When it comes time to replace your roof, you may be debating between going with traditional asphalt shingles or upgrading to a metal roof. While metal roofs have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run through lower maintenance costs, better resale value, and energy savings. Let's review the costs of metal roofing versus shingles and other factors to consider for historic metal roof shingles when deciding which is the better investment for your home or building.
On average, a metal roof will cost between $6,000 and $20,000, depending on the size and pitch of your roof. Many homeowners report paying between $15,000 and $20,000 to install a typical modest sized metal roof. Meanwhile, asphalt shingle roofs cost between $5000 to $10000 to install. A metal roof has a higher initial price point. However, metal roofs have an average lifespan of 40-70 years compared to just 15 - 20 years for asphalt. This increased longevity means you would need to replace a shingle roof at least once in the time you would still have the original metal roof.
While the upfront cost and lifespan are the two main factors people consider, there are some other costs to weigh when deciding between metal and shingle roofs:
One of the biggest perks of a metal roof is lower maintenance costs. The average asphalt shingle roof requires repairs after 10 - 15 years and full replacement after 15 - 20 years. That means you will need to budget for repairs and a new roof installation at least once, if not twice, in a metal roof's lifetime. With a properly installed metal roof, you may never need significant repairs. This lack of maintenance is one of the factors that makes up for the higher initial cost over time.
Realtors report that most home buyers are willing to pay a premium for a home with a newer metal roof compared to asphalt shingles. This is because the buyer knows they won't face major roof replacement costs and headaches down the road. Likewise, buildings with durable metal roofs enjoy higher property value and sale prices. So, if you ever plan to sell your home or building, a metal roof is a worthwhile investment.
Energy efficiency is one of the major advantages of metal roofs. Their reflective properties mean they absorb less heat from sunlight and keep interiors cooler in the summer. They also have better insulating abilities to keep heat inside during colder months. Homeowners with metal roofs report energy savings of 15% or more compared to asphalt roofs. For large commercial buildings, the savings can be even more substantial. That translates into direct savings on your energy bills.
Metal roofs have several advantages over asphalt shingle roofs that make them worth considering for many homeowners and building owners. Let's look at some of the top benefits.
Metal roofing is extremely durable and long-lasting compared to asphalt shingles. Quality metal roofing can last 40 years or longer with little to no maintenance required. Shingle roofs typically need repairs after 5-10 years and full replacement after 15-20 years. The unmatched durability of metal roofing means lower lifetime costs.
Metal roofing has highly reflective properties thanks to its smooth, non-porous surface. This allows it to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat than shingle roofing. Homes with metal roofs stay cooler in summer and have lower air conditioning bills as a result.
Metal roofing stands up incredibly well to hail, high winds, and other extreme weather events. Hail that would severely damage asphalt shingles causes little to no harm to a standing seam metal roof. This prevents costly roof repairs after severe storms.
With routine maintenance, a quality metal roof should easily last 40 years or longer without any major work required. For many homeowners, a metal roof could be the last time they ever need to replace their roof, which makes the higher upfront cost worthwhile.
Modern metal roofing styles mimic expensive slate, tile, and wood shake roofing but at a lower cost. The sleek, clean lines provide curb appeal and visual interest to any home or building.
Many metal roofing products contain a high percentage of recycled steel and aluminum. This makes them a sustainable, eco-friendly choice. The materials are also fully recyclable at the end of their lifetime.
When pricing out metal versus shingle roofing, there are several factors that impact the final installation costs:
How intricate the metal roof design is and how many accent details are included affects the cost. A simple, basic metal roof costs less than one with complex decorative elements.
There are different grades and quality levels of metal roofing. Higher-end products made from copper or zinc cost more than basic galvanized steel or aluminum roofing.
A simple, straightforward roof shape will be cheaper to install than a complex roof with lots of angles, valleys and projections. The pitch of the roof also affects cost.
If you need gorgeous, historically accurate metal roofing shingles for a restoration or new construction project, contact our team at Heather and Little. We manufacture metal shingles with roofing materials like terne-coated steel, copper, and zinc. Learn more about our full range of architectural metal roofing products by visiting and contacting us about metal historic metal roof shingles.
And if you are looking for a second opinion on your project or have a particularly complex issue that needs a fresh eye, we’re here for that too. Tackling tricky challenges is our specialty and we welcome the opportunity to provide consulting advice, with the same exacting attention to detail we bring to all our commissions.
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