Is metal roofing better than asphalt shingles?

Metal roofing outperforms asphalt shingles in lifespan, wind resistance, fire resistance, and long-term economics for long-term homeowners. Asphalt shingles win on upfront cost, contractor availability, and short-term value. Neither is universally better -- the right choice depends on your ownership duration, climate, budget, and specific situation.

How much more does metal roofing cost than asphalt?

Standing seam metal roofing typically costs 2-4x more than asphalt shingles installed -- roughly $10,000-$40,000 for metal vs $7,000-$15,000 for asphalt on a typical home. However, metal lasts 40-70 years vs 25-30 for asphalt, so the 50-year economics often favor metal for long-term homeowners who would otherwise pay for 2 asphalt replacements.

Which roofing material is better for hail?

Standing seam metal handles hail significantly better than standard asphalt shingles. Metal does not have granules to lose, and the concealed fastener system has no surface penetrations for hail to damage. Impact-resistant asphalt shingles (Class 4) close the gap considerably for hail performance but do not fully match standing seam metal in severe hail events.

Asphalt vs Metal Roofing: Which Is Right for Your Home?

Quick Comparison

FactorAsphalt ShinglesMetal (Standing Seam)

Installed cost$7,000 -- $15,000$20,000 -- $40,000+

Lifespan25 -- 30 years40 -- 70 years

Wind rating110 mph (standard)110 -- 160 mph

Fire ratingClass AClass A

Hail resistanceModerate (IR shingles: good)Excellent

Energy efficiencyStandard (cool-roof options available)Good (reflective coatings)

MaintenanceModerateLow

Contractor availabilityExcellentLimited (specialist required)

Noise (rain/hail)QuietLouder (reduced with underlayment)

50-year total cost$14,000 -- $30,000 (2 replacements)$20,000 -- $40,000 (1 replacement)

The Case for Asphalt Shingles

Lower upfront cost. Asphalt shingles cost 50-75% less to install than standing seam metal. If budget is the primary constraint, asphalt is the realistic choice.
Contractor availability. Every roofing market has abundant asphalt shingle contractors. Metal roofing specialists are far fewer, which affects competition, pricing, and scheduling.
Easier repairs. If a section is damaged, asphalt shingle repair is straightforward and any contractor can do it. Metal repairs require someone who knows the specific system.
Short-term ownership economics. If you are selling in 5-10 years, the higher upfront cost of metal is harder to justify. A new asphalt roof is a marketable feature at sale -- metal may not command a premium above its cost in all markets.
Color and profile options. Asphalt shingles come in an enormous range of colors, profiles, and styles. Metal has improved dramatically but still has fewer options.

The Case for Metal Roofing

Lifespan advantage. Metal roofs last 40-70 years -- effectively your last roof. For a 40-year-old homeowner, this is compelling. For a first-time buyer planning to stay, one metal roof versus two asphalt replacements often comes close to economic parity over 50 years.
Wind and storm performance. Metal roofing systems are engineered for wind resistance well above what standard asphalt achieves. Relevant in hurricane country, coastal areas, and high-wind plains markets.
Fire resistance. Metal is non-combustible. In wildfire-risk zones, metal is the insurance-favorable and safety-favorable choice over any combustible material.
Hail resistance. Standing seam metal handles hail better than asphalt. In hail belt markets (Colorado, Kansas, Texas), this translates directly to lower insurance claims and potentially lower premiums.
Lower maintenance. Metal roofs need far less maintenance than asphalt. No granule loss to worry about, no algae removal needed, no moss threat.
Energy performance with cool-roof coatings. Light-colored metal roofs with cool-roof coatings can achieve superior solar reflectance compared to most asphalt options.

Who Should Choose Asphalt

Budget is the primary constraint and cash must be preserved
Planning to sell within 10-15 years
Local market has limited metal roofing specialists
Your climate does not specifically favor metal (mild, low wind, low hail)
HOA or neighborhood restrictions limit metal options

Who Should Choose Metal

Planning long-term ownership (20+ years) and want one final roof
In a high-wind, hurricane, or coastal area
In a wildfire-risk zone where non-combustibility matters
In a high-hail corridor and tired of insurance claims
Have the capital available and want to optimize long-term economics
Your market has strong metal roofing specialists and the premium is understood by buyers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you install metal roofing over asphalt shingles?

Often yes, with proper installation. Installing over existing shingles saves tear-off costs. The existing deck condition needs to be sound, and local codes may have requirements about overlay. Ask your contractor to assess your specific situation.

Does metal roofing increase home value more than asphalt?

In markets where metal roofing is well understood (mountain west, coastal markets, high-hail areas), a metal roof commands a modest premium at sale. In markets where asphalt shingles are the strong norm, the premium may not fully recover the additional installation cost. Market awareness matters.

Is a metal roof noisier than asphalt during rain?

Without insulation or underlayment: yes, significantly. With proper underlayment and attic insulation: modestly louder but not dramatically so. Most standing seam metal installations use underlayment systems that significantly reduce noise. If noise is a concern, ask specifically about the underlayment system in any metal roof proposal.

Disclaimer: RoofRepairSource provides general roofing information. Costs are estimates and vary by market and specific conditions. Consult licensed local contractors for quotes specific to your project.

Asphalt vs Metal Roofing