Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof Cost: Expense to Benefit Analysis

An asphalt roof costs between $4.25 and $15 per square foot, while a metal roof installation costs $9 to $40 per square foot. Metal roofs are more costly compared to shingle roofs because of their material and installation costs. Most people fail to understand that while metal roofs are costly, they give you much better long-term cost-value.

Metal roofs have a longer lifespan and require minimal maintenance. Compared to shingle roofs, metal roofs are more affordable because of their long-term value. We'll look at everything that metal roofs offer and how they compare to a shingle roof in terms of cost and value.

Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof Cost: Detailed Overview

Here's a cost comparison overview of shingle and metal roofs:

Verdict: Shingles are Cheaper than Metal Roofs

A metal roof costs more than a shingle roof because it requires experienced workers and expensive materials. Shingle roofs are cheaper, but they require frequent maintenance, repair, and reroofing. Metal roofs can last longer, which brings down their long-term cost.

Costs of a Metal Roof

A 2000 square foot metal roofs cost between $18000 and $32000. The structure of a metal roof and the materials have an equal impact on the cost. For example, a standing seam metal roof costs more than a corrugated roof for the same materials.

Here's a cost breakdown of the different types of metal roofing materials:

Copper-based standing seam metal roofs are the most expensive option. A standing seam roof can cost 2 to 3 times more than a corrugated metal roof. A corrugated metal roof can cost 1.5 to 2 times more than a cheap asphalt shingle roof.

Costs of a Shingle Roof

An average shingle roof costs between $8000 and $24000. A standard asphalt shingle roof is the most affordable option, with a cost range of between $ 7,000 and $ 16,000 for 2,000 square feet. Like most roofing materials, shingles come in different shapes, durability, and sizes.

Here's an overview of different types of shingle roof material and their prices:

Different types of asphalt shingles are the cheapest materials. Luxury and architectural shingles cost more upfront and in the ensuing installation. Clay and natural slate shingles are the two most expensive types of roofing shingles.

Cost Factors of Metal and Shingle Roofs

Metal roofs come in all shapes and sizes, which changes the cost completely. The four most important factors that affect the cost of these roofs are the scope of work, material, locality, and type of roof. Let's go through all four to understand what you should be expecting:

1. Scope of Work: This factor includes the type of roofing work and size of the roof. For example, a new roof usually costs more than repair work. Metal roofs generally cost more to repair and install because they require more skilled labor and expensive materials.
2. Roofing Materials: You can use multiple materials for a shingle or metal roof. While metal roofs generally have a higher material cost, there are sub-categories. For example, a copper roof costs more than other types of metal roofs.
3. Locality: The area where you live has a significant impact on the cost of labor, materials, and miscellaneous expenses. For example, a ranch in a remote area will have higher costs because of transportation and material scarcity. It's an ever-changing factor that you should always keep an eye on.
4. Type of Roof: Shingle and metal roofs come in different shapes and sizes, for example, standing seam metal roof, mansard, butterfly, gable, and others. Each type affects the amount of materials you'll need and the ensuing installation costs.

Cost-Value of Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof

When choosing a roofing type or material, you have to look at the money you're investing and the value it will provide. For example, a roof X that requires $2000 for repair and maintenance every 3 months is more expensive than a roof that requires only $2000 per year for maintenance. You have to understand the cost-value of a roof, which includes:

Lifespan of Metal vs Shingle Roof

A metal roof can last 20 to 60 years longer than shingles, because of their durability and weather resistance. The long lifespan makes a metal roof reduces its long-term cost. For example, one corrugated metal roof lasts 40 to 60 years and costs $8000 to $26000 for a 2000 sq ft.

While this does hold, some types of roofing material can have lower lifespans in varying areas. For example, metal roofs aren't a good choice in areas with frequent salt sprays and hail. In these areas, shingles have a longer lifespan and better cost-value.

