The average cost of a metal roof is approximately $11,000, although prices can vary from $7,081 to $110,150. The main advantage of metal roofs is that they survive longer than practically any other form of roof. Along with being more resilient to impacts and strong winds, metal roofs are also more durable than asphalt shingles. By lowering the temperature in your attic and ceiling, they can help minimize your energy expenditures.
The price for these advantages and longer lifespan is high. Because the materials are more expensive and the labor required is more, installing these roofs is more expensive than installing asphalt shingles. We’ll go over each of the variables that could affect the overall cost of installing a metal roof below.
What Is the Average Cost of a Metal Roof?
Low End
$7,081
Average
$11,000
High End
$110,150
Important Metal Roof Cost Factors
Discover the key determinants of metal roofing costs, beyond mere material and size considerations. Unveil how your home’s roof style and pitch factor into the total expenses. Uncover hidden costs such as permitting and underlayment, ensuring you’re fully informed before embarking on your roofing project.
Type of Metal
When installing a new metal roof, material selection is one of the most important decisions. There is a wide selection of metal available at varying pricing points. The following are some of the most popular types and brands of metal roof shingles, along with an average price per square foot across the country:
Aluminum
The most popular metal roof option, costs between $4 and $11. They are also the most reasonably priced. Aluminum is recyclable, has a 45-year lifespan, and uses little energy. It also requires little upkeep.
Copper
The most costly metal roofing material, costs between $15 and $30. On the other hand, copper roofs are comparatively little maintenance and have a lifespan of more than 100 years. They also resist rust and, with time, acquire a beautiful colored coating called a patina.
Lead ($10 to $15)
With a lifespan of more than a century, lead has been used for roofing for a very long time. In the United States, lead is considered acceptable for roofs even though it is prohibited in other nations since householders aren’t handling it or inhaling vapors.
Rusted ($9 to $15)
Pre-rusted roofs have a worn appearance that serves as a barrier. We advise against installing rusty roofs near the seaside because the ocean’s salt spray keeps the inner protective oxide layer from forming.
Steel ($6 to $16)
Galvalume, galvanized, and stainless steel are the three types of steel roofs available. The priciest material is stainless steel, which also happens to be the most rust-resistant. Galvalume and steel that have been galvanized are less expensive and require less upkeep.
Tin ($5 to $12)
Older homes frequently have tin roofs. They have a 70-year or longer lifespan if installed and maintained properly. However, in order to keep rust and corrosion at bay, they need routine maintenance.
Zinc
Another metal alternative that, with proper care, can last over a century is zinc, which costs between $6 and $12. Zinc can really mend scratches and nicks on its own and form a protective layer as it weathers because to its self-healing qualities.
The price of each type of metal roof is further broken down in the following table.
| Roof Type | Average Cost per Square Foot | Cost for 2,300 Square Foot Roof |
| Zinc | $6 to $12 | $13,800 to $36,800 |
| Rusted | $9 to $15 | $20,700 to $34,500 |
| Lead | $10 to $15 | $23,000 to $34,500 |
| Copper | $15 to $30 | $34,500 to $69,000 |
| Steel | $6 to $16 | $13,800 to $36,800 |
| Tin | $5 to $12 | $11,500 to $27,600 |
| Aluminum | $4 to $11 | $9,200 to $25,300 |
Size of Roof
The majority of roofing companies base their installation costs on the square footage of your roof. A metal roof will cost more the larger your home is. A few of thousand dollars can differ even by a few hundred square feet. The typical cost of installing a metal roof for a variety of roof sizes is shown in the following table. The material’s standard pitch of 6:12 and aluminum will be assumed in the table.
| Home Size | Roof Size | Average Metal Roof Installation Cost |
| 1,000 sq ft | 1,279 | $9,593 |
| 1,500 sq ft | 1,872 | $14,040 |
| 2,000 sq ft | 2,461 | $18,458 |
| 2,500 sq ft | 3,046 | $22,845 |
Pitch and Slope of the Roof
The pitch or slope of a roof directly influences how much installing a metal roof will cost. It accomplishes this in two ways: by raising the project’s difficulty and material prices.
A roof’s overall area and construction materials will increase proportionately with its greater slope. Working on steeper-sloped roofs is far riskier. Extreme pitches and non-standard designs on roofs can result in higher labor costs or extra service costs for specialized equipment.
The number of inches that a roof rises vertically for every 12 inches that it extends horizontally is known as the X:12 ratio, which is used to quantify roof pitches. Generally speaking, a pitch steeper than 6:12 is sufficiently steep to require more work.
Pitch and Slope of the Roof
There are various types of metal roofs, such as standing seams, corrugated panels, metal shingles, and metal panels. The smallest shingles are made of metal, which is advantageous if your roof requires the material to be fitted around chimneys and other odd forms. Because they are larger, metal panels are best suited for simpler roof designs. The wavy pattern and exposed fasteners of corrugated panels facilitate a simpler installation process. Wide, flat, vertical panels with a rib at each end and concealed fasteners underneath give standing-seam metal roofs a sleek, contemporary appearance.
