When you own a Nevada home, the weather will test both your patience and your roof. One week it’s blazing sun, the next it’s snow and wind gusts strong enough to rattle the windows. For homeowners, that makes the choice of roofing material less about looks and more about survival.
The two options that dominate the residential roofing conversation are asphalt shingles and metal roofing. They’ve both earned loyal followings, but for very different reasons. And with the median Nevada home built in 1996, many properties across the state are now approaching or past the 30-year mark. That age is when roof replacement becomes increasingly common.
So how do you decide which system or new roof is right for your home? That’s where this guide comes in. Here’s what to expect:
- The unique challenges of asphalt and metal roofing homeowners face
- Pros and cons of asphalt shingles
- Pros and cons of metal roofing in Reno
- Cost, energy, and resale comparisons
- What to look for in Reno roofing contractors
Understanding Roofing Services and Needs in Nevada
Before comparing asphalt and metal, it helps to understand what makes the state’s climate such a challenge. The high desert brings a mix of extremes that can age a roof and the roofing underlayment faster than you’d expect.
Weather Challenges in Northern Nevada
Summer days regularly top 90°F in places like Reno, while winter nights dip well below freezing. Add heavy snow, 60-mph winds, and intense UV exposure at higher altitudes, and your roof is dealing with constant stress.
Rapid temperature swings cause expansion and contraction, which can crack or curl weaker materials. Without a roofing system built for resilience, roof repairs become an expensive routine.
Energy Efficiency Matters
The weather doesn’t just test durability. It also drives up utility bills. In Nevada, nearly 60% of households rely on natural gas for heating, and about 34% use electricity.
An efficient, reflective roofing system can lower heating demands by helping maintain indoor temperatures, while also cooling the home more effectively in summer.
Overview of Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt shingles are the go-to roofing choice for most homeowners, and not just because they’re familiar. They’re cost-effective, widely available, and can usually be installed in just a few days.
Lifespan and Maintenance
A standard asphalt roof lasts 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the shingles and the upkeep. Reno’s climate, however, can shorten that window.
UV rays fade and weaken shingles, while freeze-thaw cycles may cause edges to curl or crack. Regular inspections, quick repairs, and keeping gutters clear all help extend the life of an asphalt roof.
Cost and Accessibility
Asphalt shingles remain the most budget-friendly option. Both the materials and the labor are widely available in Reno, which keeps prices down and timelines short.
For homeowners selling a property soon — or those with urgent roofing needs — shingles often make the most practical choice. Plus, many local waste providers now offer recycling programs for old shingles, adding an eco-friendly touch to roof replacement projects.
Overview of Metal Roofing in Nevada
Metal roofing projects have gained serious traction in Northern Nevada – especially Reno. Homeowners choose it for durability, energy performance, and the modern look it brings to a property.
While it costs more upfront than asphalt, many see it as a long-term investment.
Types and Styles Available
Metal roofing isn’t universal. Options range from standing seam panels to corrugated sheets and even metal shingles designed to mimic traditional styles.
Materials like steel, aluminum, and copper give homeowners flexibility on both price and appearance. Many products also come with reflective coatings and color choices that boost efficiency and curb appeal.
Lifespan and Energy Performance
With proper roof installation, metal roofs last 40 to 70 years — double or even triple the lifespan of asphalt. They stand up well to Reno’s high winds, hail, and wildfire risks.
Energy-wise, they reflect solar heat in summer, helping lower cooling costs. And in winter, when paired with quality insulation, they help maintain steady indoor temperatures. For homeowners adding solar panels, metal roofing also makes an ideal partner thanks to its strength and longevity.
Pros and Cons of Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt shingles remain popular for a reason, but they’re not without trade-offs—especially in Reno’s climate.
| Feature | Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofing |
| Upfront Cost | Most affordable option; low labor costs | 2–3x higher than asphalt depending on style |
| Lifespan | 15–30 years (often shorter in Reno’s climate) | 40–70 years with proper installation |
| Weather Resistance | Prone to roof leaks, cracking, curling, and wind damage | Excellent against wind, hail, and wildfires |
| Maintenance | Requires frequent inspections and repairs | Low-maintenance; fewer roof repairs needed |
| Energy Efficiency | Absorbs more heat; ventilation needed | Reflects sunlight; lowers summer cooling costs |
| Appearance | Traditional, widely accepted in neighborhoods | Modern or traditional styles; many color options |
| Resale Value | Adds value but less long-term impact | Often recoups more at resale; seen as premium |
Costs and Long-Term Value
When choosing between asphalt and metal, it’s important to look beyond installation costs. A roof is a decades-long investment, and the real value comes from how long it lasts, how much it saves on utilities, and how it impacts resale.
Lifespan and Warranty
The biggest difference between asphalt and metal is durability. Asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 30 years, with warranties that average around 20 years.
In Reno, for example, harsh summers, freeze-thaw cycles, and high winds often push shingles toward the shorter end of that range. Metal roofing in Reno, on the other hand, is built for longevity. Most systems last 40 to 70 years, and many come with warranties of 40–50 years.
That kind of lifespan means fewer replacements, less disruption, and lower lifetime costs.
- Asphalt shingles: 15–30 years, shorter in Reno’s climate
- Metal roofing: 40–70 years, often with 40–50 year warranties
Energy and Resale Impact
Your roof also plays a major role in efficiency and overall value. Asphalt shingles tend to absorb heat, which can drive up summer cooling bills unless attic ventilation is excellent.
While they do add resale value, they don’t carry the same weight as premium materials. Metal roofing reflects sunlight, which helps keep homes cooler in summer, and when paired with good insulation, it holds heat in winter.
According to the National Association of Realtors, metal roofs often recoup a higher percentage of their cost at resale compared to asphalt, thanks to their longevity and energy-saving performance.
- Asphalt shingles: Absorb heat; modest impact on resale
- Metal roofing: Reflects sunlight; stronger resale value
Choosing the Right Reno Roofing Contractors
Even the best roofing material won’t perform if it’s installed poorly. That’s why choosing the right contractor is just as important as deciding between asphalt and metal.
Local experience matters most. Reno roofing contractors understand the region’s codes, weather extremes, and neighborhood requirements better than anyone.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Before signing a contract, take time to vet your options. A reliable roofer should be transparent about their process, warranties, and past work. Make sure you ask your roofing contractors the following questions.
- Are they licensed and insured?
- Do they offer manufacturer and labor warranties?
- Can they provide recent references in Reno?
- Are they familiar with wind, snow, and wildfire risks in the area?
Why Local Roofing Company Expertise Matters
Working with a local company means faster response times, especially after storms. It also means the crew is familiar with which materials hold up best in Reno’s unique climate and can provide quality services.
Contractors tied to the community are also more likely to understand HOA requirements and offer ongoing support if roofing issues arise.
- Quicker response times after severe weather
- Knowledge of materials that perform in Reno’s climate
- Understanding of local codes and HOA restrictions
Final Nail in the Roof
Asphalt and metal each have their place. Asphalt shingles give homeowners a budget-friendly, fast roofing solution, but they come with shorter lifespans and more upkeep. Metal roofing costs more upfront, but it delivers decades of durability, better energy performance, and stronger resale value.
Whichever option you choose, the key is working with experienced Reno roofing contractors who know how to match materials to the region’s weather. Local experts who bring that know-how, guiding homeowners through everything from material selection to installation.
