Metal vs. Asphalt Roofing: Which Handles Summer Heat Better?

As temperatures rise across Ontario during the summer months, your roof becomes the first line of defense against extreme heat and harmful UV rays. If you're considering a new roof or evaluating your current one, you might be wondering: Which material performs better under intense summer conditions — metal or asphalt shingles?

This blog compares both options, helping you decide which roofing system offers better energy efficiency, durability, and value in the summer heat.

☀️ Why Summer Heat Is Tough on Roofs

Ontario’s warm months bring more than just sunshine — they bring:

• 🔥 UV radiation that breaks down roofing materials
• 🌡️ Prolonged surface temperatures over 60°C
• 💨 Sudden thunderstorms that test roof stability
• 💧 Humidity that seeps into gaps and cracks

Your roofing choice can make a huge difference in how your home handles the heat, how comfortable your attic stays, and how much you spend on cooling.

🔍 Asphalt vs. Metal Roofing in Summer: Head-to-Head Comparison

Feature	Asphalt Shingles	Metal Roofing
Heat Resistance	Absorbs heat; can become brittle over time	Reflects heat away from home; stays cooler overall
UV Durability	Degrades slowly under UV exposure; shorter lifespan	Excellent UV resistance; paint finishes protect surface
Lifespan	15–25 years (with good maintenance)	40–70 years (depending on the type of metal)
Energy Efficiency	Poor without reflective granules; attic can overheat	Naturally reflective; may reduce cooling costs by 10–25%
Maintenance Needs	Higher; prone to curling, granule loss, and leaks	Low; resists heat expansion and cracking
Cost (Installed)	$3–$6 per sq. ft.	$7–$12 per sq. ft. (higher upfront, but longer ROI)
Noise in Rain	Quieter with attic insulation	Can be noisy if not properly insulated
Eco-Friendliness	Petroleum-based, non-recyclable	Often made from recycled materials and fully recyclable

🛑 Common Summer Issues with Asphalt Shingles

• Curling and buckling due to thermal expansion
• Granule loss from UV breakdown
• Blistering from trapped moisture
• Melted sealant strips on very hot days
• Shorter service life when exposed to heat year after year

✅ Summer Advantages of Metal Roofing

• Reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it
• Cools faster at night, preventing attic heat build-up
• Highly durable under wind, hail, and UV exposure
• Can be installed with radiant barriers for even better efficiency
• Stylish modern designs now mimic traditional shingles, slate, or wood

🏠 What’s Right for Your Ontario Home?

If you're in a high-exposure area (like Hamilton, Cambridge, or rural properties with minimal shade), metal roofing can offer a better long-term solution for handling heat.

For budget-conscious homeowners or those needing a quick roof replacement, asphalt may still be a viable short-term choice — just expect more maintenance during heatwaves.

🛠️ Pro Tip:

Regardless of material, ventilation and insulation matter. A well-vented attic paired with proper insulation can reduce heat retention and prevent damage to either roof type.

🔧 We Can Help You Choose the Right Roof

At ContractLink, we offer:

✔️ Professional roof inspections
✔️ Honest recommendations based on your home’s conditions
✔️ Installation of both asphalt and standing seam metal roofs
✔️ Full attic and ventilation assessments
✔️ Custom quote packages with heat-efficiency in mind

👉 Book a Free Roofing Estimate

Ontario summers are getting hotter — make sure your roof is ready to handle the heat. 🔨☀️