Is a metal roof worth the extra cost?

Yes, for most long-term homeowners. Metal costs 2-3x more upfront but lasts 2-3x longer (40-60 years vs 20-30 for asphalt). Over 50 years, the total cost is comparable because you avoid replacing asphalt shingles 2-3 times. Metal also reduces cooling costs 10-25%, may qualify for insurance discounts of 5-35%, requires minimal maintenance, and withstands extreme weather better. If you plan to stay in your home 15+ years, metal roofing is typically the better investment. How long does a metal roof last?

How long does a metal roof last?

Steel (Galvalume coated) lasts 40-60 years. Aluminum lasts 50-75 years. Copper and zinc last 70-100+ years. Compare this to asphalt shingles at 15-30 years. Metal roofing warranties are typically 30-50 years on the paint finish and lifetime on structural integrity. The main maintenance is potential repainting after 20-30 years and occasional fastener tightening on exposed fastener systems. Standing seam systems have the fewest maintenance needs. Is a metal roof noisy when it rains?

Is a metal roof noisy when it rains?

With modern installation over solid roof sheathing and proper attic insulation, most homeowners report no noticeable difference in noise between metal and asphalt. The noise concern comes from older agricultural metal buildings where metal was installed directly over rafters with no insulation. Residential metal roofs installed over plywood sheathing with standard attic insulation buffer the sound effectively. The difference in noise level is typically 5-10 decibels — barely perceptible. Can you put a metal roof over shingles?

Can you put a metal roof over shingles?

Yes, in many cases. Metal roofing is lightweight enough (1-1.5 lbs/sq ft) that it can be installed over one layer of existing asphalt shingles without exceeding the roof's structural capacity. This saves on tear-off costs ($1,000-$3,000). However, check local building codes — some jurisdictions require tear-off. Installing over shingles works best with standing seam or metal shingle systems that use furring strips. Inspect the existing roof deck for rot or damage before covering it.

Article

Comparisons

Metal Roof vs Shingles: Complete Comparison Guide

Lumberama Editorial Team, Roofing Material & Installation Specialists Jun 4, 2026 9 min read

What They Are

Asphalt shingles: Most common roofing in America (75%+ of homes). Three-tab (flat, basic) or architectural/dimensional (textured, thicker). Fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and ceramic granules. Available in dozens of colors. Standard for residential roofing.

Metal roofing: Steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc panels/shingles. Standing seam: vertical panels with raised seams (most popular). Metal shingles: look like traditional shingles but metal. Corrugated: ribbed panels (more industrial/agricultural). Exposed fastener: screws visible on surface (budget option).

Cost

Asphalt shingles: Three-tab: $3-$5/sq ft installed. Architectural: $4-$7/sq ft installed. Premium/designer: $6-$10/sq ft installed. Average home (1,500 sq ft roof): $4,500-$10,500.

Metal roofing: Corrugated/exposed fastener: $5-$9/sq ft installed. Standing seam (steel): $8-$14/sq ft installed. Standing seam (aluminum): $10-$18/sq ft installed. Metal shingles: $7-$12/sq ft installed. Copper: $18-$30/sq ft installed. Average home (1,500 sq ft roof): $12,000-$21,000 (standing seam).

Price ratio: Metal costs 2-3x more than asphalt upfront. But metal lasts 2-3x longer. Cost over 50 years: approximately equal (one metal roof vs two or three shingle roofs).

Lifespan

Asphalt shingles: Three-tab: 15-20 years. Architectural: 25-30 years. Premium: 30-40 years. Warranty: 25-50 years (limited).

Metal roofing: Steel (Galvalume): 40-60 years. Aluminum: 50-75 years. Copper: 70-100+ years. Zinc: 60-100 years. Warranty: 30-50 years (paint finish), lifetime (structural).

Maintenance impact: Asphalt: loses granules over time, susceptible to moss/algae, shingles curl and crack. Metal: minimal degradation, may need repainting after 20-30 years, fasteners may need tightening (exposed fastener systems).

Performance

Energy efficiency: Asphalt: absorbs heat (dark colors especially). Can increase attic temperature 20-40 degrees F. Metal: reflects solar radiation. Cool-roof coatings reduce heat absorption. Can reduce cooling costs 10-25%. ENERGY STAR rated options available.

Weather resistance: Asphalt: rated for 60-130 mph wind (depending on type). Can be damaged by hail. Susceptible to wind uplift (shingle blow-off). Metal: rated for 110-160+ mph wind. Hail resistant (steel and aluminum). Snow slides off (good and bad). No wind uplift issues with standing seam.

Weight: Asphalt: 2-4 lbs/sq ft. Metal: 1-1.5 lbs/sq ft. Metal can often be installed over existing shingles (check local codes). Less structural stress on home.

Noise: Metal is noisier during rain and hail. Solid sheathing and insulation minimize noise. Most homeowners report noise is not an issue with proper installation.

Best For

Choose asphalt shingles if: Budget is the priority. Traditional neighborhood appearance. Planning to sell within 10-15 years. Mild climate without extreme weather. Simpler installation and repair.

Choose metal roofing if: Long-term value (plan to stay 15+ years). Extreme weather area (high wind, hail, heavy snow). Energy efficiency is important. Want 40-60+ year lifespan. Coastal (aluminum resists salt corrosion). Fire-prone area (metal is Class A fire rated).

Insurance savings: Many insurers offer 5-35% premium discounts for metal roofs. Hail-resistant and wind-resistant ratings qualify for discounts. Florida, Texas, and other storm-prone states offer largest discounts. Can save $200-$1,000+/year on premiums.