If you’re a Georgia homeowner planning a roof replacement, one big question looms large:
Should you choose asphalt shingles or metal roofing?
Both are popular choices across North Georgia — from Alpharetta to Cumming, Johns Creek to Buford — but they offer very different benefits in cost, longevity, appearance, and performance.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down asphalt vs. metal roofing for Georgia homes so you can make a confident decision based on your budget, style, and local weather conditions.
Asphalt vs Metal Roofing — A Quick Comparison for Georgia Homeowners
| Feature | Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofing |
| Average Lifespan | 20–30 years | 40–70 years |
| Cost (Georgia average) | $4.50–$7.50 per sq. ft. | $8.00–$14.00 per sq. ft. |
| Storm & Hail Resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
| Maintenance Needs | Low | Very Low |
| Energy Efficiency | Good | Superior |
| Appearance Variety | Wide range of colors/textures | Modern panels, standing seam, shingles |
| Noise Level | Quiet | Slightly louder (with heavy rain) |
| Resale Value | Moderate | High |
Asphalt Roofing in Georgia — The Classic, Affordable Choice
Why Asphalt Shingles Remain Popular
Asphalt shingles cover roughly 80% of Georgia’s residential roofs — and for good reason. They’re affordable, easy to install, and work well in most neighborhoods and HOAs.
Advantages of Asphalt Roofing in Georgia:
- Budget-Friendly: Asphalt shingles are significantly cheaper up-front than metal — ideal for quick replacements or starter homes.
- Flexible Aesthetic: They blend well with traditional Southern architecture — brick, stucco, and siding.
- Easier Repairs: Damaged sections can be replaced individually without replacing the whole roof.
- Widely Available: Most Georgia roofing suppliers keep asphalt shingles in stock for rapid installation.
Challenges of Asphalt Roofing in Georgia
- Shorter Lifespan: Hot, humid summers and heavy storms shorten asphalt shingle life to 20–25 years on average.
- Hail Damage: Shingles are vulnerable to bruising and granule loss after hailstorms.
- Energy Absorption: Dark shingles retain heat, raising attic temperatures.
- Maintenance Needs: Requires more frequent inspections after severe weather.
Best For: Homeowners looking for affordability, quick installation, and solid curb appeal.
Metal Roofing in Georgia — Modern, Durable, and Energy Efficient
Why Metal Roofs Are Gaining Popularity
Over the past decade, metal roofing in Georgia has become one of the fastest-growing segments of the market. Its resilience against hail, wind, and fire — plus long-term energy savings — make it an excellent investment.
Advantages of Metal Roofing in Georgia:
- Longevity: Metal roofs last 40–70 years with minimal maintenance.
- Storm Resistance: Rated for winds up to 140 mph — ideal for North Georgia thunderstorms.
- Energy Efficiency: Reflects up to 90% of solar heat, lowering cooling bills.
- Fire and Impact Resistance: Class A fire rating; highly resistant to hail and debris.
- Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable at end of life.
Challenges of Metal Roofing
- Higher Up-Front Cost: Typically 2× more expensive than asphalt, though cheaper over the roof’s lifetime.
- Noise Factor: Rain and hail can sound louder (though modern underlayment reduces it).
- Expansion/Contraction: Temperature swings can cause panel movement if not installed properly.
- Limited HOA Approval: Some neighborhoods still restrict metal roofs (check before installation).
Best For: Long-term homeowners or those wanting durability, storm protection, and energy efficiency.
Climate Considerations — Georgia’s Heat, Humidity & Storms
Georgia’s humid subtropical climate means hot summers, heavy rainfall, and seasonal hailstorms. That makes roofing material performance critical.
How Asphalt Performs
- Absorbs more heat, raising attic temps by 20–30°F.
- Can crack or curl during prolonged heatwaves.
- Hail and UV exposure accelerate wear.
How Metal Performs
- Reflects sunlight, lowering attic temps and A/C usage.
- Handles extreme temperature swings without losing structural integrity.
- Excellent resistance to hail, wind, and rain — key for Forsyth, Gwinnett, and Fulton County homes.
Verdict: Metal wins in longevity and energy efficiency, while asphalt wins in affordability and neighborhood fit.
Cost Breakdown — Asphalt vs. Metal Roof in Georgia
Asphalt Roofing Costs
- Material: $100–$200 per square (100 sq ft)
- Installation: $4.50–$7.50 per sq. ft.
- Average Roof (2,000 sq ft): $9,000–$14,000
Metal Roofing Costs
- Material: $300–$700 per square (depending on type)
- Installation: $8.00–$14.00 per sq. ft.
- Average Roof (2,000 sq ft): $16,000–$28,000
Although metal costs more initially, it often pays for itself over time with energy savings, fewer repairs, and higher resale value.
Financing Tip: Many Georgia homeowners pair roof replacement with insurance claims or 0% financing programs to offset up-front costs.
Energy Efficiency — Keeping Georgia Homes Cool
Energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword — it’s essential in Georgia’s 90°F summers.
