An asphalt shingle roof costs about $14,182 on average for a 2,000-square-foot home, while a metal roof costs around $53,811. Metal roofs require a higher upfront cost but deliver long-lasting durability and minimal maintenance. Asphalt shingles offer a classic appearance and a lower initial price for homeowners who want to reduce upfront spending.
This guide explains the factors that go into new roof costs, compares metal and asphalt options, and offers advice from experts featured in This Old House’s magazine and television series.
Key Takeaways
- Asphalt shingle roofs can cost $6,885–$23,993, while the price of installing metal roofs runs from $25,721–$89,600.
- Over 47% of homeowners in our 2026 nationwide roofing survey said they installed an asphalt shingle roof within the last five years, while nearly 13% installed a metal roof.
- Metal roofing requires specialized installation that takes longer to complete, resulting in higher labor costs than with standard asphalt shingles.
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What Impacts the Cost of Shingles vs. Metal Roofs?
The most relevant cost factor when getting a new roof is the type of roofing material you choose, but labor rates and the size of your roof can also play a role.
- Materials: The shingle material or metal type you choose largely determines unit costs.
- Labor: Anything that increases the time or complexity of a roofing project will increase installation costs. Metal roofs are harder to install, which is why they often cost more.
- Size: Larger roofs require more materials and labor to cover, which increases the price.
Metal roofs typically cost much more than shingle roofs, and our experience shadowing an Erie Home metal roof consultation showed that reps don’t shy away from this fact.
Homeowner Insights
The two biggest cost factors in the roofing projects from our 2026 survey were labor and materials. The third biggest factor was project upgrades.
Metal Roof Cost by Material
The term “metal roofing” can include everything from corrugated steel sheets to bespoke copper tiles. We break down estimated costs per square foot for various types of metal roofs below. Note that these ranges represent projects with builder-grade materials, medium labor costs, and standard-shaped, low-slope roofs.
| Roofing Material | Average Cost per Square Foot | Cost for 2,000 Square Feet of Material |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc | $14–$20 | $28,691–$40,455 |
| Steel | $16–$23 | $32,191–$45,276 |
| Tin | $16–$23 | $32,922–$46,372 |
| Aluminum | $17–$25 | $34,952–$49,215 |
| Copper | $29–$41 | $58,216–$82,459 |
Learn more about each type of metal roofing material below.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is typically one of the more expensive metal roofing materials, often available in sheet or shingle form. It’s lightweight and, therefore, less durable, but it’s recyclable and reflects solar heat.
- Copper: Copper is the most expensive metal roofing material, but it has a unique, luxurious appearance. It’s also the most durable roofing metal, resistant to rust and corrosion.
- Steel: This type of roof is made of galvalume, galvanized, or stainless steel, which we listed in order of lowest to highest price. Galvalume is an aluminum-coated steel roofing material that contractors typically paint over. Galvanized steel is more durable, but can corrode over time. Stainless steel is the most expensive but offers the longest lifespan.
- Tin: Tin tiles have a steel core with a tin-terne coating. The coating develops a patina over time, and these tiles can last up to 70 years.
- Zinc: Available as shingles and standing seam panels, zinc forms a protective coating that reduces the visibility of scratches and prevents corrosion. If properly maintained, it can last over a century. This material is also on the more affordable side.
Style of Metal Roofing
In addition to the metal type, a metal roof’s cost is also determined by the style. Metal is available in flat or corrugated sheets, shingles, and standing-seam panels.
- Corrugated sheets: The rustic appearance of corrugated metal is accentuated by its exposed fasteners, which homeowners must maintain to prevent loosening and corrosion.
- Flat sheets: These sheets have the lowest average cost of all metal roofing materials. They are usually galvalume or galvanized steel, with exposed fasteners.
- Shingles: Metal shingles are often shaped and textured to resemble asphalt, wood, or slate shingles.
- Standing-seam panels: This style allows the locked-together seams to enclose the fasteners, reducing maintenance needs. These panels can usually withstand high winds and other extreme weather.
Expert Insights
- Standing seam metal roofs are less prone to leaks when compared to asphalt shingles because the material goes all the way up and down the roof’s surface, according to Tom Silva, This Old House’s general contractor.
Shingle Roof Cost by Material
When most people think of a shingle roof, they may picture three-tab shingles made of asphalt. But shingles come in many materials and styles, and a basic asphalt shingle roof isn’t your only option. The table below shows estimated costs per square foot for different types of shingle roofs based on projects with builder-grade materials, medium-rate labor, and low-slope, standard-shaped roofs.
| Shingle Material | Average Price per Square Foot | Price for 2,000 Square Feet |
|---|---|---|
| Basic asphalt | $4–$6 | $8,419–$11,665 |
| Architectural asphalt | $6–$8 | $11,914–$16,436 |
| Composite | $7–$9 | $13,420–$17,678 |
| Wood | $11–$15 | $21,519–$29,232 |
| Slate | $18–$25 | $35,914–$50,704 |
Learn more about each type of shingle material below.
