Metal Shingles vs. Standing Seam: What’s the Difference?

Metal roofing is rising in popularity—and for good reason. This low-maintenance and eco-friendly alternative comes in a variety of metal roof styles to suit any type of home.

If you’re debating between the traditional look of metal shingles versus the sleek modern take of a standing seam, you’re in the right place.

Metal Shingles vs. Standing Seam: Key Differences

Metal shingles and standing seams are both metal roofing options that offer good durability and longevity. However, their appearance and installation processes are the main points that set these two styles apart.

What Are Metal Shingles?​

Metal shingles resemble traditional roofing, but they’re made of interlocking panels of stamped metal. Though traditional in appearance, they’re more durable than asphalt shingles and have a longer life span.

Best for: 

• Homes with mid- to high-sloped roofs

• Households with a higher budget

• Homeowners who want a low-maintenance, long-lasting roof

Pros of Metal Shingles

Metal shingles resemble traditional shingles but last twice as long. Since they resemble traditional roofing, they’re unlikely to cause a stir with the local HOA or community group. Often made from recycled materials, metal shingles are not only environmentally friendly but also more energy efficient, keeping your home cooler with their reflective material.

Cons of Metal Shingles

Metal shingles cost more upfront than a traditional asphalt roof, $6 to $22 per square foot, which could mean a high price tag once you measure the roof for shingles. The high cost also involves installation. If metal shingles aren’t installed properly, the panels could wear away faster or detach, requiring costly repairs. Additionally, metal shingles aren’t the best fit for low-slope roofs, and if you live in an environment with hail or frequent rainstorms, you may find the rain hitting the metal to be noisy. In extreme cases, a strong hailstorm might even dent some of the metal shingles.

What Are Standing Seams?

Standing seams cover a roof in wide, vertical metal panels, giving most homes a modern look. The seams overlap, expanding and contracting with the weather, creating a seamless design.

Best for: 

• Homes with a modern design

• Homeowners who want low-maintenance, long-lasting roofs

• Properties with unusual roof lines, including a low slope, cabins, barns, or commercial properties

Pros of Standing Seams

Stang seam roofs can add a hint of contemporary flair to a traditional or modern home. In addition to their aesthetics, standing seam roofs can adapt to different roof lines, including those with a lower slope. Finally, most standing seam roofs come with a robust manufacturer’s warranty, and some providers promise a roof can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.    

Cons of Standing Seams

With the long life span of standing seam roofs comes a hefty price tag. Standing seam roofing costs $8 to $30 per square foot. The premium price is partly due to a challenging installation, and some homeowners might find it hard to find a local metal roofing installer that fits the bill. In addition, if a standing seam roof isn’t installed properly, it can expand and contract improperly from season to season, leading to gaps that require additional repair. Standing seams can also be subject to oil canning, where the roof can appear warped or wavy due to repeated heating and cooling. Finally, the modern design isn’t a hit with everyone; some HOAs and communities have bylaws against their installation. 

Metal Shingles vs. Standing Seams

Let’s see how these types of metal roofing stack up against each other. 

Classic Looks: Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are highly adaptable, style-wise, and have the traditional appearance of asphalt shingles, making them a great fit for traditional homes.  

Modern Appearance​: Standing Seams

Standing seams, with a sleek modern style, can add visual interest to your home's roofline. While they’re not for everyone, the style can add curb appeal to homes with a modern finish.

Durability​​: Tie

Metal shingles and metal seams are far more durable than traditional roofing. With proper care, both will last at least twice as long as a traditional roof. 

Price​: Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are slightly more affordable per square foot than standing seam roofs, but not by much. They are measured by square footage, not by shingles in a bundle. However, with the drawback of a high upfront cost comes the benefit of longevity and low maintenance. 

Adaptability: Standing Seams

Standing seam roofs can work across various roof types, including those with a lower slope. The same can’t be said for metal shingles.

Ease of Installation: Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are easier to install than standing seam roofs, which require a more specialized professional. But, both installations are more complicated than a traditional roof. 

Maintenance​: Tie

When installed properly, both standing seams and metal shingles require minimal maintenance. 

With standing seams, you must watch for expansion and contraction over the roof's life. The interlocking panels can come loose for metal shingles, requiring a professional repair.

Length of Life​: Standing Seam

Metal shingles will last easily twice as long as traditional shingles, but in an ideal scenario, standing seam roofs can last more than 50 years. 

Eco-Friendliness/Sustainability​: Tie

Both standing seam and metal roofs can be made from recycled metal. They both improve the energy efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling.