If you’re planning to replace your roof, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between asphalt shingles and metal roofing. This is a common dilemma for Canadian homeowners – and for good reason. Our climate throws just about everything at your roof: heavy snow, rain, hail, wild temperature swings, and strong winds. Both options have their merits and drawbacks, and the right choice comes down to budget, style, and practicality.
Let’s take a closer look at both to help you decide what’s best for your home.
1. Appearance and Style
Asphalt shingles are a staple in North American home construction. Available in a wide range of colours and profiles, they complement virtually any architectural style – from traditional to modern. They’re a perfect match for Victorian, cottage, or farmhouse-style homes and offer that familiar, cozy curb appeal Canadians are used to.
Metal roofs, on the other hand, are often marketed as sleek and minimalist. But not every homeowner agrees with that aesthetic. On homes with flat roofs, appearance doesn’t matter much since the roof is out of sight. But on classic, pitched-roof homes, metal can look out of place – like something taken from an industrial warehouse and dropped onto a family home. Even though metal roofing can mimic the look of slate, shakes, or shingles, and comes in various finishes, it’s tough to replicate the warmth and character of traditional asphalt shingles.
Of course, style is subjective. But if you’re aiming for harmony, comfort, and architectural consistency – especially on heritage or suburban homes – asphalt shingles feel like the more natural fit.
2. Durability and Lifespan
When it comes to longevity, metal roofing has an advantage in Canadian climate conditions. A properly installed metal roof made from aluminum or galvanized steel with a protective coating can last 40–70 years.
Asphalt shingles typically last 20–25 years, though high-quality materials and proper installation can push that to 30–35 years. They’re more vulnerable to hail, wind, and extreme temperature shifts – especially in places like Alberta, BC, and Ontario. But with routine maintenance, timely repairs, and good ventilation, asphalt shingles can last decades and still offer great value. Some of the best roofing companies Calgary homeowners trust continue to recommend high-quality shingles as a reliable long-term solution.
3. Installation Cost
Here’s where asphalt shingles shine: they’re significantly more affordable. Installation costs are typically two to three times lower than for metal roofing. On average, an asphalt roof in Canada costs $3 to $6 per square foot, while metal ranges from $8 to $15 or more (these prices are not fixed and can change depending on location and demand)
If you’re watching your budget, shingles are a no-brainer. While metal roofs may offer savings over the long haul through fewer repairs and replacements, those benefits vary by situation. With quality shingles and proper installation, future maintenance is minimal – and affordable. That long-term metal roofing “investment” may not actually deliver a better return.
4. Weather Resistance
Metal roofing is strong against the elements. Snow slides off easily, reducing load, and it’s resistant to wind speeds of up to 200 km/h. It won’t rot, warp, or catch fire.
Shingles aren’t quite as hardy. Strong gusts can lift or rip them off. Water can seep under damaged sections, leading to rot in the roof deck – especially in wetter regions like coastal BC or Nova Scotia. But again, with regular inspections and quick repairs, most of these risks are manageable.
5. Noise and Insulation
Shingles come out ahead when it comes to sound and thermal insulation. Metal roofs can get noisy during rain or hail. While underlayments can help reduce noise, they add to the installation cost – sometimes by as much as 40%. And without proper sound insulation, many homeowners find the drumming too disruptive for comfort.
Shingles naturally dampen sound and offer better insulation. This makes a noticeable difference during harsh Canadian winters, especially in colder provinces like Alberta, Manitoba or Saskatchewan. You’ll feel the warmth – and the quiet – inside your home.
6. Environmental and Energy Efficiency
Metal roofing is the greener option. It’s fully recyclable, often made with recycled materials, and reflects sunlight, which helps reduce cooling costs in the summer. It’s a favourite among eco-conscious homeowners.
Shingles, in contrast, contain petroleum-based components and are only partially recyclable. They also absorb heat, increasing your home’s cooling load in warmer months. Still, the environmental downside is often balanced by the practical affordability.
7. Ease of Repair
Asphalt shingles are easier and cheaper to repair. Individual pieces can be replaced without any specialized tools, and most roofing contractors are experienced in working with them.
Metal roofing is more complex. Large panels can be tricky to handle, and damage often means replacing an entire sheet. While metal is highly durable, when issues arise, repairs can be expensive and time-consuming. So, even with better longevity, it’s not always the more convenient option.
Final Verdict: What Should You Choose?
For most Canadian homes, asphalt shingle roofing is the smarter pick. Despite all the hype around metal roofing’s lifespan and toughness, the reality is that it’s often overpriced and overcomplicated. It requires expert installation, costs more to repair, and brings potential downsides like excess noise and snow buildup at the eaves.
Asphalt shingles, by contrast, strike the perfect balance between cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They’re designed to handle Canada’s tough weather, easy to install and maintain, and visually suit nearly every home. With good materials and proper installation, you’ll enjoy a worry-free roof for decades – without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line
If you’re after a reliable, cost-effective, and proven roofing solution, go with asphalt shingles. They’re practical for the Canadian climate, energy-efficient, and easy on the eyes and the wallet. Most importantly, you’re not paying for a promise – you’re paying for a product that delivers.
Metal roofs may look good on paper, but in real-world practical use, they often fall short. The higher cost, complicated repairs, and noise issues make it hard to justify the investment. So if you’re currently comparing materials and wondering about roof replacement costs Calgary homeowners typically encounter, you’ll find that shingles offer the best return on investment – and peace of mind.
