Neither is better in the abstract, and any contractor who says otherwise is telling you what they prefer to install. Standing-seam metal has a much longer service life, sheds snow instead of holding it, reflects rather than absorbs solar heat, and has no exposed fastener to back out. Architectural asphalt costs considerably less up front, comes in far more colours and profiles, and is straightforward to repair in a single spot. Geometry usually decides it. On a simple gable or hip roof, metal detailing is efficient and the long service life is easy to realise. On a complex roof with many dormers, valleys and penetrations, the labour to detail metal correctly can outrun the value of its extra life, and a premium architectural shingle is the better buy. We will tell you which one your roof is.
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