Metal Roof vs. Shingle Roof: Cost Comparison
Asphalt shingles cost far less up front. Metal costs two to three times as much but can last two to three times as long. Here is how the two compare on installed price, lifespan and cost per year of service.
Short answer: Shingles for budget and short ownership; metal for longevity and severe weather.
Installed cost
For a typical 2,000 sq ft roof, architectural shingles run about $9,400 to $15,200 installed, while standing seam steel runs about $20,500 to $33,500. Exposed-fastener metal panels are the budget metal option at about $12,500 to $21,500.
Metal costs more for two reasons: the panels themselves cost more per square foot, and fewer crews install metal well, so labor rates are higher.
| Option | Installed cost | Typical life |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural shingles | $9,400 to $15,200 | 20 to 30 years |
| Exposed-fastener metal | $12,500 to $21,500 | 25 to 40 years |
| Standing seam steel | $20,500 to $33,500 | 40 to 60 years |
| Standing seam aluminum | $24,500 to $41,500 | 40 to 60 years |
Cost per year of service
Divide installed cost by expected life and the gap narrows. A shingle roof replaced every 25 years and a metal roof that lasts 50 years can end up close on annual cost, and the metal roof avoids one full tear-off and disposal cycle.
The catch is that you pay the metal premium now and recover it over decades. If you expect to move within 10 years, shingles usually make more financial sense unless metal is common in your market and buyers value it.
Other differences
Metal sheds snow, resists fire and wind better than shingles, and many products carry long warranties. Some insurers discount premiums for metal or impact-rated roofs.
Shingles are easier to repair and match, quieter in hail, and every roofer can work with them. Metal needs correct fastening and expansion details, so installer experience matters more.
Which should you choose?
Choose shingles if budget is the priority, you plan to sell within a decade, or your neighborhood is all shingle roofs. Choose metal if you plan to stay 15 years or more, live in a snow, wildfire or hurricane area, or want to skip a future replacement.
Common questions
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost?
Over 40 or more years, usually yes, because it can outlast two shingle roofs. Over a short ownership period, the premium is hard to recover.
Can metal be installed over shingles?
Some systems allow one layer of shingles to stay where code permits, which saves tear-off cost. A roofer should check the decking first.
Does metal roofing increase home value?
It can help in markets where metal is common or storms are frequent, but you rarely recover the full premium at sale.