Metal vs. Asphalt: Which Roofing Material Lasts Longer?

Home Blogs Metal vs. Asphalt: Which Roofing Material Lasts Longer?

When picking roofing material, you need think about more than just how it looks or how much it costs up front. You should also think about how it will affect your property in the long run. Industry statistics says that roofing materials make up around 40% of the outside of a typical home. They can also affect the value of your home, how well it keeps heat in, and how well it stands up to the weather for decades. So, which lasts longer: metal or asphalt?

Let’s break it down with real-world examples, performance data, and expert opinions from Melbourne roofing experts.

What Is the Lifespan of a Metal Roof?

People know that metal roofs last a long time and are strong. Metal roofs in Melbourne usually endure between 40 and 70 years, depending on the type of metal (Colourbond, zincalume, steel, or aluminium). Colourbond is one of the most popular building materials in Australian homes. It is very resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV damage.

Key Factors That Extend Metal Roof Lifespan:

Climate resistance: Colourbond metal roofing can handle Melbourne’s changing weather, from hot summer UV rays to severe rains.
Low maintenance: Metal roofs don’t need as much maintenance as other types of roofs.
Fire resistance: Metal doesn’t catch fire on its own, which makes it perfect for areas that are prone to bushfires.

Metal roofing gives homeowners in places like Mount Waverley, where storms can come out of nowhere, the most peace of mind.

What Is the Lifespan of Asphalt Shingles?

More people in North America use asphalt shingles, although they are becoming more popular in some regions of Australia since they are cheap and look vintage. That being said, they don’t last as long as metal roofs. In Australia, a properly fitted asphalt shingle roof will survive for about 20 to 30 years.

Factors That Limit Asphalt Roof Lifespan

Heat degradation: The asphalt in Australia might break down faster when it is exposed to UV rays.
Moisture absorption: Shingles are more likely to get mould, mildew, and leaks in places with a lot of rain.
Maintenance: Inspections on a regular basis and repairs every now and then are important.

In Glen Waverley, where winter wetness and trees can damage roofs, asphalt may need extra care over time.

Performance Comparison: Metal vs Asphalt

Feature	Metal Roof	Asphalt Shingles
Average Lifespan	40 – 70 years	20 – 30 years
Maintenance Needs	Low	Moderate
Fire Resistance	Excellent (non-combustible)	Moderate
Storm & Wind Resistance	Excellent	Moderate
Weight on Roof Structure	Light	Medium
Installation Time	Slightly longer	Quicker
Upfront Cost	Higher	Lower
Long-term Value	High	Moderate

Climate Compatibility in Melbourne

Melbourne is famous for having weather that changes four times a day. Roofing materials are always put to the test in this climate by wind, rain, hail, and heat.

Metal roofs are great at reflecting heat and withstanding storms.
Asphalt shingles may work well at first, but they might distort and expand when exposed to heat for a long time.

If you live in Camberwell, where old and new homes meet, you might be trying to find a balance between looks and function. Fortunately, metal roofs now come in a variety of hues and finishes. Some even seem like shingles or tiles.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

This is when metal roofs really shine. They bounce heat back, which lowers the expense of cooling the inside. Some estimates say that reflective metal roofing can cut cooling costs by 20–25%, especially in homes that get a lot of sun.

Metal roofs are often produced from materials that have been used before, and they may be recycled 100% at the end of their life.
On the other hand, asphalt shingles are made of oil and are tougher to recycle.

Metal roofs are in line with present eco-friendly building regulations if sustainability is a big factor.

Noise and Insulation: What About Comfort?

It all depends on your point of view. Indeed, metal roofs may produce additional noise during periods of heavy precipitation. But if you use the right underlayment, insulation, and attic ventilation, you can cut down on that noise a lot.

Because asphalt shingles are dense, they naturally absorb sound. Asphalt is a little better here if you want a quieter inside and don’t care about how long it lasts.

Installation and Repairs

Installing asphalt roofs is usually faster and easier, which lowers the cost of work up front.
Installing metal roofs is more complicated, therefore you need skilled professionals like those at Eufouria to make sure they last.

Metal roofs don’t need maintenance as often as other types of roofs. But if they do, fixing them can cost a little more. Repairing asphalt shingles is more usual, especially when you need to mend or replace single tiles.

That said, more and more people who own homes in Melbourne are preferring long-term value above having to fix their roofs often in Camberwell or other areas.

Cost Breakdown Over Time

At initially, metal roofs may be two to three times more expensive than asphalt roofs. But think about how long it lasts (40 years or more), how little care it takes, and how much less it costs to run. Asphalt, on the other hand, may need to be replaced twice in the same amount of time.

Here’s a simple example:

Metal roof last for 50 years and require little upkeep on average.
Asphalt roof lifespan: 25 years – will likely be replaced once in that time, plus maintenance
Long-term ROI: Metal roof wins.

Environmental and Lifestyle Considerations

Think about the overall picture, not just the price and performance. If you expect to stay in your house for a long time, choosing a long-lasting, fire-resistant, and eco-friendly alternative really matters. In bushfire zones or coastal suburbs, safety is just as important as money when it comes to longevity.

Metal roofs benefit the environment by lowering carbon emissions because they don’t need as much cooling. It also raises the resale value of a home, especially for buyers who want infrastructure that will endure a long time and doesn’t need much upkeep.

This can be a game-changer for Glen Waverley homeowners who must repair their roofs all the time.

Final Verdict: Which Roof Lasts Longer?

When it comes to longevity, weather resistance, fire prevention, and sustainability, metal roofs are undoubtedly better than asphalt. Metal is a good choice for Melbourne homeowners who want their homes to last longer, pay less for energy, and need fewer maintenance.

But for people who are on a tight budget or expect to stay in the house for 10 to 15 years, asphalt shingles can be a cheap option. If looks and speedy installation are more important to you than long-term value, asphalt can be a good choice.

Thinking of Upgrading Your Roof?

Our staff at Eufouria can help you figure out the best roofing material for your home, budget, and lifestyle, whether you’re planning a new installation or looking at options for roof repairs in Mount Waverley. We have worked on both metal and asphalt roofs in Melbourne’s diverse urban and suburban areas for many years.

Need expert advice on roofing in Melbourne?

Contact Eufouria today to learn about energy-efficient roofing options that will last for a long time and fit your home.