# How to Choose Between Shingle and Metal Roofing in Wisconsin
When it comes time to replace your roof in Northeast Wisconsin, homeowners face a critical decision: should you stick with traditional asphalt shingles, or upgrade to a modern metal roof? Both materials have their distinct advantages, but the extreme weather in Door County, Kewaunee County, and Brown County plays a major role in determining which is best for your home.
As a local roofing contractor with over 18 years of experience, **The Roofing Company** has installed countless shingle and metal roofs across the region. Here is our comprehensive guide to help you make the right choice for your property and budget.
## The Case for Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in the United States, and for good reason. They are cost-effective, versatile, and relatively quick to install.
**Advantages of Shingles:**
* **Lower Upfront Cost:** Shingles are significantly more affordable to purchase and install than metal roofing, making them an excellent choice for homeowners on a strict budget.
* **Aesthetic Variety:** Modern architectural shingles come in a wide array of colors, textures, and styles. You can easily find a shingle that perfectly matches your home’s exterior.
* **Ease of Repair:** If a severe storm damages a section of your roof, it is generally much easier and cheaper to replace a few missing shingles than to repair a damaged metal panel.
**Considerations for Wisconsin:**
While high-quality architectural shingles perform well in our climate, they typically have a shorter lifespan than metal (usually 20 to 25 years). They are also more susceptible to damage from heavy snow loads, ice dams, and severe hail.
## The Case for Metal Roofing
Metal roofing—particularly standing seam metal—has surged in popularity across Northeast Wisconsin. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term benefits are substantial.
**Advantages of Metal Roofing:**
* **Exceptional Durability:** A properly installed metal roof can easily last 40 to 70 years, often outlasting the time you will spend in the home.
* **Superior Weather Resistance:** Metal roofs excel in harsh climates. They easily shed heavy Door County snowfalls, preventing the dangerous ice dams that frequently plague shingle roofs. They are also highly resistant to high winds and hail.
* **Energy Efficiency:** Metal reflects solar radiant heat, which can reduce cooling costs by 10-25% during our humid Wisconsin summers.
**Considerations for Wisconsin:**
The primary drawback of metal roofing is the upfront cost, which can be two to three times higher than an asphalt shingle roof. However, when you factor in the extended lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements, a metal roof often provides a better return on investment over decades.
## Which is Right for Your Home?
The decision between shingle and metal roofing ultimately comes down to your budget, your long-term plans for the property, and your aesthetic preferences.
If you plan to sell your home in the next five to ten years, an architectural shingle roof provides excellent curb appeal and a strong return on investment. If this is your “forever home” and you want a roof that you will likely never have to replace again, a standing seam metal roof is the superior choice.
At **The Roofing Company**, we specialize in both premium asphalt shingle and high-quality metal roof installations. We are fully licensed and insured, and we understand exactly what it takes to build a roof that withstands Wisconsin weather.
**[Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate.](/free-estimate/)** Our experts will assess your home and help you choose the perfect roofing solution for your needs.