Metal Roof vs. Shingles: Learn the Key Differences
Find the best material to update your roof
Sonia De Leon / Getty Images
Reviewed by Kelly Bacon
Metal and shingle roofs are common options for residential buildings. Metal roofs are typically made of large sheets of steel, aluminum, tin, or copper. This type of roof has a high upfront cost and repair cost but tends to be more durable and resistant to damage than a shingle roof.
A shingle roof is made from a combination of asphalt and other materials, like wood or fiberglass. Shingles are available in a variety of colors, styles, and thicknesses, so homeowners can find products to fit the project budget. Here's what you need to know about the differences between a metal roof versus shingles.
Metal Roof vs. Shingles: Major Differences
Metal roofs are great for a modern or minimalist look, but this type of roof is significantly more expensive to purchase and install than shingles. A shingle roof can be installed by an experienced DIYer, reducing the already affordable cost of the job. Additionally, shingles are easier and less expensive to repair.
Metal roofs have a superior level of durability and resistance to fire, heat, and water, though it should be noted that salt water can cause metal roofing to rust, so it's not recommended for coastal cities. Invest in eco-friendly metal roofing that can last 50 to 75 years, or opt for affordable shingles that typically last about 20 to 50 years.
Metal Roof
Modern or minimalist style
Superior resistance to fire, heat, and water
Can be made out of eco-conscious recycled materials
High level of durability and low maintenance requirements
Installation should be handled by a professional
Averages $5,700 up to $25,000
Lasts about 50 to 75 years
Shingles
Classic or traditional appeal
High resistance to fire, heat, and water
Non-recyclable, petroleum-based product
Moderate durability, but may be vulnerable to mold growth, peeling, and cracking
Experienced DIYers can tackle installation
Averages $5,750 up to $12,200
Lasts about 20 to 50 years
Appearance
Metal roofing is available in steel, aluminum, tin, and copper, but the appearance options don't stop at the material. Homeowners can find a range of metal roof choices, including metal shingles, corrugated roofing, clay tile-inspired metal roofing, or metal sheet roofing. However, shingles are typically better if the homeowner wants a more classic home aesthetic.
Shingles have a classic look that is very common in residential neighborhoods. This roofing material comes in various color options, styles, and thicknesses, offering the homeowner a variety of looks to improve the appearance of the home. However, shingles may not be able to create the same minimalistic design that is possible with metal roofing.
Water and Heat Resistance
Metal roofing is typically the best option for heat and fire resistance. It also holds up well against heavy winds, rain, snow, and ice. However, metal roofing is vulnerable to salt water, so it isn't recommended for homes located on the coast.
Shingles are designed to be fire-resistant, heat-resistant, and water-resistant, but they fall a bit short of the capabilities of metal roofing. Heavy winds and ice can cause shingles to tear or lose granules, and rain or meltwater can seep under the shingles, which can lead to mold growth if the roof is not regularly cleaned.
Eco-Friendliness
Metal roofing is a better option for eco-friendliness than shingles because homeowners can purchase metal roofing that is made from recycled material. Not all metal roofing is made in this eco-conscious way, so make sure to check the product description and manufacturer's information before purchasing metal roofing.
Shingles cannot be considered eco-friendly. This roofing material is a petroleum-based product that isn't recyclable and doesn't biodegrade, which means that old shingles continue to linger for years in the local landfill. Asphalt shingles can also be recycled into pavement and new shingles.
Durability and Maintenance
Metal roofing is one of the most durable options available. The tough, metal construction holds up in heavy winds and it doesn't damage easily, even in rain, snow, hail, or ice storms. Additionally, metal roofing is relatively easy to maintain, though it should be noted that if a metal roof does get damaged, it is harder and more costly to repair than a shingle roof.
Shingles are relatively durable, though they don't have the same level of lasting strength as metal roofing. A shingle roof will also require regular cleaning and may need to be patched or repaired every couple of years if any shingles have chipped, cracked, or come loose. However, shingles are not difficult to repair or replace, so an experienced DIYer should be able to handle most fixes without the help of a professional.
Installation
Metal roofing isn't an easy material to work with, so it's best to hire a professional roofing company that has experience installing metal roofs. Additionally, metal roof repairs should be completed by trained professionals to ensure that the roof is properly fixed.
Shingles are a common construction material that can be installed by a professional roofing company. However, experienced DIYers with a bit of time available can purchase and install shingles without professional help. DIYers may also be able to complete minor repairs to a shingle roof.
Cost
Metal roofing is one of the most expensive options for a new roof. Typically, a new metal roof installation can cost on average between $5,700 and $16,200 but copper can average even higher at about $25,000 or more.
Shingles are an affordable choice for a new roofing project. This material costs on average between $5,750 to $12,200, though it may cost as little as $2,000 to $4,000 if you do the roofing yourself.
Lifespan
Metal roofing tends to last longer than most other roofing materials, so if you invest in a metal roof you shouldn't need to worry about replacing it for 50 to 75 years. However, if a metal roof is installed in a coastal city, then the salt water may cause the roof to wear prematurely.
Shingles don't last as long as a metal roof, though they still have a relatively long lifespan that can range from 20 to 50 years with proper cleaning and maintenance. However, you will likely need to make minor repairs to keep the roof in good condition throughout its entire life.
The Verdict
On one hand, metal roofing is superior to shingles in several categories, including durability, lifespan, and resistance to both water and heat. Metal roofing is also more eco-friendly and is available in a wider range of colors and material options.
However, shingles still offer a high level of durability and resistance to the elements, even if they don't quite measure up to metal roofing. Additionally, shingles are easier to install and repair, which makes it possible for a DIYer to handle most, if not all, of the roof installation and maintenance needs. It's also worth noting that a metal roof is significantly more expensive to install and repair than a shingle roof, so if cost is a deciding factor, it may be best to go with a shingle roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is better, a metal roof or a shingle roof?
Metal roofs tend to be better for durability, maintenance requirements, and resistance to heat and water, as well as being more eco-friendly and having a longer lifespan. This superior design does come at a significantly higher cost, or you can opt for the more affordable style offered by a shingle roof.
What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?
Metal roofing is significantly more expensive than asphalt shingles and isn't a good choice for coastal homes because the saltwater in the air can cause the roof to rust. Additionally, metal roofs are more difficult to install and repair, and they can be noisy during heavy rain or hail.
Is a metal roof noisy when it rains?
Both rain and hail can cause noise when the falling precipitation hits the metal roof. Asphalt shingles don't make nearly as much noise, so they are a better choice if you require a quiet living environment.
Should I put my metal roof over shingles?
You shouldn't put a metal roof over shingles. Depending on the weight of the metal roofing materials and the underlying shingles, the load on the roof may be too much to bear. It's better to remove the shingles, and then install the metal roof to avoid putting excessive stress on the roof structure.
Read the original article on The Spruce.
