Asphalt shingle roofs are still the most popular choice for American homes, but metal roofs are becoming more common. Metal roof panels and tiles are low-maintenance and durable. They cost more upfront but last for decades and provide great long-term value. 

An asphalt shingle roof costs between $6,000 and $9,800 on average, or between $4.50 and $12.25 per square foot. A metal roof costs about $15,000–$24,500, or between $4 and $40 per square foot.* Learn what goes into these costs and compare the pros and cons of metal versus shingle roofs below.

*Cost figures in this article are based on 2023 reports from multiple sources, including Roofing Calculator and Remodeling Calculator.

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Cost Factors of Shingles vs. Metal Roofs

Metal roofs typically cost more than shingle roofs, and our experience shadowing an Erie Home metal roof consultation showed that reps don’t shy away from this fact. We also found the following to be the largest cost determinants when getting a new roof:

• Material: The shingle material or metal type determines unit costs.
• Size: Larger roofs need more materials and labor to cover them.
• Labor: Metal roofs are harder to install. Anything that increases the roofing project’s complexity will increase installation costs. 

Type of Material

The most relevant cost factor is the type of roofing materials you choose. As you might imagine, high-quality metal and shingles will cost more, but they’re also more durable.

Cost of Metal Roof Material

The term “metal roofing” can cover everything from corrugated steel sheets to bespoke copper tiles. Our experience shadowing Erie Home’s metal roofing consultation informed us that companies sell metal roofing materials in premeasured sheets ranging from 50–100 square feet. Professional contractors use a “roofing square” measurement, which is equal to 100 square feet, to determine the materials and costs required for a project. The Erie representative also explained that roofers usually order slightly more material than necessary in case of any issues, which usually causes up to 10% of the material to go to waste.

• Aluminum: Aluminum is typically the least expensive metal roofing material, usually in the form of sheets or shingles. It’s lightweight and, therefore, less durable, but it’s recyclable and reflects solar heat.
• Tin: Typically, tin tiles are made from a steel core with a tin alloy coating called Terne. The coating develops a patina over time, and these tiles can last up to 70 years.
• Zinc: Available as shingles and standing seam panels, zinc forms a protective coating that reduces the visibility of scratches and prevents corrosion. If properly maintained, it can last over a century.
• Steel: A steel roof can be made of galvalume, galvanized, or stainless steel. Galvalume is an aluminum-coated form of steel roofing that often comes painted. It’s the least expensive option. Galvanized steel is in the midrange: it’s more durable than galvalume, but it can corrode over time. Stainless steel is the most expensive, but it also has the longest life span.
• Lead: Lead tiles are typically composed of a stronger, metal-like steel or copper coated in lead. This outer coating is very corrosion-resistant. A lead roof can last 100 years or more, but the material is prone to denting.
• Copper: Copper represents the cost spectrum’s high end, but it has a unique, luxurious appearance. It’s also the most durable roofing metal, resistant to rust and corrosion.

Cost of Shingle Roof Material

When most people think of a shingle roof, they’re imagining three-tab shingles made of asphalt. But shingles can be made of many materials. A basic asphalt shingle roof isn’t your only option. Check out our guide on types of roof shingles for more information.

• Basic asphalt shingles: These inexpensive shingles remain the most popular residential roofing option. They’re easy to purchase and install, but they only last 15–20 years.
• Architectural asphalt shingles: Architectural shingles are made of similar asphalt material, but they’re thicker and sturdier. They’re more expensive than basic asphalt shingles, but they have a life expectancy of about 30 years and can stand up to more severe weather conditions.
• Composite shingles: Asphalt is also used in the creation of composite shingles, but it’s combined with fiberglass and recycled materials for additional strength. These shingles are often designed to look like wood or other materials and can last up to 50 years.
• Wood shingles or shakes: Wooden shingles (smooth cut) and shakes (rough cut) create a distinctive, beautiful look and last 40–50 years. The downsides are the price and the maintenance needed to keep them looking good.
• Slate shingles: Slate or natural stone shingles are durable enough to rival high-quality metal roofing materials with a life span of 100 years or more. But they’re expensive and very heavy, often requiring roof reinforcement.

Size of Roof

All roofing materials are priced by the square foot, so a larger roof will cost more money. Remember that your roof’s square footage will be slightly higher than your home’s floor area, thanks to roof pitch and overhangs.

Cost by Size of Roof

Basic, architectural, and composite shingles cost between $4.50 and $12.25 per square foot. By contrast, metal roofing systems cost between $4 and $40 per square foot. Based on these numbers, here are the combined installation and material costs for these two roof types.

Labor Costs

Metal roof installation costs are typically a bit higher than shingle roof costs because metal is a specialty material that takes longer to install. Regardless of materials, anything that makes installing a new roof more complicated or time-consuming will come with additional costs. Thus, roofers may charge extra for especially steep or inaccessible roofs.

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Can You Install Roofing Yourself?

