Choosing the right roofing material is crucial for homeowners in Cheyenne, WY, where strong winds, heavy snowfall, and extreme weather are common. Two of the most popular roofing options—asphalt shingles vs metal roofs—offer unique benefits and challenges. But which is better for Cheyenne’s tough climate?

This guide compares asphalt shingles vs metal roofs, helping you decide which option best fits your home’s needs, budget, and the Wyoming weather.

Asphalt Shingles vs Metal Roofs:
1. Durability: Which Roof Lasts Longer?

In Cheyenne’s harsh weather conditions, durability is a major concern for homeowners.

Metal Roofs:

  • Lifespan: 40–70 years
  • Weather Resistance: Can withstand wind speeds up to 140 mph and is resistant to snow buildup and fire.
  • Durability: Metal is more durable in extreme weather, making it a great choice for high-wind areas like Cheyenne.

Asphalt Shingles:

  • Lifespan: 20–30 years (with regular maintenance)
  • Weather Resistance: High-quality architectural shingles can resist wind speeds up to 130 mph, but they may be more vulnerable to wind uplift and moisture.
  • Durability: While durable, asphalt shingles are more prone to cracking and curling over time, especially under extreme temperature changes.

Winner: Metal Roofs – They last longer and offer better protection against Cheyenne’s strong winds and heavy snow.

2. Cost: Upfront vs. Long-Term Investment

Budget is often a deciding factor when choosing between metal roofs and asphalt shingles.

Metal Roofs:

  • Initial Cost: $10–$20 per square foot (installed)
  • Maintenance Costs: Low—requires occasional inspections but minimal repairs.
  • Long-Term Value: Higher upfront cost but fewer replacements over decades.

Asphalt Shingles:

  • Initial Cost: $4–$8 per square foot (installed)
  • Maintenance Costs: Moderate—requires regular inspections and occasional repairs.
  • Long-Term Value: Lower upfront cost but may require multiple replacements during a home’s lifespan.

Winner: Asphalt Shingles – More affordable initially, but metal roofs offer better long-term value.

3. Energy Efficiency: Which Roof Lowers Utility Bills?

Energy efficiency is important for reducing heating and cooling costs, especially in Cheyenne’s cold winters and warm summers.

Metal Roofs:

  • Reflects sunlight, reducing heat absorption.
  • Can lower cooling costs by 10–25% in summer.
  • Ideal for homeowners looking for energy-efficient roofing solutions.

Asphalt Shingles:

  • Absorbs more heat, increasing indoor temperatures.
  • Less reflective than metal but cool-roof shingles are available for better energy performance.

Winner: Metal Roofs – Better insulation and reflectivity help cut energy costs in both hot and cold seasons.

4. Maintenance: Which Roof Is Easier to Care For?

Routine maintenance extends the life of any roof, but some materials require more care than others.

Metal Roofs:

  • Requires minimal maintenance (cleaning debris and occasional inspections).
  • Resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage.

Asphalt Shingles:

  • Requires regular inspections to check for cracked or missing shingles.
  • Prone to moss and algae growth in humid conditions.

Winner: Metal Roofs – Easier to maintain and less prone to damage over time.

5. Aesthetics: Which Roof Looks Better?

Curb appeal matters when choosing a roofing material. Both metal roofs and asphalt shingles offer different aesthetic options.

Metal Roofs:

  • Available in a variety of colors and styles, including standing seam panels and metal shingles.
  • Offers a sleek, modern appearance.

Asphalt Shingles:

  • Comes in a wide range of textures and colors.
  • Blends well with traditional home designs.

Winner: Tie – Both options offer customization, but metal roofs suit modern homes, while asphalt shingles match classic styles.

6. Environmental Impact: Which Roof Is Greener?

Eco-conscious homeowners want a roof that reduces waste and energy consumption.

Metal Roofs:

  • 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
  • Reflective coatings reduce energy consumption.

Asphalt Shingles:

  • Often end up in landfills, contributing to waste.
  • Limited recyclability compared to metal.

Winner: Metal Roofs – More sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Which Roof is Best for Cheyenne Homes?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Feature Metal Roofs Asphalt Shingles
Durability 40–70 years (high-wind resistant) 20–30 years (moderate wind resistance)
Cost Higher upfront, lower long-term Affordable upfront, higher long-term
Energy Efficiency Highly reflective, reduces cooling Absorbs heat, limited energy savings
Maintenance Minimal maintenance required Regular inspections needed
Aesthetics Modern, sleek appearance Traditional, versatile designs
Environmental Recyclable and eco-friendly Less recyclable, higher waste impact

Choose the Right Roof with Pete’s Builders

Both metal roofs and asphalt shingles are solid choices for Cheyenne homes, but the best option depends on your budget, style, and long-term goals.

At Pete’s Builders, we specialize in roofing solutions for Wyoming weather, offering expert installation and maintenance for both metal and asphalt roofs. Whether you want durability, energy efficiency, or affordability, our team can help you make the right choice.

Contact Pete’s Builders today to schedule a consultation and find the best roofing solution for your Cheyenne home.