How 2025 Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Will Impact the Cost of Metal Roofs—and Why Asphalt Shingles Could Be Your Most Cost-Effective Alternative
As a trusted roofing contractor, we understand that the decision to replace your roof is not one you take lightly. A roof replacement is a major investment, and you want to be certain you’re getting the best possible outcome for your budget, your home’s longevity, and your peace of mind. While metal roofs have traditionally been a very attractive option, recent changes in trade policy—particularly new tariffs on steel and aluminum in 2025—have shifted the cost landscape in a big way. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through exactly how these new tariffs are driving up the cost of metal roofing and explain why asphalt shingles may now offer a more economical solution for your home.
Understanding the Basics of the 2025 Tariffs
Before diving into specific costs, let’s establish what these tariffs are and why they matter to you as a homeowner. In 2025, the United States government implemented new tariffs on imported steel and aluminum in an effort to bolster domestic production and protect American manufacturing jobs. While the exact percentage of these tariffs can vary depending on the product category, they generally range from 15% to as high as 25% for certain steel products, and 10% to 20% for aluminum products.
For roofing, the raw materials—steel and aluminum—are key components. Metal roofing panels, trims, fasteners, and other accessories often rely on these metals. When the price of steel or aluminum goes up, the subsequent expenses for manufacturers, distributors, and contractors rise as well. Unfortunately, those added costs are typically passed on to you, the homeowner. Even domestically produced steel and aluminum can be affected, since tariffs can cause market-wide price increases. This market shift stems from basic supply and demand principles: as the cost of imports rises, the cost of domestic metals tends to follow suit because of overall market pressure.
Why Metal Roofing Was (and Still Can Be) Appealing
You might be wondering, “If these tariffs have made metal roofing more expensive, why would I even consider it?” That’s a good question, and it’s worth noting that metal roofs do offer some compelling advantages, such as:
Longevity: A properly installed metal roof can last 40 to 70 years, depending on the specific material (steel, aluminum, copper, etc.) and the local climate. By comparison, an asphalt shingle roof might last 15 to 30 years, though the upper end is becoming more common with high-quality architectural shingles.
Energy Efficiency: Many metal roofing products feature reflective coatings that help reduce heat transfer, potentially lowering your cooling costs in hot climates.
Curb Appeal: If you like the contemporary look of standing seam roofs or the rustic charm of metal shingles, the aesthetic of metal roofing can be a huge draw.
Fire Resistance: Steel and aluminum roofs are non-combustible. This can be particularly appealing in areas prone to wildfires or other fire risks.
Low Maintenance: While some maintenance is necessary, metal roofs generally require fewer repairs or replacements of small components compared to other roofing types over a similarly long lifespan.
However, even with these advantages, the upfront cost has always been one of the major considerations. Metal roofing typically requires a bigger initial outlay. The new tariffs only compound that cost difference.
Drilling Down into the Cost Impact
1. Raw Material Price Increases
Let’s start at the source. The tariffs placed on steel and aluminum imports can raise the baseline costs by 15% to 25% or more. Even if the product you’re buying is sourced from an American mill, domestic producers may increase their prices due to the shift in market dynamics. For example, if a sheet of steel roofing material cost $100 before the tariffs, it might jump to $120 or $130 once the tariffs go into effect—especially if there’s a shortage of supply or increased demand for domestic metal.
2. Manufacturing and Supply Chain Effects
Manufacturers who produce metal roofing panels and accessories will likely face higher bills on the raw materials. They have to recoup those extra costs to remain profitable, so they raise their prices to the distributors. The distributors, dealing with higher wholesale costs, will pass that hike along to roofing contractors. By the time it reaches you, a jump of even 15% in raw materials can feel like a substantial increase on your final invoice. The ripple effect is real: if you needed, for instance, 30 metal panels to replace your roof and each panel is priced 15% higher than before, that’s a significant uptick in your overall roofing budget.
3. Increased Shipping Costs
The cost of shipping metal roofing products—often heavier and bulkier than other materials—also factors into your final bill. When steel and aluminum prices rise due to tariffs, shipping companies might adjust freight fees if they see reduced volume or need to adjust to new fuel surcharges (sometimes correlated with broader economic shifts). It’s not uncommon to see shipping costs climb proportionally to raw material prices because suppliers often try to spread out expenses across multiple cost centers. As the homeowner, it eventually affects the amount you pay, whether you’re in the initial quote phase or the final invoice stage.
