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Is a Metal Roof Cheaper Than Shingles? A Complete Cost & Value Guide for Northeast Ohio Homeowners
When it comes to replacing your roof, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “Is a metal roof cheaper than shingles?” On the surface, it seems like a straightforward yes-or-no question. But in reality, the answer depends on several factors — including upfront cost, long-term durability, maintenance needs, energy savings, and even resale value.
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Youngstown, Cleveland, Medina, Lakewood, Twinsburg, and across Northeast Ohio make informed decisions about roofing materials. Being an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we also know that cost is just one piece of the puzzle. Let’s break it down in detail so you can confidently decide which option is best for your home.
1. Upfront Costs: Metal Roof vs. Shingles
The first thing most people want to know is the initial price tag. On average:
- Asphalt Shingle Roof (3-tab or architectural): $5,000 – $15,000 for a typical Northeast Ohio home, depending on size, slope, and shingle type.
- Standing Seam Metal Roof: $15,000 – $35,000 for the same home.
At first glance, shingles win the price battle — often costing less than half the price of a metal roof. That’s why shingles are still the most popular residential roofing material in the U.S.
However, upfront cost is only the beginning of the story. The real value becomes clear when you look at the roof’s lifespan, maintenance needs, and the potential for energy savings.
2. Lifespan and Durability
Shingles:
- Average lifespan: 15–30 years for architectural asphalt shingles.
- Vulnerable to wind damage, hail impact, and temperature swings — all common in Northeast Ohio.
- May require occasional repairs after storms.
Metal Roofing:
- Average lifespan: 40–70 years, depending on the metal type and coating.
- Highly resistant to wind, hail, snow, and ice.
- Won’t crack, curl, or rot.
Verdict: If you plan to stay in your home for decades or want to pass it down to your children, metal roofing can outlast at least two shingle roofs. Over the long haul, metal can actually cost less per year of service life.
3. Maintenance Requirements
Shingles:
- Moss and algae growth can be an issue in shaded areas.
- Damaged shingles need replacement to prevent leaks.
- Granule loss over time reduces UV protection.
Metal Roofing:
- Minimal maintenance — typically just occasional inspections and cleaning.
- Resistant to moss, algae, and insect damage.
- Snow slides off more easily, reducing ice dam risks.
Pro Tip: While metal roofs need less attention, both roofing types benefit from yearly inspections — especially after harsh Ohio winters.
4. Energy Efficiency
In Northeast Ohio, energy savings can make a difference in your yearly budget.
- Shingles absorb more heat, which can raise cooling costs in summer.
- Metal Roofing, especially with reflective coatings, can reduce heat absorption and lower summer cooling bills by 10–25%.
In winter, both materials perform well, but metal roofing sheds snow more efficiently, reducing ice buildup that can damage roofs and gutters.
5. Insurance Factors
Some insurance companies may offer discounts for metal roofs because they are more resistant to fire, wind, and hail damage. Conversely, older shingle roofs can become a liability — in fact, some insurers will threaten to drop coverage if your shingle roof is too old or in poor condition.
If you’ve been told by your insurer that your roof is nearing the end of its acceptable lifespan, it might be a good time to compare the cost of upgrading to metal vs. replacing with shingles.
6. Warranties: Metal vs. Shingles
Asphalt Shingles (Owens Corning Duration, for example):
- Often come with limited lifetime warranties — which generally mean coverage for as long as you own the home, but with prorated value after a certain period (usually 10 years).
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractors (like us) can offer extended manufacturer warranties that cover both materials and labor.
Metal Roofs:
- Manufacturer warranties often range from 30–50 years.
- Paint or coating warranties typically last 20–40 years.
7. Installation Time and Labor
- Shingle Installation: Typically 1–3 days for an average home.
- Metal Roofing Installation: Can take 3–7 days due to more precise measurements, specialized tools, and panel fabrication.
If your timeline is tight — such as selling the house quickly — shingles might be the faster option.
8. Noise, Aesthetics, and Home Value
Noise:
Metal roofs can be louder during heavy rain unless proper insulation and underlayment are installed. Shingles naturally absorb more sound.
Aesthetics:
- Shingles come in countless colors and styles, including architectural designs that mimic wood or slate.
- Metal roofs offer sleek, modern looks, and are available in various colors and profiles (standing seam, corrugated, etc.).
Resale Value:
Both materials can increase home value, but a metal roof’s durability can be an attractive selling point to buyers seeking a “buy it once” investment.
9. Environmental Impact
- Shingles: Petroleum-based, less recyclable, and often end up in landfills.
- Metal Roofing: Often made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable at the end of its life.
If sustainability is important to you, metal roofing has the clear advantage.
10. Cost Over Time — The Big Picture
Let’s do some simple math for a typical 2,000 sq. ft. home in Northeast Ohio:
- Shingle Roof: $12,000 with a 20-year lifespan means you’ll likely replace it twice in 40 years — total: $24,000 (not including repairs and inflation).
- Metal Roof: $25,000 with a 50-year lifespan means you may never replace it again — total: $25,000.
Suddenly, that “more expensive” metal roof doesn’t seem so costly when spread over decades.
11. Who Should Choose Shingles?
- Homeowners on a tighter budget.
- Those planning to sell within the next 5–10 years.
- People who prefer a traditional roof look.
12. Who Should Choose Metal Roofing?
- Homeowners planning to stay long-term.
- Those who value low maintenance and high durability.
- People in areas with frequent severe weather.
- Eco-conscious homeowners.
13. S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC: Helping You Decide
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we serve homeowners throughout Youngstown, Cleveland, Medina, Lakewood, Twinsburg, Euclid, Willoughby, Beachwood, Chardon, Concord, Gates Mills, and surrounding Northeast Ohio communities. We help you weigh the short-term and long-term costs so you can make the best decision for your home and budget.
Why Choose Us:
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractor — offering extended warranties.
- Experienced in both shingle and metal roofing installations.
- Local expertise — we know how Ohio’s weather affects your roof.
- Financing options to make both metal and shingle roofs more affordable.
14. Financing Your Roof Replacement
A metal roof’s upfront cost can be easier to manage with the right financing. We offer plans that let you spread payments over time so you can enjoy the benefits of a premium roof without draining your savings.
Final Answer: Is Metal Cheaper Than Shingles?
Upfront: No — shingles are usually 50–70% less expensive to install.
Over a Lifetime: Possibly — when you factor in longevity, reduced maintenance, and potential energy savings, a metal roof can be the smarter financial choice.
Whether you choose shingles for their affordability or metal for its long-term value, the most important step is hiring a qualified, certified contractor to ensure the job is done right.
If you’re in Northeast Ohio and are deciding between metal and shingles, contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC today for a free, no-pressure roofing consultation. We’ll walk you through your options, provide transparent estimates, and help you protect your home for years to come.
