Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: A Complete Cost Comparison Guide

Written By Cody Profitt

When it’s time to replace your roof or build a new home, the choice between metal roofing and asphalt shingles represents one of the most significant decisions you’ll make. At Comanche Roofing, we understand that cost is often the deciding factor for many homeowners. However, making an informed decision requires looking beyond just the initial price tag.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the true costs of metal roofing versus asphalt shingles, helping you determine which option provides the best value for your specific needs.

Understanding Initial Costs: Metal Roofing vs Asphalt Shingles

The most immediate difference between metal and asphalt shingle roofing is the upfront cost—and the gap is substantial.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing Costs:

Material cost: $1.00 to $4.50 per square foot
Average cost for a 2,000 sq. ft. roof: $4,500 to $9,000 (materials only)
Popular options: Three-tab shingles (most affordable), architectural shingles (mid-range), and premium shingles (highest quality)

Metal Roofing Costs:

Material cost: $5.00 to $14.00 per square foot
Average cost for a 2,000 sq. ft. roof: $12,000 to $28,000 (materials only)
Popular options: Standing seam (premium), metal shingles, corrugated panels, and stone-coated steel

As the numbers clearly show, asphalt shingles can cost 50-70% less than metal roofing in terms of initial material expenses. This significant price difference explains why asphalt remains the most common residential roofing material in America, covering approximately 80% of homes

Breaking Down Installation Costs and Factors

Beyond material costs, installation expenses vary significantly between these roofing options.

Asphalt Shingle Installation:

Labor cost: $2.00 to $3.50 per square foot
Average installation time: 1-3 days for a typical home
Complexity factors: Relatively straightforward installation requiring standard tools and training

Metal Roof Installation:

Labor cost: $5.00 to $12.00 per square foot
Average installation time: 3-7 days for a typical home
Complexity factors: Requires specialized skills, tools, and precise measurements

Several factors influence these installation costs:

Roof complexity: Homes with multiple slopes, valleys, or unique architectural features require more labor and materials, increasing costs for both options (though metal roofing costs rise more steeply with complexity).
Removal of existing roofing: While asphalt can sometimes be installed over an existing layer (where building codes permit), metal roofing generally requires complete removal of old materials, adding to the project cost.
Structural requirements: Some homes may need additional structural support for metal roofing, particularly when upgrading from asphalt shingles.
Specialized components: Metal roofing systems require specific flashing, trim, and fasteners that add to the overall cost.

For the average 2,000 square foot home in Texas, total installation costs (materials plus labor) typically range from $8,000-$15,000 for asphalt shingles and $20,000-$40,000 for metal roofing.

The Long-Term Investment: Lifespan and Maintenance Costs

While the initial cost comparison clearly favors asphalt shingles, the long-term investment analysis tells a different story.

Asphalt Shingle Lifespan and Maintenance:

Expected lifespan: 15-30 years (depending on quality and climate)
Warranty: Typically 25-30 years (prorated)
Maintenance requirements: Regular inspection, occasional replacement of damaged shingles, cleaning of algae/moss, gutter maintenance
Average annual maintenance cost: $150-$400

Metal Roof Lifespan and Maintenance:

Expected lifespan: 40-70+ years (depending on material and installation quality)
Warranty: 30-50 years (often non-prorated)
Maintenance requirements: Periodic inspection, occasional fastener tightening, minimal cleaning
Average annual maintenance cost: $50-$150

Over a 50-year period, a homeowner might replace an asphalt roof 2-3 times, while a quality metal roof could last the entire duration. This replacement factor dramatically shifts the lifetime cost equation.

Shingle roof

Metal roof

Regional Considerations for Texas Homeowners

Texas presents unique climate challenges that impact roofing decisions and costs.

Impact of Texas Climate:

Heat resistance: Metal roofing reflects solar radiation rather than absorbing it like asphalt, potentially reducing cooling costs by 10-25% during hot Texas summers.
Storm durability: Quality metal roofing can withstand winds up to 140 mph (meeting coastal building codes), while standard asphalt shingles are typically rated for 60-110 mph winds.
Hail resistance: While both materials can sustain damage from severe hail, many metal roofing products offer Class 4 impact resistance (the highest rating), potentially qualifying for insurance discounts.
Fire resistance: Metal roofing’s Class A fire rating provides superior protection in drought-prone regions of Texas.

Insurance Considerations: Many Texas insurance providers offer premium discounts of 5-35% for impact-resistant and fire-resistant roofing materials, creating additional long-term savings for metal roof owners.

Return on Investment: When Does Metal Roofing Pay Off?

To determine the true cost difference, we need to calculate the break-even point for metal roofing.

Let’s consider a 2,000 square foot home:

Initial cost difference: $15,000 more for metal roofing (average)
Energy savings: Approximately $200-$500 annually (metal vs. asphalt)
Maintenance savings: Approximately $100-$250 annually
Insurance savings: Approximately $300-$800 annually (depending on provider and policy)
Roof replacement savings: $12,000-$20,000 every 20-25 years

Based on these figures, the break-even point typically occurs between years 15-20 of ownership. Beyond this point, a metal roof continues to provide financial advantages.

Additionally, homes with metal roofing can command a premium of 1-6% when sold, according to remodeling industry studies. On a $300,000 home, that represents an additional $3,000-$18,000 in resale value.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home and Budget

While the numbers provide valuable guidance, the right choice depends on your specific situation:

Asphalt shingles may be better if:

You have budget constraints for upfront costs
You plan to sell your home within the next 5-10 years
You want a traditional aesthetic that matches neighboring homes
You want more color and style options at lower price points

Metal roofing may be better if:

You plan to stay in your home long-term (15+ years)
Energy efficiency is a priority
You live in an area with extreme weather conditions
You want to minimize maintenance requirements
Environmental sustainability is important to you

At Comanche Roofing, We Help You Make an Informed Decision

Every home is unique, and so is every homeowner’s situation. That’s why at Comanche Roofing, we provide personalized consultations to help you weigh all factors—not just cost—when choosing between metal roofing and asphalt shingles.

Our experts can provide detailed cost analyses for your specific home, including potential energy savings, insurance benefits, and long-term value calculations. We work with premium manufacturers of both metal and asphalt products to ensure quality installation regardless of your choice.

Contact Comanche Roofing today for a free consultation and detailed quote comparing your metal and asphalt roofing options. Making the right investment in your home’s protection starts with having all the facts.