Choosing a new roof is one of the bigger decisions you'll make for your home, and for most homeowners in Burlington, Greensboro and across the Piedmont Triad it comes down to two materials: standing-seam metal or asphalt shingles. Asphalt has long been the most popular choice nationwide, but metal continues to win over homeowners who want maximum longevity. Both have real advantages and real trade-offs, so it pays to do your homework before you commit.
Below we break down the strengths and weaknesses of each so you can weigh what matters most for your home, your budget and how long you plan to stay.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has a reputation for being the long-haul, low-maintenance option. Here's where it shines — and where it costs you.
Pros of Metal Roofing
- Lightweight. Metal panels are easier to handle and transport, and they put less structural stress on your home than many people expect.
- Long lifespan. A properly cared-for metal roof can last 50 years or more.
- Lower long-term cost. The upfront price is higher, but a single metal roof can outlast several asphalt roofs, which can make it the more economical choice over decades.
- Fire resistance. Metal is Class A fire-rated and non-combustible.
- Weather performance. It's one of the strongest, most durable roofing materials available against extreme conditions.
- Environmentally friendly. Metal roofing is highly recyclable.
- Energy efficiency. Metal acts as a "cool roof," helping manage how much heat your home absorbs and retains.
- Added property value. A metal roof can boost your home's resale value.
- Low maintenance. Upkeep is generally limited to keeping debris cleared off.
- Color choices. Metal is available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
Cons of Metal Roofing
- Higher initial cost. Both the materials and the labor cost more than asphalt.
- Fewer qualified installers. Metal roofing requires specialized experience, and fewer contractors are trained to do it well.
- More labor intensive. Proper installation demands precision and skilled craftspeople.
- Industrial look. Some homeowners feel metal reads as more industrial than traditional shingles.
Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Asphalt shingles are the default for a reason — they're affordable, fast to install and easy to repair. Here's the full picture.
Pros of Shingle Roofing
- Economical in the short term. Shingles cost less upfront, with a typical lifespan around 20 years compared to 50+ for metal.
- Easy installation and replacement. A shingle roof is less time- and labor-intensive to install.
- Less expensive repairs. When something goes wrong, fixes are simpler and cheaper.
- More qualified installers. It's far easier to find experienced shingle crews.
Cons of Shingle Roofing
- Shorter lifecycle. Most shingle roofs last about 25 years on the high end.
- Heavier than you'd think. Shingles are actually heavier than metal roofing, which adds stress to the structure.
- Holds heat. Darker shingles absorb warmth, which can make your HVAC system work harder.
- Granule loss. Over time, shingles shed granules into your gutters, and that wear reduces their effectiveness.
Which One Is Right for Your Home?
There's no single right answer — only the right answer for your situation. If you plan to stay in your home for the long haul and want a roof you may never have to replace again, the longevity and energy efficiency of metal roofing can more than justify the higher upfront cost. If you want a proven, budget-friendly roof with straightforward repairs and the widest pool of installers, asphalt shingle roofing is hard to beat.
And remember — it doesn't have to be all or nothing. Combination roofing systems let you use metal in some areas and shingles in others, blending the strengths of each. The best way to decide is to walk your roof with a contractor who installs both and can show you what works for your home, your neighborhood and your budget.
Not sure which way to go? Redeem Roofing & Construction installs both metal and CertainTeed Landmark® shingle systems across Burlington, Greensboro, Winston-Salem and the Piedmont Triad. Request a free, no-obligation estimate and we'll help you compare your options side by side — no pressure, just an honest recommendation. Need a repair instead? Start with our roof repair team.