Roofing comparison
Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: Cost Comparison
Metal and asphalt are the two most common roofing choices, and the price gap between them is large. Here is how they compare on upfront cost, lifespan, and long-term value in 2026.
Metal roof
$10 to $24 per sq ft installed
Asphalt shingles
$4.50 to $11 per sq ft installed
| Feature | Metal roof | Asphalt shingles |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost per sq ft | $10 to $24 | $4.50 to $11 |
| Typical 1,800 sq ft roof | $18,000 to $43,000 | $8,100 to $19,800 |
| Lifespan | 40 to 70 years | 20 to 30 years |
| Weight | Light | Moderate |
| Energy efficiency | High (reflective) | Moderate |
| Noise in rain | Higher | Lower |
| Resale appeal | Strong, premium | Standard, expected |
Metal roof
- Lasts two to three times longer than asphalt
- Reflects heat and can lower cooling bills
- Fire resistant and sheds snow well
- Rarely needs replacement once installed
- High upfront cost
- Fewer qualified installers
- Can be noisier in heavy rain without insulation
Asphalt shingles
- Lowest upfront cost
- Installed by nearly any roofer
- Huge range of colors and styles
- Easy and cheap to repair
- Shorter lifespan
- Less energy efficient
- May need replacement two or three times in the life of a metal roof
The verdict
Choose asphalt shingles if upfront budget is the priority or you may move within 10 to 15 years. Choose metal if you plan to stay long term, want the longest lifespan, or value energy efficiency and are willing to pay more now to avoid replacing the roof again.
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$207.43
Pneumatic coil roofing nailer drives shingle nails fast for a full reroof.
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Bulk coil roofing nails sized for asphalt shingle installation.
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$59.97
Synthetic underlayment adds a water-resistant layer under new shingles.
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$218.40
Tear-off shovel rips old shingles and nails fast during a reroof.
View on AmazonFrequently asked questions
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost over asphalt?
If you plan to stay in the home 15 years or more, a metal roof often pays off because it can outlast two or three asphalt roofs and lowers cooling costs. For short-term ownership, asphalt is usually the better value.
How much more does a metal roof cost than shingles?
A metal roof typically costs two to three times more than asphalt shingles. On a 1,800 square foot roof, that is roughly $18,000 to $43,000 for metal versus $8,100 to $19,800 for asphalt.
Does a metal roof lower home insurance?
Sometimes. Many insurers offer discounts for metal roofs because they resist fire, wind, and hail better than asphalt. Ask your insurer, since policies vary by region.