Are Tin Roofs Cheaper Than Shingles

Is A Metal Roof Worth It

Installing a metal roof has a greater upfront cost than asphalt composite shingles, but it lasts much longer and provides substantial energy cost savings. Metal roof costs are comparable to roofs made of wooden shakes or slate tiles, but metal is sturdier and more durable. Compare your current budget against the budget needed to maintain other roofing materials before making your choice.

Metal Roof Vs Shingles: Which Is Cheaper

When deciding whether you should go with a metal roof over shingles, it is important to consider all factors, not just the upfront cost. While shingle roofing may be less expensive initially, it may require more frequent repairs and replacements over time, which can add up and potentially make it more expensive in the long run.

On the other hand, metal roofing may have a higher upfront cost, but it has a longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements, which can make it a more cost-effective choice in the long term. It is important to consider the specific needs and budget of your home or business, as well as any long-term cost considerations, when making a decision. Personal preference and aesthetic appeal can also play a role in the decision, as some people may prefer the look of shingles or metal roofing.

Steel Shingles And Tiles

There are several common types of steel roofing. Galvanized steel, which is coated with zinc to deter corrosion, is a popular choice for its strength and durability. A cheaper alternative is Galvalume, which is aluminum-coated steel. On the high end of the scale is stainless steel, which is a rare but striking choicethe Chrysler Building, for example, is roofed with stainless steel.

A 100-square-foot Galvalume panel costs between $75 and $250 and installs for a total of about $5.50 per square foot. Galvanized steel, which is a bit more expensive, runs about $3.35 to $4.25 per square foot, and materials plus installation come out to about $10 per square foot, or $17,000 to $25,000 total. Stainless steel is quite a bit more expensive at $10 to $16 per square foot for materials and as much as $15.50 more per square foot for installation.

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Are Metal Roofs More Energy

Metal roofs are considered more energy-efficient than shingles, as metal facing reflects up to 83% of the suns energy away from a home, keeping it cooler during summer months. While this can mean lower cooling costs during summertime, does this mean that metal roofs are a poor choice for homes in colder areas?

While the surface of a metal roof might get cooler in wintertime, the underlayment used for metal roofing and the gap between the roof decking and metal itself doesnt tend to absorb that cold. In many studies, the air in that gap stayed the same temperature as the homes framing underneath.

In other words, the layers placed under a metal roof provide added insulation for a home so that outside cold doesnt transfer to your interior rooms. A metal roof can then mean lower utility costs year-round, with more comfortable interior spaces no matter the outside temperatures.

Things To Consider With Metal Roofs

If you are unfamiliar with metal roofs, you may have concerns about the potential for rust, noise from rain and wind, and denting, but rest assured that modern engineering addresses these concerns. Additionally, some believe that metal roofing will increase your likelihood of a lightning strike.

While metal does conduct electricity, electricity is not drawn to it. In fact, because it is fire resistant, if your home is struck by lightening, your risk of fire is actually with a metal roof. Finally, a metal roof will not make your home colder in the winter. As long as your attic is properly insulated, your home will stay just as toasty as any other home in the winter.

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Why Is Labor More For Metal Roof Vs Shingles

Asphalt shingles need good installation too, of course, but its much simpler and faster to do than a metal roof lay em down, bang them in. The nailed-on aspect of asphalt is a budget-saver. Metal, on the other hand, is more precise, requires accurate measures, takes some special tools, and tends to require more industrial know-how especially in regions where hurricanes and wildfires may exist.

A metal roof can literally take two to three times more work to install than asphalt, and thats why its more costly on the install. Add in more dormers, skylights, funky angles, and other complexities, and the price goes higher still.

Defining Metal Roof Costs

We need to define two terms to discuss costs: first cost and life cycle cost. As you might expect, the first cost is the product cost on the day of purchase. Conversely, life cycle costs also include factors like the life expectancy and maintenance of a product over its lifetime.

For a better understanding, lets look at the comparison of a home office printer. The first costs for printer option #1 are $59.00, while the first costs for printer option #2 are $99.

Based on first costs alone, option #1 seems the logical choice however, upon reading reviews, it seems the print head on the cheaper-priced printer commonly fails within the first year and, of course, after the 90 day warranty expires. With an estimated repair bill of $50, the life cycle costs for printer #1 escalate to $109.

And suddenly, the higher-priced printer option #2 may offer better life cycle costs. Ultimately, life cycle costs are the concept of paying more money for a product on day one but reasonably expecting the product to last longer or provide fewer problems during ownership.

