Choosing between metal and asphalt shingle roofing comes down to three things: your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, and the look you want. Asphalt shingles cost less upfront and suit most East Tennessee homes, while metal roofing costs more to install but lasts far longer and is more energy efficient. Below, we break down how the two compare so you can decide with confidence.

Metal vs. asphalt shingle roofing at a glance

Asphalt shingle roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing choice in East Tennessee, and for good reason. They deliver dependable protection at the lowest upfront cost, come in a huge range of colors and styles to match any home, and are faster and cheaper to repair than most other materials. Quality architectural shingles handle Tennessee’s summer heat, wind, and heavy rain well and typically last 15 to 30 years with proper installation and ventilation.

The trade-off is lifespan: shingles won’t last as long as metal, and they can be more vulnerable to damage from severe storms or hail. For most homeowners, though, they remain the best balance of price and performance. Learn more about our residential shingle roofing.

Best for: homeowners who want proven protection at the lowest upfront price, a wide choice of colors, and easy repairs.

Metal roofing

Metal roofing is built for the long haul. A properly installed metal roof can last 40 to 70 years, reflects solar heat to help lower summer cooling costs, and sheds rain and snow better than almost any other material. It’s also lightweight and low maintenance, and modern metal panels come in a range of colors and profiles that look right at home on everything from farmhouses to modern builds.

The main consideration is cost: metal roofing has a higher upfront price and requires specialized installation to reach its full lifespan. When it’s installed correctly to manufacturer spec, though, it can be the last roof you ever buy. Explore our residential metal roofing.

Best for: homeowners staying in their home long term, who want maximum lifespan, energy savings, and a modern look.

How each roof holds up in East Tennessee

Our region throws a bit of everything at a roof: hot, humid summers, heavy summer thunderstorms, and the occasional damaging wind or hail. Both materials can perform well here, and installation quality matters more than the material itself.

Metal excels at reflecting heat, which can keep your attic and upper floors cooler in July and August, and it sheds heavy rain quickly. Quality asphalt shingles stand up to heat and wind and have one practical advantage after a storm: they’re quick and affordable to repair. If storm damage is a concern, see our answers on repair versus replacement.

What about cost?

There’s no one-size-fits-all price for a new roof. Your total depends on the size and pitch of your roof, the material and grade you choose, whether the old roof needs tear-off, and the complexity of the job. In general, shingles cost less upfront, while metal costs more initially but its longer lifespan can mean a lower cost over the life of the home.

The best way to compare real numbers for your home is a free, no-pressure estimate. Call or text Turner Exteriors at (865) 438-5050 and we’ll walk your roof and lay out your options.

Which roof should you choose?

• Choose asphalt shingles if you want the lowest upfront cost, the widest range of colors, or an easy, affordable repair down the road.
• Choose metal if you plan to stay in your home for the long term, want the longest lifespan and energy savings, and don’t mind a higher initial investment.

Turner Exteriors installs both, so our recommendation is never about steering you toward one product. We’ll inspect your roof, explain the trade-offs for your home and budget, and help you make the right call.

Frequently asked questions

Does a metal roof make a house hotter?

No — the opposite. Metal reflects much of the sun’s heat rather than absorbing it, which can help keep your home cooler and reduce summer cooling costs.

Is a metal roof noisy when it rains?

Not significantly. Installed over solid decking and underlayment, a modern metal roof is only marginally louder than shingles in heavy rain.

Which roof lasts longer, metal or shingles?

Metal, by a wide margin. Metal roofs typically last 40 to 70 years, while asphalt shingles usually last 15 to 30 years.

Talk to a local roofing team

Turner Exteriors is a family-owned company based in Corryton, TN, serving Knoxville and East Tennessee for over 33 years. Whether you’re leaning toward shingles, metal, or still deciding, we’re happy to help. Call or text (865) 438-5050 for a free in-home consultation, or explore all of our exterior services and roofing FAQs.