Construction
Metal vs Asphalt Roof Cost Calculator
Metal costs more upfront but lasts far longer. Enter your roof size and how long you'll stay to compare the upfront price, lifetime cost, and annual cost of metal versus asphalt shingles.
Quick answer: Asphalt shingles cost about $450–$600 per square installed and last ~20 years; standing-seam metal costs roughly $900–$1,200 per square but lasts 40–60 years. Over a long stay, metal's longer life often makes it cheaper per year despite the higher upfront price.
How it works
1. Price each material per square
The calculator uses typical installed costs of about $525 per square for asphalt and $1,050 for standing-seam metal, then multiplies by your roof size in squares.
2. Factor in lifespan
Asphalt lasts ~20 years; metal lasts ~50. Over your ownership horizon, asphalt may need replacing once or twice while a metal roof lasts the whole time.
3. Compare cost per year
Total cost over the horizon divided by years gives the annualized cost — the fairest way to compare a cheap-but-short roof against an expensive-but-durable one.
Frequently asked questions
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost?
Often yes if you'll stay 15+ years. Metal costs about twice as much upfront but lasts two to three times longer, so its cost per year is frequently lower than asphalt — plus it resists wind and fire better.
How much more does a metal roof cost than shingles?
Metal typically runs about $900–$1,200 per square installed versus $450–$600 for asphalt — roughly double. On a 22-square roof that's about $11,500 more upfront.
How long does each roof last?
Architectural asphalt shingles last about 20–25 years; standing-seam metal lasts 40–60 years and often carries a longer warranty. Climate, ventilation, and install quality move both numbers.