Side by side
| Architectural shingles | Standing-seam metal | |
|---|---|---|
| Rough installed cost | about $4.50–$8 per sq ft | about $11–$20 per sq ft |
| Typical lifespan here | about 20–30 years | 40+ years |
| Hail | Standard shingles can bruise; Class 4 impact-rated shingles hold up better | Can dent cosmetically; heavier gauges resist better |
| Sun and heat | Darker colors run hot | Reflective finishes can lower attic heat |
| Maintenance | Occasional repairs, watch for granule loss | Very little; check fasteners and sealants |
| Look | Classic, many colors | Clean lines; suits territorial and modern homes |
These are planning ranges, not quotes. See our roof cost guide for what moves the price.
Cost per year of roof
A simple way to compare: divide the price by the years you expect to get. A metal roof that costs about twice as much but lasts close to twice as long can come out about even per year — and ahead if you stay in the home a long time.
Shingles make sense when…
- You may sell in the next several years
- The budget is tight right now
- The home has a lot of hips, valleys and dormers (metal gets expensive on complex roofs)
- You want to match neighboring homes
Metal makes sense when…
- This is your long-term home
- You've replaced shingle roofs before and want to be done
- You want a lower-maintenance roof on a casita, barn or outbuilding too
- The roof is simple, with long straight runs
What we install
For shingles we install architectural lines from GAF, Owens Corning and Malarkey, including impact-rated options. For metal we use standing-seam panels and trim sourced locally from Metal Center in Albuquerque. See choosing roof shingles and metal roofing.
Want both prices for your roof? Call (505) 448-8495 and we'll quote shingle and metal side by side.
Roofing questions
Is a metal roof louder in the rain?
Over solid decking and underlayment, most people find it about as quiet as shingles.
Can metal go over my old shingles?
Sometimes, but we usually recommend tearing off so the deck can be checked.
Does a metal roof lower insurance?
Some insurers give credits for impact-resistant roofs. Ask your agent.