Shingle vs Metal Roof: Side-by-Side Comparison
Asphalt shingles and standing seam metal are the two most common residential roofing materials in the Midwest. One costs half as much upfront. The other lasts twice as long. The right choice depends on how long you plan to own the home, your budget, and whether you value lifespan over upfront savings.
| Asphalt Shingle | Standing Seam Metal | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost (2,000 sq ft roof) | $12,500 - $22,000 | $28,000 - $45,000 |
| Cost per sq ft (installed) | $5.50 - $7.50 | $14 - $18 |
| Expected lifespan | 20 - 30 years | 45 - 70 years |
| Hail resistance | Moderate (Class 3) | Excellent (Class 4) |
| Wind rating | Up to 130 mph | Up to 180 mph |
| Energy efficiency | Standard | Reflects heat, lowers cooling costs 10-25% |
| Insurance discount | None typically | Up to 35% in hail-prone areas |
| Maintenance | Moderate — inspect yearly, replace damaged shingles | Low — check fasteners and sealant every 5 years |
| Resale value impact | Neutral | Positive — adds $15,000-$25,000 to appraisal |
| Noise in rain | Quiet | Louder without proper underlayment |
| Color options | 30+ standard colors | 15-20 standard colors |
| Installation time | 1 - 3 days | 3 - 7 days |
Our Verdict
For most homeowners who plan to sell within 15 years, architectural asphalt shingles are the right call. The upfront savings are real, and a properly installed shingle roof handles Midwest weather without drama. If you plan to stay 20+ years, or if you are in a high-hail corridor and want the insurance discount, standing seam metal pays for itself over time. The break-even point is typically year 18 to 22 when you factor in the shingle roof needing replacement while the metal roof is still at 60% of its life.
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- Roof Replacement Services — full details on what is included and pricing
- Roof Replacement Cost in St. Louis — local pricing by material and home size
- Roof Replacement Cost in Chicago — Chicago metro pricing breakdown
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put metal roofing over existing shingles?
Technically yes, but we do not recommend it. Trapping moisture between layers accelerates deck rot. A proper tear-off adds cost but protects the structure for the full 50+ year life of the metal.
Does a metal roof make my house louder in storms?
With proper underlayment and deck attachment, the noise difference is minimal. Standing seam with synthetic underlayment on plywood decking sounds about the same inside as shingles. Cheap exposed-fastener metal on purlins is a different story.
Which material handles hail better?
Standing seam metal, by a wide margin. Metal panels dent but do not crack or lose waterproofing. Asphalt shingles fracture and lose granules, which shortens their life. Many insurers offer Class 4 discounts of 20-35% for metal roofs in hail-active zones.