Deciding between a metal roof and an asphalt shingle roof can be overwhelming, especially when considering factors like durability, cost, and appearance. Your roof plays a vital role in protecting your home, so selecting the right roofing system is an important decision.
If you want to know “Is a metal roof more expensive than a shingle roof?” or “Is metal or shingle roof cheaper?”, this guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of metal vs shingle roofing. We’ll assist you in choosing between these popular roofing materials based on your:
- Budget
- Long-term goals
- Minnesota’s unique weather conditions
What is a Metal Roof?
A metal roof provides a premium roofing material option, known for its striking designs and incredible durability. These roofs are made from materials like tin, steel, aluminum, and copper, available in various styles, including standing seam metal roofs, corrugated panels, and even metal shingles that mimic wood or slate.
Forget the noisy, bare-metal panels of the past—modern metal roofs are some of the most attractive and efficient choices for residential homes. While the cost to replace an entire roof with metal can be higher upfront, its 50+ year lifespan, minimal maintenance, and energy efficiency provide long-term value.
✅ Pros of Metal Roofs
- 100% recyclable and sustainable
- Long-lasting (50+ years)
- Fire, insect, and weather-resistant
- Low-maintenance
- Boosts curb appeal with sleek designs
- Excellent insulation and energy efficiency
- Withstands hailstorms and extreme winds
- Improves home resale value
❌ Cons of Metal Roofs
- Higher upfront investment
- Fewer color options (though this is improving!)
- Aluminum panels can be noisy without proper insulation
Pros & Cons of Metal Roofs
There are, of course, pros and cons to a material like metal. We will go through those to help weigh the options of making such a large investment in your home.
Pros of Metal Roofs:
- 100% recyclable
- Long-lasting (50+ years)
- Excellent insulation
- Low-maintenance
- Boosts curb appeal
- Fire and insect resistant
- Very durable against hail, wind, and other strong storms
- Increase your home’s value
Cons of Metal Roofs:
- Expensive upfront costs
- Aluminum panels can be noisy
- Fewer color options
What is an Asphalt Shingle Roof?
An asphalt shingle roof is America’s most common roofing system, valued for its affordability and ease of installation. Shingles are made of a fiberglass core, a weather-resistant asphalt coating, and ceramic granules that enhance durability and protect against UV rays.
These roofs last about 15–20 years, making them a cost-effective option for homeowners on a tighter budget or those searching for a new roof with more color choices to complement their homes.
✅ Pros of Asphalt Shingle Roofs
- Affordable, with low initial costs for roof replacement
- Easy to repair or replace
- Lightweight and compatible with most homes
- Wide variety of colors and designs
- Suitable for DIY roofers
❌ Cons of Asphalt Shingles
- Lower lifespan (15–20 years)
- Higher maintenance requirements
- Materials can crack or warp in extreme conditions
- Poor insulation as it ages
- Prone to leaks or mold growth without proper care
Pros & Cons of Asphalt Shingles
There are many variables to work through when considering whether an asphalt shingle roof is right for you. To help you make this decision, we will go over the pros and cons of asphalt shingles.
Pros of Standard Asphalt Shingles:
- Affordable
- Durable against strong winds, rainstorms, and hail
- Reduces energy costs
- It can be installed over any flat surface, including a metal or concrete base.
- Lots of color options
- Easy to maintain and repair
- DIY-friendly
Cons of Standard Asphalt Shingles:
- Poor insulation properties as they age — will require more energy to heat your home in the winter months.
- Low lifespan at 15-20 years max before need replacement
- Leaky seals can lead to increased electricity bills from air conditioning units due to moist surfaces inside the house.
Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof Comparison
Now that you know the benefits and drawbacks, how do you decide which is right for your home? Let’s compare average costs, durability, maintenance, and how each performs in Minnesota’s climate.
Is Metal or Shingle Roof Cheaper?
Winner: Asphalt Shingles
If you’re on a tighter budget, asphalt shingles are the clear choice. The average cost of a new roof with asphalt shingles runs between $100–$200 per roofing square (equal to 10 x 10 ft).
Metal roofs, particularly premium options like standing seam metal roofs, can cost anywhere from $150–$900 per square. While more expensive upfront, their durability offers better value over time.
Best Long-Term Investment
Winner: Metal Roof
Although a metal roof comes with higher upfront costs, its 50+ year lifespan far exceeds the 15–20 years of asphalt shingles. Over time, you’d replace a shingle roof 2–3 times, making metal the more cost-efficient option in the long run.
DIY-Friendliness
Winner: Asphalt Shingles
If you’re looking to replace or repair your roof yourself, go with shingles. The materials are affordable, lightweight, and simple to install with basic tools like a ladder, chalk line, and nail gun. Metal roofs often require professional installation due to their complexity.
The Most Durable Roofing System
Winner: Metal Roof
Minnesota’s extreme weather makes durability a priority. Metal roofs are fire-resistant, insect-proof, and withstand heavy snow, hail, and high winds. Their seamless design makes them less prone to leaks. Shingles, while durable, require frequent repairs after harsh storms.
Best in Energy Efficiency
Winner: Metal Roof
A standing seam metal roof reflects heat, helping regulate indoor temperatures during Minnesota’s hot summers while reducing cooling costs by 10–25%. Asphalt shingles absorb more heat, making them less energy-efficient.
Matching Home Aesthetic
Winner: Asphalt Shingles
With countless colors, shingles offer more flexibility when matching your home’s siding. However, metal roofs are catching up, with colors like black, green, and grey becoming more widely available.
Low Maintenance
Winner: Metal Roof
Metal roofs only require an occasional inspection or debris cleaning. Asphalt shingles need more frequent maintenance, including replacing cracked shingles, sealing leaks, and cleaning algae or mold.
Minnesota Weather: What’s the Right Choice?
For Minnesotans, where winter snowstorms and summer heat waves collide, durability and energy efficiency matter most.
Metal Roofs handle snow and ice like a pro. Their smooth surface allows snow to slide off easily, preventing heavy buildup. Plus, they’re resistant to the freeze-thaw damage common in asphalt shingles.
Shingle Roofs perform well in moderate climates but may require additional insulation and repairs after winter storms or hail.
How Much is a Full Roof Replacement?
On average, the cost to replace an entire roof depends on roofing material. Asphalt shingles cost between $5,000–$10,000 for an average home in Minnesota. Metal roofs, while pricier upfront, cost $10,000–$20,000 but require fewer replacements over time.
The Bottom Line
Choosing between a metal roof vs asphalt shingle roof depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and long-term goals. If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term, consider upgrading to metal for energy savings and durability. For those on a stricter budget, shingles are a reliable and affordable option.
Still have questions about your home’s roofing system? Contact Northface Construction for a free consultation and estimate. Whether you’re looking to repair existing shingles or explore the cost to replace your entire roof, our experts will guide you through every step of the roofing process.
