Is a metal roof cheaper than shingles?

Author: Silas Goodwin  |  Last update: Sunday, March 16, 2025

Generally, shingle roofs are less expensive than metal roofs. The cost of a shingle roof can range from $3 to $5 per square foot, while a metal roof can cost anywhere from $8 to $14 per square foot.

Is it cheaper to install metal roof or shingles?

No matter which you choose, it's not going to be cheap. With that in mind, a metal roof will always be more expensive than shingles. Not only do the metal panels themselves cost more than asphalt shingles, but a metal roof also requires more skill and labor to install.

What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

Cons:
  • Upfront costs for metal roofs are higher than most people expect and cost around $8,510 for a screw-down metal roof and $16,150 for a standing seam metal roof.
  • Shingled roofing is significantly cheaper, although not nearly as durable.
  • Metal roofs aren't good for coastal homes because salt can cause rust.

How much does a metal roof cost for a 2000 sq ft house?

Average Cost: $10.00 to $19.00 per square foot. Typical Cost: Expect to spend between $36,000 to $55,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home.

What is the biggest problem with metal roofs?

Let's dive in and discover the potential pitfalls and solutions when it comes to metal roof problems that building owners may encounter.
  • Poor Installation. ...
  • Metal Roof Leaks. ...
  • Rust & Corrosion. ...
  • Noise. ...
  • Thermal Expansion and Contraction. ...
  • Loose or Missing Fasteners. ...
  • Poor Insulation and Energy Efficiency. ...
  • Denting.

What Roof Is Best For Your Home? Architectural Shingles vs Metal Roofing

Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?

Do Metal Roofs Leak More Than Shingles? If installed incorrectly, metal roofs have the potential to leak more than shingles. However, if you find an experienced contractor who can install it correctly, metal roofs shed snow and ice to prevent moisture buildup.

What happens if lightning strikes a metal roof?

You may be relieved to know, however, that your metal roof may actually be even safer than traditional shingles. Due to the superconducting nature of metal, lightning has a quick and clear way to the ground. In addition, metal roofs are non-combustible, so your home may also suffer less damage if struck.

Does having a metal roof lower your insurance?

That's why insurance companies consider the age, condition, material, and shape of your roof when determining your insurance coverage and costs. In general, your homeowners insurance may cost less if you have a newer roof made of more durable materials, like metal or slate.

Is it okay to put a metal roof over shingles?

The answer is, YES!

However, there are some things that you will want to check out before doing it this way. For one, you will need to check with your local building department and ask if this is an approved installation method.

What is the lifespan of a metal roof?

Depending on the material, metal roofs can last between 40 to 80 years, significantly longer than the 20-year lifespan of typical asphalt shingle roofs.

When should you not use a metal roof?

Some types of metal roofing are prone to rust, especially when placed in coastal climates.

Why don't more people have metal roofs?

If they're so great, why doesn't everybody put a metal roof on their home? Higher Initial Cost: Metal roofs are typically more expensive than traditional asphalt shingle roofs, which can deter some homeowners from installing a metal roof.

Does a metal roof devalue a house?

What about non-shingle roofs? Metal roofs are often touted as a good way to boost home value, but research indicates they are not as cost-effective as laminate shingles. The Remodeling Report for 2019 found that a metal roof, on average, cost homeowners $38,600 and increased home value by 60.9 percent.

Are metal roofs noisy when it rains?

The short answer is: It depends. Metal roofs without much else, such as an open frame roof on a barn or warehouse, would be WAY louder than an asphalt shingle system. But, with a modern metal roofing system, properly installed, rain noise would be much more comparable to what we see in an asphalt shingle roof.

Do metal roofs resale value better than shingles?

Homes with roofs made of asphalt shingles tend to sell for slightly less than their metal-roofed comparison points, but the age and maintenance quality of a shingle-roofed home will have a greater impact on the home's resale value than the material choice in most cases.

Can you put solar panels on a metal roof?

Yes! Metal roofs are rated the best roofing material for solar panel compatibility and are considered a top choice among roofing contractors and solar installers due to their strength, which can easily support the weight of the solar array, panels, mounting racks and associated hardware.

Do I need to remove old shingles before installing a metal roof?

However, believe it or not, when you're installing a metal roofing system, you don't actually have to remove your old shingles beforehand. This is because temperature doesn't damage your metal roof or its paint finish, meaning that your warranty will remain intact even if you do go over the old shingles.

Does a metal roof keep your house cooler than shingles?

The surface temperature of a metal roof can get very hot in warm climates but not as hot as shingles. While unpainted metal can get up to 145 degrees in the summer, black asphalt shingles can get up to 168 degrees. Metal roofs coated with heat reflective paint can feel up to 42% cooler than unpainted metal.

Does hail damage metal roofs?

Metal roof hail damage can result in immediate leaks. Or leave small dents that lead to rusting and moisture penetrations over time. In some cases your roof can be repaired, but many metal roofs require replacement after significant hail damage.

Does a metal roof interfere with WiFi?

So it makes sense that you may wonder if it also keeps Wi-Fi signals from coming into or leaving your home. However, when it comes to your home's Wi-Fi or internet connection, the chances of metal roofing material interfering are pretty low.

What is the best roof for home insurance?

Metal roofs are more durable and fire-resistant and oftentimes the most favored by insurance companies. Slate or tile roofs require little maintenance and are strong against fire, rotting, and insects. Slate or tile roofs also won't burn or rot, provide good insulation but may crack a bit easier.

Do metal roofs attract heat?

The answer is simple: a metal roof does not make your home hotter in the summer. Numerous metal roofing options incorporate reflective coatings that redirect sunlight, reduce heat absorption, and maintain a cooler indoor environment.

Should metal roofs be grounded?

It's taught in school that metal is one of the leading conductors of electricity. With that in mind, many homeowners are confused whether or not they should have their metal roof grounded. The simple answer is no, unless it's required by your state.

Do metal roofs leak?

Metal roofs, while durable, have their own set of challenges when it comes to preventing leaks and widespread damage. Unlike traditional flat BUR or modified roofs, metal roofs aren't designed to be waterproof.

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