Labor
The average price for a professional roofer is $11 per square foot or around $60 per hour. Since demand is highest in the summer, scheduling a roofing project during this time will result in higher installation charges. Because it takes more time and labor to work around elements like vents, skylights, and chimneys, complex roof designs also cost more.
Additional Cost Factors
In addition to these, the following charges may have an effect on the overall cost of a metal roof:
Installing Underlayment: On a metal roof, underlayment should be installed even if it’s not usually necessary. This adds extra insulation and keeps leaks from happening. The most popular choice is felt, which costs around $2 per square foot and lasts for 15 to 20 years. Although synthetic underlayment has a lifespan of at least 40 years, it costs roughly $5 per square foot. In warmer climates, we advise utilizing synthetic underlayment.
Adding Protective Metal Roof Coating: Since a metal roof will eventually need to be coated, it makes sense to do it when the roof is being installed. Your roof is better protected against rusting, leaks, and cracks the sooner you get it done. Expect to pay around $2 per square foot to have this done, not including the cost of labor.
Selecting Metal Coatings and Colors to Save Energy: Selecting the appropriate coating can help you save more energy. Cool-colored and white roofs have higher solar reflectance, reflecting more UV rays and absorbing less heat. Because a metal or cool-colored roof requires far less cooling, it can save energy expenses by 25% to 40% on average.
Obtaining State and City Permits: Whether you require a permit for a roof replacement depends on the nature of the work and the regulations in your county. Although most jobs costing more than a certain amount actually require permits, states and counties generally don’t state this. The average cost for a roofing permit is between $150 and $500. You can check your area’s permit requirements by visiting your local building authority.
Best Metal Roof Types for Each Climate
Colder climes are generally better suited for metal roofs. They are resilient to the dampness and lower temperatures of long winters. In warm, sunny climates, metal roofing can also be beneficial. These roofs help lower cooling expenses and withstand more UV radiation. Metal roofing should not be seen in coastal areas. Exposure to coastal air leads to increased salinity, also referred to as “sea air,” which accelerates the rusting and degradation of exposed metals.
Stronger metal roofs—like steel—are especially well-suited for regions that experience frequent hailstorms and strong winds. Because of its weight and greater durability, steel can survive more severe weather. Metals like copper, zinc, and aluminum that resist corrosion and moisture are more suitable for homeowners in areas with high rainfall.
Ratings for Noise Reduction in Various Metals
A common misconception regarding metal roofing is that it produces more noise than conventional asphalt shingles. This myth is true in theory. But not to the extent that one would typically notice during a downpour. An asphalt roof’s usual noise level is roughly 46 dBA (decibels), whereas a metal roof’s typical noise rating is 52 dBA. This indicates that metal roofs have a slight increase in noise. Moreover, the loudness of your roof can be significantly impacted by elements like insulation.
Metal Roofs Pros and Cons
Although metal roofs don’t absorb heat or are noisy, these assertions aren’t accurate given modern installation practices. In actuality, a metal roof has numerous advantageous qualities over an asphalt roof, including:
PROS
- Durability during storms
- Eco-friendly
- Federal and local tax incentives for using energy-saving materials
- Fire-resistance
- Life span of over 100 years
- Potential increased home value
- Sun reflection, which saves on cooling costs
CONS
- Color-matching difficulty if you replace or add a section later
- Higher material and labor costs
- More expensive and time-consuming repairs
- Vulnerability to denting
- Aluminum and steel roofs can rust over time
A Closer Look at the Pros and Cons
Metal roofs’ longevity and durability
The greater lifetime and durability of metal roofing is one of their main advantages. Compared to asphalt shingles, metal roofs are more resilient to weathering, collisions, and other types of damage. Compared to asphalt shingles, metal roofs have a far longer lifespan. While all metal roofs endure at least 40 years, the average asphalt roof only lasts 15 to 30 years. Under the right circumstances and with the right care, copper and zinc roofs can endure up to 100 years.
Metal Roofs’ Cost- and Energy-saving Qualities
You may be able to lower your energy costs with a metal roof. This is accomplished via metal roofs, which reflect more sunlight than asphalt, diverting it away from your house and bringing down the temperature. You won’t use as much energy on fans and cooling since your house—more especially, the attic and ceiling—isn’t as hot. Under the right circumstances, an ENERGY STAR-qualified cool roof can save you as much as $1.11 per square foot of roofing, according to the Federal Energy Management Program. Choosing cool paint colors, like white or teal, will help your metal roof become more energy-efficient.
Additional Benefits of Metal Roofs
The use of metal roofing has a number of additional noteworthy advantages, including:
Resistance to mold, algae, and bacteria: Copper’s fungicide and algaecidal properties enable it to withstand the growth of gutters and roofs.
Snow resistance: Metal roofs shed snow better than asphalt shingles because they have less traction. Although they can have certain drawbacks, such as increased water runoff, the heat and light they displace can aid in the quicker melting of snow.
Gorgeous patina: Over time, copper and zinc roofing systems can acquire a visually beautiful patina. Zinc is a soft silver tone, whereas copper is an off-green hue.
