If it’s time for you to treat yourself to a new roof, you’re probably trying to outweigh the differences between a metal roof and shingles, especially in price. It’s no secret that metal roofs have become the next big thing in roof replacement, but they also come with higher costs. However, due to the lesser durability shingles come with, some homeowners aren’t a fan of the quicker replacement this material needs. So, how do you make a smart pick?
In this guide, we’re breaking down the cost of a metal roof versus shingles so you know everything to expect with these different materials and select your new roof today.
Key takeaways: cost of metal roof vs. shingles
Overall, metal roofs outperform shingles but come with significant upfront costs.
Average costs for metal roofs come in around $6,700 to $12,200, while shingles cost $5,400 to $9,800 on average.
The type of roofing materials you choose within each option can potentially increase your overall expense.
Metal roof vs. shingle roof: what’s the difference?
Before you choose, it’s important to know the key difference between metal roofs and asphalt shingles to select the best roofing material in terms of performance, maintenance, and energy efficiency properties.
Maintenance and repairs
You will schedule more roof repairs with asphalt shingles than metal roofs. Shingles are more susceptible to cracks and detachment from strong storms, whereas metal roofs are stronger and can withstand extreme force from harsh weather conditions. You will also have to perform more routine maintenance for shingles (several times a year plus extra after storms) than you will with metal roofs. Metal roofs only need to be inspected about once a year and recoated every two years if you seal your planks for extra protection against rust.
Lifespan
The life expectancy of a metal roof far exceeds that of asphalt shingles. Metal roofs that are kept in excellent condition can last up to 70 years or more, while shingles (even if they’re maintained) only up to 30 years of use at best.
Efficiency
Both roofing options are energy efficient, but the option with the highest efficiency is metal. Metal roofs do a better job of trapping heat and reducing energy usage, lowering your monthly energy bills to increase energy savings.
Appearance
If curb appeal is a top concern, the good news is that both roofing types provide aesthetic options to help fit your preferences. All it comes down to is which one you prefer more. As you sit down with roofers, browse the various colors and styles each option has to select one that aligns with your exterior design.
Resale value
Metal roofs have a much higher resale value than shingles because of their performance, durability, and energy efficiency. If you plan to sell your home in the future, consider upgrading your existing roof to this material to see a higher ROI when you list it.
Metal roof vs. shingle roof cost factors
Here is an average estimate of a standard roof repair with metal panels or shingles.
Roof material | Average cost range |
Metal roof cost | $6,700 to $12,200 |
Shingle roof cost | $5,400 to $9,800 |
These figures are calculated based on installing a 1,500 sq. ft. home. Of course, there are a majority of other factors that affect the total cost of your project, such as location, materials, and labor, which we will detail in the sections below.
Metal roofing costs factors explained
One of the biggest factors that affect the overall cost of metal roof installation is the cost per square foot. On average, metal roofs cost $450 to $820 per roofing square or $4 to $8 per square foot for steel or aluminum panels, whereas corrugated steel panels average $270 to $490 and copper or zinc average $1,720 to $3140 per square.
After adding installation, a steel or aluminum roof will cost about $500 to $1,000 per square. A home with a 1,500-square-foot roof comes to about $6,700 to $12,200. A home with a 2,500-square-foot roof comes from $10,000 to $20,000. This is quite a bit more expensive than asphalt shingles and is another reason many homeowners opt for asphalt shingles instead.
Shingle roofing costs explained
As we’ve mentioned, asphalt roofing is less expensive than metal. Asphalt shingles cost about $300 to $500 per roofing square for three-tab asphalt shingles or $420 to $770 per square for asphalt shingles. All shingles require an underlayment installed underneath, costing $80 per roll or $100 for synthetic underlayment per 400 sq. ft.
Installation costs are also cheaper, about $80 to $200 per square, and removal of a previous roof adds about $30–$60 per square. If asphalt shingles are used, the labor rises to $200 to $400 per square. A highly pitched or steep roof will add even more to the installation cost since it needs more material.