- Basic asphalt shingles: These inexpensive shingles remain the most popular residential roofing option. They’re easy to purchase and install, but only last 15–20 years.
- Architectural asphalt shingles: Architectural shingles use a similar asphalt material to basic shingles, but they’re thicker and sturdier. They’re more expensive than standard asphalt shingles, but have a life expectancy of about 30 years and can stand up to more severe weather conditions.
- Composite shingles: Composite shingles also contain asphalt, along with fiberglass and recycled materials, for added strength. These shingles are often designed to look like wood or other materials and can last up to 50 years.
- Wood shingles: Wooden shingles create a distinctive, beautiful look and last 40–50 years. The downsides are the price and the maintenance needed to keep them looking good.
- Slate shingles: Slate or natural stone shingles are durable enough to rival high-quality metal roofing materials, with a lifespan of 100 years or more. But they’re expensive and very heavy, often requiring roof reinforcement.
Cost by Roof Size
Contractors price roofing materials by the square foot, so a larger roof will cost more money. Basic, architectural, and composite shingles cost between $4.21 and $8.84 per square foot. By contrast, metal roofing systems cost between $14.35 and $41.23 per square foot.
The table below shows the installation and material costs of an asphalt shingle roof, based on roof size.
| Roof Square Footage | Average Shingles Cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $4,291–$8,951 |
| 1,500 | $6,355–$13,314 |
| 2,000 | $8,419–$17,678 |
| 2,500 | $10,483–$22,041 |
| 3,000 | $12,547–$26,405 |
The table below shows the installation and material costs of metal roof types, based on roof size.
| Roof Square Footage | Average Metal Roof Cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $14,030–$41,341 |
| 1,500 | $21,559–$61,900 |
| 2,000 | $28,691–$82,459 |
| 2,500 | $35,822–$103,018 |
| 3,000 | $42,954–$123,577 |
During our viewing of Erie Home’s metal roofing consultation, we found that companies sell metal roofing materials in pre-measured sheets ranging from 50–100 square feet. Professional contractors use a “roofing square” measurement of 100 square feet to determine the materials and costs required for a project. The Erie representative also explained that roofers usually order slightly more material than necessary in case of issues, which can result in up to 10% of the material going to waste.
Homeowner Insights
Keep in mind that your roof’s square footage is often slightly higher than your home’s floor area, thanks to roof pitch and overhangs. Over 66% of homeowners in our survey said their roof measured between 1,001 and 3,000 square feet.
Labor Costs
The cost of a metal roof installation is typically higher than with a shingle roof because metal is a specialty material that takes longer to install. Regardless of the materials, anything that makes installing a new roof more complicated or time-consuming will add additional costs. This means roofers may charge extra for working on especially steep or inaccessible roofs.
Removing your old roof also impacts labor and installation costs. To install a new roof, contractors must first remove the existing roof materials and repair any damage they find. Sometimes, contractors can install a second layer of basic asphalt shingles over the first, but contractors don’t typically recommend it, unless your roof is undamaged and sturdy.
Hiring a Professional vs. DIYing Your Roof
We strongly recommend hiring a professional roofer over do-it-yourself (DIY) due to the complex nature of roof installation. This project involves many steps and specialized expertise, and it poses a safety risk if you aren’t sure of what you’re doing. Here’s what you stand to gain by hiring a licensed roofing contractor to install your new metal or shingle roof.
- Warranty coverage: The manufacturer’s warranty on most roofing materials requires professional installation. A contractor will often provide a workmanship warranty as well.
- Visual benefits: Professionally installed materials typically have a more even appearance and better curb appeal.
- Proper permitting: Licensed roofers will help you get the necessary permits and ensure the final results meet all applicable building codes.
- Satisfactory work: Professional contractors can complete the job more quickly and neatly than DIYers.
How To Save on a Roof Installation
Even though we recommend professional installation, homeowners can still save on roofing projects with the following tips.
- Choose the least expensive roofing materials that still meet your climate needs.
- If you feel comfortable, tear off and dispose of old shingles yourself.
- When possible, think long-term. A higher-quality, more durable material has higher initial costs, but it won’t need as much repair and may lower your energy bill in the long run.
- After installing your new roof, keep up with maintenance and gutter cleaning to extend its lifespan.
We also recommend obtaining a detailed estimate that includes line-item descriptions of every fee your contractor charges so you know exactly what you’re paying. “I wish I’d known how much extra costs like decking repairs, ventilation upgrades, and disposal fees add beyond the initial quote,” said one homeowner in our survey.
Comparing Shingle vs. Metal Roofs
Whether you install shingles or metal roofing will largely depend on your budget, material preferences, and local climate. Learn more about the benefits of each type of roofing material below.
Benefits of Shingle Roofs
Aside from significant cost savings, here’s a list of the main benefits of opting for asphalt shingles:
- Resale value: According to the Journal of Light Construction’s 2025 Cost vs. Value Report, an asphalt shingle roof replacement has a higher resale value (68%) than a metal roof replacement (50%).
- Easier repairs: Asphalt roofs are easier and quicker to repair.
