Asphalt or metal roof

[Jonathan Roberts]

Potential deal: 

Looking at a triplex later today which from the pictures needs its shake roof replaced. This property will be a buy-and-hold which begs the question of whether I go with a bit more expensive metal roof or asphalt shingles. I've read that metal will last possibly twice as long as asphalt though a tad more expensive to install. Most roofs in my area, Cheyenne, Wy, never make it to 30 years and are lucky to make it past 5 years... Any opinions? 

Thanks!

-Jon

[Thomas S.]

You may want to check into the cost of metal first. A tad more expensive may be wildly incorrect depending on the area.

In my area metal will cost 3X as much as asphalt. This is not cost effective for a rental based on the fact that no investor knows how long they will hold. 

In my area asphalt will last 15 years and metal undetermined, possibly 50 years or more. I would stay with asphalt on a rental for cost reasons.