Choosing the right roofing material for your home in Canada is a big decision. With harsh winters, strong winds, and extreme temperature shifts, your roof needs to be reliable, durable, and budget-friendly. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: Which is cheaper – metal roofing or asphalt shingles?
💰 Cost: Metal Roofing Is Almost Always More Expensive
Let’s be real – metal roofs cost significantly more than asphalt shingles, both in materials and labor. We could stop there, but it begs a bigger question: Is the higher cost of metal worth it? Homeowners want to invest in quality and comfort, but that doesn’t always mean paying more is better. First, let’s break down the pricing:
- Materials: Metal (especially coated steel, aluminum, or copper) can cost 2 to 3 times more than high-quality asphalt shingles.
- Installation: Metal roofing requires more time, specialized tools, and skilled labor, which drives up the installation cost.
On average, installing asphalt shingles runs $4–$6 per square foot, while metal roofing can cost $10–$14 or more. The difference is substantial.
If you’re concerned about budgeting and comparing options, it’s smart to review typical roofing costs in Calgary to get a realistic picture of what to expect in your area.
🛠️ Repairs and Maintenance Are More Complicated
Now let’s talk maintenance – something often overlooked when praising metal roofs for their longevity.
- If a metal panel gets damaged by hail, falling branches, or ice, you usually can’t just patch the spot. The whole panel often needs to be removed.
- With shingles, damaged sections can be replaced quickly, easily, and without disturbing the rest of the roof.
Another common complaint with metal roofs? Noise. Rain, wind, or hail hitting a metal surface can become more than just a minor annoyance – especially in bedrooms or attics. Over time, it can feel like a constant mental strain.
❄️ Canada’s Climate Isn’t Always Metal-Friendly
Despite their “forever” reputation, metal roofs face challenges in Canadian weather:
- Snow and ice can slide off metal surfaces suddenly, posing serious risks to kids, pets, or parked vehicles – unless proper snow guards are installed.
- Condensation can form if the roof isn’t installed or ventilated correctly, leading to moisture buildup, mold, and corrosion in the attic.
- Thermal expansion and contraction can loosen fasteners, damage seals, and shorten the lifespan of the roof over time.
If you’re unsure about how a roof will hold up in local conditions, it’s a good idea to speak with a roofing contractor in Calgary who understands regional challenges firsthand.
🏡 Aesthetics and Versatility Matter
Metal roofs may look sleek and modern, but they’re not always a great fit for traditional or suburban homes. Their bold appearance doesn’t appeal to everyone, and in many cases, it just feels out of place.
- Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, blend well with nearly any home style—from cozy cottages to modern townhomes.
- Shingles also offer a wider variety of colors, textures, and patterns, making it easier to match your home’s look.
Warranties vs. Reality
Fans of metal roofs love to highlight their 40–50 year lifespan, while claiming shingles last 20–25. But here’s what you need to know:
- Today’s architectural shingles can last 30 years or more with proper installation and upkeep.
- Shingle repairs are quick and inexpensive – damaged pieces can be swapped out in just a few hours.
- Metal roofs, if installed poorly, can start to corrode, delaminate, or leak in as little as 10 years.
- And those “50-year warranties”? They often come with pages of fine print and depend heavily on the installer’s workmanship.
🔧 Bottom Line: Shingles Are a Smarter Choice for Most Canadian Homes
Sure, metal roofs can look impressive and promise long-term durability. But with their higher upfront cost, complex maintenance, noise issues, snow hazards, and style limitations, they’re far from a one-size-fits-all solution.
A well-installed asphalt shingle roof strikes the perfect balance between affordability, reliability, and curb appeal. It’s easy to repair, holds up well in tough weather, and won’t break the bank.
If you’re looking for a practical and cost-effective option for your home in Canada, asphalt shingles remain the top choice for most homeowners.
