If it’s time to install a new roof, you’re likely looking for an option that’s cost-effective, easy to maintain, and long-lasting. Two popular roofing materials are metal and asphalt, but they’re notably different across those three key factors. To help you decide between a metal vs. asphalt roof, we spent hours researching how these two materials compare. Our comprehensive guide looks at cost, maintenance, longevity, installation, and eco-friendliness—plus other roofing materials you might consider.

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What Is the Difference Between Metal and Asphalt Roofing?

Asphalt roofs are cheaper, quieter, and easier to install. Metal roofs are easier to maintain, longer-lasting, and more eco-friendly. We’ve broken down the most important differences below.

What is the Cost Difference Between Metal and Asphalt Roofing?

When you compare the cost of shingles vs. a metal roof, asphalt shingles come out ahead. Basic three-tab shingles cost $1.00–$1.50* per square foot, plus another $2 per square foot for installation. More premium, architectural shingles cost $2–$4 per square foot. Based on national averages, you can expect to pay a total of $5,800–$12,700 to replace an asphalt shingle roof.

It’s not uncommon for metal roofing to cost double that amount. Here are some of the most common types of metal roofing and their costs per square foot:

The cost of metal roofing also varies by style. The cheapest option is sheet metal, at $4–$6.50 per square foot, followed by metal shingles at $7–$22 per square foot. Corrugated roofs with exposed fasteners cost $4–$26 per square foot, while cut-to-size standing seam roofs cost $9–$30 per square foot.

*Cost data sourced from contractor estimates used by HomeAdvisor and Angi.

What is the Durability and Life Span Difference Between Metal and Asphalt Roofing?

You can’t compare costs without looking at longevity. Metal roofs cost more up-front, but their return on investment is higher. Metal roofs can endure a lot, which is why they often come with 30–50-year warranties. They may even outlast their warranty, holding up for 40–70 years. However, metal roofs are vulnerable to denting. A fallen tree branch or heavy hail could cause dents, making leakage a concern and warranting at least a partial roof replacement. 

Asphalt shingles typically come with a 15–30-year warranty and are most vulnerable to dampness. Pooling water and climates with heavy rain or long-lasting ice can lead to cracks and algae or fungus growth. Asphalt shingles also experience a lot of cracking in climates with drastically different day versus night temperatures, which shortens their life span.

What is the Maintenance Difference Between Metal and Asphalt Roofing?

The frequency and expense of roof maintenance for either type largely depends on climate and how well the roof was installed. Properly installed metal roofs typically require less maintenance since they’re less vulnerable to moisture. Regardless of the material, roofing experts recommend inspecting your roof at least once per year to check for any debris or damage that could cause a leak.

It’s more commonly asphalt shingles that present a problem, but not every issue is difficult or expensive to fix. For instance, in the video below, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner remove moss from his shingle roof and install a zinc strip to prevent it from growing back. This is a relatively simple DIY job, or you can pay $0.20–$0.70 per square foot for a professional roof cleaning plus $150–$250 for a preventive treatment.

What is the Sustainability Difference Between Metal and Asphalt Roofing?

Approximately 11 million tons of asphalt shingles are sent to landfills each year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. They can’t be recycled and are a petroleum-based product, which means they increase fossil fuel dependency.

What is the Installation Process Difference Between Metal and Asphalt Roofing?

Asphalt shingles are much easier and quicker to install than metal. They can be installed in one to two days, in most cases over an existing layer.

Metal roofing materials are heavier and leave less room for error. Installing a metal roof takes longer and will likely require more specialized tradespeople, which can increase labor costs.

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What Are Metal Roofing Pros and Cons?

The three most common metal roof styles are are standing seam panels, exposed fastener panels, and metal shingles. A standing-seam metal roof features panels that are locked together at the seam, allowing them to easily expand and contract as the temperature changes. Exposed fastener panels are attached to the roof with screws or nails while metal shingles mimic the look of traditional roofing materials.

Homeowners can also choose from several types of metal, including aluminum, copper, zinc, and steel. The weight and durability of metal drives up its price, but higher quality metal typically leads to a better return on investment. 

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What Are Asphalt Roofing Pros and Cons?

There are three types of asphalt shingle roofs. Basic three-tab asphalt shingles are thin and flat with a brick-like pattern, while architectural or dimensional shingles have a thicker and more textured appearance. Luxury or designer shingles are thicker still with a texture that mimics premium roofing materials like slate tiles or wood shakes.

Asphalt shingles are one of the cheapest roofing options available, but they also require more maintenance and don’t last as long. Most homeowners choose dimensional asphalt shingles for their curb appeal and midrange cost as compared to the other two choices.

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For a quick comparison of the most common roofing materials—including metal and asphalt—check out this video below with general contractor Tom Silva:

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Which is Better, a Metal or Asphalt Roof?

The choice between metal vs. asphalt roofing comes down to cost and durability. Asphalt shingles are more budget-friendly yet require more frequent replacement and offer less weather resistance. Metal roofs, on the other hand, offer impressive longevity and durability but come with a higher initial cost. Take time to explore all the options, talk to a roofing contractor, and analyze your roof and climate to see which roofing type is best for your home. 

See our guide to new roof costs for a more detailed breakdown of what to expect for your roofing project.

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FAQs About Metal and Asphalt Roofs

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