Asphalt roofing has long been the standard of homes here in Minnesota and the rest of the U.S., but when you compare asphalt shingles with metal roofing, it’s clear that a metal roof outperforms asphalt in just about every category.

Long-Term Cost

Yes, metal roofing costs more up front to install, but over time the actual cost ends up being far less. Why?

  • A metal roof will add value to your home the day it is put on; an asphalt roof depreciates
  • Asphalt shingles begin to deteriorate the day they are put on. They will crack, fade, and curl from the sun. Hail and heavy rains loosen the protective granules coating. A metal roof will remain undisturbed by sun, wind, and precipitation
  • One metal roof will last about two to three times longer than an asphalt roof. So to make an accurate price comparison, you would need to double or triple the asphalt installation cost as well as factoring in at least one tear-off
  • Since asphalt roofing is combustible much like wood shakes, it poses a fire hazard in wooded areas or where lightning strikes are common. Metal roofing is noncombustible, so it’s a much safer choice. And if there is a fire inside the home, it’s less likely to collapse than an asphalt roof since it’s so lightweight
  • Hail is a major threat to homes here in the Minneapolis area, and each time a homeowner with an asphalt roof submits an insurance claim for hail damage, there’s a deductible to be paid. Since metal roofs are highly unlikely to be dented by hail and even cosmetic damage usually can’t be noticed, that cost is avoided
  • Metal roofs are manufactured using a high proportion of recycled metal, and the roof and installation waste are 100% recyclable – the same can’t be said of asphalt; an asphalt roof will end up in a landfill

Another major difference between asphalt shingles and metal roofing is that due to its weight, often an asphalt roof must be torn off before the new one can be put on. That means additional labor and disposal cost. Metal roofs are lightweight and usually can be installed over an existing asphalt roof, so the tear-off cost is avoided. And leaving that old asphalt roof in place provides an additional layer of insulation, making that new metal roof even more energy efficient.

When you compare asphalt roofing to metal, the winner is obvious. Nothing beats a metal roof!