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Most Ohio homes have asphalt shingles, but more homeowners are pricing metal roofs. Here’s how the two compare.
Cost
| Asphalt (architectural) | Metal (standing seam / panels) | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost per sq ft (Ohio, 2026) | about $4.50–$7.50 | about $7.50–$14 |
| Typical 2,000 sq ft roof | about $9,000–$15,000 | about $15,000–$28,000 |
Ranges come from published 2026 cost guides. Tear-off, steep pitches, multiple stories and decking repairs add to both.
Lifespan
- Asphalt: about 18–25 years in Ohio’s freeze-thaw climate.
- Metal: often 40–70 years with little maintenance.
If you plan to stay in your home for decades, metal’s longer life can make the lifetime cost closer than the upfront price suggests.
Weather performance
- Hail: Impact-rated (Class 4) shingles and heavier-gauge metal both resist hail better. Thin metal can dent cosmetically; ask about warranties and insurance discounts for Class 4 roofs.
- Snow and ice: Metal sheds snow quickly, which reduces ice dams but means you may need snow guards over walkways.
- Wind: Both perform well when installed to the manufacturer’s specs.
Noise, looks and resale
With solid decking and underlayment, metal roofs aren’t much louder than shingles. Asphalt comes in more colors and styles that match most Ohio neighborhoods, while metal can look more modern. Both can help resale when they’re new and under warranty.
Which should you choose?
Choose asphalt if you want the lowest upfront cost or may move within 10–15 years. Choose metal if you plan to stay long-term, want low maintenance, or have a simple roof shape.
Price your own roof with the roof replacement cost calculator or the planners at Midwest Roof Calculators, then compare local roofers.
