The roof over your head does more than just keep the rain out—it influences your home’s curb appeal, durability, and energy use. Choosing between metal or asphalt roofing means weighing different factors like cost, longevity, and maintenance. Each material has strength in different areas, so knowing what works best for your home is key.
Key Differences Between Metal and Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt shingles are made from fiberglass or organic materials soaked in asphalt and topped with granules. They’re common on residential homes because they are affordable and easy to install. Metal roofing, on the other hand, comes in steel, aluminum, or copper, offering a sleek, modern look that lasts for decades.
When comparing durability, metal roofing outranks asphalt by a long shot. Metal stands up against fire, extreme weather, and impacts, while asphalt shingles can crack or curl over time. If you’re thinking about resale value, metal shingles increase a home’s market appeal more than asphalt because of their longevity and energy efficiency, making them an attractive option for future buyers.
Cost Considerations
Budget plays a big role in picking a roof. Immediate costs matter, but long-term savings can’t be ignored. Both asphalt and metal roofing have benefits and trade-offs in terms of installation, repairs, and savings on energy bills.
Initial Installation Costs
Metal roofing requires a larger investment upfront compared to asphalt shingles. Steel, aluminum, and tin roofs cost more per square foot, and labor expenses often climb higher due to a longer, more specialized installation process. Asphalt shingles, being more common, take less time to install and typically cost less.
However, not all metal roofs break the bank—tin roofing, for example, is more affordable than premium standing seam metal panels. On the other side, asphalt shingles vary in price too, with basic options being cheaper but high-end varieties coming closer to the price of metal.
Long-Term Costs and Savings
Over time, metal roofing tends to prove more economical. It requires fewer repairs, has a longer lifespan, and improves home insulation—cutting down energy costs. Asphalt roofs need more frequent repairs, and replacing sections due to weather damage can add up over the years.
Energy savings are another key factor. Metal roofs reflect heat, helping homes stay cooler in summer. Asphalt shingles absorb heat, which can lead to higher cooling costs in warmer months. If you’re looking for a roof that cuts down on utility bills, metal is the better bet in the long run.
Durability and Lifespan
The lifespan of a roof impacts how often you’ll need to deal with replacements or repairs. Durability also determines how well the roof handles extreme weather conditions over time.
Expected Lifespan of Each Material
Asphalt shingles have an average lifespan of 20 to 30 years, though harsh weather can shorten that. Metal roofing can last 40 to 70 years, depending on the type of metal used. Steel and aluminum roofs offer excellent longevity, while copper can last over a century with proper care.
What affects lifespan? Weather exposure, maintenance, and installation quality all play a role. A well-installed metal roof easily outlasts asphalt shingles, making it the smarter choice for homeowners looking for long-term reliability.
Resistance to Weather Conditions
If you live in an area prone to high winds, heavy snow, or extreme temperatures, metal roofing can handle it better than asphalt. Metal sheds snow and rain easily, while asphalt shingles can become brittle in cold weather or crack under heavy ice buildup.
When it comes to wind resistance, asphalt shingles can blow off in storms, while metal roofs stay put. Moisture resistance is another advantage—metal roofs don’t absorb water, reducing risks of mold, algae, or rot that often affect asphalt roofing.
Maintenance and Repairs
Keeping a roof in good shape means regular maintenance. Whether it’s cleaning gutters or replacing damaged sections, the amount of upkeep needed can influence your choice.
Routine Maintenance Needs
Metal roofing is lower maintenance compared to asphalt shingles. It doesn’t crack, warp, or need frequent repairs. Meanwhile, asphalt shingles require more attention, including replacing worn-out sections and clearing debris that could trap moisture.
Insurance costs may also come into play. Homes with metal roofs sometimes qualify for lower premiums since they resist fire, wind, and impact damage better than asphalt roofs.
Repair Costs and Complexity
Fixing a metal roof costs more than repairing shingles, but it’s needed less often. If damage occurs, replacing a metal panel can be tricky since it requires precision and specific tools. Asphalt shingles are easier to replace, but they tend to need repairs more frequently.
Insulation and protection matter too. Metal roofs provide better reflection of heat, while asphalt shingles absorb it, making a difference in home insulation.
Aesthetic Appeal and Design Options
Style plays a role when picking roofing. A home’s look can change dramatically based on material, color, and design choices.
Style Variations and Choices
Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and textures, making them easy to match with traditional home styles. Metal roofing offers modern, sleek designs with options like standing seam panels or stamped metal that mimics wood or tile.
There’s also the option of installing a metal roof over existing asphalt shingles. This saves time and costs on removal but depends on local building codes and the home’s structural support.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Your choice of roofing affects more than just your home—it also has an impact on energy use and recyclability.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Metal roofing reflects sunlight, helping regulate indoor temperatures and lowering cooling costs. Asphalt shingles absorb heat, increasing air conditioning use during summer.
Noise insulation also differs. Metal can be louder in heavy rain or hail, while asphalt shingles naturally dampen sound. Additional insulation, such as underlayment, can fix this issue for metal roofs.
Eco-friendliness and Recycling Potential
Metal roofing is highly recyclable, with many panels made from already-recycled materials. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, often end up in landfills after replacement.
Since metal lasts longer, it reduces waste over time. If you’re looking for a roofing option that’s environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run, metal roofing holds the advantage.
Installation Process and Structural Considerations
Some roofs go up faster than others. The materials’ weight and required labor also affect the overall process.
Installation Speed and Complexity
Asphalt shingles install quickly and require less specialized labor. Metal roofing takes longer because it involves securing large panels and sealing seams carefully. Labor costs for metal roofing are higher due to skilled work requirements.
Time is money when roofing. An asphalt roof may be completed in a few days, while metal roofing can take longer, especially if additional reinforcements are needed.
Structural Load and Weight Differences
Metal roofing is lighter than asphalt shingles, putting less strain on a home’s structure. Asphalt shingles are heavier, especially when layers accumulate from multiple replacements over the years.
Homes with weaker structures benefit from metal roofing since it reduces weight, while older homes with several layers of shingles may require reinforcement before a new roof is installed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are metal roofs more durable than asphalt?
Yes, metal roofs last longer and withstand extreme weather conditions better than asphalt shingles.
Is a metal roof noisier than asphalt shingles?
Without proper insulation, metal roofs can be louder in rain or hail, but underlayment reduces noise effectively.
Which roof type lasts longer in snowy climates?
Metal roofs are better since they shed snow easily and resist ice buildup, unlike asphalt shingles that can crack.
How does each roofing material affect home insurance rates?
Metal roofing often lowers insurance costs due to its resistance to fire, wind, and impact.