Asphalt Roof Efficiency
- Reflectivity: 5–15%
- Typical attic temps: 120–140°F
- Optional “cool roof” shingles can improve reflectivity but cost more.
Metal Roof Efficiency
- Reflectivity: 60–90% with reflective coatings.
- Attic temps: up to 40°F cooler than asphalt.
- Eligible for ENERGY STAR tax credits and utility rebates in some Georgia counties.
Result: Metal roofs significantly reduce energy costs and improve comfort, especially in North Atlanta’s sun-exposed neighborhoods.
Durability & Maintenance
| Factor | Asphalt | Metal |
| Wind Resistance | 110 mph (standard) | 140–160 mph |
| Hail Resistance | Moderate | Excellent (Class 4) |
| Fire Rating | Class A (fiberglass) | Class A |
| Maintenance | Regular | Minimal |
| Expected Lifespan | 20–25 years | 50+ years |
Metal roofing clearly wins in durability and lifespan, but asphalt shingles offer a simpler, lower-cost maintenance routine suitable for mid-term homeowners.
Curb Appeal & Resale Value
A roof’s look matters — especially in Georgia’s competitive housing market.
Asphalt Shingles
- Come in architectural, dimensional, and 3-tab varieties.
- Offer rich, traditional aesthetics that blend with Georgian-style homes.
Metal Roofs
- Provide sleek, modern aesthetics with standing-seam lines.
- Available in dozens of colors and profiles — even ones that mimic shingles or tile.
Resale Insight: Homes with newer metal roofs in metro Atlanta neighborhoods often sell 2–5% higher due to lower insurance risk and longer lifespan.
Noise, Insulation, and Comfort
One of the biggest misconceptions about metal roofing is that it’s loud.
Modern installations use solid decking, insulation layers, and underlayment, which reduce sound levels dramatically. In fact, a properly installed metal roof can be as quiet as asphalt during rainstorms.
Both roof types can be insulated to maintain indoor comfort — but metal reflects heat better, reducing HVAC strain.
Which Roof Type Is Better for Insurance and ROI?
Insurance companies often prefer metal roofs because of their impact resistance and longevity — which can translate into lower premiums.
However, asphalt roofs qualify for full replacement under Georgia hail or wind claims, making them a smart choice if insurance will cover most of the cost.
ROI Snapshot (Georgia averages):
- Asphalt Roof ROI: 60–65%
- Metal Roof ROI: 80–90% over lifespan
Environmental Impact
- Asphalt: Petroleum-based and difficult to recycle (but shingles can sometimes be repurposed for paving).
- Metal: 25–95% recycled content and fully recyclable after decades of use.
If sustainability matters to you, metal roofing clearly wins.
Which Roofing Option Is Right for You?
Choose Asphalt Roofing if you want:
- Lower initial cost
- Traditional look
- 15–25 year lifespan
- HOA-approved material
Choose Metal Roofing if you want:
- Long-term durability (40–70 years)
- Lower energy bills
- High storm and fire resistance
- Strong resale and insurance value
Expert Tip: In Georgia’s climate, a metal roof is a better long-term investment — especially if you plan to stay in your home 10+ years.
Why Choose Roofers & Contractors for Your Roof Replacement
At Roofers & Contractors, we specialize in both asphalt and metal roofing for Georgia homes.
We’re not just licensed roofing experts — we’re also licensed insurance adjusters, which means we can help you handle every part of your roofing project:
- Free inspections within 24–48 hours
- Detailed damage reports with drone photos
- Assistance filing your insurance claim
- Quality installation backed by warranty
Serving Areas: Alpharetta • Cumming • Johns Creek • Roswell • Milton • Suwanee • Buford • Norcross • Decatur • Dacula
Related Pages:
FAQs About Asphalt vs. Metal Roofing in Georgia
Q1: Which roof lasts longer — asphalt or metal?
Metal roofing lasts 40–70 years, while asphalt typically lasts 20–25 years in Georgia’s heat and storms.
Q2: Does metal roofing make homes hotter?
No — metal reflects sunlight, keeping attics cooler than asphalt roofs.
Q3: Can I install metal roofing over existing shingles?
Yes, in many cases. This saves on tear-off costs and adds extra insulation, but requires professional assessment.
Q4: Which roof is better for hail-prone areas?
Metal roofing. Its Class 4 impact rating makes it ideal for North Georgia’s hail zones.
Q5: Is the extra cost of metal roofing worth it?
For long-term homeowners, absolutely — lower energy bills and fewer repairs deliver higher lifetime value.
When comparing asphalt vs. metal roofing for Georgia homes, the decision ultimately comes down to your goals:
- Asphalt: affordable, traditional, easy to repair.
- Metal: durable, energy-efficient, and built to last decades.
No matter which you choose, the experts at Roofers & Contractors can help you decide, inspect, and install with confidence.
Call today or book a free roof consultation online to get a customized quote for your home in North Atlanta or surrounding Georgia communities.