Metal Roof vs Shingles: 4 Important Questions to Ask Before Deciding

Q: How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine. Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

Q: How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting. Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling. Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials. Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices. Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

Q: Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery , you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

August 21, 2019•2 min read•

Roof ReplacementRoofing Materials

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metal roof vs shingles best roofing material shingle roof vs metal roof metal roofing sarasota

The roof is one of the most important parts of your home—it protects your family, boosts curb appeal, and plays a huge role in energy efficiency. When it’s time for a roof replacement, one of the biggest choices you’ll make is deciding between a metal roof vs shingles.

Each has pros and cons depending on your budget, style, climate, and goals. This guide breaks down four essential questions every Sarasota homeowner should ask to choose the best roofing material for their home.

1. What Aesthetics Do You Want?

Both metal and shingle roofs offer plenty of style options. Metal roofing is available in sleek, modern panels or rustic corrugated forms and comes in a variety of materials such as aluminum, copper, and galvanized steel. It can give your home a high-end, contemporary look.

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Asphalt shingles are more traditional but versatile. They can mimic tile, slate, or wood shakes and come in many colors and textures—perfect for Colonial, Victorian, or Mediterranean-style homes.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal taste and how you want your home to look from the curb.

2. Which is More Eco-Friendly?

If sustainability is important to you, metal roofs have a clear advantage. Most metal roofing systems contain recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan.

Metal roofs also reflect solar heat, helping reduce cooling costs in Sarasota’s hot climate. Some even qualify as cool roofs, increasing energy efficiency.

In contrast, asphalt shingles are petroleum-based and often end up in landfills after replacement. While they’re affordable, they’re less eco-friendly in the long run.

3. What Fits the Budget?

Cost is a major factor in the metal roof vs shingles decision.

Metal roofs: $500–$1,000 per 100 square feet
Asphalt shingles: $300–$700 per 100 square feet

Metal roofing requires professional installation and specialized skills, making the upfront investment higher. But the long-term value is strong, thanks to their durability and lower maintenance needs.

Shingles are easier and faster to install, making them more budget-friendly for initial installation and repairs. If you’re working within a tighter budget, shingles may be the better option.

4. Which Lasts Longer?

Durability is where metal really shines. A well-installed metal roof can last 40 to 70 years. It resists UV rays, strong winds, and Florida’s hurricane weather. However, it can be susceptible to dents from hail or falling branches, depending on the type of metal.

Shingles typically last 15 to 30 years and require more frequent maintenance. They’re more vulnerable to heat damage, algae growth, and storm wear—common issues in Florida’s humid climate.

Metal Roof vs Shingles: Final Thoughts

If you want a sleek, long-lasting, and eco-friendly roof, a metal roof is a smart investment. If affordability and a traditional look are your top priorities, asphalt shingles may suit you better.

Still not sure which option is best? Check out our guide to the best roofing materials or contact us for a personalized consultation.

Need Help Choosing the Right Roof?

At SonShine Roofing, we’ve helped Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte County homeowners choose and install the right roof for more than 38 years. Let us help you make a smart investment in your home.

Schedule a roof consultation today and discover the difference a trusted local roofing expert can make.

General FAQs

Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?

Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out.

How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting.
Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling.
Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials.
Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices.
Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

What causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal.

Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water.

Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.
Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.
Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms.
Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events.
Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster.
Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below.
Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss.
Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?

There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.