Replacing your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home. In Minnesota, it’s not just about curb appeal; It’s about protecting your property from hail, heavy snow loads, ice dams, high winds, and dramatic temperature swings.
When you receive roofing bids, it’s tempting to focus on the lowest upfront price. But the smarter question is:
What will this roof actually cost me over the next 30–50 years?
That’s where the difference between asphalt shingles and standing seam metal roofing becomes clear.
Asphalt vs. Standing Seam Metal: A Long-Term Comparison
Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Typical lifespan in Minnesota: 15–25 years
(Shorter with our Minnesota hail, ice dams, and freeze-thaw cycles)
Initial installation cost:
$4–$8 per square foot
Maintenance:
- Susceptible to cracking and granule loss
- Can develop moss or algae
- More vulnerable to hail damage
- Often requires repair before full replacement
Resale value:
Moderate return, especially if roof is newer at time of sale
Asphalt remains popular because of its lower upfront cost. However, many Minnesota homeowners find themselves replacing an asphalt roof twice or even three times over the span of homeownership.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Typical lifespan: 40–70+ years
(Engineered to perform in extreme climates)
Initial installation cost:
$11–$19 per square foot
Maintenance:
- Minimal upkeep
- Resistant to cracking, rot, and moss
- Excellent snow-shedding capability
- Superior hail and wind durability
Energy efficiency:
Metal roofing reflects solar heat and can reduce cooling costs in warmer months.
Insurance benefits:
Some carriers offer discounts for impact-resistant metal roofing systems. Usually it’s 20-35% (durability credits for superior protection especially in hail and tornado prone areas like Minnesota).
Resale value:
Studies consistently show homeowners recoup a high percentage of installation costs due to longevity and premium appeal. Typically, homeowners experience a boost in home value of between 1% to 6%. On average, homeowners recoup 85% to 95% of the installation cost when selling, compared to roughly 60% for asphalt.
Why Total Cost of Ownership Matters in Minnesota
Minnesota’s weather is tough on roofing systems:
- Hail storms
- Heavy snow loads
- Ice dams
- High winds
- Rapid freeze-thaw cycles
Choosing the least expensive option upfront can lead to:
- Earlier replacement
- Storm-related repairs
- Insurance claims
- Interior water damage
- Increased long-term expense
A properly fabricated and professionally installed standing seam metal roof can often last as long as you own your home and possibly longer.
The Installation Factor: Craftsmanship Matters
No roofing material performs well if it’s poorly installed.
Standing seam systems require:
- Precision fabrication
- Proper underlayment and ventilation
- Correct fastening systems
- Experienced metal installers
At Sheridan Sheet Metal Co., metal roofing isn’t a side offering, it’s our specialty. We fabricate and install custom standing seam systems designed specifically for Minnesota homes. That means tighter tolerances, better detailing, and long-term performance you can trust.
So… Which Roof Is Right for You?
If you plan to move within 5–10 years, asphalt may meet your needs.
If you plan to stay long-term, want maximum durability, and prefer a roof that performs in Minnesota’s climate for decades, standing seam metal is often the smarter financial decision.
The key is not just comparing price per square foot.
It’s comparing:
- Lifespan
- Maintenance costs
- Storm resistance
- Energy efficiency
- Insurance impact
- Resale value
- Peace of mind
Get a Roof Designed for Minnesota
If you’re considering replacing your roof, we’d be happy to provide a straightforward, no-pressure estimate and walk you through the real numbers.
Whether you’re early in your research or ready for a quote, Sheridan Sheet Metal Co. can help you evaluate the true cost of ownership and decide what makes sense for your home.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see if standing seam metal roofing is the right investment for you.
FAQs
It depends on whether you’re optimizing for upfront cost or long-term cost.
– Asphalt shingles are cheaper to install
– Metal roofs cost more upfront but last significantly longer
In Minnesota, where roofs take a beating from snow, ice, and temperature swings, asphalt roofs often need to be replaced more than once over the life of a home.
A metal roof is typically a one-time investment, while asphalt is a repeat expense.
In reality, lifespan depends heavily on:
– Weather exposure
– Installation quality
– Ventilation
In climates like Minnesota’s, it’s not uncommon to see roofs needing replacement at the 15–25 year mark.
Asphalt shingles are an affordable roofing option upfront.
But the key thing to understand is this:
You’re likely going to pay for that roof more than once.
When you factor in:
– Replacement every 15–25 years
– Repairs and maintenance
the long-term cost can be much higher than it seems at first.
Metal roofs typically cost significantly more upfront than asphalt.
But here’s the tradeoff:
– Asphalt = lower upfront cost, higher long-term cost
– Metal = higher upfront cost, lower long-term cost
Because metal roofs last decades longer, many homeowners end up spending less over time, even though the initial investment is higher.
A standing seam metal roof is a high-performance metal roofing system with vertical panels and raised seams.
Unlike traditional roofing:
– Fasteners are hidden (not exposed to weather)
– Panels interlock to prevent water intrusion
It’s designed for durability, especially in climates with heavy snow and moisture.
Standing seam is considered a premium roofing system for a reason.
Key benefits:
– Handles snow and ice more effectively
– Lower risk of leaks due to hidden fasteners
– Minimal maintenance
– Long lifespan (often decades longer than asphalt)
It’s built to perform in harsh conditions—not just look good.
Standing seam is one of the higher-end roofing options.
But the cost should be viewed in context:
– It’s typically a one-time installation
– It reduces the likelihood of future replacements
– It minimizes long-term maintenance
For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term, it’s often the better long-term investment.
