Asphalt, Metal, or Composite: Best Type of Roof Material for Long-Term Value

Here in Minnesota, your roof takes on everything from summer heat and hailstorms to ice, snow, and subzero wind chills. So when it’s time for a replacement, the decision isn’t just about curb appeal, it’s about durability, energy efficiency, and long-term peace of mind.

If you’ve ever wondered what the best type of roof is for protecting your home, the answer depends on your priorities. For some homeowners, affordability is key. For others, it’s longevity or energy savings.

Key Takeaways

• Asphalt roof shingles are affordable and practical for short- to mid-term homeowners.
• Metal roofing offers unmatched durability, efficiency, and longevity for long-term protection.
• Composite roofing combines premium looks with modern strength and minimal maintenance.

At Keystone Roofing and Restoration, we help Twin Cities homeowners find roofing solutions that balance beauty, performance, and value, all installed with precision and backed by trusted warranties.

Breaking Down the Best Type of Roof for Minnesota Homes

Minnesota’s climate doesn’t take it easy on your roof. Between freeze–thaw cycles, heavy snow, and high winds, the best type of roof is one that stands strong through every season.

Your roof plays a bigger role than most people realize. It doesn’t just protect your home from the elements; it improves energy efficiency, regulates indoor comfort, and boosts your property’s value. Choosing the right roofing material ensures that protection lasts for decades, not just years.

Let’s look at the three top contenders, asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and composite roofing, and how each one performs right here in the Twin Cities.

Asphalt Roof Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a classic choice and the most common roofing material across Minnesota. They’re affordable, quick to install, and available in endless styles and colors that complement any home design.

Durability and Lifespan:

Homeowners often ask, How long do asphalt shingles last? Most asphalt roof shingles last 15 to 30 years with regular maintenance and proper ventilation. Premium architectural shingles, the thicker, dimensional kind, can extend that lifespan while improving wind resistance.

Why Homeowners Choose Asphalt:

• Cost-effective for nearly any budget
• Simple to repair or replace
• Wide range of colors and textures
• Quick installation with minimal disruption

What to Keep in Mind:

• Shorter lifespan compared to metal or composite
• Prone to cracking and curling from extreme temperature swings
• May need periodic cleaning or minor repairs

If you’re planning to move within the next decade, asphalt provides great value for its cost. For longer-term homeowners, it’s often a stepping stone to a more permanent solution.

Metal Roofing

When longevity and low maintenance are your top priorities, metal roofing is hard to beat. Built to handle Minnesota’s toughest weather, metal roofs can outlast nearly any other material on the market.

Performance and Lifespan:

Metal roofs typically last 40 to 70 years, depending on the style and metal type. They’re excellent at shedding snow, resisting wind, and reflecting sunlight, making them both durable and energy-efficient.

Cost and Long-Term ROI:

While metal roofing costs more upfront (around $6–$14 per square foot installed), it pays off over time with fewer repairs, lower utility bills, and impressive resale value. Many homeowners see a significant ROI on a new roof thanks to its durability and performance.

Why Homeowners Choose Metal:

• Exceptional protection in all weather conditions
• Energy-efficient, reflecting heat in summer and retaining warmth in winter
• Minimal upkeep required
• Fire- and impact-resistant
• Recyclable and environmentally friendly

What to Keep in Mind:

• Higher initial cost than asphalt shingles
• Can dent from extreme hail (impact-resistant options available)
• Must be installed by experienced professionals

If you’re staying in your home long-term, metal offers decades of protection and some of the strongest warranties in the industry, making it a smart investment for the future.

Composite Roofing

For homeowners who want the look of slate or cedar without the high maintenance, composite roofing (also known as synthetic or composition roofing) delivers both beauty and performance.

Durability and Longevity:

Composite roofs are engineered to withstand impact, UV rays, and extreme weather. Most last 40 to 50 years, offering excellent protection with little maintenance.

Value and Aesthetics:

Though composite roofing comes with a higher upfront cost, it offers exceptional long-term value. Many brands provide 50-year warranties, giving homeowners confidence in their investment.

Why Homeowners Choose Composite:

• Luxurious appearance that mimics slate or cedar
• Lightweight yet incredibly strong
• Resistant to fire, moisture, and fading
• Virtually maintenance-free with long warranties

What to Keep in Mind:

• More expensive than asphalt
• Requires professional installation for warranty coverage

If you’re looking for a lifetime roof that elevates your home’s appearance while providing reliable protection, composite is a standout choice.

Important Factors to Consider Before Choosing the Best Type of Roof

Every homeowner’s priorities are different. Here’s what to think through before deciding on the best type of roof for your home.

Budget

Asphalt shingles have the lowest upfront cost. Metal and composite roofs require a higher investment but offer greater longevity and a stronger new roof ROI.

Longevity

How long do you plan to stay in your home? Asphalt works well for short-term ownership, while metal and composite are better for long-term value and durability.

Maintenance

Metal and composite roofs require minimal upkeep. Asphalt shingles may need regular estimates or occasional repairs, especially after harsh winters.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs reflect sunlight, lowering energy costs. Composite materials also perform well thanks to their insulating properties, keeping your home comfortable year-round.

Style and Curb Appeal

Architectural asphalt offers a classic look. Metal adds a sleek, modern feel, while composite mimics high-end natural materials like slate and cedar.

By weighing these factors, you’ll find the material that fits both your budget and your vision, and Keystone Roofing and Restoration will help guide you every step of the way.

The Long-Term ROI of a New Roof

One of the most common homeowner questions we hear is: What is the ROI on a new roof?

The answer depends on your material choice, but a well-installed roof almost always delivers strong returns in both savings and home value.

• Asphalt shingles deliver solid resale value and quick affordability.
• Metal roofing offers the highest lifetime return through energy savings and longevity.
• Composite roofing combines upscale curb appeal with durable performance, offering both immediate and long-term benefits.

A new roof ROI isn’t just about numbers; it’s about security. A roof that performs well through Minnesota winters protects your investment, lowers maintenance costs, and adds comfort to your home year after year.

Expert Insights: Built for Minnesota Weather, Backed by Experience

At Keystone Roofing and Restoration, we’ve installed every type of roof you can imagine across the Twin Cities. From traditional asphalt to high-end composite, we know how each performs under our region’s demanding weather.

• Asphalt shingles are practical, budget-friendly, and easy to maintain.
• Metal roofing offers long-term peace of mind and strong energy savings.
• Composite roofing blends luxury with strength, ideal for homeowners seeking the best of both worlds.

No matter which you choose, professional installation and quality materials make all the difference. Our GAF and Owens Corning certifications, combined with lifetime workmanship warranties, ensure every Keystone roof is built to last.

FAQs About the Best Type of Roof

Protect Your Home With a Roof That Lasts

Choosing the right roofing material isn’t just about style; it’s about protecting your home, improving efficiency, and ensuring long-term value. Whether you’re drawn to the affordability of asphalt roof shingles, the lasting strength of metal roofing, or the elegance of composite, Keystone Roofing and Restoration is here to help.

As a BBB A+ rated, GAF, and Owens Corning Certified contractor, we bring two decades of trusted local experience to every home we serve. From free consultations to lifetime workmanship warranties, our mission is simple: to give you a roof that performs as beautifully as it looks.

Schedule your free roof estimate today and let Keystone Roofing and Restoration help you choose the best type of roof for your Minnesota home, one that’s built to protect, perform, and last for decades.