Published by Ark Design Construction & Roofing · Updated November 6, 2026
Composition (asphalt) shingles usually cost less up front and are the most common choice on homes. Metal usually costs more up front, tends to last longer, and sheds snow well. The right choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay, your building, and the fire and weather conditions where you live.
The short comparison
| Composition shingle | Metal | |
|---|---|---|
| Up-front cost | Usually lower | Usually higher |
| Typical life | Shorter | Generally longer |
| Snow | Holds snow longer | Sheds snow well |
| Fire rating | Many products are Class A | Many products are Class A |
| Look | Familiar, many colors | Many profiles and colors |
Exact numbers vary by product and by job, which is why a written estimate on each option is the only fair comparison.
Cost: up front vs over time
Metal usually costs more at the start. Because it usually lasts longer, the gap can narrow over many years, but that only matters if you will own the building long enough to see it. If you plan to sell in a few years, or the budget is tight, composition shingle is a reasonable and common choice.
If you ask for a metal quote and the number is more than you want to spend, say so. It is better to know your options than to put the project off.
Fire rating
In wildfire country, the fire rating of a roof matters. Class A is the highest rating for roof coverings. Many metal products and many composition shingles carry it, and the rating can depend on how the roof is assembled. Always check the rating for the exact product and assembly. See our guide to fire-resistant roofing in Shasta County.
Snow and weather
In snow country like Burney and Mt. Shasta, metal is popular because snow slides off it. In Redding’s valley heat, a roof’s job is dealing with sun and heat for months, and lighter, reflective finishes on metal and other materials can help. Whichever you choose, good ventilation and good flashing matter more than most people expect.
Looks and the building
Metal comes in many profiles and colors and fits barns, shops and modern homes as well as traditional ones. Composition shingle suits most houses in the neighborhoods around Redding. Commercial and industrial buildings often use metal.
Installation matters as much as material
A roof is a system: decking, underlayment, flashing, fasteners and ventilation. A well-installed composition roof will beat a badly installed metal one. Ask who will do the work and how they handle the details.
How to decide
- Set a budget range.
- Decide how long you plan to stay.
- Check the fire-rating needs of your property.
- Get written quotes for both materials with the same scope.
Ark installs both. Call (530) 547-3890 for a free estimate.
Common questions
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost?
It can be, especially if you plan to stay in the building a long time, because metal usually lasts longer. If the up-front price is the problem, a quality composition shingle roof is a sound choice. Get written quotes on both so you are comparing the same scope.
Are metal roofs fire resistant?
Many metal roofing products carry a Class A fire rating, the highest rating for roof coverings, when installed as the manufacturer specifies. Many composition shingles are Class A too. Check the rating of the exact product.
What if metal is more than I can spend?
Tell us your budget. We can price a composition shingle roof so you have a comparison, and talk through where the extra cost of metal would pay you back.
Get a free estimate
Tell us about the job and we will call you back. Or just call us.
Serving Redding, Palo Cedro, Burney, Mt. Shasta, Yreka, Chester and Weaverville.