Roof Revolution: Why You Should Replace Asphalt Shingles with Metal

Why Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof is the Smart Choice for San Antonio Homeowners

Replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems offers significant long-term benefits that make it worth considering for your Hill Country home. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Benefits:
– Lifespan: Metal roofs last 40-70 years vs. 12-20 years for asphalt shingles
– Energy Savings: Up to 40% reduction in cooling costs through solar reflectivity
– Durability: Rated for winds up to 120 mph and hail up to 2.5 inches
– Installation: Can often be installed over existing shingles (saves tear-off costs)
– ROI: Higher upfront cost but lower lifetime expense due to longevity

If you’re tired of dealing with frequent roof repairs and rising energy bills in San Antonio’s intense heat, metal roofing could be your solution. The initial investment pays off through decades of reliable protection and lower maintenance costs.

Many homeowners worry about the upfront expense, but when you factor in the 2-3 times longer lifespan and energy savings, metal roofing often costs less over time than repeatedly replacing asphalt shingles every 15-20 years.

I’m Carlos Yzaguirre, President of Apex Roofing & General Contractors, and I’ve helped countless San Antonio homeowners make the switch from worn-out shingles to durable metal roofing systems. Through my experience replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof installations across the Hill Country, I’ve seen how this upgrade transforms both home value and peace of mind.

Ready to explore your options? Contact our metal roofing specialists for a free inspection and estimate.

Replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof further reading:
– asphalt shingles installation
– replacing 3 tab shingles

The Big Benefits of Switching to Metal

When homeowners ask me about replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems, I love sharing the change stories from our Hill Country projects. Just last month, we completed a metal roof replacement for a family who’d dealt with three asphalt roof replacements in 25 years. They were tired of the cycle—and honestly, who wouldn’t be?

The durability difference is what gets people’s attention first. Your current asphalt shingles might give you 12-20 years in our brutal Texas sun, but metal roofs consistently deliver 40-70 years of reliable protection. I’ve personally inspected metal roofs from the 1970s that still look great, while neighboring homes have cycled through multiple asphalt replacements.

Wind and hail resistance becomes crucial during our storm season. Stone-coated metal roofs carry warranties for winds up to 120 mph and hail up to 2.5 inches—that’s serious protection when the weather gets nasty. After major storms, we’ve seen metal roofs with minimal damage while traditional shingle roofs needed complete roof replacement.

The curb appeal factor surprises many homeowners. Today’s metal roofing systems beautifully mimic traditional asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or wood shakes. You get the look you want with performance that leaves conventional materials in the dust.

Here’s something that makes me proud to recommend metal roofing: it’s made from recycled materials and is 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan. Compare that to asphalt shingles, which create landfill waste and disposal fees. When you choose metal, you’re making a smart decision for your wallet and the environment.

For detailed specifications and style options, check out our residential metal roofs page.

Lifespan When Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof

The lifespan difference is where the real value shines through. Metal roofs last 50+ years with minimal maintenance—that’s 2-3 times longer than asphalt shingles. This means fewer disruptions, fewer contractor visits, and decades of peace of mind.

I’ve worked on homes where the original metal roof from the 1980s is still performing beautifully, while the house next door is getting its third asphalt roof. That’s the kind of long-term thinking that saves money and reduces stress.

Energy Efficiency After Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof

In our blazing summers, energy efficiency isn’t optional—it’s essential for manageable cooling costs. Metal roofing can save homeowners up to 40% on energy costs by reflecting sunlight instead of absorbing it like dark asphalt shingles.

The reflective properties of painted metal roofs work particularly well in our climate. While asphalt shingles absorb heat and transfer it into your attic, metal roofs reflect solar energy away from your home. This keeps your attic cooler and reduces the load on your air conditioning system.

Above-Sheathing Ventilation (ASV) systems work exceptionally well with metal roofing, creating an air gap that further improves energy performance. This ventilated space allows hot air to escape before it affects your home’s interior temperature—a game-changer for comfort and utility bills.

Cost, ROI & Insurance Savings

Let’s be honest about the numbers—replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems requires a bigger upfront investment than sticking with traditional shingles. But here’s where the story gets interesting: when you crunch the numbers over the actual lifespan of your roof, metal often comes out ahead by a significant margin.

The real savings start to show up when you consider what happens over 30-50 years of homeownership. While you’ll replace asphalt shingles 2-3 times during that period, your metal roof will still be protecting your home with decades of life remaining.

