Quick Answer: Asphalt shingles cost less upfront and work well for most Utah homes. Metal roofing lasts longer and handles snow and hail differently, but costs two to three times more. The right choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay in the home, and what matters most to you.
This is one of the most common comparisons we get asked about. And it is a fair one. Both materials have real strengths and real tradeoffs.
We are going to lay this out honestly. We install asphalt shingles as our primary product line. We are a GAF Master Elite contractor. We also install metal roofing when it is the right fit. So we have no reason to steer you one way or the other. Here is how we think about it.
Cost Comparison
This is where most homeowners start, and it is the biggest difference between the two.
| Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofing | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical installed cost (mid-size Utah home) | $10,000 to $18,000 | $20,000 to $40,000+ |
| Cost per square foot installed | $3.50 to $6.00 | $7.00 to $16.00+ |
| Typical lifespan in Utah | 20 to 30 years | 40 to 70 years |
| Cost per year of life | ~$500 to $700/year | ~$400 to $700/year |
Metal roofing costs roughly two to three times more than asphalt shingles upfront. But it lasts significantly longer. When you divide the cost by the expected lifespan, the annual cost of ownership is comparable. The question is whether you can and want to make that larger upfront investment.
Lifespan
Asphalt shingles on a well-ventilated Utah home typically last 20 to 30 years. Premium architectural shingles like GAF Timberline HDZ can push past 30.
Steel metal roofing lasts 40 to 60 years. Standing seam metal panels tend to outlast metal shingles. Copper and zinc roofing can last 80 to 100 years or more, but at a much higher price point. For most Utah homes, steel or aluminum metal roofing in the 40 to 70 year range is the practical comparison.
If you plan to stay in your home for 20 or more years, metal starts to make financial sense. If you are planning to sell in the next 5 to 10 years, asphalt shingles deliver the value you need without the higher cost.
Performance in Utah Weather
Hail
This is where the conversation gets interesting along the Wasatch Front.
Asphalt shingles absorb hail impact. The granules take the hit. In a severe storm, you lose granules and the shingles degrade faster. In many cases, hail damage qualifies for an insurance claim and a full replacement.
Metal roofing handles hail differently. It dents but does not lose protective material. The dents are cosmetic. The roof keeps performing. Some homeowners prefer this. Others do not want a roof that looks dented after a storm.
One thing to know: some insurance companies offer premium discounts for impact-resistant roofing. It is worth asking your provider.
Snow and Ice
Metal roofs shed snow faster than asphalt. That is an advantage for reducing snow load, especially in the foothills of Weber and Davis counties. But it also means snow slides off in sheets. If you have walkways, decks, or entries below the roofline, you will need snow guards to control where that snow goes.
Asphalt shingles hold snow in place more effectively, which prevents sudden slides but adds weight to the roof structure.
Wind
Both materials can handle Utah wind when installed properly. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles are rated for 130 mph winds with proper installation. Standing seam metal panels perform well in high wind because there are no exposed fasteners or edges for wind to catch.
Metal shingle systems vary. Some perform better in wind than others. Ask about the specific product and its wind rating.
Heat and UV
Metal roofing reflects more solar heat than asphalt, which can reduce cooling costs in the summer. In Salt Lake Valley where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees, that is a real benefit. Metal roofing also does not degrade from UV the way asphalt does.
Curb Appeal and Style
Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and profiles. They suit most home styles and neighborhoods. GAF offers a full color selection that we can walk you through.
Metal roofing has a more distinct look. Standing seam panels give a clean, modern appearance. Metal shingles can mimic the look of traditional shingles, slate, or shake. The range of styles has expanded significantly in recent years.
If your neighborhood has an HOA, check the guidelines before committing to metal. Some HOAs restrict metal roofing or have specific appearance requirements.
Resale Value
A new roof of either type adds value to a home. Metal roofing can be a selling point for buyers who understand the longevity advantage. But in most Utah neighborhoods, buyers are accustomed to asphalt shingles. A quality asphalt roof in good condition satisfies the expectation.
