"Tin roof" is what most people call a corrugated metal roof — though it's actually steel or aluminum, not tin. Pitted against classic asphalt shingles, it's a battle of upfront cost versus long-term value. Here's how they really compare.
First, a quick clarification
Genuine tin roofs haven't been common for a century. Today, "tin roof" almost always means a corrugated or ribbed metal roof made from galvanized steel or aluminum — the wavy panels you see on barns, cabins and increasingly on modern homes. We'll use "tin" in that everyday sense here.
Price comparison
| Asphalt shingles | "Tin" (corrugated metal) | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost / sq ft | $4 – $8 | $7 – $12 |
| Lifespan | 15 – 30 years | 25 – 40+ years |
| Replacement cycles in 50 yrs | ~2–3 | ~1 |
| Weight | Heavier | Lightweight |
| DIY-friendly? | Somewhat | Panels go up fast (but pro recommended) |
Shingles win the upfront battle — they're roughly half the price to install. But because metal lasts longer, the lifetime cost often narrows considerably once you factor in shingle replacement cycles. We break the long-run math down in cost of a steel roof vs. shingles.
Pros and cons
Asphalt shingles
- Lowest upfront cost
- Huge color/style range
- Easy and cheap to repair
- Every roofer works with them
Shingle drawbacks
- Shorter lifespan
- Vulnerable to wind and hail
- Dries out and gets brittle with age
"Tin" / corrugated metal
- Long lifespan, low maintenance
- Excellent wind and fire resistance
- Lightweight; reflects heat (energy savings)
- Often installable over existing shingles
Metal drawbacks
- Higher upfront cost
- Can be noisier in rain without good underlayment
- Exposed-fastener panels need gasket checks over time
- Fewer crews install it well
What about the rain noise?
The "loud metal roof" reputation is mostly outdated. With solid roof decking and quality underlayment beneath the panels, a modern metal roof is only marginally louder than shingles — many owners find the muffled sound pleasant.
Which should you choose?
Choose shingles if upfront budget is tight or you'll move within ~10 years. Choose a "tin"/metal roof if you're staying long-term and want decades of low-maintenance performance, better wind/fire resistance and energy savings.
Still torn? A free, no-pressure inspection lets us quote both options on your actual roof so you can compare real numbers, not averages.
Frequently asked questions
Is a tin roof cheaper than shingles?
No. A "tin" (corrugated metal) roof costs more upfront — roughly $7–$12 per square foot installed versus $4–$8 for asphalt shingles. Metal can be cheaper over the long run because it lasts much longer.
How long does a tin roof last vs shingles?
A corrugated metal roof typically lasts 25–40+ years, while asphalt shingles last about 15–30 years. Over 50 years you might replace shingles two or three times versus once for metal.
Are metal roofs noisy in the rain?
Not significantly with modern installation. Over solid decking and quality underlayment, a metal roof is only slightly louder than shingles, and many homeowners find the sound pleasant.
Can you put a tin roof over shingles?
Often yes, where local codes permit. Installing metal panels over existing shingles can save on tear-off and disposal, lowering the total cost. A roofer should confirm the decking and code allow it.
BCG Roofing Services — practical roofing guides and professional repair, rejuvenation and storm-damage services across Sarasota, Bradenton & Southwest Florida. Questions about your roof? Get a free inspection.
