An honest look
Metal roofing is one of the fastest-growing choices for Dallas–Fort Worth homeowners: a durable, long-lasting alternative to asphalt shingles, wood shakes and clay tile. Is it the right option for your home? Here are the pros and cons, the costs, and how we install it.
Pros and cons of a metal roof
Pros of metal roofing
- Helps the environment: most metal roofing is made from recycled metal and is itself 100% recyclable
- Reflective: metal reflects the sun, keeping the home cooler in the Texas heat and lowering the AC bill, with the right dead-air space when installed correctly
- Longer life: typically two to three times longer than asphalt shingles, often as long as the home itself
- Extremely durable: withstands high wind, sheds rain and ice, resists water intrusion with very little maintenance
- Resistant to environmental issues: fire resistant, does not attract insects, resists mold and rot
Cons of metal roofing
- Higher upfront cost than shingles, though the longer lifespan often makes it more cost-effective over time
- Expands and contracts with heat and cold; proper installation by an experienced contractor minimises this
- Noise can be more noticeable in rain, though solid decking and underlayment reduce it significantly
- Denting from large hail, like most roofing materials and vehicles in a severe storm
- Color matching after a repair can occasionally be difficult
Metal versus shingles in DFW
| Architectural shingles | Metal panels (exposed fastener) | Standing seam metal | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installed cost per square | $400–550 | $450–800 | $900–1,400 |
| Service life | 22–30 years | 30–45 years | 40–70 years |
| Hail performance | Class 4 options | Dents; rarely leaks | Dents; rarely leaks; concealed fasteners |
| Wind rating | 110–130 mph | 120–140 mph | 140+ mph |
| Insurance | Class 4 discounts | Cosmetic-damage exclusions common | Cosmetic-damage exclusions common |
| Maintenance | Low | Re-seal fasteners every 10–15 years | Very low |
How we install a metal roof
Deck and underlayment
Solid decking is verified and a high-temperature synthetic or self-adhered underlayment goes down; metal runs hot.
Panels and clips
Standing seam panels are cut to length on site and fastened with concealed clips that allow thermal movement.
Flashing and trim
Ridge, eave, rake, valley and penetration flashings are formed from matching metal, not caulk.
Ventilation
Vented ridge and intake keep the attic cool and protect the underlayment.
A metal roof is a long-term investment, and it is essential to hire an experienced, reputable, local contractor. If you have any doubts, get a second opinion; just make sure you are comparing the same gauge, finish and warranty. Roofing Giant installs standing seam and exposed-fastener systems across Dallas–Fort Worth with a lifetime workmanship warranty.
Questions we hear most
Does a metal roof lower my insurance?
Some carriers discount for metal or Class 4 roofs; many add a cosmetic-damage exclusion for hail dents. Ask your agent before you decide.
Can metal go over my existing shingles?
Codes allow one layer of shingles to remain under metal in many cities, but we recommend a tear-off so the deck can be inspected and the underlayment renewed.
What does a metal roof cost?
Use the cost calculator and choose a metal option for a DFW planning range.
Roofing materials
Compare metal roofing systems
Explore the detailed guides, then compare the exact products and installation scope for your roof.
Thinking about metal?
A free inspection and a written comparison of shingle and metal options for your home.