# Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better? | RYH

> Comparing metal roofing and asphalt shingles on upfront cost, lifespan, energy savings, and long-term value.



Comparing metal roofing and asphalt shingles on upfront cost, lifespan, energy savings, and long-term value.

![Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better? comparison](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1635424824849-1b09bdcc55b1?w=900&h=420&fit=crop&auto=format&q=80)

Metal roofing has moved from commercial buildings and barns into mainstream residential use, and for good reason. But it still carries a significant price premium over asphalt shingles — the question is whether that premium pays off over the life of the roof. The answer depends heavily on how long you plan to stay in the home.

## Asphalt Shingles: The Accessible Standard

Architectural asphalt shingles remain the most installed roofing material in the US for a simple reason: they offer solid performance at an accessible price point. A full replacement on a 2,000 sq ft home runs **$8,000–$18,000** with 30–50 year architectural shingles. They handle most climates well, are universally available, and are straightforward for any roofing crew to install. Their weakness: they're petroleum-based, absorb heat, and in extreme climates (high UV, severe hail, coastal salt air) can degrade faster than rated.

## Metal Roofing: The Long-Game Option

Standing seam metal roofing (steel or aluminum) costs **$18,000–$45,000** installed for the same home — but carries a 50-year warranty and in practice can last 70+ years. Metal reflects UV radiation, reducing cooling costs by 10–25% in warm climates (DOE data). It's Class A fire-rated, highly wind-resistant (up to 140 mph), and hail-resistant. Some insurance carriers offer discounts of 20–35% for metal roofs in hail and wildfire zones. The premium pays back most clearly when you stay in the home 20+ years or are in an extreme-weather region.

| Factor | Metal Roofing | Asphalt Shingles |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Installed Cost (2,000 sq ft) | $18,000–$45,000 | $8,000–$18,000 |
| Lifespan | 50–70+ years | 25–50 years (architectural) |
| Energy Savings | 10–25% cooling reduction (DOE) | Minimal |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 140 mph | Up to 110–130 mph (architectural) |
| Hail Resistance | Class 4 (highest) | Class 3–4 depending on product |
| Insurance Discount Potential | 20–35% in risk zones | Standard rates |
| Resale Appeal | Premium in right markets | Expected standard |
| Best For | Long-term owners, extreme climates, high-wind/hail zones | Most homeowners — best value |

▶

Bottom Line

Metal roofing wins on longevity, energy savings, and weather resistance. Asphalt wins on upfront cost and broad availability. For homeowners planning to stay 20+ years or in high-risk weather regions, metal's premium often pays back. For most others, quality architectural shingles remain the right call.[Get Roofing Quotes →](https://offers.remodelyourhome.com/roofing/simple)

## Frequently Asked Questions

These are the questions homeowners ask most often before starting this project - what it costs, how long it takes, what a fair quote looks like and which details change the price. Each answer below is written to stand on its own, so you can read just the one you need.

### Does metal roofing increase home value?

Metal roofing can increase resale value, but rarely enough to recover the full premium. Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report shows metal roofing recovering 50-70% of cost at resale in most markets. The financial case is stronger for long-term owners than sellers.

### Is metal roofing loud in rain?

Not on a properly installed residential system. Standing seam and metal shingle installed over solid decking with insulation beneath is no louder than asphalt shingles. The rain-noise concern applies to agricultural pole barns with exposed decking, not modern residential applications.

### Can metal roofing be installed over existing shingles?

In many cases, yes — metal can be installed over one existing layer of shingles, which saves on tear-off costs. However, some contractors and manufacturers recommend tear-off to allow full deck inspection. Confirm your jurisdiction allows it and that the deck is in good condition first.

### Does metal roofing attract lightning?

No. Lightning strikes the highest point in an area regardless of material. Metal roofing does not increase lightning risk. If struck, metal roofing is non-combustible and actually safer than wood shake or asphalt in terms of fire spread.

### How much does metal roofing reduce energy bills?

Reflective metal roofing can reduce cooling costs 10-25% per DOE data. The actual savings depend on your current roof color, insulation, and climate. In hot, sunny climates with high cooling loads, the savings are more meaningful than in moderate climates.

---
Source: https://remodelyourhome.com/articles/metal-roof-vs-asphalt-shingles/