Asphalt, metal or stone-coated steel roofing: how they compare

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most familiar roofing material on homes, and for good reason. They come in a wide range of colors and styles, they suit almost any house, and they usually cost less up front than the other materials in this guide. Architectural shingles, which are thicker and layered for a dimensional look, are a popular upgrade over flat three-tab shingles.

Omega Exteriors installs asphalt shingle roofs, including IKO architectural shingles. Its asphalt installations start with an inspection and planning, then removal of the old roofing and preparation of the roof deck before the new shingles go on.

• Good fit for: most homes, a wide choice of colors, the lowest cost up front
• Keep in mind: shingles wear over time and can be damaged by hail and high wind

Metal roofing

Metal roofs are made of panels, often with raised seams running from the ridge to the eaves. They are long-lasting, shed snow and rain easily, and need little maintenance. They also give a house a clean, modern look, and they are common on farm buildings, cabins and commercial buildings as well as homes.

Omega Exteriors describes its metal roofs as chosen for durability and energy efficiency, with a sleek appearance and low maintenance over a long lifespan. Metal usually costs more up front than asphalt, so it tends to make the most sense when you plan to stay in the house for many years.

• Good fit for: long-term owners, a modern look, roofs where snow should slide off
• Keep in mind: a higher price up front, and a look that does not suit every house

Stone-coated steel

Stone-coated steel combines a steel panel with a surface of stone granules, so it can look like shingles, shakes or tile while keeping the strength of metal. It is a way to get many of the benefits of a metal roof without the look of exposed metal panels.

On its stone-coated steel roofs page, Omega Exteriors describes the material as resistant to wind, fire and impact, with a variety of styles and colors. Like metal, it usually costs more than asphalt up front.

• Good fit for: owners who want the strength of steel with a traditional look
• Keep in mind: a higher price up front than asphalt

Other roofs to consider

Synthetic tile roofs imitate slate or clay tile at a much lower weight, which matters on a house that was not built to carry a heavy tile roof. Omega Exteriors installs DaVinci Slate roof tiles, a composite slate-look shingle. Wood shake roofs give a natural, rustic look that weathers over time and suits cabins and older homes. For low-slope and flat roofs, see our guide to TPO and EPDM roofing.

How to choose

Start with how long you plan to own the house. If it is a few years, asphalt is usually the practical choice. If it is a long time, the higher price of metal or stone-coated steel is spread over more years of use. Then think about the look of the neighborhood and any homeowners association rules, which sometimes limit materials or colors.

Weight and roof shape matter too. Some materials need a certain roof pitch, and heavier materials need a structure that can carry them. A roofer will check both during the estimate. Finally, think about weather. All of these roofs are installed across Minnesota and Wisconsin, but if hail is a regular concern where you live, ask how each option holds up to impact.

• How long will you stay in the house?
• What look fits the house and the neighborhood?
• Does an HOA limit materials or colors?
• Is the roof pitch and structure right for the material?
• What matters most to you: price today, low maintenance or long life?

See the options in person

Photos only go so far. During an estimate, Omega Exteriors walks you through materials and colors as part of its process: a free project price, then selecting materials and color, then scheduling the installation. You can also browse all roofing products and recent roofing work. Call (651) 998-8500 or request a free estimate to compare options for your home.