If you’re considering a new roof in Atlanta, you’re likely weighing two of the most popular options: asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Each has unique strengths depending on your budget, goals, and how long you plan to stay in your home. At Clark Brothers, we install both, and we guide homeowners across Metro Atlanta through the pros and cons every day. This article will walk you through the top factors to consider—from cost to durability—helping you make the right call for your home.
Understanding What Atlanta Homes Are Up Against
Roofs in our region take a beating. Between the blistering heat that rolls in by May and the damp, storm-heavy conditions that settle in come August, Atlanta homes need a roofing system that does more than check a box on a material sheet. They need systems that resist algae, drain properly, and maintain their integrity when cold snaps or wind gusts hit harder than expected.
This climate is part of what shapes the conversation we have with every homeowner we work with. It’s not about the most popular product—it’s about what will hold up best on your home, under your budget, and in your timeframe.
When Asphalt Shingles Are the Smart Choice
For the majority of homes we work on, asphalt shingles are the best all-around solution. They’re cost-effective, come in a wide range of architectural styles and colors, and are compatible with nearly every residential roof structure. Installation is quick—often completed in one to two days—and repair work down the road is typically straightforward.
What many homeowners don’t realize is that today’s higher-end architectural shingles offer a lifespan that rivals metal. Some of the 50-year options we install outperform lower-grade metal panels, especially when installed with proper ventilation and underlayment. For a significantly lower price point, these shingles deliver the longevity and curb appeal that most homeowners are looking for.
In our experience, shingles are also better suited for steeper rooflines and homes in HOA-regulated neighborhoods where material uniformity matters. And when budget, design flexibility, and overall return on investment are all factors, shingles are tough to beat.
When Metal Roofing Makes Sense in Atlanta
Metal roofs have a very specific appeal—and they do certain jobs extremely well. We use them regularly on low-pitched roof sections where shingles aren’t a fit, and for accent details like porch overhangs or modern farmhouse gables. The clean lines and matte finishes on standing seam panels create a bold, high-end look that’s become increasingly popular in custom builds.
That said, metal is significantly more expensive than asphalt, and it’s typically selected by homeowners who are either committed to the look or aren’t concerned with the budget. While the sound of rain on a metal roof is a nonstarter for some, others love it—and that preference alone can make the decision clear.
We rarely recommend full metal systems unless the client is set on the aesthetic or building a home designed specifically around it. And in most of those cases, it’s about visual impact and architectural consistency—not because it’s categorically better in performance.
Real Talk About Cost
There’s a big difference between evaluating price and evaluating value. And that’s where the roofing conversation can get distorted.
Yes, metal can last 40 to 50 years. But so can a properly installed, premium asphalt system—and for significantly less money. For most homeowners, especially those balancing other upgrades or working within insurance budgets, investing in top-tier shingles gives them the durability and longevity they need without overspending.
Metal roofing delivers strong energy efficiency benefits and requires less upkeep over time, but those advantages rarely justify the cost unless the homeowner is already committed to a full exterior upgrade or pursuing a specific aesthetic. And even then, metal isn’t always the better performer—it’s just the right fit for the right design.
Curb Appeal and Design Fit
We always advise clients to choose materials that align with their home’s architecture, their personal taste, and their neighborhood. Asphalt shingles offer more design flexibility than most people realize, especially with the range of dimensional and luxury profiles now available. They work just as well on a ranch in East Cobb as they do on a craftsman in Decatur.
Metal roofing stands out. It makes a statement—and that’s the point. Homeowners who choose it usually want to lean into a modern or industrial style, or they’re designing a home with specific contrast in mind. It’s not better-looking than shingles. It’s just different—and should be chosen for the right reasons, not assumed to be the “upgrade.”
Sustainability and Efficiency Considerations
If energy efficiency or sustainability are priorities, metal does offer some advantages. It reflects sunlight, which can help reduce attic temperatures in the summer, and most metal products are made with recycled content. They’re also fully recyclable at end-of-life.
But it’s important to understand that those benefits only matter if they align with your broader goals. In many homes, proper ventilation, insulation, and attic airflow can make just as much of an impact—regardless of the roof material.
Choosing What’s Right for Your Home
At Clark Brothers, our job is to help you evaluate how long you plan to stay in your home, what your budget will support, and what kind of finish you want to see when you pull into your driveway.
In most cases, a high-quality shingle system delivers exactly what homeowners need: reliable protection, solid energy performance, and lasting curb appeal. And when metal does make sense, we’ll show you how to integrate it smartly—whether as a full system, an architectural accent, or a specialty solution for your roofline.
Honest Guidance. Exceptional Craftsmanship.
Our roots in military service and family ownership shape how we show up for our clients. Whether we’re replacing a roof in Roswell or installing a metal porch accent in Marietta, we treat every job like it matters—because it does.
If you’re considering asphalt or metal for your next roof, let’s talk. We’ll walk you through the options, give you straight answers, and help you make a decision that holds up—not just today, but 20 years from now.
Schedule a complimentary inspection, and let’s get started.
Click here for our ultimate guide to improving your home’s exterior.