Installing metal over existing shingles can dramatically reduce your project costs by eliminating tear-off and disposal expenses. This isn’t just about saving money—it’s about avoiding the headache of dealing with tons of old roofing material heading to already-overloaded Texas landfills.

Your insurance company will likely reward you for choosing metal roofing. Fire resistance and superior hail protection translate into real premium discounts that can save you hundreds of dollars annually. These aren’t small savings—they add up to thousands over the life of your roof.

The resale value impact is substantial too. When potential buyers see a quality metal roof, they recognize it as a premium upgrade that means decades without roofing concerns. Most homeowners recover 60-70% of their metal roofing investment when they sell, compared to minimal recovery on asphalt shingle replacements.

Here’s how the lifetime economics typically work out for a 2,000 square foot San Antonio home:

The energy savings alone can justify much of the additional investment. When your cooling bills drop by $200-$400 annually thanks to metal’s reflective properties, you’re looking at $10,000-$20,000 in savings over the roof’s lifetime.

Financing Options for Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof

We get it—even when the long-term math makes perfect sense, coming up with $15,000-$25,000 upfront isn’t always realistic. That’s exactly why we’ve developed flexible financing solutions that let you start enjoying metal roofing benefits immediately while spreading costs over manageable monthly payments.

Our financing plans are designed specifically for San Antonio homeowners who want to make the smart long-term choice without straining their current budget. In many cases, your monthly financing payment plus energy savings can actually cost less than your previous combination of higher energy bills and periodic roof repairs.

Local rebates and tax incentives may also be available for energy-efficient roofing installations. These programs change regularly, but we stay current on every opportunity to reduce your investment. Some homeowners are surprised to find they qualify for significant rebates that weren’t on their radar.

For complete details about our current financing options and any available rebates, check out our financing page. We’ll walk you through all the numbers and help you find the payment structure that works best for your situation.

Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof: Can You Install Over Existing Shingles?

This is probably the first question homeowners ask when considering replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems—and I understand why. Nobody wants to deal with the mess, noise, and expense of tearing off their old roof if they don’t have to.

The good news? In many cases, we can install your new metal roof directly over your existing shingles. Most building codes, including here in Bexar County, allow what we call a “roof-over” installation when you’re adding metal roofing over up to two layers of asphalt shingles.

But here’s the thing—just because you can doesn’t always mean you should. Every home is different, and we evaluate several key factors during our inspection to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Structural capacity is our first concern. Your roof’s framing needs to handle the additional weight of the metal panels. While metal roofing is lighter than many materials, we never skip the load calculations.

The condition of your existing shingles matters too. If they’re curling, missing, or severely damaged, they won’t provide a good foundation for your new metal roof. We need a relatively flat, stable surface for the best results.

Local code compliance is non-negotiable. Bexar County has specific requirements about roof layers, and we make sure every installation meets or exceeds these standards.

Sometimes we do recommend complete removal of the old shingles. If there’s existing water damage, multiple layers already present, or structural concerns, a full tear-off gives us the clean slate needed for a perfect roof replacement.

For more detailed information about your replacement options, check out our comprehensive guide on replacing asphalt shingle roofs.

Direct-Attach Method for Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof

The direct-attach method is our most straightforward approach for replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems. We install the metal panels directly over your existing shingles using a high-quality synthetic underlayment as a protective barrier.

This method works beautifully when your existing shingles are lying flat and in decent condition. The synthetic underlayment creates an excellent moisture barrier while protecting your new metal panels from any loose granules that might cause abrasion.

Fastener selection is absolutely critical for this method. We use screws specifically engineered for metal-over-shingle applications. These fasteners are longer than standard metal roofing screws and have special threads designed to bite securely through both the metal panel and the underlying shingle layers into your roof deck.

Furring-Strip Method & ASV

The furring-strip method takes roof-over installation to the next level. Instead of attaching metal panels directly to your existing shingles, we first install wooden strips across your roof, then mount the metal panels to these strips.

This creates what we call Above-Sheathing Ventilation (ASV)—an air gap between your old roof and new metal panels that delivers impressive benefits for San Antonio homeowners.

Energy efficiency gets a major boost from this ventilated air space. Hot air that builds up under your metal roof can escape through the gap, preventing heat transfer into your attic. We’ve measured temperature differences of 10-15 degrees in attics with properly designed ASV systems.

Noise reduction is another welcome benefit. That air gap helps dampen the sound of rain or hail hitting your metal roof. While modern metal roofing isn’t nearly as noisy as people think, the ASV system makes it even quieter.

