Differences in Metal and Asphalt Roofing

Asphalt

• Asphalt is the most common roofing choice in the U.S. because of its relatively low cost and durability, according to Cost Owl. Asphalt is impervious to moisture damage and strong winds, is naturally resistant to rot and termites, and requires almost no maintenance. Asphalt shingles are easy to repair, and if done well, the repair won't be obvious. Inexpensive asphalt shingles last 15 to 20 years, and higher-quality asphalt shingles last 25 to 30 years. Further, these shingles comes in many colors, textures and styles and can be made to look like cedar or slate, though at far lower cost.

Asphalt Costs

• According to Cost Owl, the average cost for installing asphalt shingles on a medium-pitched roof is $1 to $2 per square foot for the shingles and from $2.75 to $4.50 for installation. Removing old shingles from the roof costs about $1.75 to $2.50 per square foot. This puts the total price of a 2,000-square-foot roof at $3,500 to $5,000 for removal and from $5,500 to $9,000 for materials and installation. Costs vary according to materials, location in the country and the accessibility of the roof.

Metal

• Metal roofing is more expensive than asphalt but does not require replacement as often since it lasts 50 years or more. Many manufacturers warrant their metal products for 30 to 40 years. Metal roofing is naturally fire resistant and typically qualifies for a discount on homeowner’s insurance. Further, it reflects heat effectively in the summer. It also requires little maintenance and can increase the resale value of your home, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance. Metal roofing comes in several shingle styles, such as slate, shake and tile; it can also appear in one seamless and continuous unit.

Metal Costs

• A metal roof with a moderate rise of 8 inches for every 12 inches of run costs from $4.00 to $5.00 per square foot including installation. Thus, the total price for a 2,000-square-foot roof would run from $8,000 to $10,000. For a roof with a greater rise or with complications such as difficult access, the cost could increase to $5 to $7 a square foot, equaling $10,000 to $14,000 for a 2,000-square-foot roof. The previous roofing does not need to be removed when a metal roof is installed, which saves installation time and removal costs and increases the insulation value of the home.