Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof Cost: Cheaper or Better?

Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof Cost

The selection of material for the roof over your head is a multistep procedure. Metal Roofs are practical, but Shingle roofs can be pocket-friendly and traditional. These queries and doubts can create foggy distress that can not be cleared without any expert advice. Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof Cost does not have a simple answer. For some, metal roofs can be a great choice, while others may want to invest in Shingles. Even once you decide on a material, another step includes their installation, and the charges differ for both. 

Consulting an expert can help you draw a picture of the expenses and the look of your roof before the reconstruction is completed. 

Are Metal Roofs More Expensive Than Shingles?

Metal Roofs

Well, yes and no! The skepticism is because of the reason that even though shingles are cheaper during the purchase, their installation can be costly, and so is their maintenance. Meanwhile, metal roofs are like a one-time investment; at the beginning, you may have to pay a hefty sum, but its installation is cheaper, and there is little to no maintenance charge. Moreover, the price is also pivoted on the choice of metal and the shingle. Aluminum roofs are way more affordable than copper or steel, but on the other hand, the latter options are also durable. Speaking of Shingles, Basic asphalt, on average, costs $8,500, while Wood and slate can go a little out of the budget with an average cost of $13,200. 

Here is the Cost of Metal Roofing vs. Shingles to help you understand their basic purchase. 

Roof Type Highest costAverage CostLowest Cost
Metal Roof$70,000$13,000$9000
Shingle Roof$12,000$8,500$5,500

Comparing the various materials

The search for a perfect material does not end at the type of roof you need. You also need to determine which category of material you want. The cost varies according to the quality and durability. 

Shingle MaterialsLowest costAverage CostHighest Cost
Basic asphalt$4.25/ sq ft$6.25/ sq ft$8.25/ sq ft
Architectural$4.50/ sq ft$8.40/ sq ft$12.25/ sq ft
Composite$7.50/ sq ft$10.25/ sq ft$13.00/ sq ft
Wood$8.00/ sq ft$11.15/ sq ft$14.30/ sq ft
Slate$12.00/ sq ft$17.00/ sq ft$22.00/ sq ft

If you are going for the metallic roof, there are several choices for you. Classic aluminum can be your cheaper option but would not be so durable. On the other hand, Tin can be a perfect match with price almost overlapping that of aluminum but with better quality. 

Metal TypeLowestAverage CostHighest Cost
Aluminum$4.00/ sq ft$7.50/ sq ft$11.00/ sq ft
Tin$5.00/ sq ft$8.50/ sq ft$12.00/ sq ft
Zinc$6.00/ sq ft$9.00/ sq ft$12.00/ sq ft
Steel$6.00/ sq ft$11.00/ sq ft$16.00/ sq ft
Lead$10.00/ sq ft$12.50/ sq ft$15.00/ sq ft
Copper$15.00/ sq ft$22.50/ sq ft$30.00/ sq ft
Shingle Roof

Comparing the Two Roof Styles Based on Factors

Still can not rule out which material suits best? Here! Let us help you out. Below are the major factors that homeowners need to consider before purchasing materials for their roofs. 

  • Cost 

As simple as it seems. The cost of shingles is way less compared to that of the bare aluminum metal roof. The $7.50/ sq ft average cost of Aluminium can be way more expensive for some when there is Basic Asphalt at an average price of $6.25/ sq ft is already available. However, there are more options in metal roofing compared to shingles. 

  • Labor Charges

The contractor may charge you a little more when installing a metal roof compared to a shingle roof. The starting price of fitting metal as well as asphalt roofs is almost the same, but as the material gets expensive, so does its installation. If your house is built in a difficult way or location or if it is too large, the charge may increase accordingly.  

  • Maintenance and Durability

Metal roofs, especially copper and zinc, have been long-lasting for over a century. Meanwhile, in terms of shingles, Composite and clay are the most durable, with over 4 to 5 decades of average lifespan. You may need to repair asphalt singles quite often, but it is easy to find a constructor who can do it for you. They may charge you, but their restoration is still less expensive than metal, which usually does not get worn off easily. 

  • Efficiency

Metals win the race in terms of competency at Metal Roof vs. Shingles. Steel roofs reflect sunlight and keep the house cool and moderate. It is less leak-prone and does not dwindle so easily. If you are choosing shingles, there are some options, like cool asphalt and algae-resistant ones, which may have additional costs. 

  • Style and Aesthetic 
Metal Roof

Shingles are as it is aesthetic and come in various designs, but they may be limited. They can be designed however you like, and you can even match them according to the color and style of the hours. Meanwhile, metal roofs have another story to tell. As per the advancement of technology and architecture, these materials can be transformed into various shapes and sizes. You can have loads of variety choices when speaking of metal roofs. 

Pros and Cons of Both

Metal Roof Shingles Cost is not the only component that makes your roof better. You must also figure out the pros and cons of each one for a better understanding. After all nobody likes throwing away money on a lost cause!

Pros Cons
Metal Roofs
Longevity of over a century.May Become too Much Cooler during Winter.
Better Resale value.Installation Charges are Hefty
Low maintenance.It can be too heavy and require a stronger foundation.
Reduction in Energy Consumption. Maintenance Charges can be pricy. 
Shingles Roofs
Cheaper and Easier to Maintain.Variations in durability depend on the cost of the material. 
Low Installation Charges.Lesser Resale Value.
Energy efficient during winter. Too much maintenance.

Commonly Raised Queries

Q1. Is a Metal Roof Cheaper Than Shingles?

Not really. Metal roofs are comparatively pretty expensive to singles. 

Q2. How Much More is A Metal Roof than Shingles?

Metal roofs are 35% costlier than shingles, but they may vary depending on various factors, such as material, area, and the structure of the house. 

Q3. Does a metal roof increase home value?

Yes. It does. Metal increases the durability of the house the buyers may want to pay for a home with more protection. 

Q4. Which is better, a metal roof over shingles?

Metal as well as shingles are both good choices and have their individual qualities. Depending on your budget, location, and standard of living, the selection varies. 

Q5. What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

They are expensive and more difficult to install and repair. 

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