We can now apply the same premise to metal roofing panels with a better understanding of life cycle costs. The table below highlights that life cycle costs are a game-changer in comparing shingle and metal roofing costs.

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What’s My Return On Investment For A Metal Roof

A metal roof is often referred to as a “Lifetime Roof”, meaning you should only need to purchase one in your life for your house. It’s a long-term investment. The upfront cost of a metal roof will be more than a quality asphalt roof. However, the overall costs over the lifetime of the roof will be less with a metal roof.

When you look at the ROI for a metal roof, you have to look at least 15 years in the future. If you don’t plan on living in your house for 15 years, then asphalt shingles will have a better ROI. You will not live there long enough to recoup the higher initial costs. An asphalt shingle roof has a better ROI until you have to replace the first shingle roof with a second roof. When you hit that point in time a metal roof would have been a much better investment.

If you do expect to live in your home for 15 years or longer than a metal roof will have a better long term ROI. You are buying a product that’s more energy efficient, has lower insurance premiums, and requires less maintenance. You have to factor in the longevity of a metal roof versus an asphalt shingle roof.

In this article we will answer these questions with real numbers.

• What’s the cost of one metal roof and do I have additional monthly savings?
• How much is the cost of two asphalt shingle roofs?
• What has a better ROI, one metal roof or two asphalt shingle roofs?

Here are some statistics from the Metal Roofing Alliance that detail what a new metal roof will cost and how long it will last.

Do Metal Roofs Require Less Maintenance

With a metal roof in a PVDF paint finish, you have a limited 30-year paint warranty. You will get a much longer aesthetic life of the panel compared to an asphalt shingle roof.

This is also another area where it seems clear that a metal roof costs less to maintain, but finding reliable supporting evidence is difficult.

As a metal roofing manufacturer if you ask me how you should maintain metal roofing panels, I will tell you to have a roofing service look at your roof every year to avoid long term problems. This is CYA legal talk.

The reality is that very few people do regular maintenance. Keep your roof free of debris and don’t have dis-similar metals come into contact with the roof and you will be fine. This is especially true with standing seam metal roofing. If it’s installed properly, there is not a lot that can go wrong. Regular maintenance is designed to catch a minor problem early so that it does not become a major problem later.

If you have an exposed fastener panel, then you need to keep an eye on the screws to verify they were installed correctly, they have not backed out due to expansion and contraction, and that the washers have not worn out. If your budget permits, we recommend a standing seam panel so that you avoid all of these problems.

If you would like to learn more about metal roofing maintenance, read:

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Aesthetics & Design Differences

Finally, metal roofs and asphalt shingles differ in their appearance, curb appeal, and the designs available. Which is more appealing is really a matter of personal preference, which is sometimes informed by your location.

Metal roofs can be corrugated or standing seam, or they can consist of metal panels or shingles. They come in a variety of designs, patterns, and colors, so there is plenty of room for customization. Just keep in mind that the differences in material and labor costs among styles like an exposed fastener corrugated metal roof and a standing seam metal roof can vary quite a lot.

Asphalt roofing products come in a variety of colors and shingle shapes, which allows for slightly less customization, but most homeowners looking for an asphalt roof will be able to find a design option that works well for them and their residential roofing project.

Florida’s Hot Humid Climate Can Wreak Havoc On Asphalt Shingles

One of the key benefits of metal roofing is that it’s more durable than asphalt shingles. Florida’s hot, humid climate can wreak havoc on asphalt shingles, and they’re prone to deterioration. If in northern climates, asphalt shingle roofs can last up to 30 years, in Florida they last on average about 15. Metal roofs are also more durable and long-lasting than asphalt shingles, offering homeowners peace of mind when theyre out enjoying their beautiful surroundings.

Another reason homeowners may be interested in switching from an asphalt shingle roof to a metal one is that metal roofs offer more protection against UV rays than asphalt shingle roofs doa big advantage if you live within close reach of the Gulf Coast or along Florida’s Atlantic coast where there’s an abundance of sunlight most days.

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Comparing The Costs Of Shingles And Metal Roofing

When comparing the costs of shingle and metal roofing, it is important to consider a range of factors that can affect the price. For shingle roofing, some of the key cost drivers include the size of the roof, the type of shingles used, and the location of the building. A larger roof will require more material and labor, which can drive up the cost. Different types of shingles can also have varying price points, with asphalt shingles generally being the most affordable option, followed by wood, slate, and ceramic. The location of the building can also impact the cost of shingle roofing, as prices may vary based on factors such as the local cost of living and the availability of materials and labor.

