Short answer: For most Cleveland-area homes, architectural asphalt shingles are the better value. They cost much less to install and meet Ohio code with familiar details. Metal roofing costs more upfront but lasts longer. The Metal Roofing Alliance puts the average lifespan at 50+ years. Metal also sheds lake-effect snow quickly, so it can pay off if you plan to stay in your home for decades. Noise is mostly a myth when metal is installed over a solid deck.
By Shawn Stypa, Owner, Pring Roofing LLC | Cleveland, Ohio | Updated October 2026
How much more does a metal roof cost than shingles in Ohio?
Often about double, depending on the metal system. The figures below are general industry estimates from third-party sources, not Pring Roofing pricing:
| Material | HomeGuide 2026 (national, tear-off and replace) | Buckeye Roof Pros (Ohio) |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural asphalt shingles | $4 to $6 per sq ft | $3.50 to $5.50 per sq ft (asphalt) |
| Metal roofing (all types) | $5 to $16 per sq ft | $7 to $12 per sq ft |
| Standing seam metal | $9 to $16 per sq ft | not listed separately |
Buckeye Roof Pros estimates a full metal roof on a typical Ohio home at about $14,000 to $24,000. Your real number depends on roof size, pitch, the metal system, and how much decking needs repair. For what drives shingle pricing, see our Cleveland roof replacement cost guide.
How long does a metal roof last compared with asphalt shingles?
The sources disagree, so here is each one's estimate:
- Metal: the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), a metal roofing trade group, lists an average lifespan of 50+ years, with warranties typically 30 to 50+ years. Buckeye Roof Pros gives 40 to 70 years.
- Asphalt shingles: Buckeye Roof Pros gives 15 to 30 years. The MRA's own buyer's guide lists a lower 15 to 20 years, but it is a metal industry group.
In practice, a shingle roof's life in Northeast Ohio depends heavily on attic ventilation, installation quality, and storm exposure. If you plan to stay in the house well beyond one shingle lifespan, metal's longer life starts to offset its higher price.
Does a metal roof handle Cleveland snow better than shingles?
Metal sheds snow faster, which is both a benefit and a hazard. The MRA notes that metal sheds snow quickly, which takes load off the roof structure. That helps in the snowbelt communities east of Cleveland, such as Mentor, Willoughby, and Painesville.
But snow sliding off a metal roof all at once can land on walkways, entry doors, driveways, decks, lower roofs, gutters, and A/C units. That's why metal roofs in snowy climates often get snow guards, which are rows of clamps or bars that hold snow so it melts off gradually. Snow guard manufacturers such as S-5! size systems with project-specific engineering calculations. Ask that any metal roof quote shows where snow guards will go, especially over doors and walkways.
Shingles hold snow in place. That's safer for people below, but it leaves the snow load on the roof. Ice dams then become the bigger risk, and our ice dam prevention guide covers how to prevent them.
What does Ohio code require for metal roofs vs. shingles?
Both must follow the Residential Code of Ohio, Chapter 9 (Ohio Admin. Code 4101:8-9-01), but the details differ:
- Minimum slope. Asphalt shingles need at least 2:12 (RCO 905.2.2). Metal roof shingles need at least 3:12 (RCO 905.4.2). Standing-seam metal panels can go as low as 1/4:12 (RCO 905.10.2), which makes standing seam an option for low-slope porch roofs and additions where shingles aren't allowed.
- Ice barrier. RCO 905.1.2 requires an ice barrier at the eaves for asphalt shingles and metal roof shingles, statewide. Metal roof panels are not on that list, so for standing seam and other panels, the panel manufacturer's instructions govern what goes at the eaves. Our post on what Ohio code requires under a new roof explains the ice barrier rule in detail.
- Underlayment. Metal panels still need underlayment that complies with RCO 905.1.1 (RCO 905.10.5).
- Going over an existing roof. RCO 908.3.1 allows complete, separate systems, such as standing-seam metal systems that carry roof loads directly to the structure, to be installed without removing the existing roofing. A recover is still not allowed over a roof that is water-soaked, deteriorated, or already two layers deep. See overlay vs. tear-off in Ohio.
Are metal roofs loud in the rain?
Not when they're installed over a solid deck. The MRA states that metal roofing is not any louder in rain or bad weather than other roofing materials. A technical paper published by metal roofing manufacturer DML USA explains that the "loud metal roof" reputation comes from barns and patio awnings with nothing between you and the panels. Installing over a solid roof deck deadens the sound. Underlayment and attic insulation reduce it further.
Which handles hail better, metal or shingles?
Both can carry the highest impact rating. IBHS recommends roof coverings rated Class 4 under UL 2218 or FM 4473. Some metal roofing products are tested and rated Class 4, so check the specific product's rating. On the shingle side, Owens Corning says its Duration FLEX shingle is UL 2218 Class 4, and that a complete Class 4 system may qualify for an insurance discount. Ask your insurer.
Two things to know:
- Metal can dent in large hail even when it doesn't leak. Read the warranty and your insurance policy for how cosmetic dents are handled.
