Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against things like rain, wind, hail, snow, uncomfortable temperatures, and more.
If your roof is old or damaged, it can’t protect your home against these things, and that can lead to an unsafe living environment. But before you can install a new roof, you have to pick the right material. Two of the best options are metal and asphalt shingles.
So which one is cheaper?
Keep reading to learn more about the cost of a metal roof vs shingles from the perspective of a Denver roofing contractor.
How Much Do Metal Roofs Cost?
There are several different types of metal roofs—including standing seam metal roofs and metal shingles, so because of this, there’s a wide gap in the price range.
For example, you should expect to pay anything between $5.50 and $12.00 per square foot for your metal roof. Metal shingles are often cheaper, around $7.00 to $10.00 per square foot, than standing seam metal roofs, around $9.00 to $12.00 per square foot.
But you also have to add labor costs on top of that.
In other words, the average price for an average metal roof hovers around $17,000.
How Much Do Asphalt Shingles Cost?
The cost of asphalt shingles can also vary depending on the material quality. High-end shingles can cost $15,000, but low-end shingles can be much cheaper.
It’s important to remember that cost isn’t everything.
It’s always a better idea to spend a bit more money upfront for better shingles than to deal with the leaks, repairs, and a roof replacement low-end shingles would give you.
Picking the Best Roofing Option for Your Home
When it comes to choosing whether metal roofing or shingles are more expensive, you have to consider more than the initial installation cost. There are other qualities that can make you spend or help you save more money later down the road.
Here’s a quick look at a few other things you need to consider when your thinking about cost.
Lifespan
Asphalt shingles can last 15 to 20 years. You might be able to bump that number up to 25 to 30 if you laminated shingles.
Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years depending on the type. While a metal roof is a bigger investment up front, it is cheaper than replacing your asphalt shingles two, or even three, times.
Energy Efficient
Asphalt shingles absorb extra heat during the summer. This means you’ll have to spend more money on your energy bill to keep the house cool.
Metal roofs don’t have this problem. They’re incredibly energy efficient, which can help you save money over time.
Durability
Metal roofs have the advantage of durability. They can last a lot longer than asphalt shingles, and they can withstand the harsh, Colorado weather.
Your metal roof won’t rot when exposed to moisture. On top of that, metal is resistant to fire, severe weather damage, and leaks.
Cost of a Metal Roof vs Shingles: Which One Is More Expensive?
When you’re considering the cost of a metal roof vs shingles, you have to think about more than just the upfront cost.
Metal roofing is more expensive to buy and install. However, because metal roofs have a much longer lifespan than asphalt shingles, a metal roof might actually help you save money in the long run.
Ready to get a new roof?
Click here to get in touch with us today!