Quick Comparison
Metal Roofing
- ✓ 50+ year lifespan
- ✓ Energy efficient (25-30% cooling savings)
- ✓ Minimal maintenance
- ✓ Higher upfront cost
Asphalt Shingles
- ✓ 20-30 year lifespan
- ✓ Lower upfront cost
- ✓ Easy repairs
- ✓ Wide style variety
Upfront Cost Comparison (2025)
| Material | Cost per Sq Ft | 2,000 Sq Ft Home | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Shingles | $3.50-$5.50 | $7,000-$11,000 | 20-25 years |
| Premium Shingles (Class 4) | $4.50-$6.50 | $9,000-$13,000 | 25-30 years |
| Standing Seam Metal | $8-$12 | $16,000-$24,000 | 50-70 years |
| Metal Shingle/Tile Style | $7-$10 | $14,000-$20,000 | 40-60 years |
Initial Investment: Metal roofing costs 2-3x more upfront than asphalt shingles. For a typical 2,000 sq ft Fort Worth home, expect to pay $7,000-$13,000 for premium asphalt shingles versus $14,000-$24,000 for metal roofing.
Lifespan & Durability
Metal Roofing
- ▸50-70 years: Outlasts asphalt by 2-3x
- ▸Weather Resistant: Withstands 140+ mph winds, golf ball-sized hail
- ▸Fire Rated: Class A fire resistance (non-combustible)
- ▸Minimal Maintenance: Inspection every 5 years, rare repairs
- ▸Warranty: 30-50 year manufacturer warranties common
Asphalt Shingles
- ▸20-30 years: Texas heat reduces lifespan to lower end
- ▸Hail Vulnerable: Class 4 helps, but damage still occurs
- ▸Wind Rating: 110-130 mph (varies by product)
- ▸Annual Maintenance: Inspect yearly, replace damaged shingles
- ▸Warranty: 20-30 years, often prorated after 10
Fort Worth Climate Impact: Texas heat accelerates asphalt shingle aging. Expect 20-22 years in practice versus 25-30 year ratings. Metal roofing maintains full lifespan in hot climates.
Energy Efficiency & Cooling Costs
Annual Cooling Cost Comparison (2,000 sq ft home)
Metal Roofing Efficiency: Reflective metal roofs reduce attic temperatures by 30-50°F compared to dark asphalt shingles. This translates to 25-30% lower cooling costs in Fort Worth's hot summers—saving $400-$500 annually on a typical home.
Cool Roof Shingles: Light-colored or reflective asphalt shingles offer 10-15% cooling cost reduction versus standard dark shingles. This is a middle ground option at lower cost than metal.
30-Year Energy Savings: Metal roofing saves approximately $12,000-$15,000 in cooling costs over 30 years versus standard asphalt shingles.
25-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Breaking Even: When Metal Pays Off
Premium Asphalt Shingles
Standing Seam Metal
Metal roofing breaks even in 12-15 years, then generates savings
Key Insight: While metal costs 2x more upfront, the one-time installation, minimal maintenance, and energy savings make it significantly cheaper over time. Asphalt requires replacement at 20-25 years, erasing initial savings.
Resale Value & Home Equity
Metal Roofing ROI
Recoup Rate: 60-70% of cost at resale
Value Added: $12,000-$16,800 (on $20k investment)
Buyer Appeal: Premium feature, no replacement concerns
Insurance: 5-15% premium discount possible
Asphalt Shingles ROI
Recoup Rate: 60-65% of cost at resale
Value Added: $6,600-$8,450 (on $11k investment)
Buyer Appeal: Standard feature, age matters
Insurance: Class 4 may get 10-20% discount
Both roofing types offer good ROI (60-70% recoup), but metal roofing provides higher absolute value increase and stronger selling point. Buyers see metal as a 50+ year investment, while older asphalt roofs (15+ years) may reduce offers or require replacement before closing.
Maintenance & Repair Costs
| Task | Metal Roofing | Asphalt Shingles |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection Frequency | Every 3-5 years | Annually recommended |
| Gutter Cleaning | 2x/year ($200-$300) | 2x/year ($200-$300) |
| Typical Repairs | Panel resealing ($300-$500) rare | Shingle replacement ($300-$800) every 3-5 years |
| Moss/Algae Treatment | Rarely needed | $300-$500 every 5-10 years |
| 25-Year Maintenance Total | $1,000-$2,000 | $3,000-$5,000 |
Fort Worth Climate Considerations
🌡️ Extreme Heat (Summer 95-105°F)
Metal Advantage:
Reflects heat, stays 30-50°F cooler than asphalt. Reduces AC strain significantly.
Asphalt Challenge:
Absorbs heat, accelerates aging. Expect lifespan at lower end of range (20-22 years).
⛈️ Hail Storms (Spring/Early Summer)
Metal Advantage:
Withstands golf ball-sized hail. May dent but won't compromise integrity or leak.
Asphalt Challenge:
Class 4 shingles help, but large hail still causes damage requiring insurance claims.
💨 High Winds (Thunderstorms, Tornadoes)
Metal Advantage:
Interlocking panels rated 140+ mph. Entire roof system resists uplift.
Asphalt Challenge:
Individual shingles rated 110-130 mph. Edge shingles vulnerable to blow-off.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Metal Roofing If:
- ✓You plan to stay in home 15+ years
- ✓Energy efficiency is important (high AC bills)
- ✓You want minimal maintenance/hassle
- ✓Budget allows for higher upfront investment
- ✓You want best hail/wind protection
- ✓Lowest total cost over time matters most
Choose Asphalt Shingles If:
- ✓Lower upfront cost is priority
- ✓You may move within 10-15 years
- ✓You prefer traditional appearance
- ✓HOA restricts metal roofing
- ✓Repairs/replacements are manageable
- ✓Class 4 shingles provide enough protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Is metal roofing noisy in rain/hail?
No, not with modern installations. Proper insulation, solid decking, and attic space dampen sound. Most homeowners report no noticeable difference from asphalt shingles during rain. Hail may be slightly louder but not disruptive.
Can metal roofs be installed over existing shingles?
Sometimes, yes. Metal can be installed over one layer of asphalt shingles if decking is sound, saving tear-off costs ($1,500-$3,000). However, starting fresh is often recommended for maximum lifespan and warranty coverage.
Do metal roofs attract lightning?
No, metal roofing doesn't increase lightning strike risk. Lightning strikes the highest point regardless of material. If struck, metal roofs are actually safer—they're non-combustible and disperse energy better than asphalt.
How long does installation take for each?
Asphalt shingles: 2-4 days for typical home. Metal roofing: 3-7 days depending on style (standing seam takes longer than metal shingles). Weather delays affect both equally.
Ready to Choose Your Roofing Material?
Get a free consultation and detailed quote comparing both options for your Fort Worth home.