(440) 307-2060
Shingles vs Metal Roof Cost: A Complete Homeowner’s Guide
When homeowners start exploring roofing options, one of the first questions that comes up is about shingles vs metal roof cost. Both materials are popular, both protect a home well, and both come with distinct price points and long-term considerations. Deciding between the two isn’t just about upfront cost—it also involves weighing durability, maintenance, energy efficiency, and overall value over time.
This guide will walk you through the differences in cost between shingle and metal roofs, while also covering the lifespan, maintenance, pros and cons, and scenarios where each choice makes sense. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which option fits your home, budget, and long-term goals.
Understanding Shingle Roofs
Shingles are the most common type of roofing in the United States, especially asphalt shingles. They’re affordable, widely available, and easy to install. Asphalt shingles dominate the market, but there are variations such as 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and premium designer shingles.
Types of Asphalt Shingles
- 3-Tab Shingles – The most basic and affordable option. Flat, uniform, and simple.
- Architectural Shingles – Thicker, dimensional shingles with a longer lifespan and more curb appeal.
- Luxury or Designer Shingles – Premium asphalt shingles designed to mimic slate, wood shakes, or other high-end roofing materials.
Shingle roofs are often chosen by homeowners looking for a balance between affordability and adequate performance.
Understanding Metal Roofs
Metal roofing has grown in popularity due to its durability, sleek look, and long-term value. Unlike shingles, metal roofs can last decades longer and often require less maintenance.
Common Types of Metal Roofs
- Standing Seam Metal Roofs – Vertical panels with raised seams that interlock to keep out water.
- Metal Shingles – Made to look like asphalt shingles, slate, or tile but built from steel or aluminum.
- Corrugated Metal Panels – Ribbed panels that are budget-friendly and commonly used on barns, sheds, and modern-style homes.
Metal roofs are typically more expensive upfront but make up for it with exceptional longevity and resistance to weather damage.
Shingles vs Metal Roof Cost Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison of costs for both options. Costs can vary widely depending on region, labor, and specific material choices, but these ranges give a general idea.
Asphalt Shingles
- Material Costs: $100–$200 per square (a square = 100 sq. ft).
- Installation Costs: $300–$600 per square installed.
- Total Average Cost: $5,000–$12,000 for a 1,600–2,000 sq. ft home.
Metal Roofs
- Material Costs: $300–$900 per square depending on the type of metal.
- Installation Costs: $700–$1,500 per square installed.
- Total Average Cost: $10,000–$30,000 for a 1,600–2,000 sq. ft home.
Clearly, shingle roofs are less expensive upfront, while metal roofs require a much higher initial investment.
Lifespan and Long-Term Cost
While shingles are cheaper at first, they don’t last as long as metal. This means homeowners may replace a shingle roof two or even three times in the lifespan of a single metal roof.
- Shingle Roof Lifespan: 15–30 years depending on quality and climate.
- Metal Roof Lifespan: 40–70 years depending on the type of metal and installation quality.
When calculating lifetime cost, a metal roof can actually be cheaper in the long run because you may only install it once.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance plays a role in long-term roofing expenses.
- Shingle Roofs: May require periodic repairs for curling, cracking, or missing shingles. They are also more vulnerable to algae, moss, and storm damage.
- Metal Roofs: Require minimal maintenance, though the occasional inspection for loose fasteners, scratches, or worn sealant may be needed.
Overall, shingle roofs cost more to maintain over time compared to metal roofs.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Energy efficiency is another area where the cost differences show up indirectly.
- Shingle Roofs: Absorb heat, especially darker colors, which can increase cooling costs in summer.
- Metal Roofs: Reflect solar heat and keep homes cooler. Many metal roofs are Energy Star rated and can reduce cooling costs by up to 20%.
Although this isn’t a direct cost of materials or labor, it impacts your utility bills over the life of the roof.
Insurance Considerations
Insurance premiums can sometimes be affected by your roofing material.
- Shingle Roofs: More likely to suffer storm damage, which can result in higher claims.
- Metal Roofs: More resistant to hail, fire, and wind, sometimes qualifying for discounts on homeowners insurance.
