Metal Roof vs. Shingles: Which Is Right for Your Ohio Home?

When it's time to replace your roof, the most common question we hear is: "Should I go with metal or stick with shingles?" It's a great question, and the honest answer is: it depends on your home, your budget, and how long you plan to stay.

We've installed both across Western Ohio for over 25 years. Here's a straightforward comparison to help you make the right call.

The Basics: What Are We Comparing?

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States. They come in two main styles — 3-tab (thinner, less expensive) and architectural/dimensional (thicker, more durable, more attractive). Most residential roofs in Ohio use architectural shingles.

Metal roofing comes in several forms, but the two most common for residential use are standing seam (concealed fasteners, clean lines, premium option) and metal shingles or panels (exposed fasteners, more affordable, mimics the look of traditional roofing).

Cost Comparison

This is usually the first question, so let's address it directly.

Asphalt shingles are significantly less expensive upfront. For a typical Ohio home, you're looking at roughly $4–$7 per square foot installed for architectural shingles, depending on the pitch of your roof, the complexity of the design, and current material costs.

Metal roofing costs more — typically $8–$15 per square foot installed for metal panels, and $15–$25 or more for premium standing seam systems.

So why would anyone choose metal? Because the math changes when you factor in lifespan.

Lifespan: Where Metal Wins Decisively

A quality architectural shingle roof in Ohio will last 25 to 30 years under normal conditions. A metal roof, properly installed, will last 40 to 70 years — sometimes longer.

If you plan to stay in your home for 30+ years, a metal roof may actually cost less over time because you won't need to replace it. If you're planning to sell in the next 10–15 years, shingles likely make more financial sense.

Performance in Ohio Weather

Ohio's climate is tough on roofs. Here's how each material holds up:

Hail

This is a significant concern in our region. Asphalt shingles can be damaged by large hail — granule loss, cracking, and bruising are common after severe storms. Metal roofing is more resistant to hail damage, though large hailstones can still dent softer metals. Many metal roofing products carry Class 4 impact resistance ratings, which can also qualify you for insurance discounts.

Wind

Both materials perform well in wind when properly installed. Metal roofing, particularly standing seam, has an edge in extreme wind events because there are no exposed edges for wind to catch.

Snow and Ice

Metal roofs shed snow more easily than shingles, which can reduce the risk of ice dams. However, this can also mean snow slides off quickly and unexpectedly — something to consider if you have walkways or landscaping below the roofline.

Heat and UV

Metal roofs reflect solar radiation more effectively than asphalt shingles, which can reduce cooling costs in summer. This is a meaningful benefit in Ohio's hot, humid summers.

Appearance

Asphalt shingles have come a long way in terms of aesthetics. Architectural shingles offer a dimensional, textured look that complements most home styles. They're available in a wide range of colors.

Metal roofing has evolved significantly as well. Modern metal shingles and panels can mimic the look of traditional shingles, slate, or tile. Standing seam metal has a clean, contemporary look that works beautifully on modern farmhouse and contemporary-style homes.

Neither material is objectively better looking — it comes down to your home's architecture and your personal preference.

Maintenance

Asphalt shingles require periodic inspection and occasional repairs — replacing a damaged shingle here, resealing flashing there. They're relatively easy and inexpensive to repair.

Metal roofing requires very little maintenance. The main things to watch for are loose fasteners (on exposed fastener systems), sealant around penetrations, and any areas where dissimilar metals might cause corrosion. Overall, metal is the lower-maintenance option over its lifetime.

Resale Value

Both materials add value to a home, but in different ways. A new asphalt shingle roof is expected by most buyers and is a strong selling point. A metal roof can be a differentiator — some buyers will pay a premium for it, while others may not see the value if they're not planning a long-term stay.

In our experience, a well-installed metal roof is a positive for resale, but it's not always reflected dollar-for-dollar in the sale price.

So Which Should You Choose?

Here's our honest recommendation after 25+ years of installing both:

Choose asphalt shingles if:

• Your budget is the primary concern
• You plan to sell the home within 15 years
• You want the widest range of color and style options
• You need a straightforward, fast installation

Choose metal roofing if:

• You plan to stay in your home long-term (20+ years)
• You want the lowest lifetime cost
• Energy efficiency is a priority
• You live in an area with frequent hail or severe weather
• You want a premium look with minimal maintenance

Get an Honest Assessment

The best way to decide is to talk to a contractor who installs both and will give you a straight answer based on your specific home and situation — not just push you toward the higher-margin option.

At Premier Contractors of America, we install asphalt shingles, metal roofing, tile, slate, and flat roofing systems. We'll walk you through the pros and cons for your specific home and give you a free estimate on both options so you can make an informed decision.

Call us at 937-492-ROOF or request your free estimate online. We serve homeowners throughout Western Ohio and have been doing it since 1999.