I hear you on the windstorms—metal roofs really do hold up better in rough weather. I’ve seen way too many shingle roofs lose patches after a big gust, especially on older homes or if the install wasn’t perfect. That said, shingles are still cheaper up front and some folks just prefer the look. If you’re in an area with lots of hail, though, metal can dent, which isn’t always covered by insurance. Just something to keep in mind... I’ve had a few clients surprised by that.
Metal vs. shingles is one of those debates that never really ends, but you’re right—windstorms are brutal on shingle roofs, especially if the install wasn’t spot-on or the roof’s got some age. I’ve inspected a lot of homes after storms and it’s almost always the same story: missing tabs, lifted edges, sometimes whole sections gone if the wind gets under there just right. Metal panels tend to stay put unless there’s a fastener issue or really poor installation.
But here’s where it gets tricky—hail. Metal roofs can take a beating from hail and end up with cosmetic dents all over. Structurally, they’re usually fine, but insurance companies sometimes call those “cosmetic only” and won’t pay for replacement unless there’s actual penetration or water intrusion. I’ve had homeowners get pretty frustrated when they find out their policy doesn’t cover dents that make their roof look like a golf ball.
Shingles are cheaper up front, no question. But if you’re in an area with frequent high winds or big temperature swings, you’ll probably be replacing patches—or even the whole thing—sooner than you’d like. The other thing to watch for is how well your attic is ventilated; poor ventilation can cook shingles from underneath and shorten their lifespan by years.
If you’re leaning toward shingles for cost reasons, at least go with architectural (laminate) instead of basic 3-tab—they hold up better in wind and last longer overall. And check what kind of warranty you’re getting; some manufacturers offer “wind warranties” up to 130 mph if installed to spec.
One more thing: noise. Some folks don’t mind rain on a metal roof, but others find it loud enough to be annoying—especially during hailstorms. There are ways to dampen the sound (like solid sheathing and insulation), but it’s something to think about if you’re sensitive to noise.
Bottom line? If storms are your main concern and budget allows, metal is hard to beat for durability—but make sure your insurance covers cosmetic damage if hail is common where you live. If cost is king and you don’t mind the occasional repair, good-quality shingles with proper install can still do the job... just keep an eye on them after every big storm.
- Just replaced my roof last year (Midwest, lots of wind and hail).
- Looked at both options. Metal was almost double the price up front, which was a dealbreaker for me.
- Ended up with architectural shingles—cost less, but I’m already patching a couple spots after a rough spring storm.
- Noise wasn’t a big deal for me, but my neighbor with metal says hail sounds like someone’s drumming on his house.
- Insurance: mine covers shingle damage but only “functional” damage on metal, so dents wouldn’t count.
- If you’re planning to stay long-term and can swing the cost, metal might be worth it. Otherwise, good shingles + solid install seems fine... just gotta keep an eye out after storms.
Metal was almost double the price up front, which was a dealbreaker for me.
Same here—when I got quotes last fall, metal was way out of my budget. I went with architectural shingles too, mostly because I just couldn’t justify the upfront cost. But now I’m wondering if I made the right call, since we had a couple of those crazy windstorms and I lost a few tabs already. Did you notice if your installer offered any kind of wind warranty? Mine said “up to 110 mph,” but that feels like marketing talk more than anything.
The insurance bit is tricky. I didn’t realize dents on metal wouldn’t count unless it’s actually leaking or something. Makes me wonder if it’s worth paying extra for the “longer life” if you’re still stuck with cosmetic damage.
How often are you having to patch those spots? I’m hoping it’s not going to be a yearly thing, but with Midwest weather, who knows... At least repairs on shingles are pretty DIY-friendly, which helps keep costs down.
At least repairs on shingles are pretty DIY-friendly, which helps keep costs down.
That’s definitely true—patching shingles is way less intimidating than anything with metal. I’ve had to replace a few tabs every spring since we moved in (central Illinois, so similar wild weather). The “110 mph” warranty always felt a bit optimistic to me too. After one of those big storms, I called the installer and they basically said unless the whole roof was peeling, it’s on me.
I actually looked into some of the recycled shingle options last year. Price was about the same as architectural, but supposedly they’re more flexible and hold up better in wind? Haven’t tried them yet though. Part of me still wonders about green roofs—like actual living roofs—but I’m not sure how that would survive here with all the freeze-thaw cycles. Has anyone seen those work in the Midwest?
Anyway, I keep a bundle of spares in the garage and just do a quick patch when needed. Not ideal, but at least it doesn’t require special tools or climbing lessons...