The ASV system really shines in our Texas climate. During those brutal summer months when your roof surface can reach 150+ degrees, that ventilated air space becomes your best friend for keeping cooling costs under control.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof

Replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof installations require careful planning and precise execution to ensure decades of reliable performance. At Apex Roofing & General Contractors, we’ve refined our process through hundreds of installations across San Antonio and the Hill Country.

Every successful metal roofing project starts with a comprehensive inspection of your existing roof structure. We examine the condition of your current shingles, check for any underlying damage, and assess whether your roof deck can support the new metal system.

Moisture evaluation is particularly important in our humid Texas climate. Hidden water damage or inadequate ventilation can undermine even the best metal roofing installation. We identify these issues upfront so they can be addressed before your new roof goes on.

Once we move into the installation phase, deck preparation comes first. Any damaged decking gets repaired or replaced to create a solid foundation. We then install premium synthetic underlayment that provides superior moisture protection compared to traditional felt paper.

Flashing installation around chimneys, vents, and roof transitions requires special attention. These areas are where most roof leaks occur, so we use high-quality materials and proven techniques to create watertight seals that last.

The panel installation follows manufacturer specifications precisely. Each panel must align perfectly with the next, and fasteners must hit structural members at the correct spacing and depth. Our experienced crews understand how metal expands and contracts, ensuring proper installation that won’t develop problems over time.

Trim and ridge cap installation completes the weather-tight envelope. These finishing touches aren’t just cosmetic—they’re critical components that keep wind and water out of your home.

Every project concludes with a thorough quality inspection where we verify that every detail meets our standards. We walk the entire roof, checking fastener placement, panel alignment, and seal integrity before we consider the job complete.

Preparation & Building Permits

Navigating Bexar County building codes is part of our service—we handle all permit applications and inspections so you don’t have to worry about compliance issues. The permit process includes structural load calculations that verify your home can safely support the metal roofing system.

Attic ventilation plays a crucial role in metal roof performance. Poor ventilation can lead to moisture problems and reduced energy efficiency. We evaluate your current system and recommend upgrades like ridge vents or powered ventilation when needed.

Our roof inspection services provide a complete assessment of these factors before work begins.

Installation Day Timeline

Most replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof projects take 1-3 days, depending on your roof’s size and complexity. Here’s what typically happens:

Day one begins with crew setup and safety preparation. Our teams arrive early and spend time ensuring all safety equipment is properly installed before anyone steps on your roof. Initial panel installation starts once everything is secure.

Day two focuses on continued panel installation and trim work. The rhythm picks up as panels go on efficiently, and you’ll see dramatic progress as your new roof takes shape.

Day three handles final details, quality inspection, and complete cleanup. We don’t leave until every scrap of material is removed and your property looks better than when we arrived.

Safety protocols remain our top priority throughout the installation. Our crews use proper fall protection equipment and follow OSHA guidelines religiously. We’ve never had a serious accident because we never compromise on safety procedures.

Codes, Ventilation & Common Myths

Understanding building codes and proper ventilation is essential when replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems in San Antonio. The International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) set the foundation for safe installations, but Bexar County often adds specific requirements that we steer for every project.

Wind uplift resistance takes center stage in our storm-prone region. Metal roofing systems must pass rigorous testing to earn ratings for the wind speeds we experience during severe weather. We exclusively install systems that meet or exceed these local requirements—it’s not worth cutting corners when your family’s safety is at stake.

The fire rating advantage is another code consideration that works in metal roofing’s favor. Most metal roofing systems earn Class A fire ratings, which represents the highest level of fire resistance available. This rating often translates to insurance discounts and provides invaluable peace of mind for your family’s safety.

Proper attic ventilation works hand-in-hand with metal roofing to maintain optimal temperatures and prevent moisture problems. We design ventilation systems that complement your metal roof’s performance characteristics, ensuring your investment delivers maximum energy savings and longevity.

Now let’s tackle some stubborn myths that keep circulating about metal roofing:

The lightning myth refuses to die, but here’s the truth: metal roofing is no more likely to attract lightning strikes than any other roofing material. If lightning does strike your home, metal roofing actually provides a safer path for the electrical energy to reach the ground harmlessly.

The noise concern comes up in almost every consultation, but properly installed metal roofing with adequate insulation and underlayment produces no more noise than traditional materials. Many of our customers actually enjoy the gentle sound of rain on their metal roof—it’s quite soothing once you experience it.

The heat myth is perhaps the most backwards of all. Metal roofing reflects solar energy away from your home, keeping it cooler and reducing air conditioning costs. This is the opposite of asphalt shingles, which absorb heat and transfer it into your attic space.