This can slightly offset the higher upfront metal roof cost.
Resale Value and ROI
Another financial consideration is resale value.
- Shingle Roofs: While they protect the home adequately, they don’t add much “wow factor” in terms of resale.
- Metal Roofs: Offer excellent curb appeal and can boost resale value significantly. Buyers often see them as a premium upgrade and may be willing to pay more for a home with a long-lasting roof.
If resale value is important, a metal roof may provide a better return on investment.
Appearance and Style
While cost is important, aesthetics also matter to homeowners.
- Shingles: Available in a wide variety of colors, textures, and styles. Architectural shingles can mimic high-end materials at a fraction of the cost.
- Metal: Modern, sleek, and stylish. Comes in panels or shingles, with color options that resist fading for decades.
While shingles offer variety, metal roofs provide a unique high-end look that stands out.
Pros and Cons of Shingle Roofs
Pros
- Lower upfront cost
- Easy installation and replacement
- Wide variety of styles and colors
- Good performance for the price
Cons
- Shorter lifespan (15–30 years)
- More prone to weather damage
- Higher maintenance needs
- Can increase cooling costs in hot climates
Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs
Pros
- Extremely long lifespan (40–70 years)
- Low maintenance requirements
- Energy-efficient, lowering utility costs
- High wind, hail, and fire resistance
- Increases home resale value
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Installation requires skilled contractors
- Can be noisier in rain or hail if not insulated properly
- Limited budget-friendly options
Climate and Regional Cost Factors
The cost-effectiveness of shingles vs metal roofing depends heavily on your local climate.
- Mild Climates: Shingles often perform adequately and cost less upfront.
- Storm-Prone Regions: Metal is often the smarter long-term investment due to wind and hail resistance.
- Hot Climates: Metal helps reduce cooling costs, saving money over decades.
- Cold Climates: Both options work well, but metal’s snow-shedding capabilities are an added advantage.
Installation Cost Variables
The final cost of either type of roof depends on:
- Roof size and complexity (steep slopes, valleys, chimneys).
- Regional labor rates.
- Removal of old roofing materials.
- Underlayment and flashing requirements.
Because of these factors, actual installation costs can vary widely from the averages given above.
Long-Term Value Comparison
Let’s look at an example scenario for a 2,000 sq. ft. home over 60 years.
- Shingle Roof (20-year lifespan):
- Initial install: $8,000
- Replacement at 20 years: $9,500
- Replacement at 40 years: $10,500
- Total: ~$28,000
- Metal Roof (50-year lifespan):
- Initial install: $20,000
- Replacement at 50 years: $22,000
- Total: ~$42,000
At first glance, shingles look cheaper long-term. But factor in maintenance, higher energy bills, and lower resale value, and the gap narrows significantly.
Which Roof Is Right for You?
The choice between shingles and metal often comes down to:
- Budget: Shingles win for affordability.
- Longevity: Metal is the clear winner.
- Maintenance: Metal requires less over time.
- Energy Savings: Metal saves money on utilities.
- Resale Value: Metal roofs generally add more to a home’s value.
If you need a roof right away and budget is limited, shingles are the practical option. If you’re planning long-term or investing in a forever home, metal is usually the better choice despite the higher cost upfront.
Myths About Shingles and Metal Roofs
- Myth: Metal roofs are too noisy in the rain.
- Fact: With proper underlayment, they’re no noisier than shingles.
- Myth: Shingles are outdated.
- Fact: Architectural shingles remain extremely popular and stylish.
- Myth: Metal roofs attract lightning.
- Fact: Metal roofs don’t increase lightning strikes, and they’re actually safer since they’re fire-resistant.
Final Thoughts
Comparing shingles vs metal roof cost goes beyond just the upfront price tag. Shingles are more budget-friendly initially, but require more maintenance and won’t last as long. Metal roofs demand a larger investment upfront, but their durability, energy efficiency, and resale value often make them a smarter choice for the long haul.
Ultimately, the right decision depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, and how much value you place on long-term durability and savings. Both options can protect your home effectively—it’s just a matter of balancing short-term affordability with long-term value.440-235-2124
