Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof | Complete Louisiana Comparison Guide

If you're a Louisiana homeowner considering a new roof, you're likely weighing the choice between metal roofing and traditional asphalt shingles. Both have their place in our Gulf Coast climate, but the right choice depends on your budget, priorities, and long-term plans for your home.

After 25 years of roofing experience across Louisiana, we've installed thousands of both metal and shingle roofs. Here's what you need to know to make an informed decision.

Cost Comparison: Metal vs Shingles in Louisiana

Let's start with what most homeowners want to know first - the price difference.

Asphalt Shingle Costs (2025)

For a typical Louisiana home, asphalt shingles cost approximately $375-$500 per roofing square (100 sq ft) for quality architectural shingles. This translates to:

• Small roof (1,200 sq ft): $6,000-$9,000
• Average roof (1,800 sq ft): $9,000-$14,000
• Large roof (2,500 sq ft): $12,000-$18,000

These prices include materials and professional installation. Premium impact-rated shingles designed for hurricane zones cost more, typically adding 15-25% to the total.

Metal Roofing Costs (2025)

Metal roofing runs significantly higher. Traditional exposed-fastener metal panels cost $600-$700 per square, while standing seam metal (the premium option) costs $1,000-$1,500+ per square.

For a typical Louisiana home:

• Small roof (1,200 sq ft): $15,000-$20,000
• Average roof (1,800 sq ft): $20,000-$28,000
• Large roof (2,500 sq ft): $28,000-$40,000

Bottom line: Metal roofing costs approximately 2-3 times more than asphalt shingles upfront.

Types of Metal Roofing

Not all metal roofs are created equal. Understanding the options helps you make a smarter investment.

Traditional Metal (Exposed Fastener)

Traditional metal roofing uses overlapping panels with visible screws securing them to the roof deck. This is the more affordable metal option at $600-$700 per square.

Pros:

• Lower cost than standing seam
• Proven performance in Louisiana storms
• Easier to repair

Cons:

• Visible fasteners can loosen over time
• Washers around screws may deteriorate
• Less wind-resistant than standing seam

Standing Seam Metal

Standing seam metal features flat panels with hidden fasteners concealed within raised seams. This premium option costs around $1,000+ per square.

Pros:

• Superior wind resistance (rated for 140+ mph gusts)
• No exposed fasteners to maintain
• Cleaner aesthetic appearance
• Better protection against wind-driven rain

Cons:

• Significantly higher cost
• Requires specialized installation expertise
• More complex repairs

For Louisiana's hurricane exposure, standing seam is the better investment if you're choosing metal - but only if your budget allows.

Hurricane and Wind Performance

This is where the conversation gets serious for Louisiana homeowners. Our climate demands roofing that can handle severe weather.

Metal Roof Wind Resistance

Metal roofs excel in high winds. Interlocking standing seam panels are rated for gusts exceeding 140 mph, maintaining structural integrity through Category 4 storms. The continuous panels don't have the same lift points that individual shingles create.

Asphalt Shingle Wind Resistance

Quality architectural shingles are rated for 110-130 mph winds when properly installed. Louisiana building codes require six nails per shingle in high-wind areas (110 mph zones and above). This enhanced attachment significantly improves performance.

Impact-rated (Class 4) shingles provide additional protection against hail damage and are worth considering in our region.

The Real-World Verdict

Both roofing types can perform well in Louisiana storms when installed correctly. The key factors are:

1. Proper installation following manufacturer specifications
2. Adequate fastening per Louisiana building codes
3. Quality materials rated for your wind zone
4. Sealed edges and penetrations to prevent wind-driven rain intrusion

A properly installed architectural shingle roof will outperform a poorly installed metal roof every time.

Lifespan and Long-Term Value

Metal Roof Lifespan

Metal roofs can last 50+ years without curling, cracking, or developing mold. They don't absorb moisture and maintain their structural integrity over decades.

Asphalt Shingle Lifespan

Quality architectural shingles last 20-30 years in Louisiana's climate. Our heat, humidity, and storm exposure can reduce this compared to milder climates.

Does the Math Work Out?

