Asphalt vs Metal Roofing in Ontario

Upfront cost

Asphalt shingles run $7,500–$15,000 on an average Cambridge home. Standing-seam metal runs $18,000–$35,000 for the same footprint. Metal is roughly 2–3× the upfront cost.

Lifespan

Architectural asphalt shingles last 20–30 years in Ontario's climate. Steel standing-seam typically lasts 50+ years with the original paint warranty running 30–40 years. Over a 50-year window, metal is usually cheaper per year.

Snow, ice and freeze-thaw

Metal sheds snow cleanly — fewer ice dams, less weight on the structure. Asphalt holds snow longer, which is actually warmer for the house but harder on the gutters. Both work fine in Ontario when installed with proper ice-and-water shield.

Noise during rain

The myth that metal is loud is mostly false on a modern install. With proper underlayment and attic insulation, you won't hear a measurable difference from inside the house.

Resale value

Asphalt is the expected material in most Cambridge neighbourhoods — you'll recoup roughly 60–70% at resale. Metal stands out (positively in rural and luxury markets, neutrally in standard subdivisions) and recoups 60–85% depending on the buyer.

Insurance and warranty

Many Ontario insurers offer a 5–15% discount on metal roofs because of fire and wind resistance. Asphalt warranties are typically 25–50 years from the manufacturer; metal paint warranties are 30–40 years, with the panels themselves rated 50+.

So which should you pick?

Pick asphalt if you plan to sell within 10 years, your budget is tight, or your house is a standard suburban build. Pick metal if you're staying long-term, you have a cottage or rural property, your roof has lots of valleys and complex geometry, or you simply want to do this once.