Is a Tin Roof Cheaper Than Shingles?

Ever hear your neighbor say “tin roof last forever”?

Few weeks back in Toledo, a homeowner told me how his dad put a tin roof on their barn in the 80s. Still up there, still holding strong. He laughed and said, “that roof seen more winters than me.” Funny thing, right? But here’s the real question folks ask all the time, is a tin roof cheaper than shingles?

Truth is, it ain’t just a yes or no. Depends on what you mean by cheap. Upfront cost? Or long run cost? Let’s break it down in plain words so you don’t end up guessing when you got water dripping in your living room.

Upfront cost: Shingles usually win

When you walk into a roofing supply store, shingles are cheaper per bundle. Asphalt shingles can run anywhere from $100–$150 per square (100 sq ft). A tin or metal roof? Could be $300–$900 a square depending on style. So yea, on day one, shingles cost less.

That’s why lot of folks in Toledo or Sylvania who need quick roof replacement go for shingles. Budget friendly, easy install, plenty of colors.

But here’s the catch…

Long run cost: Tin roof pays off

Remember that story about the barn roof still going strong? That’s where tin saves you money. Shingles may last 15–20 years if installed right. A tin roof? 40–60 years easy. Some go longer.

Think of it like buying a cheap car vs a solid truck. Car cost less, but needs fixing every other year. Truck runs for decades. Same idea.

Real stories from local homes

A couple months ago in Perrysburg, met a family who had shingles put on 17 years back. Roof already curling, leaks around chimney. They had to replace whole thing. End bill? Around $14,000.

Neighbor across street? Had a tin roof installed 25 years ago. No leaks, no missing panels, just little fading color. Still strong. He spent more at start, but now? He’s way ahead in money saved.

Weather around Toledo makes the choice harder

We all know Ohio weather is no joke. Ice storms, hail, hot summers, strong winds off the lake. Shingles crack, curl, blow off. You seen it after every big storm. Tin roof handle storms better. Hail may dent it, but water won’t get through. Snow slides off faster so less weight on your home.

That’s why more folks around Maumee and Bowling Green started asking about metal or tin roofs lately.

Looks and resale value

Let’s be real, some people just don’t like the “metal” look. Shingles feel more classic, fits in most neighborhoods. But modern tin roofing? Comes in colors, styles, even looks like shingles if you want.

And when selling a house, buyers in Toledo are willing to pay more if roof is tin. They know they won’t deal with replacement soon.

So is a tin roof cheaper than shingles?

Here’s the plain truth:

• Short term: shingles cheaper.

• Long term: tin roof saves money.

• Repairs: shingles easier, tin tougher but rare need.

• Weather: tin stronger for Ohio storms.

Cheap don’t always mean better. If budget is tight right now, shingles still solid choice. If you want to spend once and forget about it, tin roof is smart move.

Common questions homeowners ask

Do tin roofs make house hotter?
Nope. Actually reflects sunlight. In summer it can keep house cooler.

Is tin noisy when it rains?
Not really. With underlayment and insulation, sound is about same as shingles.

Can you put tin roof over shingles?
Yes, lot of times you can. Saves tear-off cost. But gotta check structure first.

Local opinion from Pro Craft Home products

In Toledo and nearby towns, lot of folks ask for shingles cause of lower price. But when storms hit or roof hits 15 years old, calls start coming in for leaks. Tin roof folks? Rarely calling for repair.

From what’s seen over years, tin may cost more up front, but it’s like paying rent vs buying your house. One feels cheap at start, other saves big in long run.

Final thought

So, is a tin roof cheaper than shingles?
Depends on how you see it as cheap. On day one, shingles win. Over 40 years, tin wins big.

If your home in Toledo, Perrysburg, Sylvania, or Bowling Green needs roof work, think about how long you plan to stay in that house. For a short stay, shingles are fine. For a forever home, a tin roof is money smart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is a tin roof really cheaper than shingles in Ohio?

Tin roofs cost more upfront but save money long-term because they last twice as long as shingles.

Q2: How long does a tin roof last compared to shingles?

Tin roofs last 40–60 years, while asphalt shingles usually last 15–20 years in Ohio’s weather.

Q3: Do tin roofs handle storms better than shingles?

Yes. Tin roofs resist wind, hail, and heavy snow better than shingles, making them ideal for Toledo’s climate.

Q4: Can I install a tin roof over my shingles?

Often yes, but a roofer needs to check your structure first to avoid weight or ventilation issues.