Metal roofing costs significantly more upfront than asphalt shingles — typically $7 to $16 per square foot installed for standing-seam steel or aluminum — but it can last 40 to 70 years, roughly double to triple the lifespan of even a good architectural shingle roof. For homeowners planning to stay put long-term, the math often works out in metal's favor over time.

What is metal roofing?

Residential metal roofing generally comes in two main styles:​

  • Standing-seam metal — long, vertical panels with raised seams, the most common choice for a clean, modern residential look.
  • Metal shingles or tiles — designed to mimic the look of traditional shingles, shakes, or tile while keeping metal's durability.

Steel and aluminum are the two most common materials; copper and zinc exist at a significant premium for homeowners specifically after that look.

Pros of metal roofing​

  • Exceptional lifespan. 40 to 70 years is typical, compared to 20 to 30 years for architectural asphalt shingles.
  • Strong performance against Chicago's freeze-thaw cycles. Metal handles ice dam formation better than shingles, which matters in a climate with as much winter freeze-thaw activity as northern Illinois.
  • Wind and impact resistance. Quality metal roofing systems generally carry strong wind ratings and hold up well against hail compared to standard shingles.
  • Energy efficiency. Cool-roof metal options can qualify for state energy rebates in Illinois, potentially reducing the effective cost by 10 to 15%.
  • Low long-term maintenance. Metal doesn't lose granules, curl, or crack the way asphalt shingles eventually do.
  • Fire resistance that meaningfully exceeds standard asphalt shingles.

Cons of metal roofing​

  • Higher upfront cost. Even at the lower end, metal costs roughly two to three times what asphalt shingles do per square foot.
  • Noise during rain and hail, unless the installation includes proper solid decking and insulation — a well-installed system minimizes this, but it's a common homeowner concern worth asking about.
  • Installation requires specialized skill. Not every roofing contractor is experienced with metal systems; seams and flashing details matter enormously for long-term performance.
  • Denting is possible under severe hail, though metal generally resists impact damage far better than asphalt.
  • Longer install timeline. Metal roofing typically takes 3 to 5 days to install, compared to 1 to 3 days for a standard asphalt roof, due to the precision required for seams and flashing.

What metal roofing costs

Pricing depends heavily on the specific metal, panel style, and roof complexity, but as a general range for the Chicago area:​

  • Standing-seam steel or aluminum: Roughly $7 to $16 per square foot installed.
  • Metal shingles or tiles: Generally fall within a similar range, sometimes slightly higher depending on the profile.
  • Copper or zinc: A significant premium above steel or aluminum, chosen primarily for appearance and exceptional longevity.

For comparison, standard architectural asphalt shingles typically run in the $4.50 to $7 per square foot range installed — metal is a real investment, not an incremental upgrade.

Is metal roofing worth it for your home?

The honest answer depends on your time horizon. If you're planning to stay in your home for decades, the combination of lifespan, energy efficiency, and low maintenance can make metal the better long-term value despite the higher upfront cost. If you're renovating for near-term resale or working with a tighter budget, a quality architectural asphalt shingle — especially a Class 4 impact-resistant option — is often the more practical choice.

Frequently asked questions

Is metal roofing louder than shingles during rain?
With proper solid decking and insulation, the noise difference is much smaller than most people expect — it's a common misconception based on older or improperly installed metal roofs.

Does metal roofing attract lightning?
No — this is a persistent myth. Metal doesn't attract lightning any more than other roofing materials, and it's actually non-combustible if a strike does occur nearby.

Can metal roofing be installed over an existing asphalt roof?
Sometimes, depending on local code and the condition of the existing roof, though a full tear-off is often recommended to properly inspect and prepare the decking underneath.

Last updated: August 2026. Cost ranges reflect general Chicago-area market conditions and will vary by project. For a specific quote comparing metal to other materials for your home, schedule a free AI drone roof inspection with RS Five.