If you plan to replace your roof or build a new home, you’re probably considering two common choices: asphalt shingles or metal roofing. Both are popular. Both protect your home. But they come with different price tags, lifespans, and maintenance needs.
So, how do you know which one is right for you?
If you’re like most homeowners we work with, you’re not just asking which one looks good, you want to know:
- Which one lasts longer?
- What costs more upfront, and what costs more over time?
- What works better for the weather we get in California?
- And ultimately, what’s going to give you peace of mind?
At Ground Up Construction, we’ve installed both asphalt and metal roofs throughout San Diego County, and we’ve seen the pros and cons of each up close. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your decision.
Understanding the Basics: What Are Asphalt Shingles and Metal Roofing?
Asphalt Shingles:
These are the most common type of residential roofing in the U.S. They come in flat, overlapping rectangles and are made from a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and mineral granules. You’ve seen them, they’re everywhere.
Why people choose them: They’re affordable, easy to install, and come in lots of styles and colors.
Metal Roofing:
Metal roofing comes in large panels or smaller shingle-like pieces and is made from steel, aluminum, or copper. The panels are either standing seam (vertical ridges) or stamped to look like shingles.
Why people choose it: It lasts a long time, is extremely durable, and reflects heat, making it energy-efficient in hot climates.
Cost Comparison: Upfront vs Long-Term
Asphalt Shingles
- Material & installation cost: $4 to $7 per square foot
- Lifespan: 15–25 years
- Total lifetime cost (including replacement): Moderate
Metal Roofing
- Material & installation cost: $8 to $14 per square foot
- Lifespan: 40–70 years
- Total lifetime cost (including fewer replacements): Often lower in the long run
Verdict: Asphalt shingles are cheaper upfront, which makes them a better choice for tight budgets. But if you plan to stay in your home for 30+ years or more, a metal roof might save you money in the long term by avoiding a second roof replacement.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Asphalt Shingles
- Can blow off in high winds
- May crack under extreme heat
- Vulnerable to algae growth or curling in humid conditions
- Typically withstands wind up to 60–80 mph
Metal Roofing
- Stands up to winds over 120 mph
- Doesn’t crack, curl, or absorb water
- Resists fire and pests
- Can dent from large hail or falling branches
Verdict: Metal roofing wins on durability. It’s a better option for homes exposed to strong winds, wildfire risk, or intense sun, making it ideal for many areas in California.
Style and Curb Appeal
Asphalt Shingles
- Available in a wide range of colors and textures
- Fits well with traditional home designs
- Easier to match with neighboring homes or HOA requirements
Metal Roofing
- Sleek and modern look
- Also comes in styles that mimic shingles, tiles, or wood shakes
- Stands out more (may not blend in with certain neighborhoods)
Verdict: Style is subjective. If your home has a traditional design or you’re in a neighborhood with lots of shingle roofs, asphalt might be a better match. If you like a bold, clean look, or your home has a modern architectural style, metal roofing makes a statement.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Asphalt Shingles
- Absorbs heat, which can raise attic temperatures
- Newer shingles with reflective granules help reduce heat
- Still less efficient than metal
Metal Roofing
- Reflects solar heat, keeping attics cooler
- Can lower cooling costs by 10–25% in hot climates
- Often paired with radiant barriers or reflective coatings
Verdict: Metal roofs are more energy-efficient, especially in sunny places like Southern California. If lowering your energy bill is important, metal may be worth the extra investment.
Maintenance Needs
Asphalt Shingles
- Needs regular inspection after storms
- Moss and algae can grow on shaded roofs
- Easy to patch if one shingle is damaged
Metal Roofing
- Little to no maintenance needed
- Occasional checks for loose fasteners or flashing
- Panels can last decades without fading or damage
Verdict: Asphalt needs more upkeep, especially as it ages. Metal roofing is more “set it and forget it.”
Noise and Comfort
Asphalt Shingles
- Naturally quiet
- Muffles sound from rain or hail well
Metal Roofing
- Can be louder during rain or hail without proper insulation
- Underlayment and attic insulation reduce noise
Verdict: With proper installation, metal roofing doesn’t have to be noisy, but shingles are quieter by default.
Environmental Impact
Asphalt Shingles
- Petroleum-based product
- Most end up in landfills after removal
- Not easily recyclable
Metal Roofing
- Often made from recycled materials
- Fully recyclable at the end of life
- Lasts longer, meaning fewer replacements
Verdict: Metal roofing is the greener choice. If sustainability matters to you, it’s a better long-term solution.
Resale Value
A new roof always adds value, but which one adds more?
Asphalt Shingles
- Standard upgrade in most markets
- Buyers may not be wowed, but it adds trust
Metal Roofing
- Seen as a high-end feature
- Attracts eco-conscious buyers
- Can boost home value more in modern or upscale neighborhoods
Verdict: If you’re flipping a home or plan to sell soon, asphalt may make sense. But if you’re upgrading your forever home or selling in a competitive market, metal can give you an edge.
So… Which Roofing Option Is Right for You?
Still not sure which to pick? Here’s a quick rundown based on your situation:
- If you’re working with a tight budget or only plan to stay in your home for a few more years, asphalt shingles are probably the better choice.
- If you’re planning to stay in your home for 20 years or more, metal roofing is worth the upfront investment.
- If you want as little maintenance as possible, metal roofing is your best bet.
- If you live in a neighborhood with a traditional aesthetic or HOA restrictions, asphalt shingles will blend in better.
- If reducing your energy bills is a priority, metal roofing offers the best heat-reflective performance.
- If you’re replacing your roof before selling your home, asphalt shingles can give you a good return at a lower upfront cost.
- If your home has a modern or custom architectural style, metal roofing will enhance the overall design and appeal.
Each roofing type has a place. It all comes down to what matters most to you.
Why Homeowners Trust Ground Up Construction for Roofing Advice
At Ground Up Construction, we’ve seen every kind of roof issue, from cracked shingles and rusted flashing to full roof rebuilds after fire or storm damage.
We’re not tied to one material. We install both asphalt and metal roofs depending on what’s best for you. Our team helps you compare options, see long-term cost impacts, and choose a roof that fits your home, your goals, and your budget.
We don’t guess. We don’t upsell. We give you honest, experienced advice, whether you’re replacing a few shingles or re-roofing the entire house.
Not Sure What to Pick? Let’s Walk Through It Together
Still deciding between metal and asphalt? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Schedule a no-pressure roofing consultation with Ground Up Construction today. We’ll:
- Inspect your current roof
- Review your goals and budget
- Show you side-by-side estimates
- Help you choose the best material for your home
Your roof is one of your home’s biggest investments. Let’s get it done right, from the ground up.
