Metal Roofing vs Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better for Long Island?
When comparing metal roofing vs asphalt shingles Long Island homeowners often find that metal costs more upfront, while asphalt costs less to install. But which one actually makes sense for your roof? Here is what the numbers say
Should you pay more now for a metal roof, or stick with asphalt shingles and replace them sooner?
For most Long Island homeowners, it comes down to how long you plan to stay in the home. Metal roofing costs more upfront but lasts two to three times longer than asphalt shingles, while asphalt costs less to install and still performs well for 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance.
This guide breaks down cost, lifespan, and storm performance so you can decide which one fits your home and budget.
Metal Roofing vs Asphalt Shingles: Long Island homeowners weighing these two options need to look at more than sticker price. Coastal winds, salt air, and Nor’easters all affect how each material holds up over time.
Cost Comparison
Asphalt shingles remain the more affordable option to install. Architectural asphalt shingles typically run $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot installed, while metal roofing runs $7 to $14 per square foot depending on the panel type and metal used.
- Asphalt shingles: lower upfront cost, faster installation
- Metal roofing: 2 to 3 times more expensive upfront, but far fewer replacements over time
On a national average basis, a full architectural shingle roof runs around $31,871, while a steel standing seam metal roof averages around $51,865.
Lifespan Comparison
This is where the two materials differ most.
Asphalt shingles are more vulnerable to humidity, moisture, and temperature swings, all of which are common on Long Island throughout the year. Metal roofing resists these conditions far better and rarely needs replacement within a typical homeowner’s time in the house.
Tip: If you plan to stay in your home for more than 10 years, the lifespan gap alone often makes metal roofing the stronger long-term investment, even with the higher upfront cost.
Storm and Weather Performance on Long Island
Long Island roofs deal with coastal wind, salt air, heavy rain, and winter ice. Here’s how each material holds up:
- Wind resistance: Metal panels, especially standing seam, resist wind uplift better than shingles during Nor’easters and coastal storms
- Moisture and salt exposure: Metal resists moisture damage and algae growth better than asphalt, which is prone to cracking and fungus growth in humid, coastal conditions
- Impact resistance: Asphalt handles hail and falling debris slightly better, since metal can dent under heavy impact
- Ice and snow: Metal sheds snow and ice faster due to its smooth surface, reducing ice dam buildup common on Long Island roofs
A Mistake to Avoid
Don’t choose a roofing material based on upfront cost alone. A metal roof installed today may outlast your entire time in the home, while a shingle roof installed at a lower price may need replacing twice during the same period, each time adding tear-off and disposal costs that add up over the years.
Resale Value
Metal roofing typically recoups 60% to 70% of its cost at resale, and buyers often view it as a premium feature that removes a major future expense. Asphalt shingle roofs recoup a similar percentage, but on a lower overall cost, meaning the dollar return is smaller.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose asphalt shingles if:
- You want the lowest upfront cost
- You plan to sell within the next 10 years
- You prefer a wider range of style and color options
Choose metal roofing if:
- You’re staying in your home long-term
- You want to minimize maintenance and future replacement costs
- You want stronger wind and moisture resistance for coastal conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is metal roofing worth the extra cost on Long Island?
Does metal roofing handle Long Island storms better than asphalt?
How long do asphalt shingles last on Long Island?
Does a metal roof increase home resale value?
Can metal roofing be installed over existing asphalt shingles?
Which roofing material needs less maintenance?
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “better” roofing material, only the one that fits your budget, timeline, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Asphalt shingles offer a lower entry cost and proven performance, while metal roofing delivers a longer lifespan and stronger resistance to Long Island’s coastal weather.
Not sure which is right for your home? Contact Skyscape Roofing for a free inspection and honest recommendation on metal versus asphalt for your specific roof.
