Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs

If your roof is showing signs of wear or leaking repeatedly, you may need an upgrade. As you explore replacement options, you’ll likely notice that metal roofing has gained popularity in recent years. Metal roofs deliver a strong combination of style and durability, but it’s important to consider this project’s specific cost factors carefully.

Our guide breaks down the pros and cons of metal roofing and gives insights from This Old House experts to help you decide if this material fits your home.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Avg. Installation Cost:

As low as $7,500

Get Quote

Roof Repair

Avg. Repair Cost:

$379 – $1,755

Get Quote

Metal Roofing

Avg. Installation Cost:

$11,655

Get Quote

Benefits of Metal Roofs

They may not have been on your radar when you first realized you needed to replace your roof, but metal roofs can be a practical and cost-effective option. The benefits of metal roofs often outweigh their disadvantages. We’ve listed a few of their most impressive features below.

Long Lifespan

One key difference between shingles and metal roofs is their life spans. A traditional asphalt roof with three-tab shingles might last 15–20 years, while architectural asphalt shingles typically max out at 30–50 years. Regardless of the type of shingles you choose, replacing an asphalt roof is troublesome, noisy, and expensive.

Installing a metal roof may be just as noisy and disruptive, but you won’t need to replace it as often. A metal roof could last 40–80 years or longer, making it a worthwhile investment.

Durability

Metal roofs are made of strong metals, including tin, aluminum, zinc, copper, and steel. They’re more durable than asphalt shingles, so they have longer life spans.

Metal roofs can withstand extreme weather, such as heavy snow and radiant summer heat, and winds of up to 140 mph. They are sturdy—especially the steel ones, which score on the higher end of hardness scales. Most metal roofs have a Class 4 impact resistance rating, meaning they can withstand hail up to 2 inches in diameter.

Curb Appeal

Metal roofs have come a long way since their tin-plated iron predecessors. Roofers didn’t always consider curb appeal, but metal roofs are much more attractive today. A metal roof system also maintains its visual appeal well. Because it sustains minimal damage, your roof will look new for years to come.

There are several metal roofing styles, and they span a variety of colors and types. If standard metal shingles aren’t your style, you have several other options to choose from, including shake-inspired, tile, panel, and ribbed metal roofing.

Sustainability

Asphalt shingles create a lot of waste, with over 12 billion square feet of shingles ending up in landfills every year. Metal roofs offer a more eco-friendly option. A roofer can install them directly over your existing roof, eliminating the debris associated with a traditional roof replacement. Metal roofs also consist of 35–95% recycled materials and are 100% recyclable if you need to swap them out. 

Energy-Efficiency

Metal roofs are a good option if you want to save on energy bills. Traditional shingles trap solar heat and increase the need to cool your home by up to 15%. Metal roofs reflect the hot sun, so you don’t need to spend as much on your home’s cooling costs.

You’ll also spend less on heating bills because most roofing companies insulate under metal roofs, keeping your home warmer in the winter. Metal roofs improve your energy savings by approximately 10–25%. You can also install solar panels on metal rooftops, making them even more energy-efficient.

Fire Resistance and Safety

It’s a common misconception that metal roofs are more likely to have issues during extreme weather. Metal roofs don’t attract lightning during a thunderstorm any more than traditional asphalt roofs. Plus, most metal roofs have a Class A fire rating, meaning they resist surface flame spread. These roofs are as safe as asphalt shingles, even if you live in an area with a high wildfire risk.

Drawbacks of Metal Roofs

Metal roofing comes with a few disadvantages that may turn off some homeowners, especially those on strict budgets.

High Costs

Metal roofs are more expensive than shingles. Most new roof installations cost $5,582–$13,022, with the average hovering around $9,300. A traditional asphalt shingle roof costs an average of $8,800. Factors such as the roof’s size, the type you install, and the roof’s pitch will determine how much you pay. Using expensive materials such as clay tile, slate, or synthetic wood shakes could drive the price above $30,000.

Note: The cost data featured in this guide is based on estimates from Angi.

Homeowner Insights

Over 31% of homeowners in our 2026 survey who installed a metal roof reported paying $20,000 or more for their project.

Denting and Other Damage

Although metal roofs are sturdy, they can still experience damage. Steel roofs are strong and don’t get many indentations, but aluminum and copper are prone to issues. Hailstorms and falling tree branches increase the likelihood of dents and could also cause paint finishes to chip or fade. As you’re reviewing options, check the warranties to learn what different roof companies cover.

Noise Levels

You’ll likely hear noise from your metal roof during a storm. Although some people find the sound of rain hitting a metal roof calming, this is something to consider, especially if you’re sensitive to certain noises. An experienced roofer will know how to reduce noise effectively by installing the proper underlayment or insulation to minimize sound.

Rusting

Some types of metal roofing are prone to rust, especially when placed in coastal climates. Here’s how different materials hold up:

• Steel can rust, but roofing companies use galvanized steel to offset the chance of rusting.
• Aluminum is rust-resistant but may not be suitable for some residential homes because of its aesthetics.
• Copper is also rust-resistant but more prone to corrosion over time.
• Zinc resists both rust and corrosion but can be expensive.
• Galvalume steel is reinforced with aluminum and zinc, making it the best solution for rusting roofs in humid climates.

Specialized Contractors

Metal roofs are growing in popularity, but it’s not always easy to find roofers who know how to install them properly. Make sure to do your research before hiring a contractor to install a metal roof.

Is a Metal Roof Worth the Cost?

Metal roofs are an attractive and durable roofing option compared to traditional asphalt shingles. Although a metal roof’s upfront cost is high, the cost of a new roof is always expensive. Due to its endurance, you’ll save money in the long run if you choose to go with a metal roof. We recommend going with steel roofing over tin or aluminum to get the most longevity out of your roof and considering Galvalume steel if you live in a coastal region.

Homeowner Insights

Of the homeowners who installed a metal roof in our 2026 survey, 89% reported being either “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the outcome.

FAQs About Metal Roofs