Asphalt Shingles vs Metal Roofing

9 min read Updated 24 September 2026
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    Asphalt shingles vs metal roofing is the most common material decision homeowners face when replacing a roof. Asphalt shingles cost less up front and are the default choice, covering about four out of five U.S. homes.[1] Metal roofing typically costs about twice as much to install but lasts two or more times as long: 40–70 years versus 15–30 years for asphalt.[2][3][4] Metal also sheds snow more readily. This guide compares the two across cost, lifespan, durability, performance, and real-world homeowner considerations so you can choose the material that fits your climate, budget, and time horizon.

    Hiring a pro? Browse our researched, BBB-checked compare metal roofing contractors near you — see how we rank.

    Quick Comparison

    Factor Asphalt Shingles Metal Roofing
    Installed cost (U.S.) $3 – $7 / sq ft[2] $7 – $13 / sq ft typical; standing seam $7 – $30[2][3]
    Typical lifespan 15 – 30 years[4] 40 – 70 years[3]
    Weight Heavier About half the weight of asphalt, per the Metal Roofing Alliance[5]
    Fire rating Class A, B or C depending on product; Class A is highest[1] Most products Class A[6]
    Wind testing Classified under ASTM D7158 (Class D, G or H) or D3161; required class depends on local design wind speed[7] Uplift-tested under UL 580 or ASTM E1592[8]
    Hail rating (UL 2218) Class 4 impact-resistant lines available; real-world performance varies by product[9] Many panels listed Class 4[10]
    Snow shedding Holds snow; relies on ice-barrier underlayment at eaves Sheds readily; often needs snow guards[11]
    Noise in rain Quiet Little difference from other materials over a solid deck[12] (see Are Metal Roofs Noisy in Rain)
    Reflectivity / cool roof Cool-coloured granule shingles available[13] Reflective painted or granule-surfaced metal available[13]
    Recyclability Tear-off can be recycled into asphalt pavement where facilities exist[14] 100% recyclable; typically at least 25% recycled content[5]
    Installation time (typical home) About 2 – 3 days[4] Usually longer; specialized crew
    Insurance premium impact Some insurers discount impact-resistant roofs; ask yours Many insurers offer discounts for impact-resistant metal roofs[15]
    DIY friendliness Moderate for small repairs Low — specialized tools and handling

    Cost Comparison

    Up-Front Cost

    HomeAdvisor's U.S. data puts asphalt shingles at $3–$7 per square foot installed (architectural shingles $4–$6), metal roofing generally at $7–$13, and standing seam at $7–$30 depending on metal and profile.[2][3] For a roof of about 2,200 sq ft (22 squares), that works out to roughly:

    • Architectural asphalt shingles: $8,800 – $13,200 installed
    • Metal roofing (typical range): $15,400 – $28,600 installed
    • Standing seam steel ($10–$16 / sq ft): $22,000 – $35,200 installed[16]

    These are U.S. averages. Prices vary widely by region, roof complexity, and tear-off, and Canadian prices differ, so always compare written quotes. Detailed pricing breakdowns are in How Much Does a New Roof Cost.

    Lifetime Cost per Year

    The more useful comparison is cost per year of service. An illustrative example using the midpoints of the ranges above:

    • Architectural shingles: $11,000 ÷ 30 years ≈ $370 / year
    • Standing seam steel: $28,600 ÷ 60 years ≈ $480 / year

    Plug in your own quotes and expected years of ownership. If you plan to sell within 10 years, asphalt almost always wins on pure economics. If you plan to stay 20+ years, metal narrows or closes the gap, especially in hail and high-wind regions where shingles may need early replacement.

    Durability and Weather Performance

    Wind

    Both materials are wind-tested, and building codes require a rating matched to local design wind speeds. Asphalt shingles are classified under ASTM D7158 (Class D, G or H) or ASTM D3161, and the highest-wind areas require Class H.[7] Metal panel systems, including standing seam, must be uplift-tested under UL 580 or ASTM E1592.[8] For shingles, the required nail count and high-wind pattern come from the manufacturer's instructions (at least four nails per strip shingle under code).[17] Both systems fail first at the edges, so proper drip-edge and perimeter detailing matter more than the headline rating.