- Noise reduction: Asphalt roofing is far less noisy during rain and hail.
- Aesthetic considerations: Most houses have asphalt shingles, so you may need to install the same material to blend in with the neighborhood aesthetic, which some homeowners associations (HOAs) require.
Benefits of Metal Roofs
Here’s what you stand to gain by choosing a metal roof over shingles:
- Durability: Metal roofing is more durable than asphalt, composite, and wooden shingles, so it costs less in the long run. Silva estimates that metal roofing can last up to 100 years.
- Less maintenance: Most metal materials require less maintenance and repair than asphalt shingles.
- Climate considerations: Some types of metal can reflect heat, increasing your home’s energy efficiency during cold months and lowering your utility bills.
- Visual benefits: Metal roofs, particularly copper and zinc, form a patina that gives them a unique appearance.
- Material disposal: You can recycle metal roofing, whereas asphalt shingles end up in landfills.
Pro Tip
- If you live in an area with regular snowfall in the winter, Silva recommends installing barriers on your metal roof directly above entryways in your home. The barriers can help prevent snow from sliding down the roof and hitting people or objects.
Survey Insights From Homeowners Who Replaced Their Roof
Our team surveyed actual homeowners to gain insights into why they installed a new roof. Then, we pulled data from respondents who specifically installed asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Overall, the majority of these homeowners (93%) were either satisfied or very satisfied with their roof replacement. Below are some additional themes we gathered from our survey results.
Most Homes Were Over 10 Years Old
Over 86% of the homeowners who installed an asphalt shingle or metal roof reported that their home was 11 years or older. We also found that 76% of those respondents performed a full roof replacement rather than replacing one a section at a time.
Most Roof Replacement Projects Were Urgent
Over half (51%) of homeowners who installed metal and asphalt shingle roofs said they needed to replace their home’s roof immediately or within weeks of receiving a roofing consultation. However, nearly 41% said their roof replacement wasn’t urgent, and that they completed the project several months after the consultation. We also found that 68% of homeowners needed to replace their roofs due to weather-related damage or leaks.
Homeowners Generally Had a Smooth Roof Replacement Experience
We found that nearly 34% of the homeowners who installed an asphalt shingle or metal roof experienced a smooth roof replacement, from start to finish, with the biggest frustration being the noise, dust, and overall mess caused by the project. We also asked homeowners if they would do anything differently if they were to redo their roofing project. Over 30% said they wouldn’t change their original approach, with another 20% saying they would get more estimates from contractors before starting.
How We Collected Our Survey Data
In 2026, our team surveyed 1,000 homeowners who replaced their home’s roof within the last five years across all 50 U.S. states. Our goal was to gather insights from actual roofing customers about why they decided to replace their roofs and their project experiences. We also gathered data on costs, timelines, and overall satisfaction levels.
Are Shingles or Metal Roofing Right for Your Home?
Both shingle and metal roofs have pros and cons, so the decision ultimately comes down to your needs and budget. Asphalt shingles are more popular because they’re less expensive. On the other hand, metal roofing is more durable and may reduce household costs over time. No matter what roofing material you choose, we recommend professional installation by a licensed contractor.
FAQs About Shingles vs. Metal Roof Costs
What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?
While metal roofs have multiple benefits, it’s important to consider the downsides. The biggest disadvantage is the upfront cost of metal roofing. It costs significantly more than asphalt shingles, both for materials and installation. Another disadvantage is that metal roofing material can dent if heavy objects fall on them. Rust is another concern, especially if you install a lower-quality metal roofing.
Is a metal roof better for my home?
While the initial installation cost of a metal roof is substantially higher than that of asphalt shingles, the combined benefits of superior durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and energy savings often make metal roofs a better long-term investment. If your budget permits the higher upfront cost, selecting a metal roof can offer a better choice, providing better protection and energy efficiency for decades to come.
Can you install roofing yourself?
We don’t recommend installing roofing yourself unless you’re a trained and experienced contractor. Any kind of roof work comes with a risk of falling, and that risk increases with the roof’s steepness. Additionally, roof replacement is a complex project that can affect your home’s structural integrity. A poorly installed roof can leave your home vulnerable to water damage and other issues. While asphalt shingles are easier to install than most metal roofing materials, we still recommend hiring a professional for either type of material.
How long do metal and asphalt shingle roofs last?
Depending on the metal type, a well-maintained metal roof can last up to 100 years. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, tend to last between 15 and 50 years, depending on the quality.
How We Determined Metal and Shingle Roof Pricing
To provide accurate and current pricing for metal and shingle roof replacements, we collected estimates from Homewyse, a platform used by contractors to generate costs for home improvement projects. We also gathered pricing insights from our 2026 survey of 1,000 homeowners who replaced their roofs within the last five years, including projects that used metal and shingle roofing materials.
Our research provides a comprehensive overview of both national and local pricing. We requested or analyzed quotes for roof replacement projects ranging from 1,000–3,000 square feet in size in several U.S. states to better understand local pricing. This allows our cost averages to reflect diverse homeowner needs across both urban and rural markets.
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