The metal roof vs shingles debate is one of the most common conversations we have with Minnesota homeowners at Weatherguard Construction. Both options have devoted advocates, and the right choice depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and long-term goals. As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor with over 25 years of experience in Stillwater, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and throughout the Twin Cities, we install both metal and asphalt shingle roofs and can give you an honest comparison based on real-world Minnesota performance.
Metal Roof vs Shingles: Cost Comparison in Minnesota
Cost is often the deciding factor for homeowners comparing metal roofs and asphalt shingles:
Asphalt Shingle Costs
- 3-tab shingles: $3.50–$5.50 per square foot installed
- Architectural shingles: $5.00–$8.00 per square foot installed
- Premium designer shingles: $7.00–$11.00 per square foot installed
- Average total project (2,000 sq ft roof): $10,000–$16,000
Metal Roof Costs
- Corrugated metal panels: $6.00–$10.00 per square foot installed
- Metal shingle systems: $8.00–$14.00 per square foot installed
- Standing seam metal: $12.00–$18.00 per square foot installed
- Average total project (2,000 sq ft roof): $16,000–$36,000
Metal roofing costs 2–3 times more than asphalt shingles upfront. However, when you factor in the lifespan difference — 40–70 years for metal vs 25–35 years for architectural shingles — the cost per year often favors metal for homeowners who plan to stay long-term.
Durability and Lifespan in Minnesota''s Climate
How Asphalt Shingles Perform
Architectural asphalt shingles are engineered to handle Minnesota''s weather extremes:
- Wind resistance: 110–130 MPH (Owens Corning Duration with SureNail Technology)
- Hail resistance: Standard or Class 4 impact-resistant options available
- Lifespan: 25–35 years with proper installation and maintenance
- Freeze-thaw performance: Good, but ice dams can cause damage at eaves
Asphalt shingles have a proven track record in Minnesota. Premium products like Owens Corning Duration are specifically designed for high-wind and storm-prone regions.
How Metal Roofs Perform
Metal roofing excels in several areas critical to Minnesota performance:
- Wind resistance: 140+ MPH for standing seam systems
- Hail resistance: Excellent for steel; aluminum may dent from large hail
- Lifespan: 40–70 years depending on material and coating
- Snow shedding: Superior — smooth surface allows snow to slide off
- Ice dam resistance: Metal''s thermal properties and smooth surface significantly reduce ice dam formation
For homeowners in Woodbury, Eagan, and other snow-heavy areas, metal''s snow-shedding ability is a significant advantage.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
Asphalt Shingles and Energy
Standard asphalt shingles absorb significant solar heat, increasing cooling costs in summer. However, "cool roof" shingle options with reflective granules can reduce attic temperatures by 20–30°F. Energy Star-rated shingle colors help, but darker colors (which are popular in Minnesota) absorb more heat.
Metal Roofs and Energy
Metal roofing reflects solar radiation rather than absorbing it. A metal roof can reduce cooling costs by 10–25% compared to standard asphalt shingles. In Minnesota, where summer cooling costs are a growing concern, this energy advantage is meaningful — though our longer heating season means the overall annual savings are moderate.
Aesthetics and Curb Appeal
Asphalt Shingle Aesthetics
Modern architectural shingles offer excellent aesthetics:
- Wide range of colors and styles
- Profiles that mimic wood shake, slate, and other natural materials
- Blend naturally with most Minnesota home styles
- Easy to match with neighbors'' roofs in established neighborhoods
Metal Roof Aesthetics
Metal roofing offers a distinctive, modern look:
- Standing seam provides clean, contemporary lines
- Metal shingle systems can mimic traditional roofing profiles
- Available in dozens of colors with fade-resistant coatings
- May not blend as well in traditional Minnesota neighborhoods
Maintenance Requirements
Asphalt shingles require periodic inspection for missing, cracked, or wind-damaged shingles. Granule loss, moss growth, and flashing deterioration should be addressed promptly. Annual professional inspections are recommended.
Metal roofs require minimal maintenance. Occasional inspection for fastener integrity, sealant condition, and panel alignment is sufficient. Metal roofs don''t suffer from granule loss, moss, or shingle blow-offs.
Which Is Better for Minnesota Storm Damage?
Minnesota''s frequent storm damage events — hail, straight-line winds, and heavy snow — affect both roofing types differently:
- Hail: Class 4 impact-resistant shingles and steel metal roofs both handle hail well. Aluminum metal can dent.
- Wind: Metal generally outperforms shingles in extreme wind events.
- Snow load: Both handle Minnesota snow loads when properly engineered, but metal sheds snow faster.
- Ice dams: Metal roofing significantly reduces ice dam formation compared to shingles.
If your home has experienced repeated storm damage, metal roofing may offer better long-term protection and potentially lower insurance premiums.
Our Recommendation for Minnesota Homeowners
At Weatherguard Construction, we believe both options can serve Minnesota homeowners well:
Choose asphalt shingles if:
- Budget is a primary concern
- You want the widest selection of colors and styles
- Your neighborhood features predominantly shingled homes
- You plan to sell within 15–20 years
Choose metal roofing if:
- You want maximum longevity (40–70 years)
- Ice dams are a recurring problem
- You prioritize energy efficiency
- You plan to stay in your home long-term
- You want minimal maintenance
Regardless of material, the quality of installation is the single most important factor in how your roof performs. Our Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor status ensures every roof we install meets the highest standards. Contact us at (651) 439-4320 or book a consultation to discuss which option is right for your home.
We serve homeowners across Stillwater, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, and beyond. MN LIC #BC282484.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost in Minnesota?
For homeowners planning to stay in their home 20+ years, metal roofing''s 40–70 year lifespan often makes it the better lifetime value despite the higher upfront cost. You may avoid one or two complete re-roofing cycles compared to asphalt shingles.
Do metal roofs make houses colder in Minnesota winters?
No. Metal roofing does not make your home colder. The roof sits over the same attic space, insulation, and ventilation system as a shingled roof. The insulation in your attic — not the roofing material — determines heat retention.
Can I install a metal roof over existing shingles in Minnesota?
In some cases, yes — metal can be installed over one layer of existing shingles, which reduces labor and disposal costs. However, this approach prevents inspection of the roof deck for hidden damage. At Weatherguard Construction, we recommend a full tear-off for the best long-term results.
Will a metal roof increase my home''s value in Minnesota?
Metal roofing typically returns 60–85% of its cost at resale and can make your home more attractive to buyers who value low maintenance and longevity. In some markets, a metal roof can be a strong selling point.