    Hail

    Most metal panels resist hail well. Many are listed UL 2218 Class 4, the top impact rating,[10] and hail usually dents metal cosmetically without compromising waterproofing. Class 4 asphalt shingles are widely available, but independent IBHS testing shows that not all "impact-resistant" shingles perform the same, so check IBHS ratings before buying.[9] Shingle hail damage is common: IBHS notes that asphalt shingles make up about 80% of U.S. residential roofs and are frequently damaged in hail and high-wind events.[18] See Hail Damage and Roofing for claim-filing guidance and Post-Storm Roof Damage Assessment for inspection tips.

    Snow and Ice

    Metal sheds snow readily, which is both a feature and a hazard. The feature is a lower snow load on the roof structure and resistance to ice dams. The hazard is sudden slides over doorways and walkways, which calls for snow guards.[11] Shingles hold snow, which protects walkways but, combined with poor attic ventilation, can lead to ice dams. Ice dam prevention strategies differ by material; see How to Prevent and Remove Ice Dams.

    Fire

    Class A is the highest fire rating. Many asphalt shingles carry it,[1] and most metal roofing does too.[6] Metal's non-combustible surface is an advantage in wildland-urban interface zones where embers are the main threat. This can matter for insurance in parts of California, Colorado, and British Columbia.

    Heat and UV

    Both materials come in reflective "cool roof" versions. The EPA lists asphalt shingles surfaced with light- or cool-coloured granules and metal shingles or tiles coated with reflective paint or granules among steep-slope cool roof products.[13] Reflectivity matters most in cooling-dominated climates, so compare the rated solar reflectance of the specific products you are considering. See Cool Roofs for the full analysis.

    Installation and Complexity

    Asphalt Shingles

    Any qualified roofing crew can install a standard architectural shingle system. A medium-sized asphalt shingle roof typically takes two to three days,[4] and most municipalities treat it as a routine permit. Tear-off, decking repair, underlayment, ice-and-water shield, starter, field shingles, hip-and-ridge caps, and flashing are all standard procedure.

    Metal Roofing

    Metal installation requires specialized skills, tools, and detailing knowledge. Standing-seam systems in particular use concealed clips that let panels expand and contract with temperature swings, a detail most shingle crews are not trained for. Installer experience is a much bigger predictor of long-term performance than panel brand. Ask prospective contractors for at least five metal installations they've completed, including one at least 10 years old. See How to Choose a Roofing Contractor for vetting criteria.

    Panel types you will hear about:

    • Through-fastened ribbed or corrugated panel (aka screw-down, ag-panel, R-panel) — cheapest ($3.50–$15 / sq ft) and fastest, but fasteners penetrate the panel and their washers need periodic inspection and replacement[3]
    • Standing seam — concealed clips, premium system; most last 50–80 years[16]
    • Metal shingles / metal tile — looks like asphalt, slate or tile and performs like metal, typically $7–$22 / sq ft[3]
    • Stone-coated steel — steel with a granule-coated finish; popular in tile- and shake-style reroofs

    Noise

    The biggest metal-roof myth is that it is loud in the rain. Over a solid deck with underlayment, the Metal Roofing Alliance states there is little difference between metal and other materials in rain or hail noise.[12] The "loud" reputation comes from metal over open framing on barns and sheds. See Are Metal Roofs Noisy in Rain.

    Aesthetics and Resale

    Asphalt shingles are the expected look for most North American neighbourhoods. Choosing them is safe and neutral, and it appraises in line with comparable homes.

    Metal is gaining acceptance but is still polarizing in some markets. Standing seam on a modern or farmhouse-style home usually suits the architecture, while through-fastened ribbed panels on a traditional suburban home can work against you unless metal is already common nearby. In rural, coastal, and mountain markets, metal is often the expected premium choice. In subdivisions with HOA restrictions, check the covenants before committing.

    Energy Efficiency

    Metal can outperform standard asphalt in three scenarios:

    1. Cooling-dominated climates — reflective (cool) roofing lowers heat gain. The EPA reports that cool roofs can reduce peak cooling demand in air-conditioned homes by 11–27%.[13]
    2. Long-life value — unpainted Galvalume reflects less heat than light paint colours, but still outlasts shingles under UV
    3. Homes with solar panels — solar mounts can clamp to standing seams without roof penetrations,[19] and with solar panels now lasting 25–35 years on average,[20] a long-life roof avoids removing and reinstalling the array for a mid-life reroof

    In cold climates, reflective roofs can slightly increase winter heating use, although the EPA notes this "heating penalty" is typically offset by summer cooling savings.[13] See Solar Panels and Your Roof for solar-specific material interactions and Energy-Efficient Roofing Systems for a broader comparison.

