Metal vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better for a St. Louis Roof?
Quick answer
For most St. Louis homes, architectural asphalt shingles are the best value — about $11,000–$18,000 installed and 25–30 years of life. Standing-seam metal costs roughly 1.5–2x more ($14,000–$30,000+) but lasts 40–70 years, sheds hail and snow better, and can lower cooling bills. Choose asphalt for upfront value; choose metal if you'll stay long-term and want maximum durability.
Both materials work well in St. Louis. The right pick comes down to how long you’ll stay and your budget.
Side-by-side
| Factor | Architectural asphalt | Standing-seam metal |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost* | $11,000 – $18,000 | $14,000 – $30,000+ |
| Lifespan | 25–30 years | 40–70 years |
| Hail performance | Good (Class 4 available) | Very good (may dent cosmetically) |
| Energy | Standard | Reflective — can cut cooling costs |
| Resale appeal | Broad, expected | Premium, niche |
| Best for | Value, shorter stay | Long-term owners, durability |
*Typical St. Louis single-family home.
Bottom line by situation
- Staying under ~10 years: architectural asphalt — best value and resale.
- Forever home / want lowest lifetime cost: standing-seam metal.
- Worried about hail specifically: Class 4 impact-rated shingles or metal.
Want both options priced for your exact roof? RoofMatch STL can match you with roofers who install each, so you compare real quotes side by side for free.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a metal roof worth it in St. Louis?
- It can be if you plan to stay 15+ years. Metal costs 1.5–2x more upfront than asphalt but lasts 40–70 years, handles hail and wind well, and reflects heat to cut summer cooling costs. If you may move within 10 years, premium asphalt shingles usually give a better return.
- Do metal roofs handle hail better than shingles?
- Generally yes. Quality metal panels resist puncture and don't lose granules the way shingles do, though very large hail can still dent them cosmetically. For the St. Louis hail belt, both impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles and metal are worth considering.
- Are metal roofs loud when it rains?
- Not in a typical home. Over solid decking with underlayment and attic insulation, a modern metal roof is about as quiet as shingles — the "barn roof" noise comes from metal over open framing.
Get matched with vetted St. Louis roofers — free
Tell us about your project. We'll match you with up to three pre-screened roofers for free quotes — no obligation.