For homes that have weathered storm damage in the past, metal roofing provides superior protection against future weather events. Our storm damage repair experience has shown us how metal roofs perform during severe weather—they simply outperform every other material we work with.

Frequently Asked Questions about Replacing Asphalt Shingles with Metal Roof

After helping hundreds of San Antonio homeowners make the switch to metal roofing, I’ve noticed the same questions come up in almost every conversation. Let me address the three most common concerns we hear about replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems.

How long does the process take?

The timeline for your metal roof installation depends on a few key factors, but most homeowners are pleasantly surprised by how quickly we can complete the work. For a typical 1,500 square foot home, we usually finish in just 1-2 days. Larger homes around 3,000 square feet might take 3-4 days, depending on the complexity.

Simple gable roofs with straightforward angles install much faster than complex hip roofs with multiple dormers, valleys, and architectural features. If we’re doing a roof-over installation (installing over your existing shingles), that saves significant time compared to a complete tear-off project.

Weather is the one factor we can’t control. We never compromise safety by working in dangerous conditions, so storms or high winds might extend the timeline by a day or two. But once we start, we work efficiently to get your home protected as quickly as possible.

Most of our clients tell us they barely noticed the disruption to their daily routine. We coordinate the work around your schedule and keep you informed every step of the way. Our professional roof installation crews arrive early, work diligently, and clean up thoroughly each day.

Will a metal roof make my home hotter?

This might be the biggest myth about metal roofing, and I understand why people worry about it. The truth is exactly the opposite—metal roofs actually keep your home cooler and can dramatically reduce your air conditioning costs.

Here’s what really happens: painted metal roofs reflect up to 70% of solar energy back into the atmosphere, while dark asphalt shingles absorb most of that heat and transfer it into your attic space. In San Antonio’s brutal summer heat, this difference is substantial.

The key is proper installation with adequate insulation and ventilation. When we install your metal roof correctly, you can expect cooling cost reductions of up to 40% during our hottest months. Many of our customers are amazed by their first summer electric bill after switching to metal.

Can I walk on my new metal roof for maintenance?

Yes, you can safely walk on your metal roof when needed, but there are some important guidelines to follow. Metal roofing is designed to support normal foot traffic for maintenance activities like cleaning gutters or checking vents.

The key is using proper footwear with soft soles to avoid scratching the protective finish. We recommend walking on the flat areas between the raised ribs rather than directly on seams or raised sections.

For routine maintenance tasks or complex repairs, many homeowners prefer to have professionals handle the work to protect their warranty coverage. We provide guidance on safe roof access and can take care of regular maintenance to keep your metal roof performing at its best.

One of the biggest advantages of metal roofing is that it requires very little maintenance compared to asphalt shingles. You won’t be dealing with loose or missing shingles, so the need to access your roof will be minimal.

Conclusion

Replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof systems is more than just a home improvement—it’s a smart investment that protects your Hill Country home for decades to come. After helping hundreds of San Antonio homeowners make this transition, I can confidently say that metal roofing delivers on its promises of durability, energy efficiency, and long-term value.

The numbers speak for themselves. While you’ll invest more upfront, that 50+ year lifespan means you’ll likely never need another roof replacement. Compare that to asphalt shingles that require replacement every 15-20 years, and the lifetime savings become clear. Add in the energy savings from our brutal Texas summers, and metal roofing often pays for itself over time.

At Apex Roofing & General Contractors, we’ve seen how metal roofing transforms homeowners’ peace of mind. No more worrying about the next hailstorm or wondering if your roof will make it through another summer. No more surprise repair bills or emergency calls during severe weather.

The upgrade value extends beyond just protection. Metal roofing improves your home’s curb appeal and resale value while contributing to environmental sustainability through its recyclable materials and energy efficiency. It’s an investment that benefits you, your family, and your community.

Whether you’re dealing with aging shingles, frequent storm damage, or simply want the best protection available, metal roofing offers the performance and reliability that Hill Country homes deserve. Our certified team understands the unique challenges of our San Antonio climate and local building codes, ensuring your roof installation meets the highest standards.

Don’t wait for the next storm season or shingle failure to force your hand. Take control of your home’s protection now and start enjoying the benefits of superior roofing technology.

Ready to make the switch? We provide free estimates and comprehensive inspections to help you understand exactly what replacing asphalt shingles with metal roof means for your specific home and budget. Our transparent approach means no surprises—just honest recommendations based on your needs.

Contact our team of trusted San Antonio roofers today to schedule your free inspection. Let us show you how metal roofing can transform your home’s protection and your peace of mind for generations to come.