The short version
- On the same home, metal usually costs about twice as much as shingles up front.
- InterNACHI estimates about 30 years for architectural shingles and 40 to 80 for metal.
- Metal resists hail punctures, but smooth panels can dent cosmetically.
- Staying 15+ years? Metal often makes sense. Budget first? Shingles.
Cost
Angi's Columbus data lists asphalt shingles at about $5 per square foot installed and metal at about $11, so on the same home, expect metal to cost roughly twice as much up front. Angi's overall Columbus averages (about $9,000 for all roof replacements and about $9,680 for metal) include many small roofs and aren't a like-for-like comparison, so go by the price per square foot.
Lifespan
InterNACHI, the home inspectors' association, estimates about 30 years for architectural shingles and 40 to 80 years for metal. Over a long stay, a metal roof can outlast two shingle roofs.
| Architectural shingles | Metal | |
|---|---|---|
| Up-front cost | Lower | About twice as much |
| Lifespan (InterNACHI) | About 30 years | 40 to 80 years |
| Hail | Class 4 options available | Resists punctures; smooth panels can dent |
| Snow | Holds snow | Snow slides off; snow guards may be needed |
| Look | Classic; many colors | Modern standing seam, or stone-coated steel that looks like shingles |
Hail and wind
Metal is very hard for hail to puncture, but large hail can leave cosmetic dents in smooth standing seam panels. Stone-coated steel hides small dings better. If hail is your main worry but metal is over budget, a Class 4 impact-rated shingle like Malarkey Vista is the middle ground. Both metal and quality shingles handle Ohio wind well when installed correctly.
Snow, noise and energy
- Snow slides off metal, which helps prevent ice buildup but can drop off the roof edge all at once. Snow guards over doors and walkways solve that.
- Noise: installed over solid decking and underlayment, a metal roof is usually no louder than shingles from inside.
- Energy: reflective metal finishes can reduce summer heat in the attic.
Resale
Angi reports an average return on investment of about 60% to 70% for metal roofs in Ohio. You won't get the full cost back when you sell, but a long-lasting roof is a selling point.
Which should you choose?
- Choose metal if you plan to stay for the long haul and never want to replace the roof again, or you like the look.
- Choose shingles if budget matters most, you may sell in the next several years, or your HOA limits roofing materials.
- Choose Class 4 shingles if hail is the main concern and you want shingle pricing.
Your free estimate can price both side by side. See our metal roofing options.