Indecisive consumers can feel stress when deciding between two popular alternatives (e.g., paper or plastic, heads or tails). That feeling of stress can be amplified when they must make a decision with higher financial stakes, like selecting a roofing material. Selecting either metal or asphalt shingle roofing may lead homeowners to draw incorrect conclusions without accurate information. The cost of metal roof vs shingles requires a homeowner to understand each option’s pricing structure thoroughly.
Cost Of A Metal Roof Versus Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Metal roofing has become increasingly popular in recent years. Homeowners believe it is a viable alternative to asphalt shingles. Why? Metal roofs are no longer considered the cold, sterile roofing material reserved only for agricultural or industrial buildings. Today’s metal roof has been crafted to mimic the look and feel of countless other roofing material alternatives, such as clay tiles, asphalt shingles, and wood shakes.
The price for a new metal roof depends on many factors, including the availability of metal roofing (locally or nationally), the cost of different types of metal (copper, steel, aluminum, etc.), and access to qualified installers (many roofing contractors do not specialize in metal). Currently, homeowners can expect to pay between $15,000 and $25,000 for a new metal roof. Many premium metal roofs cost much more (up to $100,000).
Nearly four in five homes have asphalt shingle roofing, which remains the most widely available and affordable option. Asphalt shingles generally come in one of two styles: three-tab or architectural. Three-tab asphalt shingle roofing is the traditional layout with an expected lifespan of 12 to 20 years. On the other hand, architectural asphalt shingles offer a modern touch and enhanced longevity of up to 25 to 30 years.
A three-tab asphalt shingle roof will cost a homeowner between $5,000 and $10,000. The price heavily depends on the total square footage of the roofing surface and the complexity of the roof. An architectural asphalt shingle roofing system typically costs between $7,500 and $15,000. A luxury version of architectural asphalt shingling can price out for as much as $50,000. Regardless, asphalt shingles remain the most affordable option.
Experts estimate that three-tab asphalt shingles will cost a homeowner between $4.00 and $8.00 per square foot. The price for architectural asphalt shingles may range from $6.00 to $10.00 per square foot, while luxury architectural asphalt shingles cost up to $14.00 per square foot. In comparison, metal roofing has a broader pricing structure. Expect to pay between $10.00 to $60.00 per square foot for a new metal roofing system.
3 Reasons Why A Price Difference Exists Between Metal & Asphalt Shingle Roofing
1. Availability Of Asphalt Shingles Compared To Metal Roofing
For the average homeowner, accessing asphalt shingles is much easier than metal roofing (especially more luxurious options like copper and zinc). The standard big box home improvement store (e.g., The Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards) supplies many brands of asphalt shingle roofing. Because of its availability, asphalt shingle roofing tends to be priced more competitively and affordably than metal roofing systems.
2. Difference In Installation Complexity & Time Commitment
Nearly all roofing companies can easily install a new asphalt shingle roofing system. On the other hand, attaching a metal roof requires more time, knowledge, and experience. The average roofer will not likely have the expertise to ensure proper installation of a metal roofing system. A homeowner should verify the credentials of any metal roofing contractor to confirm they are qualified to construct a metal roof.
3. Durability & Longevity Differences Between The Options
Manufacturers design asphalt shingle roofing to last anywhere from 12 to 30 years, depending on the style. Luxurious asphalt shingles may have a “somewhat” more extended lifespan of up to 40 years. Conversely, depending on the type of alloy utilized, the average longevity of a metal roof will range from 40 to 80 years. Higher-grade metal roofing will last longer (as much as 100 to 200 years (or more) with proper care.
Understanding The Importance Of Hiring An Expert Roofing Company For Installation
As a homeowner, you do not want to take a chance on retaining just any roofing contractor to facilitate your roof replacement project. Roofers come and go. Few stay established in the industry. Many reasons explain why roofing companies do not last for more than a handful of years. The barrier to entry is relatively low. Initially, overhead expenses may be manageable.
To build a reputation in the roofing business, a contractor must take a long-range perspective. Experience matters. Expertise distinguishes one roofer from another. Attaining knowledge requires installers to receive substantial classroom and on-the-job training. They must also adhere closely to industry standards and best practices, especially as they change over time.
At Moore & Sons Roofing, we are a second-generation, family-owned roofing company based in Grand Rapids, MI. Throughout our decades of service, we have assisted over 15,000 Western Michigan homeowners with their residential roofing needs. Contact us today to learn more about our roofing services or to schedule an appointment (and receive a free estimate).
