Metal roof vs shingles: Cost, lifespan, and which is Worth it
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Short answer: Metal costs more up front: about 63% more than architectural shingles for the same large re-roof ($51,865 vs. $31,871 nationally).[1] It also lasts longer, about 40 to 80 years versus about 30 for architectural asphalt.[2] Shingles usually make sense if you'll move within 10 to 15 years. Metal suits long-term owners.
Metal and asphalt are the two most common choices for a full replacement. Here is how they compare on the numbers that matter.
Which costs more up front?
Angi lists architectural asphalt shingle material at about $2 to $3 per square foot. Metal runs $4 to $30 depending on the type, and steel panels are about $6 to $16.[3] For a whole job, Cost vs Value 2025 prices a 3,000 sq ft asphalt re-roof at $31,871 and a standing-seam metal re-roof at $51,865 nationally. That is about 63% more for metal.[1]
Which lasts longer?
InterNACHI's life-expectancy chart lists architectural asphalt at about 30 years and metal at 40 to 80 years, assuming normal maintenance and no extreme weather.[2] In Florida, InterNACHI's state chart is much shorter: 15 to 20 years for architectural asphalt and 17 to 20 for metal.[4]
How do metal and shingles handle hail?
Impact ratings (UL 2218 or FM 4473 Class 3 and 4) exist for both shingles and metal panels. Independent testing by IBHS shows that ratings alone do not capture cosmetic denting or granule loss.[5] Metal panels can dent without leaking, so read your policy for cosmetic-damage exclusions before you pick a material.
Which one makes sense?
- Shingles if upfront cost matters most or you plan to move within 10 to 15 years.
- Metal if you plan to stay long-term, your area gets heavy snow or wildfire risk, or you want the longest service life.
Our estimator shows both side by side for your ZIP code. Change the "desired material" to compare.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a metal roof more expensive than shingles?
Yes, upfront. National Cost vs Value 2025 data prices standing-seam metal about 63% higher than architectural asphalt for the same 3,000 sq ft roof.
How long does a metal roof last?
InterNACHI estimates 40 to 80 years under normal conditions, compared with about 30 years for architectural shingles.
Does a metal roof lower insurance?
Some insurers offer discounts for impact-rated roofs, but it varies by company and state. Ask your insurer directly. We cannot promise a discount.
See 2026 roof replacement cost in your city →
Sources
- Zonda / JLC, Cost vs Value Report 2025 (national). www.jlconline.com/cost-vs-value/2025/
- InterNACHI, Standard Estimated Life Expectancy Chart. www.nachi.org/life-expectancy.htm
- Angi, Metal Roof vs. Shingles Cost. www.angi.com/articles/metal-roof-cost-vs-shingle-roof-cost.htm
- InterNACHI, Estimated Life Expectancy Chart for Florida Homes. www.nachi.org/florida-life-expectancy.htm
- IBHS, Hail research. ibhs.org/risk-research/hail/
Sources checked November 4, 2026. Estimates are not quotes. Roofing, insurance, and legal details vary. Confirm with your contractor, insurer, or attorney.