Metal and asphalt shingles are the two materials most Canadian homeowners weigh against each other, and both are excellent choices in the right situation. The best pick depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay, and the demands of your local climate.
Lifespan
This is where metal pulls ahead decisively. A quality metal roof can protect a home for decades longer than asphalt, often outlasting two full shingle roofs. Asphalt shingles deliver solid, reliable service across a shorter window. If you plan to stay in your home for the long haul, metal’s longer life changes the entire cost equation.
Upfront cost
Asphalt shingles win clearly on initial price. They are the most affordable roofing material in Canada and the fastest to install, which keeps labour costs down. Metal carries a higher upfront cost for both material and installation, since it requires specialized skills and tools. The trade-off is longevity, so the decision often comes down to how you value cost today versus cost over time.
Snow and ice performance
Canadian winters reward metal roofing. Its smooth surface sheds snow rather than letting it accumulate, which reduces snow load and the risk of ice dams. Asphalt holds snow longer, so proper attic insulation and ventilation matter even more to prevent ice buildup at the eaves. Both materials perform well when installed correctly, but metal has a natural edge in heavy-snow regions.
Appearance and style
Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colours and profiles that suit traditional and suburban homes beautifully. Metal offers a clean, modern look and is available in standing-seam and shingle-style profiles. Both can complement almost any home, so this often comes down to personal taste and neighbourhood character.
Maintenance
Both roofs are relatively low maintenance, but the nature of the upkeep differs. Asphalt may need occasional shingle repairs after storms. Metal needs periodic checks of fasteners and seams. Neither is demanding, and routine inspections keep both performing at their best.
Noise, energy, and resale
Modern metal roofing installed over proper underlayment is far quieter than the old myth suggests, and its reflectivity can help with summer cooling. Both materials support good attic ventilation, which is the real driver of energy performance. A new roof of either type is a strong selling point at resale, with metal often commanding a premium for its longevity.
How to decide
Choose asphalt shingles if you want the most affordable, proven option and a shorter time horizon in the home. Choose metal if you want maximum lifespan, superior snow shedding, and you plan to stay long enough for the investment to pay off.
There is no universally correct answer, only the right answer for your home and budget. RooFix installs both metal and asphalt shingle roofing and can walk you through the trade-offs specific to your property.
Frequently asked questions
Is a metal roof worth it over asphalt shingles?
For an owner staying in the home long-term, yes — a metal roof routinely lasts 40–50 years versus 15–25 for asphalt, sheds snow, and resists fire and wind. The upfront cost is higher but spreads over far more years.
Is a metal roof noisy in rain?
No. Over solid decking with underlayment, a modern metal roof is no louder than asphalt. The drumming sound comes from metal over open framing, like a barn.
Ready to choose a material? Compare metal roofing and shingle roofing, or browse all of our roofing services.