Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles in Colorado: Which Roofing System Is Right for Your Home?



Choosing a new roof is one of the most important investments you'll make as a homeowner. In Colorado, that decision carries even more weight. Heavy snowfall, intense UV exposure, hailstorms, wildfire risk, and dramatic temperature swings can all impact how your roof performs over time.

Two of the most common roofing options are standing seam metal roofing and architectural asphalt shingles. While both can protect your home, they perform very differently in Colorado's mountain climate.

At Axtell Mtn Construction, we've installed both roofing systems throughout Durango, Gunnison, Crested Butte, and surrounding mountain communities. Our goal is to help homeowners choose the roofing system that best fits their home, budget, and long-term goals.

This guide compares metal roofs and asphalt shingles across the factors that matter most, including cost, lifespan, durability, maintenance, appearance, and overall value.

Quick Comparison

What Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?

A standing seam metal roof uses steel panels joined together with raised vertical seams. Hidden fasteners secure the panels beneath the seams, protecting the roof from water intrusion and reducing long-term maintenance.

At Axtell Mtn Construction, we specialize in 1-inch mechanical lock standing seam roofing, one of the most durable roofing systems available for Colorado mountain homes.

Benefits include:

• Concealed fasteners
• Superior snow shedding
• Impressive wind resistance
• Long lifespan
• Minimal maintenance
• Clean architectural appearance
• Compatibility with snow retention systems

What Are Architectural Asphalt Shingles?

Architectural asphalt shingles are made from fiberglass mats coated with asphalt and mineral granules. They remain one of the most widely installed residential roofing materials because of their affordability and versatility.

Modern architectural shingles provide improved durability and appearance compared to traditional three-tab shingles, making them a practical option for many homeowners.

Cost Comparison

One of the biggest differences between the two systems is the upfront investment.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles generally have a lower initial installation cost, making them an attractive option for homeowners working within a tighter budget.

They offer reliable performance and can be an excellent choice when installed with quality materials and proper ventilation.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofs require a higher upfront investment due to premium materials, specialized fabrication, and skilled installation.

However, homeowners should also consider the long-term value.

Because metal roofs often last more than twice as long as asphalt shingles and require significantly less maintenance, many homeowners spend less over the life of the home.

Bottom Line

Asphalt typically costs less today.

Metal often costs less over decades of ownership.

Lifespan Comparison

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Expected lifespan:

50 to 70+ years

Many properly installed standing seam roofs continue performing well beyond fifty years with minimal maintenance.

Asphalt Shingles

Expected lifespan:

20 to 30 years

Actual lifespan depends on:

• weather exposure
• attic ventilation
• installation quality
• maintenance
• hail damage

Colorado's harsh climate often shortens the life expectancy of asphalt roofing compared to milder regions.

Snow Performance

Snow is one of the biggest considerations for mountain homes.

Standing seam metal roofs naturally shed snow more efficiently than asphalt shingles.

Benefits include:

• reduced snow accumulation
• less ice dam formation
• improved drainage
• compatibility with engineered snow retention systems

For homes located in Gunnison, Crested Butte, Telluride, or other high-snow regions, metal roofing is often the preferred solution.

Hail Resistance

Colorado experiences some of the highest rates of hail damage in the country.

Standing seam metal roofing generally performs exceptionally well during hail events - featuring a Class 4 impact rating for 24 and 26 gauge steel– the highest rating available.

While cosmetic dents may occur under severe conditions, the structural integrity of the roof usually remains intact.

Architectural asphalt shingles may lose protective granules or sustain punctures during larger hailstorms, which can shorten their lifespan.

Wildfire Protection

Wildfire continues to be an increasing concern throughout Colorado.

Both standing seam metal roofing and many premium asphalt roofing systems can achieve a Class A fire rating when installed as part of an approved roofing assembly.

However, metal roofing offers additional advantages.

Unlike wood-based roofing materials, steel will not ignite when exposed to airborne embers, making it a strong choice for wildfire-prone communities.

Maintenance Requirements

Metal Roofing

Routine maintenance typically includes:

• periodic inspections
• gutter cleaning
• checking snow retention systems
• removing debris

Hidden fasteners eliminate one of the most common long-term maintenance concerns associated with exposed-fastener systems.

Asphalt Roofing

Asphalt roofs generally require more frequent inspections for:

• cracked shingles
• missing shingles
• granule loss
• flashing deterioration
• storm damage

Appearance

Today's roofing options offer far more than basic functionality.

Standing seam metal roofing delivers:

• modern architecture
• clean vertical lines
• premium curb appeal
• wide color selection

Architectural asphalt shingles provide:

• traditional appearance
• dimensional texture
• variety of colors
• compatibility with many home styles
• Ability to hold snow on the roof - which does present more leak concerns
• 
  

Choosing between them often depends on your home's architecture and personal preferences.

Which Roof Is Right for You?

Choose Standing Seam Metal Roofing If You:

• plan to stay in your home long term
• live in a high-snow area
• want minimal maintenance
• value durability
• prioritize wildfire resistance
• appreciate modern architectural design
• 
  

Choose Asphalt Shingles If You:

• have a tighter budget
• prefer a traditional appearance
• are replacing an existing asphalt roof
• plan to sell within a shorter timeframe
• want dependable performance at a lower initial cost

Cost Comparison: Looking Beyond the Initial Investment 

One of the biggest differences between standing seam and asphalt roofing is the upfront cost.

Over the life of your roof, it's important to consider ongoing maintenance, potential repairs, future fastener replacement, energy efficiency, and overall lifespan. While an exposed fastener system may cost less initially, long-term ownership costs can narrow the price gap as maintenance needs increase over time.

Curious What a New Roof Might Cost?

Every home is unique, and factors like roof size, pitch, material selection, and location all influence the final investment. Whether you're considering a premium standing seam metal roof or exploring other roofing options, getting an estimate is the best place to start.

Use our free Instant Roof Estimate tool to receive a personalized preliminary estimate in minutes. Then, when you're ready, our team can perform a professional roof assessment, verify measurements, discuss material options, and provide a detailed project proposal tailored to your home and budget.

Why Axtell Recommends Standing Seam Roofing for Mountain Homes

Colorado mountain homes face some of the most demanding weather conditions in the country. Heavy snow, freeze-thaw cycles, high winds, intense UV exposure, and wildfire concerns all influence how a roof performs over time.

That's why Axtell specializes in premium standing seam roofing systems that are engineered specifically for these conditions. Through our partnership with Gunnison Sheet Metal & Roll Forming, we use precision roll-formed panels manufactured locally for each project, ensuring exceptional fit, performance, and craftsmanship. Combined with our experienced installation team, homeowners receive a roofing system designed to protect their investment for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions