Metal roofs and asphalt shingles are the two most common roofing options in North America. Asphalt shingles are affordable but only last 20–30 years, while metal roofs cost more upfront but can last 50+ years instead. Choosing the right material depends on budget, climate, and long-term goals. Roof Maxx treatments can extend the life of asphalt shingles by up to 15 years, making them a more cost-effective and sustainable option over time.
| Time to Read | 10–12 minutes |
| What You’ll Learn |
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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. It’s worth learning more about both options before you decide to invest in one because they each have their own pros and cons.
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 that come with each option.
Metal roofs are roofing systems made from durable, weather-resistant metal materials, typically designed for longevity and resilience. The main materials used for are steel, aluminum, copper and zinc. See how each type weighs in in the chart below.
| Material | Durability & Features | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Steel |
|
General use; versatile finishes for many climates |
| Aluminum |
|
Coastal or humid regions |
| Copper |
|
High-end projects, historic or luxury homes |
| Zinc |
|
Sustainable builds, long-term roofing solutions |
Metal roofs are versatile, so you’ll commonly find them in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They increase energy efficiency and longevity, but also come in a range of material and style options. This makes them popular in regions prone to harsh weather or for property owners prioritizing long-term value.
The biggest advantage of installing a metal roof is their incredible lifespan. On average, metal roofs can last from 40 to 60 years or longer when properly maintained.
Here are the main benefits:
Metal roofs also don’t suffer from issues warping, cracking, or algae growth, which are common with asphalt shingles. They shed snow and rain more easily, too, lowering the risk for water damage.
The biggest drawback of a metal roof is upfront price. They’re more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles by a long shot and often cost two to three times as much to install.
Other drawbacks include:
Improper installation can compromise the roof’s integrity and longevity, so it’s essential to hire experienced professionals.Skippng out on the additional expense could cost you more later on.
A metal roof might be suitable if you live in a place with extreme weather or want a premium aesthetic. Homes in areas prone to storms, wildfires, hail, high winds and extreme heat can benefit from the protection metal offers, and the 40-60 year lifespan reduces the need for replacements.
With a metal roof, you also won’t have to worry about replacing shingles, although you might not need to anyway if you treat your shingles properly. You’ll eliminate the need for frequent repairs over their lifespan.
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.
This is the most common roofing material in North America, with good reason. They’re beautiful, affordable, and reliable in all climates.
Asphalt shingles are one of the most cost-effective roofing options, which makes them ideal for budget-conscious homeowners. They provide a solid level of protection and durability at a fraction of the cost of other materials like metal, slate, or tile.
Here are the main benefits:
Most contractors are also highly experienced with asphalt shingle installation, which reduces the risk of errors. Fewer mistakes means you’re less likely to experience a total failure or need a roof replacement early.
Asphalt shingles typically last between 20 to 30 years, which is much shorter than more durable options like metal. Without treatments like Roof Maxx, which can extend the life of your shingles, they may need to be replaced sooner.
Here are the main drawbacks:
Small repairs may be needed over the life of your asphalt roof to prevent leaks and prolong its lifespan. For some homeowners, this may be enough to make another option better.
Asphalt shingle roofs are a great option for budget-conscious homeowners as they are affordable to install and offer a good value. Choose them if you want to achieve solid weather protection and attractive aesthetics without the usual hefty 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. This will also help keep any renovation costs down.
Asphalt shingles work well for homes with straightforward roof designs, such as single slopes or standard gable roofs. They’re easy to install on simpler structures, which helps keep labor costs low.
| Metal Roofs | Asphalt Shingles | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Higher, from $20,000–$40,000 | Lower, from $10,000–$30,000 |
| 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 the petrochemical oils they lose over time with a soy-based bio-oil.
All roofs need to be replaced at some point, but with Roof Maxx, that replacement can be postponed significantly. The treatment comes with a five-year transferable warranty. Regular reapplications every five years can potentially extend the lifespan by up to 15 years.
Wondering how well Roof Maxx really works? See the results for yourself in this 4 Homes Before & After Roof Maxx showcase
Most roofs in the United States cost tens of thousands of dollars to replace, and these costs are increasing. This makes Roof Maxx an increasingly attractive option for homeowners.
The numbers make the value clear: a roof on a 2,000-square-foot home that would cost $20,000-$30,000 to replace might only cost $3,000-$6,000 to treat with Roof Maxx.
Prices like these are subject to change and can vary a bit by region. Find out the price for your roof by getting a free assessment from your local Roof Maxx dealership!
The roof rejuvenation process will extend the life of your asphalt shingle roof and help reduce your need for repairs long-term 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. While metal roofs provide impressive long-term benefits like durability and energy efficiency, they still have drawbacks, like a high upfront cost. In contrast, asphalt shingles treated with Roof Maxx offer a more affordable and long-lasting alternative that looks good and performs well in most climates.
Don’t spend unnecessary money on roof replacements when there’s a more cost-effective option. Find a Roof Maxx dealer near you today so you can get more value and longevity from 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.
