When it's time to replace aging or damaged asphalt shingles, there are two distinctly different paths: installing a new metal roof, or re-installing new asphalt shingles. As with most choices in life, each option comes with its own trade-offs around aesthetics, cost, and function.
If you're starting your research on what to invest in for your next re-roof, here's an at-a-glance breakdown of the pros and cons of metal roofing versus asphalt shingles. If anything here raises questions, don't hesitate to reach out to our roofing specialists — we're here to help.
Pros of asphalt shingles
Lower cost for materials and installation
Quick, easy availability of most products
Wide choice of qualified installers
Suitable for DIYers
Absorbs more solar heat on short winter days, helping with heating costs
Blends in with neighbourhoods that are predominantly shingled
More resistant to hail damage
Cons of asphalt shingles
Limited colour choices, mostly darker hues
Non-recyclable, so old shingles end up in landfill
Less insulating, leading to higher heating and cooling costs
Fewer pattern and style options
Colour and sheen fade quickly
Short lifespan — typically 8 to 10 years in Ottawa's conditions
Less durable against extreme weather
Less water resistant
Heavier material
Must be fully stripped before re-roofing, sending old shingles to landfill
Absorbs more solar heat in summer, raising cooling costs
Can't be updated or changed without a full replacement
Pros of metal roofing
Wider range of colours, including both light and dark hues
100% recyclable, so it doesn't end up in landfill
Better insulation, for lower heating and cooling costs
More pattern and style choices
Colour and sheen don't fade over time
Exceptionally long lifespan — 40 to 70 years in Ottawa's climate
More durable against extreme weather
Higher water resistance means fewer leaks
Lightweight material
Can be installed directly over an existing shingled roof for added protection and insulation
Reflects more solar heat, helping with summer cooling costs
Increases home value for a stronger ROI when selling
Can be easily updated or changed with paint
Cons of metal roofing
Higher cost for materials and installation
Less availability, since not every building supplier carries it
Fewer qualified installers, with no real DIY option
Absorbs less solar heat on short winter days, adding slightly to heating costs
Doesn't blend in as easily in neighbourhoods that are predominantly shingled
Less resistant to hail damage
May not suit every buyer's taste when it's time to sell
As you can see, there's a lot to weigh when deciding which roofing material makes sense for your home. Reach out with any questions — we're happy to start the conversation about whether metal roofing or asphalt shingles are the better fit for your needs and situation.