- Shingles bruise. If you're sorting out whether a storm damaged your roof, see hail damage or normal wear? How to tell.
So which should you choose for your Cleveland home?
| Choose architectural shingles if... | Consider metal if... |
|---|---|
| Upfront cost is your main concern | You plan to stay 25+ years |
| You may sell within 10 to 15 years | You want snow to shed quickly, and you'll add snow guards over doors and walkways |
| Your roof has many valleys, dormers, and penetrations | You have a low-slope section (below 2:12) where shingles aren't allowed |
| You want a manufacturer system warranty from an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor | You prefer a longer material lifespan and accept a higher first cost |
For most homes in Parma, Lakewood, Westlake, Strongsville, and Medina, a well-installed architectural shingle roof, with the code-required ice barrier and proper ventilation, is the most cost-effective choice. Metal makes the most sense for long-term owners, for snow-heavy roofs where snow can shed safely, and for low-slope sections.
Frequently asked questions
Is a metal roof worth it in Ohio?
It can be if you'll stay in the home long enough for its longer lifespan, 50+ years according to the Metal Roofing Alliance, to offset a higher upfront cost. For shorter ownership, architectural shingles are usually the better value.
How much does a metal roof cost in Ohio compared with shingles?
As general third-party estimates, not Pring pricing: Buckeye Roof Pros lists Ohio asphalt shingles at $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot and metal at $7 to $12. HomeGuide's 2026 guide lists standing seam at $9 to $16 per square foot.
Do metal roofs need snow guards in Cleveland?
They're strongly worth considering. Metal sheds snow quickly, and snow guards hold it so it doesn't slide all at once onto walkways, doors, decks, lower roofs, or gutters.
Are metal roofs louder than shingles?
Not when installed over a solid deck. The Metal Roofing Alliance says metal roofing is not louder in rain than other roofing materials. The "loud" reputation comes from panels over open framing on barns and sheds.
Does Ohio code require ice and water shield under a metal roof?
RCO 905.1.2 requires an ice barrier for metal roof shingles statewide. Metal roof panels such as standing seam are not listed in that section, so the panel manufacturer's instructions govern the eave detail. Panels still need code-compliant underlayment.
Can a metal roof go over existing shingles in Ohio?
RCO 908.3.1 allows complete, separate systems such as standing-seam metal systems that carry loads directly to the structure to be installed without tearing off. A recover is not allowed over a water-soaked or deteriorated roof or one that already has two or more layers.
About Pring Roofing
Pring Roofing LLC has provided residential and commercial roofing in Northeast Ohio since 1936, serving mostly Cuyahoga, Lorain, Medina, and Lake counties from 4472 W 160th St, Cleveland, OH 44135.
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractor (residential)
- Elevate (formerly Firestone) Licensed Applicator and Carlisle authorized applicator (commercial)
- Fully insured
- Residential metal roofing and architectural shingles
- BBB A+ rating
- Free quotes and inspections
- Open 7am to 10pm, every day
Written by Shawn Stypa, Owner, Pring Roofing LLC.
Deciding between metal and shingles?
Pring Roofing installs both architectural shingles and residential metal roofs, so you get an honest side-by-side quote instead of a sales pitch for one or the other. We will inspect your roof, measure slopes, look at where snow will land, and walk you through the trade-offs for your house. The inspection and quote are free.
Call 216-941-6298, email contact@pringroofing.com, or request your free quote. We're available 7am to 10pm, seven days a week.
Sources
- HomeGuide, "What's the Average Cost to Tear Off and Replace a Roof? (2026)": https://homeguide.com/costs/average-cost-to-tear-off-and-replace-roof
- Buckeye Roof Pros, "How Much Does a Roof Replacement Cost in Ohio?": https://buckeyeroofpros.com/costs/roof-replacement-cost-ohio/
- Metal Roofing Alliance, FAQs: https://mra.dhxadv.com/frequently-asked-questions/
- Metal Roofing Alliance, "Regional Considerations" buyer's guide: https://www.metalroofing.com/_files/ugd/14ee74_6e58a9172fd74dabb7e71dd561f6e595.pdf
- DML USA, "Sound Emission of Metal Roofing": https://dmlusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/DML_USA_Metal_Roof_Sound_Emission.pdf
- S-5!, ColorGard snow retention system: https://www.s-5.com/products/colorgard/
- Ohio Admin. Code 4101:8-9-01, Residential Code of Ohio Chapter 9, Sections 905.1.2, 905.2.2, 905.4.2, 905.10.2, 905.10.5, 908.3.1: https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/ohio/Ohio-Admin-Code-4101-8-9-01
- IBHS, "Is It Hail Damage?": https://ibhs.org/wp-content/uploads/member_docs/ibhs-do-i-have-hail-damage.pdf
- Owens Corning, Duration FLEX shingle brochure: https://dcpd6wotaa0mb.cloudfront.net/mdms/dms/Roofing/501310CA/501310-Duration-FLEX-All-Weather-Brochure-EN.pdf