Metal roofs vs. shingle roofs: Which is a smarter investment?

Metal roofs and shingle roofs come with distinct costs and advantages. This guide breaks down the pros and cons to help you find the best fit for you.

Updated Fri, October 31, 2025 at 4:01 PM UTC

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A roofing contractor installs metal roofing panels while wearing safety gear

Roofing contractors and homeowners alike often debate the benefits of asphalt vs. metal roofing. Both are widely used, but the associated costs, longevity and maintenance requirements vary significantly. Understanding these differences is essential when deciding which roofing type will offer the best long-term value for you.

But when it comes to metal and asphalt shingle roofing, which is the smarter investment for your home? We will break down some of the upfront costs and examine the lifespan, maintenance needs and overall return on investment (ROI) for each option. Whether you're building a new home or considering a roof replacement, knowing how metal compares to asphalt shingles will help you make an informed decision that suits your budget and long-term goals.

Metal roofs vs. shingle roofs: Key differences

Modern row houses with metal roofs and siding

Here's an overview of the main differences between metal roofs and asphalt shingle roofs.

Cost differences

Metal roofing typically costs more than basic asphalt shingle roofing. In comparison, asphalt shingle roofs are more competitive in cost, giving them an obvious advantage if budget is your main concern.

For many homeowners, cost is the single most important factor to consider when repairing or replacing a roof . We'll dive deeper into the cost comparison of metal vs. shingle roofs in the next section.

Roof lifespan

A good metal roof can last anywhere from 40 to 100 years, according to research conducted for Yahoo Local's guide to roof lifespan by material . An asphalt shingle roof will likely fail between 20 and 30 years. If you live in an area with harsh weather, an asphalt roof will need to be replaced even sooner.

Effect on resale value

Metal roofs generally have a higher resale value than shingle roofs, due to their longevity and overall value. On average, a metal roof will add between $7,000 and $8,100, according to home services website Angi . Some metal roofs will be seen as more or less valuable during a sale, depending on material, existing damage, age and maintenance records.

Weather resistance and energy efficiency

When it comes to rough weather, metal roofing is the clear winner over asphalt shingles. Metal is extremely durable in most climates, protecting against leaks and snow buildup in winter as well as fire damage and UV damage in summer. Metal roofs are also energy efficient, as they help retain heat on cold days and reflect sunlight on hot days. The Metal Roofing Alliance estimates that homeowners can save 10% to 40% on energy costs by switching to a metal roof.

Asphalt shingles are more susceptible to weather damage and deterioration. In cold climates, asphalt shingle roofs tend to accumulate snow and ice, leading to ice dams , which can create leaks and structural problems. In hot climates, shingles tend to dry out and crack, reducing their weather-resistance capacity over time. See our full guide to weather-resistant roofing materials for more details.

Installation and maintenance

Roofing shingles are easier to install than metal roofing and can easily accommodate roof protrusions, such as chimneys, vents, pipes and skylights. Metal roofing requires specialty installation, and not all roofing companies offer this service. This means installing a shingle roof can typically happen more quickly, as you won't have to shop around for a specialty roofer , and the installation itself can sometimes happen in as little as one day.

On the other hand, shingle roofs require more regular maintenance, as they're less resistant to algae and moss and will likely require periodic cleaning. Metal roofs are the lower-maintenance option. They are highly resistant to fire, rot and hail, and they also reflect sunlight and reduce UV damage.

See our in-depth guide to roof maintenance for more.

Environmental impact

Metal roofing is a more eco-friendly roofing choice than asphalt shingles, as metal is highly recyclable. Metal roofing panels are also typically made from recycled metal to begin with. Asphalt shingles are technically recyclable too, but they're made from petroleum and most end up in landfills.

Comparing the costs of metal roofs vs. shingle roofs

Close-up of a designer shingle roof, with a blue sky in the background

The size and shape of your roof will influence the overall cost, as will the type of metal or shingles you decide to use. Below you'll find some average cost estimates.

Asphalt shingle roofing costs

Asphalt shingle roof installations start at around $7,500 in the U.S., according to the roofing experts we spoke with for Yahoo Local's guide to roof shingle installation costs . Most of the quotes we received fell between $8,000 and $17,000.

Asphalt shingles come in several types, including three-tab, architectural, luxury and impact-resistant shingles , and each varies in price and quality. Three-tab shingles are generally the least costly; luxury and impact-resistant shingles are more expensive. Luxury shingles, for example, can cost two to three times more than three-tab shingles, according to home services platform Modernize .

The exact amount you pay for a shingle roof will depend on your location, roof size and pitch, and shingle type, among other factors.

Metal roofing costs

The average metal roof installation costs a little less than $12,000 in the U.S., according to research conducted for Yahoo Local's guide to metal roofing costs . Depending on your locale, roof size and the type of metal roofing you choose, you could easily end up paying more than this, as average costs range as high as $17,750.

Standing-seam steel roofing systems are generally considered the most affordable, while stainless steel, copper and zinc are more expensive.

Are metal roofs better than shingle roofs?

A low-sloped metal roof on a small home in the rural U.S.

There's no one right way to decide which type of roofing is best, and it ultimately will come down to your priorities, preferences and budget.

A metal roof may be right for you if:

You can afford the higher upfront cost (or have access to roof financing )
You live in an area with harsh weather
You plan on staying in your home for many years
You're interested in increasing your home's resale value

An asphalt shingle roof may be the best choice if:

You're looking for the most affordable roofing option
You live in an area with relatively mild weather
You can afford to invest in higher-end shingles
You need a new roof as soon as possible

Metal roofs have a much longer lifespan and require less maintenance than shingle roofs. However, installing a metal roof is more labor-intensive and costly, and these costs alone could take a metal roof out of the equation for some homeowners.

Choosing a shingle roof carries a lower upfront cost, but the relative lack of longevity compared to metal reduces the overall value and ROI. In addition, shingle roofs are more prone to moss and algae growth and require more maintenance. (See our guide to removing moss from a roof for more.)

Whether you opt for metal or shingle, there are plenty of options to choose from to accommodate different price points and home needs. Before making a final decision, consult a licensed roofing contractor and seek quotes from at least three roofers to make sure you're getting the best price for the best service. For help with this, see our guide to sourcing accurate quotes from roofing companies .

See more Yahoo Local-approved U.S. roofers