Any kind of roof work comes with a risk of falling. This increases with the roof’s steepness. Additionally, roof replacement is a complicated project that has repercussions for your home’s structural integrity. An improperly installed roof can leave your home vulnerable to water damage and various other issues. While asphalt shingles are easier to install than most metal roofing materials, we still recommend hiring a professional.

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How Does a Professional Roofing Installation Work?

Here’s what you stand to gain by hiring a licensed roofing contractor to install your new metal or shingle roof.

• The manufacturer’s warranty on most roofing materials requires professional installation. A contractor will often provide a workmanship warranty as well.
• Professionally installed materials typically have a more even appearance and better curb appeal.
• Licensed roofers will help you get the proper permits and ensure the end results meet all necessary building codes.
• Professional contractors can complete the job more quickly and neatly than do-it-yourselfers (DIYers).

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Other Factors Affecting Shingles vs. Metal Roof Costs

Depending on your project’s specifics, the following factors may play into the total cost.

Removal of Old Materials

To install a new roof, existing roof materials will first need to be removed and any damage repaired. Sometimes a second layer of basic asphalt shingles can be installed over the first, but this is not recommended. The cost to remove and dispose of old shingles and underlayment is typically between $1 and $5 per square foot.

Style of Metal Roofing

In addition to metal type, a metal roof’s cost is also determined by style. Metal is available as flat or corrugated sheets as well as shingles and standing-seam panels.

• Corrugated sheets: The rustic appearance of corrugated metal is accentuated by its exposed fasteners, which need to be maintained to prevent loosening and corrosion.
• Flat sheets: These sheets have the lowest average cost of all metal roofing materials. They are usually galvalume or galvanized steel and have exposed fasteners.
• Shingles: Metal shingles are often shaped and textured to resemble asphalt, wood, or slate shingles.
• Standing-seam panels: This style allows the locked-together seams to enclose the fasteners, reducing maintenance needs. These panels can usually stand up to high winds and other extreme weather.

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How To Save on a Roof Installation

Even though we recommend professional installation, homeowners can still save on roofing projects with the following tips.

• Choose the least expensive roofing materials that still meet your climate needs.
• If you feel comfortable, tear off and dispose of old shingles yourself.
• When possible, think long-term. A higher-quality, more durable material has higher initial costs, but it won’t need as much repair and may lower your energy bill in the long run.
• When your new roof is installed, keep up with maintenance and gutter cleaning to maximize its life span.

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What Are the Advantages of Shingle Roofs?

Alternatively, here are the benefits of opting for asphalt shingles.

• Asphalt shingles are substantially less expensive than most types of metal, both to purchase and install.
• Most houses still have asphalt shingles, so they may be necessary to blend in with the neighborhood aesthetic.
• Asphalt roofs are easier and quicker to repair, and all roofing contractors have experience with them.
• According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost versus Value Report, an asphalt shingle roof replacement has a higher resale value (61.1%) than a standing-seam metal roof (48.9%).
• Asphalt roofing is far less noisy during rain and hail.

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What Are the Advantages of Metal Roofs?

Here’s what you stand to gain by choosing a metal roof over shingles.

• Metal is more durable than asphalt, composite, and wooden shingles, so it costs less in the long run.
• Most metal materials require less maintenance and repair than asphalt shingles.
• Some types of metal can reflect heat, increasing your home’s energy efficiency and lowering your utility bills more than most asphalt shingle roofs.
• Metal roofs, particularly copper and zinc, form a patina that provides a unique appearance.
• Metal roofing can often be recycled, whereas asphalt shingles end up in landfills.

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Are Shingles or Metal Roofing Right for Your Home?

Both shingle and metal roofs have pros and cons, so the decision comes down to your needs and budget. Asphalt shingles are more popular because they’re less expensive. On the other hand, metal roofing is more durable and usually costs less over time. Whichever roofing material you choose, we recommend professional installation by a licensed contractor.

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FAQ About Shingles vs. Metal Roof Installation

Is it cheaper to put a metal roof or shingles?

Shingle roofs are less expensive than metal roofs, but their lifespan is about half as long.

How much more expensive is a metal roof compared to shingles?

Depending on the type of metal and shingles, a metal roof can be two to three times as expensive as a shingle roof.

What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

Here are the downsides of opting for a metal roof.

• Costs more upfront for both materials and installation
• Not all homeowners like the appearance
• Low-quality metals may rust or dent

Does a metal roof add more value than a shingle roof?

Sources differ when it comes to resale value. Remodeling Magazine reports that asphalt shingle roofs have had a higher resale value than standing seam metal roofs since at least 2019.

Is a metal roof better for my home?

Metal roofs are more durable, particularly in areas with high winds and extreme weather. They’re also more energy-efficient, so they may be a better choice if your budget allows.

What is the difference between a metal roof and shingles?

Metal roofs cost more than asphalt shingles, but they also last much longer and tend to offer more energy efficiency.

How long does a metal roof last?

Depending on the metal type, a well-maintained metal roof can last up to 100 years.

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