The metal vs. shingles question comes up on nearly every full roof replacement. Both are legitimate choices for different situations — but the math is more nuanced than the simple "metal lasts longer" comparison most people start with. Here's the complete picture.
Cost Comparison
| Material | Installed Cost/Sq Ft | 20-Square Roof (Total) | Expected Life | Cost Per Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Asphalt | $4.50–$6.50 | $9,000–$13,000 | 25 years | $360–$520/yr |
| Class 4 IR Asphalt | $5.50–$8.00 | $11,000–$16,000 | 27 years | $407–$593/yr |
| Metal Shingles (steel) | $8–$14 | $16,000–$28,000 | 40–50 years | $320–$700/yr |
| Standing Seam Steel | $12–$18 | $24,000–$36,000 | 50–60 years | $400–$720/yr |
| Standing Seam Aluminum | $14–$22 | $28,000–$44,000 | 50–70 years | $400–$880/yr |
On a pure cost-per-year basis, quality metal is actually competitive with architectural shingles over the roof's lifetime — especially when you factor in that you'll replace the asphalt roof once or twice during the metal roof's lifespan, each time paying full replacement costs again.
Longevity Comparison
This is where metal makes its strongest case. A well-installed standing seam steel roof can last 50–70 years. Most homeowners who replace with metal in their 40s or 50s will never replace a roof again. In contrast, a 25-year architectural shingle roof typically provides 20–25 years of real-world performance before needing replacement.
The relevant question is: how long do you plan to stay in the home? For a homeowner planning to sell within 7–10 years, the metal premium may not be recovered in resale value. For a long-term owner, the math often favors metal by a significant margin over a 30-year horizon.
Performance Comparison
| Factor | Architectural Asphalt | Standing Seam Metal |
|---|---|---|
| Hail resistance | Class 3–4 (varies) | Class 4 (most products) |
| Wind resistance | 110–130 mph | 140–160+ mph (standing seam) |
| Fire resistance | Class A | Class A (noncombustible) |
| Snow/ice performance | Standard; may retain snow | Sheds snow readily |
| Energy efficiency | Standard | Cool Roof rated options; lower cooling costs |
| Weight | ~250–350 lbs/square | ~100–150 lbs/square |
The Noise Question
Metal roofs are louder in rain and hail events — this is the most common concern homeowners raise. The reality is more nuanced:
- Standing seam metal over solid decking with standard attic insulation is noticeably louder than asphalt in rain, but not dramatically so for most homeowners
- Some homeowners describe the rain sound as pleasant ("white noise")
- Others find it disruptive — particularly in areas with frequent heavy rain events
- Adding additional insulation under the roof or in the attic significantly reduces the sound transmission
Visit a home with a metal roof during a rain event before deciding — the experience is highly individual.
Insurance Considerations
Metal roofing can earn insurance discounts in hail and wind markets — similar to Class 4 IR asphalt shingles. Key considerations:
- Most metal roofing products are Class 4 impact rated — eligible for the same 15–30% premium discounts as asphalt Class 4 in hail-active states
- Some insurers discount metal additionally due to its significantly longer lifespan reducing lifetime claim frequency
- Check with your insurer before installation to confirm eligible products and documentation requirements
When Metal Is the Right Choice
- Long-term ownership (planning to stay 15+ years) where the cost-per-year math pays off
- High-wind markets where superior wind ratings matter
- Snowy climates where snow-shedding reduces ice dam risk
- Homeowners who want to eliminate future roof replacement costs and prefer a permanent solution
- Historic or premium homes where the aesthetic is appropriate
When Asphalt (Class 4 IR) Is the Right Choice
- Shorter-term ownership horizon (selling within 7–10 years)
- Budget constraints that make metal's upfront cost prohibitive
- Hail-active markets where Class 4 IR achieves similar insurance benefits at lower cost
- HOA restrictions that limit material choices
- Home value that doesn't support metal's premium (replacing a $35k metal roof on a $200k home rarely yields ROI)
Long-term owner, high-wind or snow-heavy market, budget supports it → consider metal seriously. Shorter-term owner, hail-active market, budget-conscious → Class 4 IR asphalt achieves most of the insurance benefit at a fraction of the cost.
We install both metal roofing and asphalt shingles across 40+ cities. Get a free estimate for both options and see the 20-year cost comparison for your specific home and market. (800) 555-0100.