GAF Fibreglass Shingles vs Metal Roofing in Southwestern Ontario - 2025 Guide -
If you’re planning a roof replacement in Southwestern Ontario, you want a roof that will stand up to winters, heat, snow, wind, and also look great, protect your home, and deliver value over time. Two of the top choices homeowners are weighing in 2025 are GAF fibreglass shingles and metal roofing. As a GAF Master Elite Contractor, B&B Roofing & Exteriors specialises in both—and we’re here to help you understand what each option offers, what trade-offs to expect, and how to make a confident decision.
What Are GAF Fibreglass Shingles?
Fibreglass shingles are asphalt shingles reinforced with a fibreglass mat. GAF, a leading name in the roofing industry, has made fibreglass-asphalt shingles that are designed for durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal of GAF fibreglass shingles:
They include a fibreglass mat core, which gives strength and stability.
Top-quality GAF products (e.g. Timberline UHDZ, HDZ, etc.) also come with strong warranties (wind, algae protection, etc.).
They offer many colours, styles, textures. Architectural styles mimic slate or shake; different granule blends resist algae, fade, etc.
Benefits you’ll often see with GAF fibreglass shingles:
Lower upfront cost compared with premium metal roofing.
Familiar look for many homes, good curb appeal.
Reliable performance with proper installation, underlayment, ventilation.
What About Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing is increasingly popular across Ontario—especially with people who plan to stay long term, want low maintenance, and want something with a long lifespan.
Some features and advantages:
Longevity: Metal roofs can often last 40-70 years, sometimes more with good upkeep.
Resistance to severe weather: Strong performance in snow loads, ice, heavy rain, wind. Less risk of rot or damage from mold, insects, etc.
Energy efficiency: Metal reflects more sunlight than dark asphalt, which helps reduce attic heat gain in summer. This can lower cooling costs.
Style options: Modern metal roofs come in many colours, finishes, profiles—standing seam, corrugated panels, etc.—making them more visually interesting than before.
Drawbacks & things to consider:
Higher upfront cost. Material + labour tend to be more expensive (though long-term ROI can be strong).
Appearance: May not suit every home style (though with modern designs, there are many matching options).
Installation complexity: Requires skilled installer, good ventilation, proper under roof details to avoid problems with noise, condensation, flashing, etc.
GAF Fibreglass vs Metal: What’s Best for You
Here are comparisons and decision factors to help homeowners in Southwestern Ontario choose between GAF fibreglass shingles and metal roofing.
| Decision Factor | GAF Fibreglass Shingles | Metal Roofing |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower. You get more-affordable material & quicker install. | Higher. Material & labour cost more. |
| Life Span | Typically 25-30 years (or more with premium products & good maintenance) using quality GAF shingles. | 40-70 years or more, depending on metal type, finish, maintenance. |
| Weather Resistance | Very good: wind ratings, UV resistance, granule protection, etc., especially with GAF’s top models. But more vulnerable to hail, snow load stress, or ice dams if not properly ventilated. | Excellent: better resistance to many weather elements; snow slides off more easily; less damage from rot or mold. |
| Aesthetic & Style Flexibility | Broad—many colours, textures, styles. GAF has many architectural options. | Also broad, especially with current metal profiles & finishes. Offers bold design opportunities. |
| Maintenance & Repair | Moderate. Shingles can lose granules, need replacement of some pieces, etc. Proper ventilation, underlayment, slope matter. | Lower maintenance in many respects, though occasional inspection, fastening or flashing maintenance, possible repainting or recoating depending on finish. |
| Energy & Efficiency | Newer GAF shingles do better with reflective granules; underlayment & attic insulation aid performance. | Metal tends to reflect more solar energy; better for reducing attic heat gain. Can improve insulation value depending on roof system. |
| Resale / Long-Term Value | Solid. Especially with well-rated GAF shingles + good warranty. | Very strong. Buyers often see metal roofing as a premium upgrade. |
Why Choosing the Right Contractor Matters
Even the best materials won’t perform well if installed poorly. With roofing, the details matter: underlayment, flashings, proper ventilation, ice & water barriers, workmanship, warranty registration, etc.
As a GAF Master Elite Contractor, B&B Roofing & Exteriors delivers:
Full system installations using GAF-approved accessories (ridge caps, starter strips, ice-water protection, ventilation) so your roof qualifies for full warranties.
Quality installations for metal roofing to ensure proper sealing, flashing, finishes, and roof design compatibility.
Skilled crews familiar with Southwestern Ontario’s climate (snow loads, freeze/thaw, ice dams, wind).
Support through warranty trials, inspections, maintenance advice.
What’s Right for You in 2025?
Here are some quick guidelines:
If you want lower up-front cost, strong look, solid performance, and plan to move in ~20-30 years, GAF fibreglass shingles are excellent.
If you plan to stay in your home for decades, want minimal maintenance, and want a more robust roof against severe weather, metal roofing may be worth the extra investment.
Consider hybrid approaches: for some homes, using metal on sections (e.g. dormers or accents) + high-end GAF shingles elsewhere gives style + cost balance.
Final Thoughts & Contacting B&B Roofing & Exteriors
Roofing decisions aren’t just about “roof over your head”—they’re about peace of mind, value, and future savings. Between premium GAF fibreglass shingles and modern metal roofing, the right choice depends on your home, budget, style preferences, and how long you plan to stay.
At B&B Roofing & Exteriors, we’re all about helping you make the choice that fits your goals. We offer free consultations, walk you through material options, cost projections, warranty details, and what looks best with your home’s style. If you’re thinking about replacing your roof in 2025 or just want to compare quotes, call us or contact us online—let’s ensure your roof works hard, looks great, and protects your investment for years to come.