If you are trying to decide between a metal roof and asphalt shingles, the first thing you will notice is the upfront price difference. In many cases, metal roofing costs more at installation. But the better question is not which is cheaper today. The better question is which option costs less over the life of the home, gives you fewer headaches, and delivers the best total value in your climate.
This guide breaks down the real cost comparison in 2026, including what drives pricing, how long each roof typically lasts, maintenance expectations, resale value impact, and how to make the decision based on your goals.
If you want to browse premium metal roofing styles first, start here: all metal roofing options at Top Tier Metals.
Quick answer
- Asphalt shingles usually win on lowest upfront cost, faster installs, and wide contractor availability.
- Metal roofing usually wins on lifespan, storm durability, long-term maintenance reduction, and total cost of ownership, especially if you plan to stay in the home long-term.
Upfront cost: why metal roofing typically costs more
Metal roofing is not one product. Costs vary by system type, profile, coating, gauge, and installation complexity. In general, metal roofs cost more upfront because:
- Material cost is higher for premium coated steel or stone-coated systems
- Trim, flashings, and accessories are more system-driven and detail-sensitive
- Installation often requires higher precision, especially for standing seam
- Complex roofs increase labor and accessory costs regardless of material
To compare common metal panel systems that are popular for homes and shops, review: metal panel roofing systems.
Lifespan comparison: how long does each roof actually last
Asphalt shingle lifespan in practice
Asphalt shingles can perform well, but real-world lifespan is heavily influenced by:
- Climate exposure and UV intensity
- Ventilation quality and attic heat buildup
- Storm frequency, hail, and wind exposure
- Installation quality and flashing details
Many homeowners replace shingles sooner than they expect due to cosmetic aging, granule loss, or storm damage, even when the roof is not actively leaking.
Metal roof lifespan in practice
Metal roofing is typically selected for long service life. Performance depends on:
- Steel coating and paint system quality
- Panel system choice and attachment method
- Detailing quality at edges, valleys, and penetrations
- Maintenance approach, especially for exposed-fastener panels
If you want a clear breakdown of steel and coating choices that affect longevity, read: steel grades for metal roofing and how to choose the right material.
Total cost of ownership: the math most homeowners forget
Total cost of ownership includes:
- Initial installation cost
- Maintenance and repairs over time
- Storm damage risk and frequency of insurance claims
- Replacement cycles if you live in the home long-term
- Resale value impact
A roof that costs less today can cost more over 20 to 30 years if it requires earlier replacement or frequent repairs.
Maintenance cost: metal roof vs shingles
Shingle roof maintenance
Common maintenance and issue patterns for shingles include:
- Replacing damaged shingles after storms
- Addressing algae streaks, moss, or granule loss
- Repairing flashing issues that show up with age
- Potentially replacing sections if wind damage is localized
Metal roof maintenance
Maintenance depends heavily on the type of metal roof system.
- Standing seam often has lower routine fastener maintenance, but penetrations and trim details should be inspected periodically.
- Exposed-fastener panels can be very durable, but fasteners and washers should be inspected over time, especially after severe temperature cycling.
If you want a detailed maintenance checklist, use: inspecting and maintaining your metal roof seasonal checklist.
Storm performance and insurance: where metal can change the equation
In many regions, hail and wind risk influence roof ownership cost more than homeowners expect. Metal roofing systems are often selected specifically to reduce storm damage frequency and improve resilience. That does not mean metal is immune to damage, but it can change the long-term risk profile depending on the system and environment.
If hail is a major concern in your area, consider exploring stone-coated options that often prioritize impact performance and premium curb appeal. Start here: DECRA stone-coated metal roofing options.
Resale value: what buyers actually notice
Most buyers do not know the exact panel or shingle brand. They respond to three signals:
- The roof looks premium and consistent from the street
- The roof looks newer and well cared for
- The roof material implies long life and fewer near-term expenses
Metal roofing often helps resale when the profile matches the home style and neighborhood expectations. For example, standing seam can look premium and modern, while metal shingles and stone-coated systems can blend into traditional neighborhoods while still delivering metal durability.
Browse style categories based on your exterior goals:
- metal panel roofing systems
- metal shingle roofing styles
- metal shake roofing styles
- metal tile roofing styles
When shingles make the most sense
Asphalt shingles are often the right choice when:
- You need the lowest upfront cost and the home may be sold soon
- The roof geometry is straightforward and the local contractor base is strongest in shingles
- You want a wide range of readily available design styles at a lower entry price
- You are comfortable with a shorter replacement cycle over long ownership horizons
When metal roofing makes the most sense
Metal roofing is often the right choice when:
- You plan to stay in the home long-term and want to reduce replacement cycles
- You are in a hail or wind-exposed region and want greater resilience
- You want premium curb appeal and long-term color stability
- You want fewer maintenance headaches over decades of ownership
If you are comparing metal panel styles specifically, these two pages are helpful:
FAQ: metal roof vs shingles cost
Is a metal roof always more expensive than shingles?
Upfront, it usually is. Over the life of the home, metal can be cost-competitive or cheaper if it reduces replacement cycles, repairs, and storm-related damage frequency.
Is a metal roof worth it if I will sell in 5 years?
Sometimes. It depends on your market. If buyers value premium exteriors and long-life materials, a metal roof can support resale appeal. If the market is highly price-driven, you may not recover the full upgrade cost.
Can you install a metal roof over shingles to save money?
It can be done in some cases, but it requires correct planning for moisture and code compliance. Use: metal roof over shingles planning guide.
Which metal roof style looks most like shingles?
Metal shingles and stone-coated steel shingles are designed for a shingle-style appearance. Start with: metal shingle roofing options.
Get a clear recommendation for your roof and budget
If you want the fastest path to a confident decision, the best approach is to match roof style, coating quality, and assembly design to your climate and ownership timeline. Use a free metal roofing consultation with Top Tier Metals to get a system recommendation and a quote based on your specific roof.
