Metal vs shingles: Which is better for your roof?

Even roofs do not last forever. At some point, you will need to replace them. But with so many roof types available, which is worth the significant investment? Should you go for metal roofing or shingle roofing? And if you pick the latter, must it be asphalt shingles?

This comprehensive article on metal roofs vs shingles compares the two based on essential factors. These include cost, appearance, installation complexity, durability, and eco-friendliness. At the end of this guide, you should be able to pick the better option based on your needs and budget.

Why are metal roofs so common?

Ribbed metal roof panels beneath a clear blue sky (Source: iStock)

‘Metal roof’ is an umbrella term for various metal roofing panels or tiles installed in mostly residential houses. While the most common roofing options are corrugated and aluminium, roofing professionals may also use:

• Copper metal roofing

• Standing seam

• Stone-coated steel
  

When it comes to popularity, asphalt shingle roofs continue to dominate the market. However, metal panels and tiles are giving them a good run for their money for one good reason: durability. Metal roofs offer longevity because they resist corrosion and withstand extreme weather conditions, such as hail. They are also easy to maintain and therefore require fewer replacements.

What are shingles made of?

Multiple pitched rooflines covered with brown asphalt shingles (Source: iStock)

Unlike metal roofs, which can be panels, shingle roofs are tiles attached, overlapping one another. Their materials can also vary:

• The asphalt shingle roof is the most popular because it is cheap and easier to install.
  

• The architectural shingle roof is sometimes called a dimensional or laminated shingle. It combines mineral granules coated with ceramic and fibreglass as the base.
  

• Solar shingles are individual solar panels with photovoltaic cells laid out like asphalt shingles.
  

• Composite shingle roofing features different materials, such as fibreglass and asphalt. 

Roof shingles vs metal roof: Which is better for your needs?

It is easy to spot metal roofs and asphalt shingle roofs: their appearances are worlds apart. However, looks are not the only thing differentiating these roofing materials. So, which is ideal for roof replacement? And which works better with your budget and location? Use this comparison guide to help you choose wisely.

In terms of cost/resale value

When comparing the cost of metal vs shingle roofs, you should learn about the following:

• Upfront expenses, including installation costs

• Maintenance costs

• Repair and replacement
  

In general, metal roofing costs more than asphalt shingles. Aluminium roofing, for example, can cost around £63 to £83 per square metre to install. It becomes even more expensive if you choose Colorbond sheeting to replace an existing roof. Asphalt shingles are cheaper, making them ideal for those who want to have roofing ASAP. Shingle material installation costs are about £43 per square metre.

You can go for corrugated if you want metal roofing without draining your budget. This is often 20% less expensive per square metre than asphalt shingles. Plus, metal roofs are longer-lasting than shingles, giving them a higher resale value. 

 In terms of appearance

Another way to settle the metal roof vs shingle roof debate is to judge them by their appearance. For example, which boosts a home’s curb appeal? When it comes to beauty, shingled roofs are likely to win. They easily add dimension, drama, and texture to a home, even if you are only using an asphalt roof. Plus, they are available in various colour palettes.

Most homeowners think of metal roofs as too industrial, and that is not entirely true these days. Although design options remain limited, metal roof aesthetics have improved over the years. For example, standing-seam metal requires fasteners and connectors, but it hides these well for a cleaner look.

In terms of installation complexity

Another way to evaluate shingle roofing vs metal roofing materials is to look into their installation processes. Which is easier to work with? Here, metal roofing is more complicated and time-consuming to install than shingle roofs. It can even be more challenging than adding solar panels. For this reason, you always need a roofing contractor who specialises in metal roofing.

With shingle roof installation, you do not require a lot of tools and steps. It is also lightweight, so it is easy to cut and shape. Installing metal roofing involves dealing with many components. These include sealants, fasteners, drip edges, and underlayments, to name a few.

In terms of durability/maintenance

Roofing crew on a residential shingle roof with tools and ladder (Source: iStock)

This guide on metal roofs vs asphalt shingles will not be complete without a discussion of their longevity. Whether you want to install a new roof or replace an old one, ensure it is a worthwhile investment.

Metal roofs tend to last longer than asphalt shingle roofs. With proper care, they can last between 40 and 70 years. It is because they:

• Require less maintenance than other roofing materials. Asphalt shingles, for example, are prone to disintegration and slippage. Their sealants can also break down, causing other home components, such as rubber pipe boots, to come through the roof and further damage it.
  

• Can withstand severe weather events. They can handle high winds, torrential rain, and heavy snow. Most of all, they can manage the extreme Australian heat.
  

• Are fire-resistant. Some shingles score high in this category, but metal roofing is almost always non-combustible. This makes it ideal for places vulnerable to wildfires.
  

 In terms of eco-friendliness

The best residential roofing material should be durable and sustainable. In this category, shingle roofs can be just as eco-friendly as their metal counterparts when they allow air to circulate properly.

However, in general, a metal roof is more eco-friendly. First, it is 100% recyclable. You can still find recycled materials made of asphalt shingles. But because they are still petroleum-based, not all facilities accept them.

Metal roofing also scores higher in energy efficiency than shingle roofs. Contrary to what most people think, they do not trap heat. Instead, they reflect it into the atmosphere. This makes the material ideal for homes in warm climates. In fact, they can reduce energy costs by up to 40%.

Achieve the best roof for your home with Airtasker

Diamond-patterned shingles across multiple pitched roof sections (Source: iStock)

Whether you choose metal or shingle roofing, it is always wise to hire a professional roofing contractor. Their expertise will ensure that your roof is fitted correctly and will last for many years. This will help you avoid disputes with your home insurance company or costly repairs in the future.

Depending on your budget, preferences, and location, professional contractors can also advise on the best roofing materials. To hire an expert for your roofing project, follow these three simple steps:

1. Open an account for free.
   

2. Post a task. Indicate whether you require roof installation, replacement, or repair. Include if you prefer metal roofing or shingles, and share your budget, location, and timeline. Be as detailed as possible. For example, how much are you willing to spend on additional services like roof cleaning?
   

3. Wait to receive proposals and quotes from roofers. You can also search for profiles that best match your requirements.
   

Ultimately, do not DIY shingle or metal roofing installation if you wish to avoid irreparable damage and severe injuries. With Airtasker, you can connect to reliable roofers in the UK and choose the best pro for your needs. If you’re still on the fence between metal and shingle roofing, feel free to revisit the table below and post a task when you’re ready.