Metal Roofing vs Shingles: What’s the Better Choice for Your NC Home?

It’s one of the most common roofing questions we get:
“Is a metal roof worth the cost compared to shingles?”

The short answer: it depends on the type of metal roof — and your goals as a homeowner.

At Pine Rock Construction, we install both architectural shingles and metal roofing, and we’ll walk you through the real pros, cons, and costs.

💰 Let’s Talk Real Costs

Asphalt Shingles (Landmark Pro):

  • Cost: $375–$500 per square

  • Material: CertainTeed Landmark Pro (architectural shingles)

  • Lifespan: 20–30 years

  • Aesthetic: Traditional, dimensional look

Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing (Corrugated):

  • Cost: $425–$500 per square (comparable to shingles)

  • Material: Painted 29–26 gauge corrugated panels

  • Lifespan: 30–40 years with proper install

  • Aesthetic: Rustic, modern, or farmhouse

We install exposed fastener metal roofs regularly — and they’re often just a small step up from shingles in price, especially for barns, shops, and steep-pitch homes.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing:

  • Cost: $600–$800 per square

  • Material: Hidden fastener, thick-gauge vertical panels

  • Lifespan: 40–60+ years

  • Aesthetic: Sleek, high-end profile

  • Labor: More complex installation = higher cost

⚠️ Beware: Some roofers charge $1,000+/square for standing seam and oversell lifetime warranties that the panel manufacturer may not even honor.

🧠 So Which Should You Choose?

Choose Shingles if:

  • You’re staying 10–20 more years

  • You want a lower upfront cost

  • You like the look of dimensional asphalt

Choose Exposed Fastener Metal if:

  • You want longevity at a similar price to shingles

  • Your home or outbuilding suits a more farmhouse or industrial look

  • You want minimal maintenance over time

Choose Standing Seam if:

  • You’re investing in a “forever roof”

  • You want maximum resale value and sleek aesthetics

  • You’re okay with a higher price for top-tier materials and installation

Why Homeowners Choose Pine Rock

  • ✅ We use premium materials, not generic panels

  • ✅ We give honest pricing — no inflated metal quotes

  • ✅ Our crews are trained in proper metal installation, not just shingle tear-offs

  • ✅ We explain every option with zero pressure

📲 Ready to Compare Options?

Use our Instant Roof Quote Tool to get a quick price comparison, or contact us to walk through your shingle vs metal options with a real expert.

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