Asphalt shingles cost less upfront ($4.50–$7.50/sq ft installed) and remain the most common choice for Chicago-area homes. Metal roofing costs roughly two to three times more ($7–$16/sq ft) but lasts 40 to 70 years versus 20 to 30 for architectural asphalt — a real long-term value tradeoff, not just a style preference.

Side-by-side comparison


Asphalt Shingles
Metal Roofing
Installed cost
$4.50–$7.50 / sq ft
$7–$16 / sq ft
Typical lifespan
20–30 years (architectural)
40–70 years
Install time
1–3 days
3–5 days
Wind/hail resistance
Good, especially Class 4 impact-resistant
Excellent
Freeze-thaw/ice dam performance
Adequate
Better
Energy efficiency
Standard
Better with cool-roof finishes, can qualify for rebates
Noise in rain
Minimal
Minimal with proper decking/insulation, despite the reputation
Maintenance
Low
Very low

Where asphalt wins

  • Lower upfront cost, which matters for budget-conscious projects or shorter ownership timelines.
  • Faster, simpler installation, with more contractors experienced in it.
  • Easier repairs and better material availability for matching existing sections.
  • Wide style and color range, including options styled to resemble other materials.

Where metal wins

  • Lifespan. A metal roof installed today can outlast two or more asphalt roof replacements over the same period.
  • Performance in severe weather, including the hail and wind activity the Chicago area has seen this year.
  • Energy efficiency, particularly with cool-roof coatings that can meaningfully affect summer cooling costs.
  • Long-term cost per year, once the higher upfront cost is spread across a much longer lifespan.

How to actually decide

The honest framework: if you're planning to stay in your home for the long haul and want to minimize how many times you deal with a roof replacement, metal's higher upfront cost often pencils out favorably over time. If you're working with a tighter budget, a shorter ownership horizon, or simply prefer asphalt's traditional look, a quality architectural shingle — especially a Class 4 impact-resistant option — remains a smart, defensible choice.

Frequently asked questions

Is metal roofing actually louder in the rain?
With proper solid decking and insulation, the difference is much smaller than the reputation suggests — this is one of the most common misconceptions about metal roofing.

Can metal roofing be installed on any home?
Most homes can accommodate metal roofing, though roof pitch and existing structure are worth confirming during an inspection, same as with any material change.

Does switching to metal affect my homeowners insurance?
Some insurers offer a discount for impact-resistant roofing materials, metal included — worth asking your agent directly, since it varies by carrier.

Last updated: August 2026. Cost ranges reflect general Chicago-area market conditions and will vary by project. For a side-by-side quote on both materials, schedule a free AI drone roof inspection with RS Five.