Metal vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Right for Your Illinois Home?

The short version

For most Central Illinois homes, architectural asphalt shingles are the practical value choice — lower upfront cost, easy to repair, and plenty durable when installed well. Metal costs more upfront but lasts far longer and stands up to weather better, which can make it worth it if you plan to stay in the home a long time. Neither is "wrong" — it comes down to budget and how long you'll own the house.

Asphalt shingles: the value standard

Architectural (dimensional) asphalt shingles are on the vast majority of homes across Peoria, Morton, Washington, and the surrounding towns for good reason:

• Lower upfront cost — typically the most affordable quality option.
• Proven in Illinois weather — modern architectural shingles carry solid wind and impact ratings.
• Easy and cheap to repair — a damaged section is straightforward to fix.
• Lifespan of about 20–25 years in our climate with proper installation.

Metal roofing: pay more, last longer

Standing-seam and metal roofing is a bigger investment that pays back in longevity and toughness:

• Lifespan of 40–70 years — often the last roof you'll ever buy.
• Excellent in hail, wind, and snow — sheds snow well and resists impact.
• Energy efficient — reflects summer heat.
• Higher upfront cost — often two to three times asphalt, and repairs require a specialist.

What about hail and noise?

Two common Central Illinois questions. On hail: quality metal resists puncture well, though very large hail can dent it cosmetically; impact-rated asphalt shingles also hold up well and hide minor damage better. On noise: modern metal roofs installed over solid decking and underlayment are not the "rain on a tin roof" experience people imagine — they're only marginally louder than shingles, if at all.

Which should you choose?

If you want the best value and may move within 10–15 years, architectural asphalt is usually the smart pick. If this is your forever home and you'd rather buy once, metal's longevity can justify the cost. We install and honestly advise on both — and we'll give you real numbers for your specific roof, not a sales pitch for the pricier option. See our roof replacement service →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a metal roof worth the extra cost in Illinois?

It can be, if you plan to stay in the home long-term — the 40–70 year lifespan and weather resistance offset the higher upfront price over time. If you may move within 10–15 years, asphalt is usually the better value.

Do metal roofs get damaged by hail?

Quality metal resists puncture well. Very large hail can leave cosmetic dents, but it rarely causes the functional damage and granule loss that shortens an asphalt roof's life.