Most rooftops in North America use asphalt shingles, and it’s been that way for nearly a century—but metal roofs are growing in popularity. These options each have pros and cons, so it’s worth learning more about both before you decide to invest in one of them.
The standard argument is that metal roofs cost more upfront but require less maintenance, whereas asphalt shingle roofs are more affordable but also need to be replaced more often. However, that’s not always the case.
In fact, the most practical type of roof for your home depends on lots of factors—like what your budget is, where you live, and how you’re planning to take care of your investment.
At Roof Maxx, we help homeowners extend the lifespan of asphalt shingle roofs for up to 15 years, so we know all about how these different roofing materials compare. Read on to learn the pros, cons, and use cases for both kinds.
Metal roofs are roofing systems made from durable, weather-resistant metal materials, typically designed for longevity and resilience. The main materials used for metal roofs are steel, aluminum, copper and zinc.
Metal roofs are versatile and can be seen in a range of applications—from residential homes to commercial and industrial buildings. They offer energy efficiency, longevity, and a range of material and style options, making them popular in regions prone to harsh weather or for property owners prioritizing long-term value.
A metal roof might be suitable if you live in a place with extreme weather. Homes in areas prone to storms, wildfires, hail, high winds and extreme heat can benefit from the protection metal offers.
If you plan to stay in your home for a long time, then a metal roof may also be a worthwhile investment. Like we mentioned above, metal roofs can last from 40 to 60 years on average, and even longer when properly maintained.
Metal roofs offer long-lasting durability, eliminating the need for frequent repairs over their lifespan. With a metal roof, you won’t have to worry about replacing shingles—although you might not need to anyway if you treat your shingles properly.
Asphalt shingles are shingles composed of asphalt and fiberglass and are covered with a granular surface. The granules are added to increase the surface area of the shingles, ultimately helping dissipate the sun’s UV rays and keeping the roof cooler.
Additionally, they protect against mold and algae. Shingles are installed in an overlapping way that forms a tight seal that prevents water from penetrating the underlayment and causing leaks in the roof.
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials in North America because they’re beautiful, affordable, and reliable in all environmental conditions.
Asphalt shingle roofs are a great option for budget-conscious homeowners as they are affordable to install and offer a good value. Their affordability allows budget-conscious homeowners to achieve solid weather protection and attractive aesthetics without the expense of pricier materials like metal.
If you plan to sell or move in the next decade, an asphalt shingle roof offers good value without the need for a decades-long investment.
Asphalt shingles work well for homes with straightforward roof designs, such as single slopes or standard gable roofs. They are easy to install on simpler structures, which helps keep labor costs low and reduces installation time.
Metal Roofs | Asphalt Shingles | |
Upfront Cost | Higher, from $10,000–$25,000 | Lower, from $5,000–$10,000 |
Lifespan | 50+ years | 20–30 years, can last up to 45 years with Roof Maxx applications every 5 years |
Maintenance | Low, needs to be occasionally cleaned and inspected | Medium, requires regular inspections and repairs |
Energy Efficiency | High, metal reflects heat and has great ventilation which reduces cooling costs | Medium, absorbs heat during summertime which can increase cooling costs |
Durability | High, weather, fire, pest resistant | Lower, prone to weather damage from high winds, storms, hurricanes, fire, pests, etc. |
Sustainability | High, made from recyclable materials | Medium, asphalt is non-recyclable, but can be rejuvenated with Roof Maxx |
Extending the life of your shingles can be the perfect way to get the most out of your asphalt shingle roof. Roof Maxx’s eco-friendly treatment restores flexibility to aging asphalt shingles by replenishing their lost natural oils with a plant-based bio-oil. This revitalizes brittle shingles, allowing them to expand and contract without cracking—and making them last longer as a result.
Roofs undergo severe wear and tear as they constantly protect us from the elements, which means they eventually need replacement. But with Roof Maxx, that replacement can be postponed significantly. The treatment comes with a five-year transferable warranty, and with regular five-year reapplications, it can potentially extend the roof’s life by up to 15 years.
Wondering how well Roof Maxx really works? Check out 4 Homes before & after their Roof Maxx treatment and see for yourself.
Most roofs in the United States cost $20,000-$30,000 to replace—and these costs are increasing. This makes Roof Maxx an increasingly attractive option for homeowners. A roof that would cost $20,000-$30,000 to replace might only cost $3,000-$6,000 to treat with Roof Maxx. This price range is an average regional price for an approximately 2,000-square-foot home.
Roof Maxx’s roof rejuvenation process not only extends the roof’s lifespan but also reduces maintenance costs by preventing cracking and damage. By making asphalt shingles more durable and long-lasting, Roof Maxx turns them into an even better long-term investment for homeowners.
Metal roofs and asphalt shingles differ significantly in cost, durability, and aesthetics. Metal roofs have a higher upfront cost but offer exceptional longevity, lasting 40–60 years, and require minimal maintenance. They’re highly durable, energy-efficient, and ideal for extreme weather conditions, but can be noisy and require specialized installation.
In contrast, asphalt shingles are more affordable initially, easier to install, and widely available, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. While they have a shorter lifespan of 20–30 years, treating them with Roof Maxx can be an easy way to get significantly more use out of them—without spending money on a full roof replacement.
While metal roofs provide impressive long-term benefits like durability and energy efficiency, they come with a higher upfront cost. In contrast, asphalt shingles treated with Roof Maxx offer a more affordable and long-lasting alternative.
Don’t spend unnecessary money on roof replacements when there’s a more cost-effective option—
find a Roof Maxx provider near you today so you can maximize the value and longevity of your asphalt shingle roof!
With our five-year, transferable warranty, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that your roof and entire home are protected.
Roof Maxx Technologies LLC
