Metal Roof Panels vs. Shingles: Which Roofing Material to Choose?

Both options, metal roofing and asphalt shingles protect your place, but they do it in very different ways.

Asphalt shingles have dominated American roofing for decades. They are made from a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules. You see them on most houses because they work well and look familiar.

Metal roofing has grown in popularity over the past twenty years. Modern metal roofs come in various styles such as standing seam panels, metal shingles, and corrugated sheets. Materials range from steel and aluminum to copper and zinc.

Both materials protect your home from rain, snow, and sun. The differences lie in how long they last, how they perform, and what they require over time.

Lifespan: The Long Game

 A quality metal roof can last 40 to 70 years with proper installation. Some copper and zinc roofs have protected places for over a century.

Asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 30 years depending on the quality. Basic three-tab shingles fall on the shorter end. Architectural shingles, which are thicker and more durable, can push toward that 30-year mark.

Think about what this means for your home. If you install asphalt shingles today, you might need two or even three roof replacements over the same period that one metal roof would serve you.

Weather Performance

Handling Boston Winters

Snow and ice bring unique challenges. Metal roofs shed snow more easily because of their smooth surface. This reduces the weight load on your roof structure and minimizes ice dam formation.

Shingles hold snow longer, which can be good or bad. The snow provides extra insulation, but heavy accumulation adds stress to the roof. Ice dams form more readily on shingled roofs, potentially causing water to back up under the shingles and leak into your home.

Wind and Storm Resistance

High-quality metal roofing can withstand winds up to 140 miles per hour when properly installed. The interlocking panels create a unified surface that resists uplift.

Shingles are more vulnerable to wind damage. Strong gusts can lift, crack, or tear shingles from the roof. 

Energy Efficiency

Your roof plays a bigger role in your energy spent. The material you choose affects how much heat enters your home in summer and how well warmth stays inside during winter.

Metal roofs reflect solar energy rather than absorbing it. This keeps your attic cooler during summer months and can reduce your air conditioning costs noticeably. Light-colored or specially coated metal roofs maximize this benefit.

Asphalt shingles absorb heat, especially darker colors. Your attic gets hotter, and your air conditioner works harder. Cool roof shingle options exist but still cannot match metal’s reflective properties.

In heating climates like Boston, the difference is less dramatic. Both roof types perform similarly in winter when keeping heat inside matters most. The energy advantage of metal roofing shows up primarily during the cooling season.

Maintenance Requirements

Metal roofs require minimal maintenance. An annual inspection to check fasteners and sealants is usually sufficient. You might need to clear debris from valleys occasionally, but that is about it.

Shingle roofs demand more attention. You should inspect them twice yearly and after major storms. Replacing cracked, curled, or missing shingles prevents small problems from becoming major leaks. Moss and algae growth requires treatment in shaded or humid areas.

Over the life of a shingle roof, you will likely need several repairs. Metal roof repairs are less frequent, though they can be more specialized when needed.

Appearance and Curb Appeal

Shingles offer the traditional look most neighborhoods expect. They come in dozens of colors and several styles. Architectural shingles mimic the dimensional appearance of wood shakes or slate.

Metal roofing has evolved dramatically. Standing seam panels provide a sleek, modern appearance. Metal shingles can replicate the look of slate, tile, or wood without the weight or fragility. Color options have expanded to include virtually any shade you want.

Consider your neighborhood when making this choice. Some historic districts or homeowner associations have restrictions on roofing materials. A metal roof on a colonial home might look out of place, while the same roof on a contemporary design could be perfect.

Installation Considerations

Shingle installation is straightforward. Most roofing contractors have extensive experience with asphalt shingles. The process typically takes one to three days for an average home.

Metal roofing requires specialized skills. Poor installation leads to leaks, noise issues, and premature failure. Always choose a professional contractor with specific metal roofing experience.

Metal roofs are lighter than shingles, which can be an advantage for older homes. However, installation over existing shingles is sometimes possible with asphalt but rarely recommended for metal.

Environmental Considerations

If sustainability matters to you, consider the environmental footprint of each option. Metal roofs are often made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their life.

Asphalt shingles typically end up in landfills. With millions of roofs replaced each year, this adds up to significant waste. Some recycling programs exist, but they are not widely available.

How long do you plan to stay in your home? If you are selling in five years, shingles make practical sense. If this is your forever home, metal’s longevity becomes more attractive.

Get Expert Advice for Your Roof Replacement

At CAN Roof Construction, we install several types of roofing,  throughout Boston and the Greater Boston area. Our team helps homeowners weigh the options and choose what works best for their specific situation.

We start every project with a drone roof inspection. This allows us to assess your current roof condition and discuss your options with real information about your home.

As certified contractors with over 10 years of experience, we bring expertise in all major roofing materials. Every project includes our 10-year workmanship warranty for complete peace of mind.

Call us at 857-415-7727 or schedule your free consultation online.

We will help you find the right roof for your home and your budget.