Here's where it gets interesting. A metal roof costs roughly 2.5x more but lasts roughly 2x longer. Factor in:

• Two shingle roof replacements vs one metal roof over 50 years
• Inflation on future roofing costs
• Potential insurance savings (more on this below)
• Energy savings from metal's reflective properties

For many Louisiana homeowners, the lifetime cost difference is smaller than the initial sticker shock suggests - but it's not always a slam-dunk for metal.

Energy Efficiency

Louisiana's brutal summers make cooling costs a real concern.

Metal Roof Advantages

Light-colored metal roofs reflect a significant portion of solar radiation, helping keep interiors cooler. Studies show this can reduce air conditioning costs by up to 25% compared to dark asphalt shingles.

Shingle Options

Light-colored and "cool roof" shingles are available that improve reflectivity, though they don't match metal's performance. If energy efficiency is a priority and you're choosing shingles, opt for lighter colors.

Insurance Considerations

Louisiana's challenging insurance market makes this factor increasingly important.

FORTIFIED Certification

Both metal and shingle roofs can achieve FORTIFIED certification, which can reduce the wind portion of your homeowner's insurance by 20-52%. The certification requires specific installation methods, not just material choice.

Louisiana's Fortify Homes Program offers grants up to $10,000 to help homeowners upgrade to FORTIFIED roofing. This program applies to both metal and shingle installations that meet the standard.

Insurance Preferences

Some insurers offer better rates for metal roofs due to their wind and fire resistance. It's worth calling your insurance agent before making a final decision to understand how each option affects your premium.

Appearance and Home Value

Why Homeowners Choose Metal

In our experience, most Louisiana homeowners who choose metal do so for:

1. The aesthetic - they love the look
2. The sound of rain - many find it relaxing
3. Long-term peace of mind - one roof for life

Why Homeowners Choose Shingles

Homeowners opting for shingles typically cite:

1. Budget constraints - the upfront savings matter
2. Traditional appearance - matches neighborhood homes
3. Flexibility - easier to change later if desired

Resale Value

Both quality metal and shingle roofs add value to your home. Metal may command a slight premium in some markets, but a well-maintained shingle roof won't hurt your resale value.

When to Call a Professional

Whether you're leaning toward metal or shingles, get multiple professional opinions before deciding. A qualified Louisiana roofer should:

• Inspect your current roof structure
• Discuss your budget and priorities honestly
• Explain local building code requirements
• Provide detailed written estimates
• Hold proper Louisiana roofing licensing

Red flags to watch for:

• Pressure to decide immediately
• Cash-only requirements
• No local references
• Unwillingness to discuss licensing

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a metal roof worth the extra cost in Louisiana?

It depends on your situation. If you plan to stay in your home 20+ years, prioritize low maintenance, and can afford the upfront cost, metal often makes sense. If budget is tight or you may move within 10-15 years, quality shingles are a practical choice.

Will a metal roof make my house hotter in Louisiana summers?

Actually, the opposite. Light-colored metal roofs reflect heat and can keep your home cooler than dark asphalt shingles, potentially reducing cooling costs by up to 25%.

Do metal roofs attract lightning?

No. Metal roofs don't attract lightning any more than other roofing materials. If lightning does strike, metal is actually safer because it won't catch fire and will dissipate the charge.

How loud is a metal roof during rain?

With proper insulation and underlayment, a metal roof isn't significantly louder than shingles. Some homeowners actually enjoy the sound. If noise is a concern, discuss insulation options with your roofer.

Can I install metal roofing over existing shingles?

Sometimes, but it's not ideal. Adding weight and trapping moisture can cause problems. A complete tear-off and fresh installation is typically recommended for best long-term performance.

Making Your Decision

There's no universally "right" answer between metal and shingles. The best choice depends on:

• Your budget - Can you afford metal's upfront cost?
• Your timeline - How long will you own this home?
• Your priorities - Aesthetics, maintenance, energy efficiency?
• Your roof structure - Can it support metal's installation requirements?

Both roofing types, properly installed by licensed Louisiana professionals, will protect your home for years to come. The key is choosing quality materials and experienced installers who understand our Gulf Coast climate challenges.