The Cost of a Shingle vs Metal Roof

Purchasing a new roof for your home is a big decision. As one of the most expensive purchases you can make, it’s important to choose the best roof for your home and budget.

Is it Cheaper to Install a Metal Roof or Shingles?

It’s cheaper to install an asphalt shingle roof. A metal roof costs two or three times more than an asphalt shingle roof, mainly due to the price of materials and skilled labor required.

Here’s a very generalized cost estimate:

Asphalt shingle roof: $5,000 – $12,000+
Metal roof: $9,000 – $50,000+

While a metal roof costs more, it also lasts much longer – the lifetime cost of a metal roof is lower than an asphalt roof. Even metal roof installation can be double the price to install an asphalt shingle roof, it will likely last 2-3x longer.

Not to mention, metal roofing panels are more durable and weather-resistant than asphalt shingles, so you’ll pay less for maintenance and inspections. Over its lifespan, a metal roof more than pays for itself.

Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: 4 Main Cost Differences

There are many different costs associated when comparing metal roofs to asphalt shingle roofs. While the installation cost for a metal roof is more expensive, the maintenance and replacement of an asphalt shingle roof quickly add up to cost the same, if not more, than a metal roof.

Not to mention the hassle of putting two or three new asphalt shingle roofs on your home during the lifespan of just one metal roof.

Here are some of the main cost differences to be aware of.

Installation Costs

The installation costs are much higher for metal roofs than they are for an asphalt shingle roof. Asphalt shingles are easy to install, so it’s quicker and more affordable. Metal roofs, however, require skilled labor and can be time-intensive to install depending on the type of roof you want to be installed.

Plus, if your roof has steep slopes, the installation cost will increase to account for the expert labor required to install metal panels in hard-to-reach areas.

Maintaining & Replacing Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are more susceptible to damage and weather than metal panels. Because of this, you’ll have to pay for frequent inspections and replacements of any damaged or missing asphalt shingles.

If you multiply the cost to repair and replace asphalt shingles over the 12-20 year lifespan of the roof, it can quickly add up.

Resale Value of Your Home

The age and condition of a home’s roof are huge negotiating points during the sale of the home. The seller wants to feel confident the home’s roof is sound and doesn’t need repairs, as the buyer will try to have the seller pay for those costs or negotiate a lower price for the home.

If an asphalt roof is reaching the end of its life or has leaks and damage, the value of your home will probably be reduced at the negotiation table. A metal roof, on the other hand, actually adds value to your home – it can add as much as 6%!

Even if you don’t plan on staying in your home long enough for the metal roof to pay itself off, the increase in the value of your home could be enough to recoup your costs (and then some) if you plan to sell.

Energy Savings

A metal roof is extremely energy efficient and can save you up to 40% of your utility costs! In the summer, it reflects sunlight and heat to keep your home cool. In the winter, it provides strong insulation to retain the heat you’re paying for.

Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, absorb heat from the sun. This means you’ll pay even more money to cool your home down in the warmer seasons.

Are Metal Roofs Worth the Extra Cost?

We don’t want to say you get what you pay for, but… it’s true when it comes to the quality of the roof you install on your home.

Metal roofs are absolutely worth the extra cost and here’s why:

Metal roofs last longer – A metal roof has 2-3x the lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof depending on the material you choose. While an asphalt shingle roof might last 12-30 years, a metal roof can last 50-80+ years and will likely be the last roof you ever have to purchase.
Metal roofs require less maintenance – While a metal roof still needs to be maintained, it’s much less intensive than the maintenance of an asphalt roof. Simply keep the metal panels and gutters clean, replace any damaged fasteners and metal panels, and have the roof inspected every 12-18 months.
A metal roof increases the value of your home – Whether you plan to stay in your home for a long time or are looking to sell in the next few years, a metal roof is still a solid investment. Why? A metal roof can increase your home’s value by up to 6%, and you’ll likely recoup 96% of the money you put into it.
Metal roofs are environmentally friendly – Metal roofs are a great eco-friendly option. They’re usually made out of recycled materials and are easier to dispose of than asphalt. Plus, they help your home be more eco-friendly by lowering electricity bills; reflecting sunlight and heat to keep your home cool during summer, and insulating your heat during winter.

Need Help Deciding Between a Metal and Asphalt Roof?

We install metal and asphalt shingle roofs throughout Northeast Indiana, Northwest Ohio, and Southern Michigan. We’re dedicated to high-quality work and attention to detail.

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Written by Shield Exteriors: Our team of experienced roofers has been in the business for decades. We want to help educate homeowners on everything they need to know about residential roofing, from how long certain types of roofs last to picking the roofing material best for your needs and budget. Learn more about us or contact us today if you’re looking for a roof estimate!

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