4. Labor Implications
While labor costs for installing a metal roof might not be directly influenced by tariffs, the market conditions can still cause indirect changes. If demand for metal roofing dips due to higher prices, some contractors may reduce their workforce specialized in metal roof installation. This could lead to a temporary shortage of skilled labor in certain areas if the market corrects itself unexpectedly, driving up the price of that specialized labor due to higher demand. On the other hand, if you happen to find a contractor who is eager to secure metal roofing jobs in a declining market, you might see minimal changes in labor pricing. It’s a dynamic environment, but in most scenarios, the upward trend in materials often correlates with higher overall job costs.
5. Warranty and Insurance Considerations
Many manufacturers offer warranties on their metal roofing products. If those manufacturers are dealing with increased costs, they might adjust the terms of their warranty programs, passing through additional fees to maintain coverage. While this isn’t a direct tariff-related line item on your invoice, it can affect your total cost if you want extended warranty protections. It can also impact the overall appeal of metal roofing if the warranties become more expensive or if coverage becomes more restrictive due to the volatile market.
Taking a Close Look at the Numbers
To give you a more concrete sense of the difference, let’s say that, before the tariffs, metal roofing might have run you an average of $11 to $13 per square foot installed (including materials, labor, and additional components). Post-tariffs, that range might jump to $13 to $16 per square foot, depending on the type of metal roofing you choose (galvanized steel, Galvalume, aluminum, etc.) and your specific region. If you’re replacing the roof on a 2,000-square-foot home, you might be looking at an increase of anywhere from $4,000 to $6,000—or more—just because of the raw material and related price hikes.
Why Asphalt Shingles May Now Be the More Cost-Effective Solution
Given these price surges in metal roofing, let’s examine an alternative: asphalt shingles. You might have thought about asphalt shingles in the past for their affordability, but there’s more to their cost-effectiveness than a low price alone.
1. Material Availability and Local Production
Tariffs on steel and aluminum don’t apply to the petroleum-based materials and fiberglass mat that make up most asphalt shingles. Many major asphalt shingle manufacturers operate within the United States, sourcing raw materials locally. This allows them to maintain more stable pricing and shield you, the consumer, from sudden international trade fluctuations.
Additionally, because asphalt shingles are produced nationwide, you’re not as reliant on imports that might become more expensive under the new tariffs. If a regional factory can supply your roofing materials, shipping costs can also be lower compared to heavy metal panels that might be coming from out of state or even overseas.
2. Lower Upfront Cost
If the average range for a metal roof was $13 to $16 per square foot post-tariffs, a good-quality asphalt shingle roof can be installed for somewhere in the range of $4 to $8 per square foot, depending on the shingle type and the complexity of your roof. Premium or architectural shingles will cost more than three-tab shingles, but even top-tier asphalt shingles tend to be cheaper than metal roofing for the same size home.
When you’re working on a tight budget, or even if you just don’t see the value in paying the tariff-induced markups for a metal roof, asphalt shingles can offer a robust roofing solution without breaking the bank. You’ll often see a quicker return on your investment simply because your initial outlay is significantly less.
3. Installation Savings
In most cases, asphalt shingles are quicker and easier to install compared to metal roofing. While metal roofing requires custom measuring, cutting, and a specialized skill set to secure panels or standing seams properly, asphalt shingle installation is a more straightforward process. When it comes to labor costs, you can generally find more roofing crews equipped to install asphalt shingles, which promotes competitive pricing and results in reduced labor charges for you.
4. Decent Lifespan and Improved Durability
Although metal roofs can last longer, you’re still getting a good lifespan when you choose high-quality asphalt shingles. Today’s premium shingles can easily last 20 to 30 years, with some manufacturers offering 50-year warranties under ideal conditions. Meanwhile, modern shingle designs incorporate better granules, wind resistance, and algae-resistant technology, making them more durable than ever. So, while you may not hit the 40-year mark that some metal roofs can achieve, you are still likely to get two or more decades of reliable service for a fraction of the cost.
5. Insurance and Warranty Benefits
Many of the top asphalt shingle manufacturers offer robust warranties, which can cover a range of defects. If you choose an impact-resistant shingle, some insurance companies will provide policy discounts, especially in hail-prone regions. Although metal roofs can also qualify for these discounts, the lower upfront cost and the easier repair processes often make asphalt shingles more appealing if you’re looking to keep both your long-term premiums and out-of-pocket expenses manageable.
