Metal Shingles vs. Metal Panel Roofs

Metal Panels vs. Metal Shingles

Metal Shingles vs. Metal Panel Roofs Holbroke Massachusetts 21 Nov

If it’s time for a new roof and you have your heart set on metal, you may think the big decision has been made. However, you still have to choose between metal panels or metal shingles. Which one would be a better choice for you? Today we’ll go over the differences between the two so you can make the most informed decision. Ask your metal roofer in Holbrook for even more tips and suggestions.

Metal Panels: Defined

Metal panels are essentially large sheets of metal that cover the surface of the roof, installed in a vertical or horizontal pattern. There are many profiles to choose from, such as standing seam, ribbed, and corrugated panels. Beloved for their sleek, modern appearance, metal panels can cover large areas efficiently and quickly.

The three types of metal panels are:

  • Standing Seam Panels: Featuring interlocking raised seams, standing seam panels are weather resistant while offering a clean, contemporary look.
  • Ribbed Panels: Available in many colors and finishes, these have more pronounced ridges than corrugated panels for added durability and strength.
  • Corrugated Panels: The wavy ridges of these panels make them best suited for agricultural and industrial settings. However, their rugged appearance also works well for residential use.

Cost, Lifespan, and Beauty

  • Cost: Metal panels vary in price according to style and material. They are generally more affordable than premium roofing options such as tile or slate.
  • Lifespan: Metal panels have a lifespan of 40 to 70 years, depending on maintenance and material.
  • Beauty: Featuring a modern and streamlined look, metal panels best complement contemporary and industrial-style homes thanks to their clean lines and sleek finishes.

Metal Shingles: Defined

Metal shingles can resemble the appearance of other materials such as wood, asphalt, slate, or tile. They are comprised of smaller individual interlocking pieces that form a watertight barrier. With metal shingles, you get the durability of metal paired with the aesthetics of conventional shingles.

There are many types of metal shingles:

  • Stone-Coated Steel Shingles: Featuring a steel core with stone granule coatings, these give you the look of traditional shingles paired with the strength of metal.
  • Aluminum Shingles: Ideal for coastal area homes, these are lightweight and rust-resistant.
  • Copper Shingles: Because copper develops a natural patina over time, these rustic-looking shingles are highly durable and visually striking.
  • Zinc Shingles: Just like copper, zinc shingles also develop a patina and have a long lifespan.

Cost, Lifespan, and Beauty

  • Cost: Metal shingles cost more than asphalt shingles but last longer and perform better.
  • Lifespan: Metal shingles can last between 40 and 60 years with proper installation and maintenance.
  • Beauty: Because they can replicate the look of traditional roofing materials, metal shingles feature a unique and versatile aesthetic. They can be customized to your home, and are available in various styles, finishes, and colors.

Contact Revered Roofing

Still curious to learn about the differences between metal shingles and metal panels? Please contact us at 781-536-4589 for a free quote and consultation today. Our metal roofers in Sandwich would be happy to go over the differences and help you decide between the two.

We serve the entire South Shore and lower Cape with quality metal roofing products; standing seam, metal shingle and metal panel roofs in Hanson, Taunton, Marshfield, Quincy, Needham, Medfield, Milton, Halifax, Hanover, Falmouth and Plymouth.


Paul was easy going and a pleasure to deal with. No pressure. Crew got started late but the metal roof with new sky lights over our sun room was done in a day! Quality work. I recommend Revered Metal Roofing.
Contact Revered Metal Roofing

for the guaranteed best price.