    Environmental Impact

    • Asphalt shingles are a petroleum-based product and a large share of roofing tear-off waste. Recycling exists but is uneven. ARMA reports that 673,000 tons of reclaimed asphalt shingles were used in new U.S. asphalt pavement in 2022, according to the National Asphalt Pavement Association.[14]
    • Metal roofing is 100% recyclable at end of life and typically contains at least 25% recycled content, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance, an industry group.[5] Its longer service life also means fewer replacements.

    When Asphalt Shingles Are the Better Choice

    • You plan to sell within 10 years
    • Budget is the limiting constraint
    • Your neighbourhood is shingle-dominant and resale comparables matter
    • The roof has complex geometry with many penetrations, valleys, and hips (asphalt detailing is simpler)
    • Mild climate without severe hail, extreme wind, or wildfire exposure

    When Metal Roofing Is the Better Choice

    • You plan to stay in the home 20+ years
    • You live in a hail, high-wind, wildfire, or heavy-snow region
    • Your insurance offers a meaningful wind/hail discount for metal
    • The home has a simple roof geometry well-suited to long panel runs
    • Cooling costs are a significant share of your energy bill
    • You want a roof that likely outlives the mortgage

    The Hybrid Approach

    For large complex roofs, many homeowners choose metal on the main field and asphalt or flat membrane on low-slope sections. This is common on farmhouse and ranch-style homes with a low-pitch porch or addition. Mixing materials is fine as long as transition flashing is detailed by an installer experienced in both systems. Note that asphalt shingles need a slope of at least 2:12,[17] so flatter sections need a membrane.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is a metal roof worth it over asphalt shingles?

    It depends on how long you will own the home. Metal typically costs about twice as much upfront but lasts 40–70 years versus 15–30 for asphalt,[3][4] so it usually pays off only for owners who stay 20 years or more or who live in hail, wind, or wildfire areas.

    Are metal roofs louder than shingles in rain?

    Not noticeably when installed over a solid deck with underlayment. The Metal Roofing Alliance says there is little difference in rain or hail noise between metal and other materials.[12]

    Which is better for hail, metal or asphalt shingles?

    Metal generally holds up better, because many panels are UL 2218 Class 4 and hail usually only dents them.[10] If you choose shingles, pick a Class 4 product and check IBHS's independent ratings, since impact-resistant shingles vary in real-world performance.[9]

    Can you put a metal roof over asphalt shingles?

    Often, yes. Metal roofs can frequently be installed over an existing roof,[12] but local codes limit re-covering, and the deck must be sound. Ask your contractor and building department.

    References

    1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Frequently Asked Questions for Professionals — Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 How Much Does Roof Replacement Cost? — HomeAdvisor. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 What Does a Metal Roof Cost to Install? — HomeAdvisor. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 How Much Does a Shingle Roof Replacement Cost? — HomeAdvisor. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 Recyclability — Metal Roofing Alliance. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Fire — Metal Roofing Alliance. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Section 1504.2 Wind Resistance of Asphalt Shingles (International Building Code, as adopted) — UpCodes. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Section 1504.3.2 Metal Panel Roof Systems (International Building Code, as adopted) — UpCodes. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 Hail Impact-Resistant Shingle Ratings — Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 Instaloc Snap-Together Standing Seam Metal Roof Panel — McElroy Metal. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Snow & Ice — Metal Roofing Alliance. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 FAQs — Metal Roofing Alliance. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 13.4 Using Cool Roofs to Reduce Heat Islands — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Asphalt Shingle Recycling — Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    15. ↑ Hail — Metal Roofing Alliance. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 How Much Does It Cost to Install a Standing Seam Metal Roof? — HomeAdvisor. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 Section 1507.2 Asphalt Shingles (International Building Code, as adopted) — UpCodes. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    18. ↑ Relative Impact Resistance of Shingles — Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    19. ↑ Solar — Metal Roofing Alliance. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
    20. ↑ End-of-Life Management for Solar Photovoltaics — U.S. Department of Energy. Retrieved 2026-09-24.
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