Additional Considerations: Environmental and Aesthetic Factors
You might be wondering about other aspects of roofing that go beyond cost. Let’s talk briefly about environmental impact and curb appeal:
Environmental Impact: Metal roofs are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan, which can be a plus if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option. Asphalt shingles are also being recycled more frequently these days—some facilities reclaim old shingles to use in roads and other construction materials. The difference, from a tariffs standpoint, is that asphalt shingles are not subject to the steel and aluminum import taxes. If your focus is purely on cost, asphalt shingles remain a more budget-friendly choice.
Aesthetic Factors: Some homeowners prefer the sleek, modern look of a metal roof or want the timeless “barn” style that metal roofing can provide. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, come in a wide range of styles and colors that can mimic the look of slate or wood shakes, giving you plenty of design flexibility at a lower cost. The choice might boil down to personal preference or the architectural style of your home. If you’re torn between the aesthetics of metal and the cost benefits of asphalt, there are premium asphalt shingles that achieve high-end looks without the tariff-driven price hike.
Making an Informed Decision: The Role of Your Roofing Contractor
I always advise homeowners to sit down and crunch the numbers. Look at both short- and long-term expenses. Determine how long you plan to live in your home. If you’re in your “forever home,” maybe a metal roof’s longevity still appeals to you, even with the tariff-related price increase. If you’re planning to sell in the near future, perhaps you just need a reliable roof that boosts curb appeal without costing you an arm and a leg upfront.
Here are some steps you can take to make the best decision:
Obtain Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle on the first estimate you get. Request quotes from different contractors—ideally both specialized metal roofing contractors and those who install asphalt shingles regularly. Compare the final numbers and see how the tariffs are affecting the bottom line.
Ask About Financing Options: Roof replacements can be expensive, so many contractors and manufacturers partner with finance companies to offer installment plans or other financing arrangements. If you have a strong preference for metal roofing, a good financing plan might help offset some of the higher costs, making it more manageable for your budget.
Consider Long-Term Maintenance Costs: While asphalt shingles might need more regular inspection and potential spot repairs over time, metal roofs can be more expensive to repair if damage does occur. Factor these maintenance considerations into your overall cost analysis.
Look at Energy Savings: Metal roofs often reflect heat, which could lower your energy bills, especially in hot climates. However, some asphalt shingle lines are manufactured with reflective granules or other energy-efficient additives. You might find that certain “cool roof” asphalt shingle products offer a comparable benefit, offsetting the need to pay top dollar for a metal roof.
Think About Resale Value: A roof is a big selling point for most homes. Metal roofs can increase perceived value, but buyers are sometimes hesitant if they’re not familiar with the benefits or if they simply prefer the classic look of shingles. On the other hand, new, high-quality asphalt shingles can also be a strong selling feature, particularly if they come with transferable warranties or meet certain impact-resistant standards.
How We Can Help
As professional roofing contractors, Larsen Roofing is here to guide you through every aspect of your roof replacement journey. I’ll provide transparency about how tariffs are affecting material prices in real time and help you weigh the pros and cons of different options. More importantly, I’ll make sure the installation—whether you choose metal or asphalt shingles—is done correctly, safely, and in accordance with local building codes.
In times of fluctuating material costs, it’s essential to have a trustworthy contractor who stays on top of market changes and helps you make the most informed decision possible.
We can also walk you through manufacturer warranties, energy efficiency ratings, and even potential insurance discounts, ensuring you fully understand all your options before committing to one roof type over another.
Conclusion: Is Asphalt Your Best Bet Now?
In years past, metal roofing might have been closer in price to high-end asphalt shingles, especially when factoring in the long-term durability. However, with the 2025 tariffs boosting steel and aluminum costs, metal roofing prices have taken a steeper climb, making asphalt shingles comparatively more affordable. If your priority is cost savings and you still want a durable, attractive roof, asphalt shingles remain a very strong contender. The availability of various designs, improved durability, and cost stability make asphalt shingles an option that can help you balance your finances and maintain your home’s value.
Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your personal preferences, how long you expect to stay in your current home, and how comfortable you are with the upfront costs. If you love the look and longevity of a metal roof, you should still get an estimate and see how it fits into your budget. Just keep in mind that those new tariffs might push the price substantially higher than what you may have encountered only a few years ago. If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly approach without sacrificing too much in terms of lifespan and performance, asphalt shingles are likely your best bet.
We encourage you to reach out for a comprehensive roof inspection and a detailed quote for both metal and asphalt shingles. This way, you can make an apples-to-apples comparison and choose the solution that makes the most sense for your home and your wallet. Whether you go with steel, aluminum, or asphalt shingles, I’m here to ensure you get a quality roof that stands up to the elements and protects what matters most—your home and family.
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