When it comes to choosing a new roof, homeowners often face the big question: Are metal shingles worth it? Traditional asphalt shingles may seem like the obvious choice, but more and more homeowners are turning to metal shingles for their long-term value, durability, and eco-friendly appeal.
This blog will walk through everything you need to know about metal shingles: what they are, how they compare to asphalt shingle roofs, their energy efficiency, durability, costs, environmental impact, and when they may or may not make sense. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether this roofing option is right for your home.
What Are Metal Shingles?
Metal shingles are a type of metal roof designed to replicate the look of traditional roofing materials—such as slate, wood shakes, or asphalt shingles—while offering the strength and longevity of metal. Unlike standing seam panels, which create a sleek, modern look with vertical seams, metal shingles provide a familiar aesthetic that blends seamlessly into residential neighborhoods.
For homeowners who love the appearance of traditional asphalt shingles but want the long-term performance of metal, metal shingles strike the perfect balance. They deliver the same curb appeal as a traditional shingle roof but with decades of protection and minimal upkeep.
How Do Metal Shingles Compare to Asphalt Shingle Roofs?
Most homeowners are familiar with asphalt shingle roofs, which dominate the market because of their low upfront cost. But “cheap” and “valuable” aren’t the same thing. Asphalt shingles typically last 15–25 years, depending on quality and maintenance. That means replacing your roof two, sometimes three times over a 50-year span.
Metal shingles, on the other hand, regularly last 50 years or more. With proper installation, you may never have to replace your roof again. That difference alone makes a strong case for metal shingles being worth the investment.
Another important factor is sustainability. Asphalt shingles are petroleum-based and difficult to recycle. Each tear-off contributes to landfill waste unless proper procedures are followed. Metal shingles, however, are 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan, making them one of the most environmentally friendly roofing options available.
Are Metal Shingles Energy Efficient?
Yes—metal shingles are highly energy efficient. Many come with reflective coatings that reduce heat absorption from the sun, lowering cooling costs during summer months. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, which absorb and retain heat, metal shingles reflect solar energy to help keep homes cooler.
In the Pacific Northwest and other climates with warm summers, this can lead to meaningful savings on energy bills. Over decades, the efficiency of metal shingles compounds into real financial benefits—yet another reason why they are worth considering.
Durability: Can Metal Shingles Withstand Harsh Conditions?
One of the strongest arguments for metal shingles is their ability to withstand harsh weather.
- High Winds: Properly installed metal roofs can withstand winds up to 120 mph or more, making them a smart choice for storm-prone regions.
- Fire Rating: Metal shingles typically carry a Class A fire rating, the highest available, which is a huge advantage in areas with wildfire risks.
- Impact Resistance: Many metal shingles are rated as impact resistant, protecting against hail or falling branches.
A common myth is that metal roofs dent easily. While large hail or heavy impacts can cause cosmetic dents, the structural integrity of the roof is rarely compromised. By comparison, wood shakes may split under similar impact, and asphalt shingles can lose protective granules—both of which affect performance.
What Is the Cost of Metal Roofing Compared to Other Options?
The initial cost of metal roofing is higher than traditional asphalt shingles. That’s often the biggest hesitation homeowners have. But it’s essential to compare not just upfront cost, but total cost over time.
- Asphalt Shingles: Lower upfront cost but shorter lifespan. During a 50 year span, you may replace the roof 2–3 times.
- Metal Shingles: Higher upfront cost, but built to last a lifetime. For more than 50 years, you may never replace your roof again.
When you add up the cost of materials, labor, and disposal for multiple asphalt roof replacements, the numbers often favor metal shingles in the long run. Additionally, insurance companies in some regions offer lower premiums for metal roofs because of their fire and wind resistance, further offsetting the initial cost.
Are Metal Shingles Environmentally Friendly?
Absolutely. Metal shingles are one of the most environmentally friendly roofing options you can choose. They are made from sustainable materials, often with recycled content, and are 100% recyclable at the end of their life.
In contrast, most asphalt shingles end up in landfills. Choosing metal shingles reduces waste and contributes to a more eco-conscious home. Pair this with their energy efficiency, and it’s clear why environmentally minded homeowners gravitate toward metal roofing.
When Might Metal Shingles Not Be the Right Choice?
While metal shingles are an excellent investment for most homeowners, there are a few scenarios where they may not be the best fit.
- Short-Term Ownership: If you know you’ll be moving in just a few years, the upfront cost of metal may not fully pay back during your time in the home. However, Mountaintop’s products come with a lifetime, transferable warranty—so even if you sell, you pass that assurance to the next owner. That can make your home more attractive on the market and offset concerns about short-term ownership.
- Rental Properties: For income-focused rentals, where the goal is minimizing upfront costs, traditional asphalt shingles may make more financial sense.
- Tight Budgets: If the upfront cost of metal roofing simply doesn’t fit, asphalt shingles remain the least expensive roofing option.
- Design Restrictions: In historic districts or communities with strict aesthetic guidelines, certain roofing options may be limited.
Even with these considerations, for most homeowners—especially those in their “forever homes”—metal shingles offer unmatched long-term value.
So, Are Metal Shingles Worth It in the Long Term?
Yes—metal shingles are worth it for the majority of homeowners. They combine the familiar look of traditional shingles with the performance of a premium roofing system. Metal roofs offer:
- Decades of durability with little maintenance
- Superior protection against fire, wind, and impact
- Energy efficiency that reduces long-term utility costs
- Eco-friendly materials that are 100% recyclable
- A lifetime, transferable warranty for lasting peace of mind
When you weigh the initial cost of metal against decades of savings, fewer replacements, and improved safety, the value becomes clear. For homeowners who want to invest once and protect their property for a lifetime, metal shingles are one of the best roofing options available today.
Are metal shingles worth it FAQs
1. Do metal shingles look like traditional shingles?
Yes. Metal shingles are designed to replicate the appearance of traditional asphalt shingles, wood shakes, or even slate. They offer the same curb appeal with far greater longevity.
2. Will metal roofs dent easily in hail?
Not typically. While extreme hail can leave cosmetic dents, most modern metal shingles are impact resistant and maintain structural integrity even under harsh conditions.
3. How do metal shingles perform in high winds or fire-prone areas?
Exceptionally well. Many carry Class A fire ratings and are engineered to withstand high winds, offering superior protection compared to asphalt shingles or wood shakes.
4. What’s the difference between metal shingles and standing seam metal roofing?
Standing seam creates a sleek, vertical seam look and is often used on modern designs. Metal shingles replicate traditional roofing styles while delivering the same long-term durability.
5. Is the initial cost of metal worth it if I plan to sell soon?
Yes. Even if you move within a few years, the lifetime, transferable warranty adds resale value and gives buyers confidence that the roof will last for decades.
Ready to Invest in a Roof That Lasts a Lifetime?
Choosing a new roof is a major decision. While asphalt shingles may seem appealing upfront, metal shingles provide long-term durability, superior energy efficiency, and peace of mind with a lifetime, transferable warranty. Instead of replacing your roof every 15–20 years, you can invest once and enjoy protection that lasts for generations.
At Mountaintop Metal Roofing, we’re committed to redefining the roofing experience with premium U.S.-made aluminum and copper shingles, expert installation, and unmatched customer care.
Contact us today for a free estimate to call to schedule a consultation and see how a metal shingle roof can protect and elevate your home for a lifetime.