Metal Roof vs. Shingle Roof: Weighing Your Options

Let Wharton Roofing help you compare the cost of a metal and shingle roof for your home or commercial building. Call us for a free quote today at 979-534-2014.

Whether you need to replace a leaky roof or build a new home, you have many choices in roofing material. The two most common types of roofing in the U.S. are metal and asphalt shingles, but choosing between the two requires an in-depth comparison. This article explores the differences between metal roof vs. shingle roof materials to help you choose the most suitable option. 

Five Comparisons Between Metal and Shingle Roofs

Below, we discuss five comparisons between asphalt shingles and metal roofs so you can understand the key advantages and disadvantages of each. 

1. Initial Cost

The installation costs of a metal roof far exceed those for asphalt shingles, making the latter a more affordable investment in the short term. The average asphalt shingle roof costs between $7,000 and $10,000, while metal roofing may cost between $12,000 and $20,000. 

Despite the higher initial cost, metal roofs cost less in the long term because they last two to three times longer than standard shingles. For example, an $8,500 asphalt roof will cost a minimum of $25,500 within 60 years, thousands of dollars more than a $16,000 metal roof that may last just as long.

2. Longevity

Home and business owners must replace asphalt shingle roofs every 12 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the installation, local weather, and other factors. Metal roofing panels, tiles, and shakes last much longer, at least 50 years, with proper installation and maintenance. 

3. Repairs and Maintenance

Considering maintenance requirements is essential when comparing metal roof vs. shingle roof materials. Repairs on a shingle roof often cost less than metal roofing repairs, but metal roofs tend to require less maintenance overall. You may also have an easier time finding roofing professionals for asphalt compared to metal roofing specialists. 

4. Environmental Friendliness

One of the significant benefits of metal roofs vs. shingles is recyclability. While millions of tons of asphalt shingles wind up in landfills annually, metal roofing consists of 100% recyclable roofing material. Whether your metal roof consists of steel, aluminum, or tin panels, you can feel better about your environmental impact with a metal roof.

5. Property Value

Home and business owners who have installed metal roofing enjoy higher property values. If you replace your asphalt shingles with a metal roof at your home or commercial building, you may increase the property value by 1 to 6%. You may also benefit from a faster resale if you want to sell.

Weigh Your Options with Wharton Roofing 

Metal offers significant advantages at nearly every turn when comparing metal roof vs. shingle roof products. Call our team at Wharton Roofing at 979-534-2014 to discuss your metal or asphalt roofing options in Wharton, TX, and get a free estimate. 

You can trust our experienced roofers to handle your installation or repair, avoiding common roofing mistakes and providing excellent customer service.