Installation Cost of Shingle vs Metal Roof

Installing a metal roof costs more than an asphalt shingle roof. An average corrugated metal roof of 2000 sq ft can cost $8000 to $24000, which is 1.5 to 2 times more expensive than an asphalt roof. Metal roofs have higher installation costs because:

• Metal roofing systems require more experienced labor and contractors
• Metal roofing materials are not available as readily as shingles
• Metal roofing materials are generally available in 50 to 100 sq ft sheets

Repair Cost of Metal vs Shingle Roof

A metal roof requires $5 to $15 per sq ft on repairs, which can average between $600 and $3200 per repair project. Shingle roofs can cost $4.25 to $8.25 per square foot in repair costs. An average shingle roof repair costs $360 to $1,830 per project.

While shingle roofs have lower repair costs, they also require more frequent repairs. Metal roofs have higher repair costs due to the required skilled labor and materials. On the brighter side, metal roofs do not require repairs as frequently as shingle roofs.

House Appeal of Shingle vs Metal Roof

Shingle roofs add more appeal to your house because of their varieties and appeal. For example, high-end architectural shingles can add more curb appeal to your property, which boosts its resale value. While metal roofs have more advantages, they are often limited by their robotic appearance.

A Cost Versus Value Report from 2023 found that an asphalt shingle roof has a resale value of 61% compared to the 48% of an asphalt shingle roof. That's why 4 out of 5 homes in the US use shingles as their primary roofing material.

Cost Tier List of Shingle and Metal Roofs

A good way to find the perfect roofing material is by comparing its cost for the same roof size. Here's a complete tier list for all the different roofing materials based on their total cost for a 2000 sq ft roof:

Asphalt shingles are the cheapest roofing material, while copper metal roofs are the most expensive option. These values can change significantly based on your vicinity, cost of living, and type of roof. We know it's confusing, so get a free estimate today to find out how much your ideal roof costs.

Do Metal Roofs Leak More than Shingle Roofs?

Metal roofs do not leak as frequently compared to shingle roofs, which reduces repair needs. Standing seam metal roofs are well known for their durability and weather resistance. Shingles can break, erode, and loosen, which exposes the structure beneath it to water and damage.

A shingle roof will lose shingles over time because of erosion, impacts, high winds, or temperature variances. For example, asphalt shingles are known to crack in extreme temperature areas like Texas. That's one of the reasons why asphalt shingles have more signs of roof leaks.

FAQs on Metal vs Shingle Roof Cost

Is a metal roof cheaper than shingles?

Metal roofs cost between $4 and $30, while a shingle roof costs $4 to $20 per square foot. Shingle roofs are cheaper than metal roofs, but the latter give you better durability and longevity. You get better long-term cost-to-value returns with metal roofs.

What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

Metal roofs have a high upfront cost, which makes them less affordable for most people. Metal is also noisier in hail and rain compared to other materials, such as asphalt and wood. Furthermore, metal roofs are more malleable, which makes them more susceptible to denting.

What happens if lightning strikes a metal roof?

Metal roofs can spread lightning throughout the structure to minimize damage. The metal structure, though more conductive, is better at dispersing the electric shock. Wood and asphalt shingles concentrate the lightning in one spot, which can cause fires and further damage.

Bottom Line on Metal and Shingle Roof Cost

Metal and shingles are often included within the best roofing materials for wildly different reasions. A roof with shingles costs less compared to a metal roof. Shingles are available more readily and are easier to install, which makes them a cost-effective roofing material. Metal roofs are known for their notably long lifespans, which makes them cheaper in the long term.

On the downside, metal roofs require higher upfront costs and skilled labor, which makes them more expensive than shingles. Both types of roofing materials have their subjective pros and cons. You should look at the cost and value they offer for your property to make the right choice.

If you want a new metal or shingle roof at an affordable price, contact us today. Get a free estimate for your roof and get industry experts to get the best roof for your house.