Metal vs. Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt is cheaper upfront; metal lasts far longer. Here’s the honest side-by-side on cost, lifespan, energy and resale to help you choose.
Updated July 10, 2026 · 6 min read
When it’s time for a new roof, the first fork in the road is material: familiar, affordable asphalt shingles, or a metal roof that costs more now but can outlast you. Neither is "better" universally — it depends on how long you’ll stay, your climate, and your budget.
Here’s the straight comparison to help you decide.
Cost and lifespan side by side
The core tradeoff is upfront cost vs. how long it lasts:
- Asphalt shingles: £5–£5 / sq ft installed; lasts ~25–30 years.
- Standing-seam metal: £10–£15 / sq ft installed; lasts ~40–70 years.
- Over a 50-year horizon, metal is often installed once while asphalt is replaced twice — which narrows the lifetime gap.
Where each one wins
Beyond price, they differ in ways that matter day to day:
- Energy: metal reflects heat and can lower summer cooling costs; asphalt absorbs more.
- Weather: metal sheds snow and resists wind and fire well; premium asphalt handles hail impact affordably.
- Noise: modern metal over solid decking is quieter than people expect, but still louder than asphalt in heavy rain.
- Look and options: asphalt offers the widest colour/style range and easy repairs; metal gives a modern, long-life look.
- Resale and warranty: metal’s longevity is a selling point; asphalt is what most buyers expect and budget for.
Which should you choose?
Choose asphalt if you want the lowest upfront cost, plan to move within 10–15 years, or want the widest style selection and easiest repairs. Choose metal if this is your forever home, you value the 50-year lifespan and energy savings, or you live somewhere with heavy snow, wildfire risk, or intense sun.
Whichever you pick, the installer matters as much as the material — a great asphalt roof outperforms a poorly installed metal one. Get itemized quotes and check ventilation and flashing details.
Roofing costs in the UK
Figures here are in pounds sterling for a typical national job, with London and the South East at the higher end. British roofs are usually pitched and finished in slate or concrete/clay tile rather than asphalt shingle, so re-roofing, ridge work and flashing to chimneys and party walls are the common jobs. Flat roofs (often felt, GRP or EPDM) are typical on extensions and outbuildings.
Re-roofing generally falls under Building Regulations, and scaffolding is a real cost line on most two-storey homes. Confirm your roofer is insured, and in a conservation area or on a listed building check whether like-for-like materials are required before work starts.
Frequently asked questions
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost?
If you’ll stay long enough to benefit from the 40–70 year lifespan and energy savings, often yes. For a shorter stay, asphalt’s lower upfront cost usually wins on pure economics.
Is a metal roof noisy in the rain?
Less than the stereotype. Installed over solid decking and underlayment, a modern metal roof is only modestly louder than asphalt — many owners find it pleasant.
Can I put metal over existing shingles?
Sometimes, which saves on tear-off, but it depends on local code and the roof’s condition. A full tear-off lets the installer inspect and fix the decking — usually the better long-term choice.
Does a metal roof lower insurance?
Some insurers offer discounts for metal’s fire and impact resistance. Ask your carrier before you assume it — it varies by region and policy.
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