How Much Does an Asphalt Shingle Roof vs a Metal Roof Cost?
Asphalt Shingle Roof versus Metal Roof Prices
The huge number of roofing options available in the marketplace can make it difficult to choose a material for your new roof. If you’re interested primarily in value, however, you can narrow your choices down to asphalt shingle roofing and metal roofing. Presented below is an overview of asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs and how much you can expect to pay for each.
Asphalt Roof
Asphalt roof shingles are by far the most common roofing material in the United States, and for good reason. They are a low-cost option that that, with a typical 20 to 30 year guarantee, holds up well under extreme temperatures, wind, water, fire, and ice. Asphalt roofing shingles require little maintenance and are easy to repair if damaged.
Although common, asphalt shingles don’t have to be boring. They are available in a wide variety of colors and styles, and some even mimic more expensive materials such as slate and wood shake. Choose from standard three-tab asphalt shingles or take a step up in quality by installing architectural asphalt shingles.
Metal Roof
Metal roofing, typically made from coated aluminum or steel, costs approximately one-third more than asphalt shingle roofs, but with the price increase comes a number of benefits. First and foremost is the strength and durability of metal roofs, which are often guaranteed for 50 years or more. Though lightweight, a metal roof holds up extremely well under the elements. It won’t deteriorate from the sun’s rays, won’t corrode, is fire proof, withstands gale force winds, and can take on large amounts of snow without risk of caving in.
And while most people don’t consider metal to be a green material, it is in truth one of the most environmentally friendly roofing materials on the market. The long life of a metal roof means it creates minimal waste, and when metal roofs are ready to be replaced they are highly recyclable. Metal roofing also reflects heat better than other roof products, helping to save energy and lower your energy costs.
Asphalt Shingle and Metal Roofing Average Costs
Bear in mind that the prices below are only general estimates. Local labor and material costs and the difficulty of the installation can result in significant price differences.
- Standard 3 tab asphalt shingles installation costs approximately $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot. For a roof measuring 1,500 square feet, the total cost might be around $3,750 to $6,750. At this price, you can expect a warranty of approximately 20 to 30 years.
- Architectural roof shingles cost approximately $5 to $10 per square foot installed, or roughly $7,500 to $15,000 for a 1,500 square foot roof. These higher quality asphalt shingles should come with a 40 year warranty.
- While most asphalt shingle installation includes the removal and disposal of existing shingles, if this phase of the project is not included in the price, it might cost an additional $1 to $4 per square foot.
- Metal roof installation costs around $5 to $15.00 per square foot or more. This works out to a total metal roof price of roughly $7,500 to $22,500 for a 1,500 square foot roof.
- It’s possible in many cases to install a metal roof over old asphalt shingles. If, however, it’s necessary to remove the existing shingles, you might pay an additional $1 to $4 per square foot.