Metal Roof vs. Shingles: Cost, Lifespan & Which to Choose
By Roof Restore Buddy · Updated June 14, 2026
It’s the most common roofing question homeowners ask: should you go with a metal roof or asphalt shingles? Both are great choices, the right one depends on your budget, how long you’ll stay, and your climate. Here’s an honest comparison.
Upfront cost
Asphalt shingles win on initial price. A typical asphalt roof costs $5,800–$19,800, while a metal roof runs $11,000–$30,000 installed, roughly 2–3x more.
If your budget is tight or you’re selling soon, architectural asphalt shingles deliver excellent value. If you’re staying long-term, keep reading.
Lifespan
This is where metal pulls ahead dramatically:
| Material | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| 3-tab asphalt shingles | 15–20 years |
| Architectural shingles | 25–30 years |
| Metal roof | 40–70 years |
A metal roof can outlast 2–3 asphalt roofs. Over the life of the home, that often makes metal cheaper despite the higher upfront cost. You replace it once instead of three times.
Durability and climate
- Wind & storms: Metal resists uplift and is excellent in hurricane and high-wind regions.
- Fire: Metal is non-combustible, a big advantage in wildfire areas.
- Snow: Metal sheds snow, reducing load and ice dams.
- Hail: Asphalt can be torn or bruised; metal can dent but rarely fails. In hail country, impact-resistant (Class 4) versions of either help.
Energy efficiency
Metal reflects solar heat and can lower cooling bills in hot climates, sometimes 10–25%. Asphalt absorbs more heat, though “cool roof” shingles narrow the gap.
Noise, looks, and resale
- Noise: A common myth. Over solid decking and underlayment, a modern metal roof is no louder than shingles.
- Looks: Asphalt offers the most color and style options. Metal now comes in standing-seam, metal-shingle, and stone-coated styles that mimic shingles or tile.
- Resale: Both add value; metal can command a premium and may earn insurance discounts in storm-prone states.
Which should you choose?
Choose asphalt shingles if you want the lowest upfront cost, plan to move within ~10 years, or want maximum style options on a budget.
Choose a metal roof if you’re staying long-term, live in a storm-, fire-, or snow-prone area, or want the lowest lifetime cost and best durability.
Compare real quotes
The best way to decide is to see real numbers for your roof. Use our roof cost calculator to estimate both, then get matched with local roofers who install metal and shingle systems. Free quotes, no obligation.