Standing Seam Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: What’s the Smarter Investment for Your Roof Replacement?

When planning a roof replacement for your home or cottage, the most common choices are between traditional asphalt shingles and modern standing seam metal roofing. While asphalt shingles are widely used and less expensive upfront, metal roofing systems, especially standing seam, offer longer-term value, lower maintenance, and unmatched durability.

If you’re considering re-roofing now or in the next few years, it’s worth taking a closer look at how these two options compare in terms of cost, performance, and lifespan.

What Is Standing Seam Metal Roofing?

Standing seam metal roofing is a type of sheet metal roofing made from interlocking panels that run vertically up the roof. The seams are raised above the level of the roofing itself, protecting them from moisture penetration. This system is engineered to withstand wind, hail, snow, and other harsh weather conditions, ideal for climates like Manitoba’s.

With clean, architectural lines and minimal maintenance requirements, standing seam roofing delivers both function and curb appeal for decades.

What Are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles come in two common varieties: 3-tab and laminate (architectural) shingles. Both are typically sold with 25–30-year warranties, though real-world lifespan often falls short due to weather exposure, poor ventilation, or substandard installation.

Laminate shingles offer a more dimensional appearance and slightly better wind resistance than 3-tab shingles; however, both types are susceptible to cracking, curling, algae growth, and granule loss over time.

Key Comparison:

Standing Seam Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles

The Cost Over Time: One Metal Roof vs. Two Shingle Roofs

Here’s the reality: Even the best asphalt shingles will typically need to be replaced at least twice over 50 years. That means double the material, double the labour, and double the disruption to your home. And when you factor in inflation, the cost is even greater than double.

In contrast, a standing seam metal roofing system can last 50+ years with minimal maintenance. You pay more once, but save significantly on future repairs, replacements, and energy costs thanks to better insulation and solar reflectivity.

A More Sustainable, Smarter Roofing Choice

Metal roofing isn’t just built to last—it’s also eco-friendly. Many standing seam panels are made with up to 80% recycled content and are 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan. Asphalt shingles, by contrast, are a major contributor to residential construction waste. While asphalt shingles can be recycled, the process is limited by contamination, sorting requirements, and access to specialized recycling facilities. As a result, most asphalt shingles in Manitoba still end up in landfills, making metal roofing the more sustainable long-term choice.

Upgrade Your Roof with Confidence

At Temple Metal Roofs, we help homeowners make long-term investments in their homes with professionally installed standing seam metal roofing systems. Designed for the harshest Canadian weather and tailored for modern design, our metal roofs are made to protect what matters most: your home, your time, and your investment.