Quick Comparison
| Factor | Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $4-$8/sq ft | $8-$15/sq ft |
| Lifespan | 15-30 years | 40-70 years |
| Maintenance | Moderate | Low |
| Energy Efficiency | Average | Excellent |
| Resale Value | Standard | Premium |
| Installation | Faster | Longer |
| Weight | 2-4 lbs/sq ft | 1-3 lbs/sq ft |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Initial Costs (2,000 sq ft roof)
Asphalt Shingles:- Materials: $4,000-$8,000
- Installation: $3,000-$6,000
- Total: $7,000-$14,000
- Materials: $8,000-$18,000
- Installation: $6,000-$12,000
- Total: $14,000-$30,000
Lifetime Cost Comparison
50-Year Cost (Asphalt):- Initial install: $10,000
- Replacement at year 25: $12,000
- Repairs over 50 years: $3,000
- Total: ~$25,000
- Initial install: $22,000
- No replacement needed
- Minimal repairs: $500
- Total: ~$22,500
Additional Savings with Metal
- Energy savings: 10-25% on cooling
- Insurance discounts: 5-35% in some areas
- Higher resale value: adds ~$10,000-$20,000
Pros and Cons
Asphalt Shingles
Pros:- Lower upfront cost
- Easy to install and repair
- Wide variety of styles and colors
- Most contractors can install
- Familiar look for traditional homes
- Shorter lifespan (15-30 years)
- More maintenance required
- Less energy efficient
- Can be damaged by wind and hail
- Not environmentally friendly
Metal Roofing
Pros:- Exceptional longevity (40-70+ years)
- Very low maintenance
- Energy efficient (reflects heat)
- Resistant to fire, wind, and hail
- Lightweight (won't stress structure)
- 100% recyclable
- Higher upfront cost
- Can be noisy in rain (with proper insulation, this is minimal)
- May dent from large hail or falling branches
- Requires specialized installation
- Not ideal for all home styles
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Asphalt If:
- You're selling the home within 10 years
- Budget is your primary concern
- Your home has a traditional style that suits shingles
- Your roof is simple with few features
- You live in a mild climate
Choose Metal If:
- You plan to stay in the home long-term (10+ years)
- You want minimal maintenance
- You live in an area with extreme weather
- Energy efficiency is important to you
- You value the environmental benefits
- You're building new (easier installation)
Climate Considerations
- Hot climates: Metal reflects heat, saving on AC
- Cold climates: Both work well; metal sheds snow better
- Hurricane zones: Metal is more wind-resistant
- Hail-prone areas: Thick-gauge metal resists dents
- Fire-prone areas: Metal is non-combustible
Making Your Decision
Summary
- Best value long-term: Metal roofing
- Best for tight budget: Asphalt shingles
- Best for 10+ year homeowners: Metal
- Best for homes being sold soon: Asphalt
Next Steps
- Use our calculators for personalized estimates:
- Get quotes from 3-5 local contractors
- Ask about warranties and maintenance requirements
- Consider your climate and long-term plans