Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing for Your Shelter-Kit Home

If you’re building a kit home, one big question is what kind of roof to choose. Metal roofing is a popular option with big benefits and a few downsides. Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can decide if a metal roof is right for you.

Pros of Metal Roofing

• Durability: Metal roofs can last 50+ years, far longer than most asphalt roofs. They handle years of sun, wind, and rain without warping or cracking. Metal is also fire-resistant, so a lightning strike won’t set your roof ablaze.

• Weather Resistance: This roofing shines in harsh weather. Many metal roofs are rated to withstand winds over 140 mph, and snow slides off easily. Plus, metal isn’t combustible, so it won’t catch fire from lightning or embers.

• Low Maintenance: Metal roofing doesn’t need much upkeep. It resists cracking, mold, and pests, so you won’t be doing frequent roof repairs. Once it’s installed, there’s little maintenance beyond the occasional checkup.

  
  

Cons of Metal Roofing

• Noise: Rain on a metal roof can be loud. Good insulation and solid sheathing can reduce the drum-like sound,(but some people love this feature!)  but that adds some cost. If you’re sensitive to noise, keep this in mind.

• Higher Upfront Cost: Metal roofs cost more upfront, often around two to three times the price of an asphalt roof. That’s a big investment. On the upside, a metal roof lasts longer, which can save money on future replacements.

• Denting Potential: Large hail or a fallen branch can dent metal roofing. These dings are usually cosmetic and don’t affect performance, but they can be an eyesore.

And for a balanced article, here is a brief rundown of the pros and cons of Asphalt shingle roofs, by far one of the most popular choices.

Pros of Asphalt Roofing

• Lower upfront cost (biggest advantage)

• Easy installation → cheaper labor

• Widely available contractors & easy for DIYers

• Lightweight (no structural concerns)

• Decent variety of colors/style

  
  

Cons of Asphalt Roofing

• Shorter lifespan (15–30 years) 

• More maintenance (cracking, curling, algae)

• Less durable in harsh weather (wind, hail, UV)

• Can look worn faster

• Less eco-friendly (petroleum-based)

Building in a Snow Zone

 While the snow load will be determined by the framing of the home, a metal roof interacts much differently with snow than an asphalt roof. Not any better or worse.

Just different.

You will need to be aware of where your entry doors and garage doors fall in relation to the roof line.

There will be many times where the snow suddenly slides off and down, possibly blocking the entry. This has an easy fix, just put a diverter, basically an upside down V that diverts the snow as it slides off the roof.

Overall, a metal roof gives your kit home a tough, low-maintenance covering that can last a lifetime. But it’s not for everyone. In the end, weigh the benefits against the downsides to decide if it’s the right choice for your dream home.

Shelter-Kit offers both with our kits. We can help you decide what is best for your next project.