For metal roofing, some of the key cost drivers include the type of metal used, the thickness of the material, and the slope of the roof. Additionally, different types of metal, such as steel, aluminum, and copper, can have different price points and performance characteristics. The thickness of the material is also important, as thicker metal will generally be more expensive but also more durable. The slope of the roof can also affect the cost of metal roofing, as steeper roofs may require additional support or labor to install.

Galvanized Steel Shingles Roof Cost

Galvanized Steel Shingles cost $3 to $3.50 per square foot and start at $7.50 per square foot installed for interlocking steel shingles. The two common types of galvanized steel used in roofing are G-60, which is a low-end product used for roofing on garden sheds or workshops, and G-90, which is used for residential roofing applications. During the manufacturing stage, the metal is treated with a thin coat of zinc oxide and painted with a resin-based architectural coating called Kynar 500 to preserve the finish.

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Is A Metal Roof More Expensive Than Asphalt Shingles

A metal roof is often more expensive to purchase and install than asphalt shingles. However, it depends on the kind of roofing you end up installing. Architectural shingles tend to be the most costly form of asphalt shingles, and you can get inexpensive aluminum metal roofing.

It also helps to consider the benefits of metal roofs because they may outweigh the upfront cost you have to pay. Since they last longer than asphalt shingles, you may not have to replace them as often, so it may be worth the investment to save money in the long run. With those factors in mind, a metal roof can be cheaper than shingles over time.

The Average Cost Of Stone Coated Metal Shingles

Stone-coated metal roofing is typically more than asphalt shingles in fact, sometimes twice as much or more!

Like asphalt shingles, stone coated metal roofing will vary on the style you choose and your roof, but the average is $5.50 to $12.00 per square foot of roofing space.

Of course, we need to explore more than just cost when it comes to a good roofing material for your home. To take a deeper dive into all you should consider read our blog: 7 Factors To Consider When Getting A New Roof.

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Is It Better To Have A Metal Roof Or Shingles

Ultimately, the answer to this question is up to you. Both options are suitable for just about any area and climate, but there are some key differences to be aware of before you choose.

Asphalt roofs are far cheaper to install, averaging around $6,000 for a 1,000-square-foot home, which includes materials and labor. A metal roof can range quite a bit based on the metal used and the design, but the typical price for a 1,000-sq-ft home is around $11,375. However, asphalt roofing needs to be replaced every 12 to 20 years, while a metal roof can last from 40 to 70 years. A metal roof might be more expensive up front, but it will almost always save you money in the long run.

Metal roofs also stand up to extreme weather better and are more resistant to leaks and severe damage. However, they can get dented by hail or flying debris, which isnt an issue for shingle roofs. Additionally, metal roofs create more noise during rain and hail, which is a deterrent for some homeowners.

The bottom line is that both roof options have their pros and cons, so youll need to weigh these against each other and decide which is best for your budget, your climate, and your personal preference.

Average Pricing For Metal Roof Vs Asphalt Shingle

Lets say youve got a roof of 2,300 square feet that needs to be finished, since thats the median size home in the United States . Prices below are for materials only and do not include include installation costs due to the geographical fluctuation of that cost.

Metal Roofing

Youre looking at anywhere from $2 per square foot of economy metal roofing up to as much as $4 per square foot for standing seam. Pricing based on June, 2021 prices on Multipurpose metal panel and 16 Standing Seam Minor Rib material and include warranty, delivery, underlayment and trim.

For a 2,300-square-foot metal roof, the materials cost could be between $5,212 and $9,402.

Asphalt Shingles

For a 2,300-square-foot asphalt shingle roof, the materials cost could be between $2,300 to $5,750.

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Is A Metal Roof Cheaper Than Shingles

Metal roofing is growing more and more popular in the roofing industry. This has sparked homeowners to start comparing the more commonly used asphalt shingle roof to metal roofing.

One of the biggest comparison questions we get is, Is a metal roof cheaper than shingles?

The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has over 30 years of experience answering questions just like this one. To ensure homeowners like you make the right purchasing decision, well be breaking down if a metal roof is cheaper than shingles.

Not only will we be comparing metal roof cost to shingle cost, but well also be comparing their lifespans, warranties, and more. By the end of this article, youll know which one is right for you and your replacement.

The Sun’s Ultraviolet Rays Can Cause Asphalt Shingles To Break Down Prematurely

Asphalt shingles are also susceptible to damage from ultraviolet rays, which break down the material and cause it to become brittle. The suns rays can also cause metal fasteners used on asphalt roofs to corrode, leading them to fail prematurely as well.

The effects of ultraviolet radiation have been well documented. In fact, most buildings will deteriorate faster if they’re not properly protected from sunlightand that includes your roof!

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