If you are replacing the roof specifically to sell the home, asphalt shingles are usually the more cost-effective choice. The higher investment in metal is harder to recoup in a near-term sale.
Noise
This comes up often. Metal roofs can be louder during heavy rain or hail. With proper underlayment and solid decking, the difference is minimal inside the home. But it is there, and it is worth noting if noise sensitivity matters to you.
When Asphalt Shingles Make More Sense
- Your budget for the project is under $20,000
- You plan to sell the home within the next 10 years
- Your neighborhood or HOA expects a traditional shingle look
- You want the widest range of color and style options
- Your roof has a complex shape with many valleys, hips, and penetrations (metal installation on complex roofs is significantly more expensive)
When Metal Roofing Makes More Sense
- You plan to stay in the home for 20 or more years
- You want to avoid future roof replacements entirely
- Snow shedding is important for your roof design and location
- Energy efficiency and reduced cooling costs are a priority
- You prefer a roof that will not need an insurance claim cycle every time hail comes through
A Note on Homer Roofing
We install both asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Our primary product line is GAF asphalt shingles, and we are a GAF Master Elite contractor. That means we can offer extended warranty coverage on GAF products that non-certified contractors cannot.
We also install metal roofing for homeowners where it is the right fit. We will always tell you what we think makes sense for your situation. If metal is the better call, we will say so. If asphalt gives you the performance you need at a lower cost, we will say that too.
We offer free inspections and consultations throughout Weber, Davis, and Salt Lake counties. If you are deciding between the two, give us a call. We are happy to walk through both options on your specific home.
Key Takeaways
- Asphalt shingles cost $10,000 to $18,000 installed. Metal costs $20,000 to $40,000 or more.
- Asphalt lasts 20 to 30 years. Metal lasts 40 to 70 years.
- Metal handles snow shedding and UV better. Asphalt absorbs hail impact and is easier to repair.
- If you are staying long term, metal may cost less per year over its life. If you are selling soon, asphalt delivers the value.
- Both perform well in Utah wind when installed correctly.
FAQ
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost in Utah?
It depends on your timeline. If you plan to stay in your home for 20 or more years, a metal roof can be a strong investment because you may never need another replacement. If you are selling within 10 years, asphalt shingles give you comparable performance at a lower upfront cost.
Do metal roofs dent in hail?
Yes. Metal roofs can dent in severe hailstorms. The dents are cosmetic and do not affect the roof’s ability to keep water out. Some homeowners prefer this tradeoff because the roof does not lose protective material the way asphalt does. Others prefer a surface that shows less visible damage.
Are metal roofs louder than asphalt?
Metal roofs can be slightly louder during heavy rain or hail. With proper underlayment, solid decking, and attic insulation, the noise difference inside the home is minimal. It is more noticeable in structures without a full attic space, like vaulted ceilings.
Can I put a metal roof over existing asphalt shingles?
In some cases, yes. Metal can be installed over one layer of asphalt shingles. However, this approach prevents inspection of the decking underneath and may void certain warranties. We generally recommend a full tear-off for the best long-term result.
Does a metal roof increase home value?
A metal roof can increase home value, particularly for buyers who understand the longevity benefit. However, in most Utah neighborhoods, a quality asphalt shingle roof in good condition is the expected standard. The return on investment depends on the buyer pool in your area.
Which is better for Utah snow: metal or asphalt?
Metal roofs shed snow faster, which reduces snow load on the structure. This is an advantage in higher-elevation areas of Weber and Davis counties. However, you will need snow guards to prevent dangerous snow slides. Asphalt shingles hold snow in place, which avoids the slide issue but means more weight on the roof.
The Short Version
Asphalt shingles are the right choice for most Utah homes. They cost less, perform well, and come with strong warranty options through certified contractors. Metal roofing is a smart investment for homeowners who plan to stay long term, want to avoid future replacements, or need better snow shedding. Both materials handle Utah weather when installed correctly. The best choice depends on your budget, your timeline, and what matters most to you.