Guys can help you compare both options against your specific situation.
Upfront cost
Asphalt shingles are the more budget-friendly option upfront, often costing significantly less per square foot to install than metal roofing. Metal roofing carries a higher initial investment, sometimes two to three times the cost of asphalt, which is one of the main reasons some homeowners choose shingles even knowing metal will outlast them.
Long-term value
While asphalt wins on upfront cost, metal roofing often closes that gap over time. Because it lasts two to three times as long as shingles, a metal roof can end up costing less per year of service, especially when you factor in that most homeowners will need to replace an asphalt roof at least once, and sometimes twice, over the lifespan of a single metal roof.
Weather resistance
Both materials can perform well in the right conditions, but they have different strengths. Asphalt shingles handle moderate wind and rain well but are more vulnerable to wind uplift in severe storms and can lose granules over time from UV exposure. Metal roofing generally offers stronger wind resistance and holds up better against heavy rain and snow, though certain metals can dent under large hail, depending on the gauge and type used.
Energy efficiency
Metal roofing tends to reflect more solar heat than asphalt shingles, which can translate into lower cooling costs during hot months, especially with reflective coatings designed for that purpose. Asphalt shingles absorb more heat by comparison, which can mean a slightly warmer attic and higher cooling demand in warmer climates.
Maintenance
Asphalt shingles need periodic attention, including checking for curling, cracking, moss growth, and granule loss, along with the occasional repair after storm damage. Metal roofing generally requires less ongoing maintenance, though it’s still worth periodic inspections to check for loose fasteners or coating wear over time.
Noise
A common concern with metal roofing is noise during rain or hail. With proper insulation and solid decking underneath, most modern metal roofs are not significantly louder than a shingle roof, but this is worth discussing directly with your contractor if it’s a priority for you.
Appearance and style options
Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles and remain the more traditional look for many home styles. Metal roofing has expanded significantly in design options over the years, with standing seam panels, metal shingles, and finishes that mimic the look of traditional shingles or tile, giving homeowners more flexibility than the material’s utilitarian reputation might suggest.
Which one makes sense for you
If minimizing upfront cost is the priority and you’re comfortable with a shorter roof lifespan, asphalt shingles remain a solid, proven choice. If you’re planning to stay in your home long term, want to minimize future roofing costs, or live in an area with harsh weather, metal roofing’s higher upfront cost often pays off through durability and longevity.
There’s no universally “correct” choice here, since the right material depends on your budget, timeline, and priorities. If you’re trying to decide between the two, the metal roofing specialists at The Roofing Guys can walk you through how each option would perform on your specific home.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
