Comparing asphalt shingles and metal roofing for Ralston homeowners. Learn the pros, cons, and costs of each option to make an informed decision.

Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal Roofing: Making the Right Choice

When it's time for a new roof, homeowners often ask whether they should stick with traditional asphalt shingles or consider metal roofing. Both options have merit, and the best choice depends on your priorities, budget, and home characteristics.

Royalty Roofing and Siding installs both asphalt and metal roofing systems. Here's our honest comparison to help you decide.

Asphalt Shingles: The Traditional Choice

Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in America for good reasons. They offer excellent value, proven performance, and wide aesthetic options.

Advantages of Asphalt Shingles

Lower initial cost is the primary advantage. Quality architectural shingles cost significantly less than metal while still providing 25-30 years of protection. The wide variety of colors, styles, and textures means you can achieve almost any look. Repairs are straightforward and affordable. Every roofing contractor knows how to work with asphalt.

Considerations with Asphalt

Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than metal. They're more susceptible to wind uplift, hail damage, and algae growth. Premium architectural shingles resist these issues better than basic three-tab shingles.

Metal Roofing: The Long-Term Investment

Metal roofing has grown in popularity as products have evolved beyond the industrial look. Modern metal roofing comes in styles that mimic shingles, slate, and tile.

Advantages of Metal Roofing

Longevity is metal's biggest advantage, with lifespans of 50 years or more. Metal resists fire, rot, and insects. It sheds snow easily and reflects heat for potential energy savings. Hail that damages shingles often just dents metal without compromising performance.

Considerations with Metal

Higher upfront cost is the main barrier. Metal roofing typically costs two to three times more than asphalt. Not all contractors have metal roofing experience, and improper installation causes problems. Some homeowners dislike the sound of rain on metal, though modern installations with solid decking minimize this.

Cost Comparison

For a typical 2,000 square foot home in the Omaha area, expect to pay $12,000-$18,000 for quality architectural shingles and $25,000-$40,000 for standing seam metal. However, when you factor in metal's longer lifespan, the lifetime cost per year can be comparable.

Which Is Right for You?

Choose asphalt shingles if: You're budget-conscious, plan to sell within 15-20 years, want the widest color and style selection, or need repairs on a non-metal roof.

Choose metal roofing if: You plan to stay in your home long-term, want maximum durability, prefer lower maintenance, or your home design suits metal aesthetics.

Professional Guidance

Every home and homeowner is different. Our project managers can assess your specific situation and provide recommendations based on your priorities and budget. We offer honest advice even when it means recommending the less expensive option.

Contact Royalty Roofing and Siding for a free consultation. We'll help you weigh the options and make the choice that's right for your home.