For a home with a 1,500-square-foot roof, the cost of a three-tab shingle roof comes to about $4,500 to $8,220 without the removal of the previous shingles, an additional $500 to $900. For a home with a 2,500-square-foot roof, the cost comes to between $6,320 and $13,700 without the removal of the previous shingles, an additional $830 to $1,500. These prices make asphalt shingles almost a certain choice for first-time homebuyers and contract builders. Newer fiberglass varieties can be even less expensive, too.
Shingle roof vs. metal roof cost: additional factors to consider
Here are a few other cost factors to consider when choosing between a new metal roof or asphalt shingles.
Location
Where you live can also impact installation costs based on demand, code requirements, and labor fees. If you live in an area that’s far away from roofing contractors or you’re in a coastal region, these areas tend to see higher expenses just from labor costs alone.
Materials
Both options have different roofing materials that can increase or decrease the expense of your project. For instance, zinc is on the high end of metal roofing materials, whereas clay shingles are on the high end too.
Labor
Roofing contractors factor in labor fees for the time and effort it takes to install both types of roofing. Shingles are quicker and easier to install, so they’re significantly cheaper than the installation costs of a metal roof, which is more intricate and time-consuming.
Pros and cons of metal roofs
Pros
- + Extreme durability to withstand brutal storms
- + Incredibly long lifespan
- + High resale value
- + Plenty of aesthetic options to boost curb appeal
- + More energy efficient
- + Less maintenance requirements
Cons
- - Higher initial costs
- - Will require professional installation
- - Can rust over time if not sealed with a special coating
- - Pros and cons of shingle roofs
Pros and cons of shingle roofs
Pros
- + More cost-effective
- + Easy material to install and repair
- + Is somewhat energy-efficient
- + Comes with design choices
Cons
- - Lower resale value
- - More susceptible to damage than metal roofs
How to save money on metal roof vs. shingles installation
Gather multiple quotes from different roofers to find the professional who can complete the project in a way that aligns with your budget.
Choose cheaper materials for each type of roof. For example, asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing material, while steel metal planks tend to be cheaper than others, such as aluminum or tin.
Check with your homeowner’s insurance provider, warranty, or HELOC to see if you qualify for having a portion (or all) of your roof repair covered.
Replacing your roof in certain seasons, like the winter, might be cheaper than replacing it in the summer months since it’s colder and business is generally lower.
Cost of metal roof vs. shingles roof: which is right for your home?
Choosing between a metal roof or asphalt shingles for your home depends on a few factors, starting with costs. Evaluate your budget to see what you can afford to spend upfront before comparing each material's longevity and seeing which would make a wise future investment. For instance, shingles wear off quicker than metal roofs and must typically be replaced every 15 to 30 years.
On the other hand, metal roofs require heftier upfront costs, but they’re longer lasting, so you might save money on the back end by not replacing them as often. Speaking to several roofing contractors and getting an idea of how much your project will be can help you weigh out the pros and cons of both options to see which one best suits your home, needs, and finances.
Frequently asked questions: Metal vs. shingle roof cost
Shingle roof costs are significantly less than metal roofs. That is because they’re easy to install (so this cuts down on labor fees), and the material is cheaper. However, you may find that the upfront costs of a new metal roof far outweigh installing shingles on the back end. Metal roofs have a higher life expectancy by several decades, and their material is far more durable, which means you won’t have to worry about roof repair within 15 to 30 years after installation like you would with shingles.
It is never a good idea to put a metal roof over shingles. The metal planks already weigh several pounds more, so installing them over asphalt shingles can do more damage than good to your roof’s structure. For instance, the added weight can compromise the integrity or strength of the roof’s underlayment and cause damage in the future.
Untreated metal roofs can develop rust over time after being continuously exposed to water, moisture, and other extreme weather conditions, but there is a way to prevent this. Having your metal planks coated in elastomeric coatings prevents rust from occurring since the entire plank is covered with an acrylic seal that acts as a barrier from the harsh elements. However, keep in mind that in order to keep this seal from causing rust, you will need to have your metal roof recoated every two years since it can wear off from severe weather as well over time.