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On a 2,000 sq ft roof, asphalt shingles average about $10,319 and metal about $38,593. That makes metal roughly 3.7 times the price on day one.
Metal lasts longer, though. This Old House gives asphalt 15 to 30 years and metal 40 to 70 years. So the fair comparison isn't one roof against one roof. It's what you'll spend on roofs for as long as you own the house.
For the full price picture, including tear-off, permits and repairs, see our roof replacement cost guide.
How much more does metal cost?
The short answer: about two to four times as much, depending on the type of metal. This Old House lists these installed prices per square foot, based on Angi and HomeAdvisor estimates:
| Type | Per sq ft |
|---|---|
| Basic three-tab asphalt shingles | $1–$3 |
| Architectural asphalt shingles | $2–$4 |
| Sheet metal | $4–$6.50 |
| Metal shingles | $7–$22 |
| Corrugated metal, exposed fasteners | $4–$26 |
| Standing seam, cut to size | $9–$30 |
Source: This Old House, updated March 30, 2026.
Standing seam is the panel style most people picture when they think of a metal house roof. It's also the most expensive. It takes specialized crews and equipment, such as a power seamer, which raises labor costs.
Prices vary between sources. Bob Vila puts metal at $14 to $40 per square foot and asphalt at $3 to $12. Whatever the per-foot figure, every source puts metal well above asphalt.
What do they cost over 20, 40 and 70 years?
Here's where the length of ownership matters: how long will you own this roof?
Using This Old House's averages for a 2,000 sq ft roof, and assuming each roof is replaced at the end of its typical lifespan:
| You own the house for… | Asphalt roofs needed | Asphalt total | Metal roofs needed | Metal total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 years | 1 to 2 | $10,319–$20,638 | 1 | $38,593 |
| 40 years | 2 to 3 | $20,638–$30,957 | 1 | $38,593 |
| 70 years | 3 to 5 | $30,957–$51,595 | 1 to 2 | $38,593–$77,186 |
Our calculation, in today's prices. It leaves out inflation, repairs, energy bills, insurance and resale value.
Over 20 years, that difference stays large. Over 40, it shrinks, but asphalt is still the lower total on these numbers. Only over very long stretches, with short-lived shingles and a long-lived metal roof, does metal come out ahead.
So on purchase price alone, metal rarely pays for itself. The case for metal rests on the other things below.
Why people choose metal
It needs less maintenance. This Old House says a correctly installed metal roof usually needs less upkeep, because it's less vulnerable to moisture. Asphalt is more prone to algae, cracking and granule loss.
Longer warranties. Metal roofs often carry 30- to 50-year warranties, against 15 to 30 years for shingles.
Wind and fire. Bob Vila notes metal roofs built for winds up to 140 mph, and that metal typically achieves a Class A fire rating. Asphalt shingles can carry Class A ratings too.
Less waste. About 11 million tons of asphalt shingles go to landfills each year, according to a U.S. Department of Transportation figure cited by This Old House.
The trade-off
The upfront price. That's the big one, as the tables show.
Dents. Falling branches or very heavy hail can dent metal, which can lead to leaks and partial replacement. Bob Vila notes that Class 4 impact-resistant asphalt shingles may resist visible hail damage better.
Noise. Metal can be louder during heavy rain or hail, though insulation and attic space help.
Installation. An asphalt roof often goes on in one to two days. Metal takes longer and needs a crew that has done it before.
What about insurance?
Some insurers give a discount for impact-resistant roofs. One roofer quoted by Bob Vila puts discounts for impact-resistant shingles at about 10% to 15%, and says a Class 4 metal roof should also lower premiums. Rules vary by insurer and state, so ask your insurer for the number in writing before you count on it.
So which should you pick?
- Pick asphalt if you plan to sell within 20 years, or if the budget is the deciding factor.
- Consider metal if you plan to stay for decades, your area sees heavy wind or wildfire risk, or your insurer confirms a discount.
- Either way, compare at least three written quotes for the same material and scope.
Sources
Figures checked on October 22, 2026.
- This Old House, "Metal vs. Asphalt Roofing: What's the Difference? (2026 Guide)," updated March 30, 2026. thisoldhouse.com/roofing/metal-vs-asphalt-roof
- This Old House, "How Much Does a New Roof Cost?" updated October 7, 2026. thisoldhouse.com/roofing/new-roof-cost
- Bob Vila, "Metal Roofs vs. Shingles," updated April 2, 2026. bobvila.com/articles/metal-roofs-vs-shingles/
Common questions
Is a metal roof worth it?
On price alone, rarely. On This Old House's averages, asphalt stays cheaper over 40 years of ownership. Metal makes more sense if you'll stay for decades or need its wind and fire performance.
How long does a metal roof last compared to shingles?
Metal lasts about 40 to 70 years. Asphalt shingles last about 15 to 30 years.
Is a metal roof louder than shingles?
It can be during heavy rain or hail. Insulation and attic space reduce the noise.
Does a metal roof lower insurance?
It can, especially if it's impact-resistant, but it depends on your insurer. Get the discount confirmed in writing.
