Thinking metal for your home? How long it lasts, what it costs in Canada, noise myths, and whether you can lay it over shingles.
What’s the real lifespan of a metal roof?
Quality residential metal (steel or aluminum, standing-seam or high-end panels) typically delivers 30–50 years with proper install and ventilation. Many systems can push longer in mild climates.
Is a metal roof noisy in rain?
Not when it’s installed the right way, over solid decking with underlayment and insulation, interior sound isn’t meaningfully different from shingles. The “loud barn roof” image comes from bare sheet metal on open framing, not homes.
Can I install metal over existing shingles?
Often yes, if the deck is sound and local code + manufacturer allow it. Done right, this saves a tear-off and landfill waste; underlayment/ventilation still needs upgrading, and fastening goes to the structure (not to the shingles). Your local bylaw and product spec control the call.
How much does a metal roof cost in Canada?
Installed pricing varies by profile/metal and complexity. Current Canadian guides put most projects roughly $9–$15/sq ft nationally, with some BC projects ranging $12–$28/sq ft for premium standing seam. Steeper roofs, complex flashings, and tear-offs add cost.
Will a metal roof hurt cell or Wi-Fi signal?
No in normal homes. Signal issues are almost always tower distance, building layout, or router quality, not the roof. Cable/satellite internet is unaffected.
Pros & cons at a glance
Pros: long service life, great wind/fire performance, lighter than shingles, recyclable (often made with recycled content), ideal for solar.
Cons: higher upfront cost than shingles; poor installs leak or oil-can; hail can cause cosmetic damage to some metals; overlays aren’t right for every house.
Should I choose exposed-fastener or standing seam?
Standing seam hides fasteners and tolerates expansion better, requires less maintenance and is best for future solar clamps. Exposed-fastener systems are cheaper but add fastener upkeep over time. (We’ll price both so you see the trade-off.)
Do metal roofs go over plywood only?
For houses, yes, over solid sheathing (plywood/OSB). We add underlayments (ice/water at eaves/valleys, synthetic elsewhere) and balance attic intake/exhaust to protect the system and warranty.
Bottom line, metal or shingles?
If you’ll own the home long enough, want curb appeal + durability, and can handle the upfront spend, metal is worth it. If budget rules and you’re moving soon, architectural fibreglass shingles may make more sense.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Confirm deck condition (no rot), attic ventilation, and ice-dam risk.
- Decide profile: exposed-fastener (budget) vs standing seam (premium).
- Ask for written specs: underlayments, gauge, finish, fasteners, flashings.
- Verify code/warranty if installing over shingles.
- Compare total cost of ownership vs shingles over 25–30 years.
We install metal and shingle systems across Greater Victoria, with straight talk, tight flashing work, and clean sites. Want a roof you don’t have to babysit? We’ll spec it properly and show you both options.
Questions or want a quote?
Call: (250)-413-7967
Email: ed@shorelineroofing.ca
Located: Victoria, BC V8Z 2K9