Additional Benefits of Metal Roofs
Roofs made of steel and aluminum can rust over time. When aluminum is nearing the end of its useful life or in an area with corrosive circumstances, it usually rusts. If steel is exposed to continuous rain, it will rust significantly more quickly; however, stainless or galvanized steel resists corrosion far better. Zinc has a corrosion rate of one-twentieth that of steel, while copper never rusts.
Resistance to Dents in Metal Roofing
Indeed, metal roofs can get dented, particularly from hail damage. But the damage they get seldom ever affects how well the roof works. Even in the event of denting, the internal systems of metal roofs are kept safe and secure by a robust support structure. If you live in an area where there is a lot of hail or strong winds, we advise choosing a steel roof. Compared to aluminum, copper, and zinc, steel is significantly heavier and more impact-resistant.
What Are Metal Roofs’ Long-Term Costs and Savings?
Metal roofing offers several financial advantages over time. All things considered, they’re a better investment than regular asphalt shingles. The longer lifespan of metal roofing is the main return on investment (ROI) that they offer. The energy savings that metal roofing provides are an additional cost-saving advantage. Research have indicated that by reducing attic and ceiling heat, metal roofs can dramatically cut the energy load on your house.
The Life Expectancy of Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal
In the long term, metal roofs are more cost-effective than shingle roofs since they last two to three times longer. Because metal roofs are more resilient and less likely to leak or break minorly, you’ll also save money on repairs. While most metal roofs last 40 to 70 years, asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 30 years. In perfect circumstances, premium metal roofs made of copper and zinc can endure up to 100 years with proper care.
Estimated Long-Term Savings on Energy Bills
In order to determine how much energy three metal roofs could save by reflecting heat and UV rays, this scientific study from 2013 compared the roofs against an asphalt shingle roof. “Compared to the asphalt shingle roof, all three test roofs showed the potential for substantial energy savings,” the study said. They significantly decreased the amount of heat transfer through the ceiling and roof as well as the daily variations in attic temperature.
A number of variables affect how much money you save: the type of metal you choose, the color you paint, the type of insulation, where you live, attic ventilation, etc. Nonetheless, the majority of sources claim that installing a metal roof can result in energy cost savings of 25% to 40%.
Estimated Long-Term Savings on Energy Bills
The present state of the housing market in your area, the material of your roof, and its condition will all affect its resale value. The resale value of most metal roofs is estimated by Remodeling Magazine and Angi to be approximately 60%. According to estimates from other sources, adding a metal roof to a house raises its selling price by roughly 6%.
Professional vs. Do-it-yourself Metal Roofing Installation
When it comes to metal roofs, we don’t advise DIY installations. Even while skimping on labor can save you several thousand dollars, roof work is extremely risky and can cause structural problems and water damage to your house if done incorrectly.
If you think you’re competent enough to install a metal roof yourself, make sure you have the right permits, utilize a roofing safety harness, and do extensive study on the installation procedure for the material and style you’ve chosen.
Get bids from local roofing providers using the widget below if you’re interested in a professional installation.
Risks Associated with Poor DIY Metal Roof Installation
The first line of defense for your house against the elements—rain, wind, other people, and pests—is the roof. Numerous issues can arise from a poorly installed roof that was done at home. Water, for instance, can soak through your ceiling, walls, fascia, and other home components, causing damage worth thousands of dollars. Termites and other wood-boring insects are among the pests that particularly enjoy feeding on wet wood. Because of this, even a small gap or leak can eventually lead to costly infestations.
How to Choose a Reputable Metal Roofing Company
It can be challenging to find a trustworthy roofer, particularly for first-time homebuyers. We’ll go over all you need to know about selecting a trustworthy metal roof installer below.
Years of Experience
We advise looking up each company’s past transactions on websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The BBB will disclose all significant complaints and infractions brought against a provider, in addition to informing you of how long the provider has been in operation. Seek out a business that has installed metal roofs for a considerable amount of time and receives few serious complaints.
Proper Insurance and Licensure
Next, make sure every business has the appropriate insurance and bonding. Every state designates a regulatory agency to manage contractor licensing and regulation. The license lookup tool in your state allows you to verify the license status of your business. You must find out which insurance company each business uses. You can check the proof-of-insurance card or policy number of most trustworthy companies online.
Portfolio of Metal Roofs Completed
Reputable contractors typically have a website with a gallery of their finished projects. Make sure you go through them and find high-quality installations of metal roofs.
Written Estimate of Cost and Warranty
Never do business with a contractor who demands payment in cash only. Deal with contractors only who offer trustworthy warranties and free estimates. Two of the most popular methods dishonest contractors deceive homes are verbal agreements and cash-only schemes.
Our Recommendation
For many homeowners, the durability and lifespan of metal roofs make them worth the higher expense compared to many other roof materials. Purchasing a metal roof could prevent you from having to pay for future roof maintenance. In addition, your power costs will go down, and your home’s market value can possibly go up. Consider the benefits of each type of metal roof before deciding which material and price range is right for you. Some types of metal roofs are significantly more expensive than others.
Aluminum Standing Seam Roof: Best Metal Roof
For most homeowners, we advise standing seam aluminum roofing. The most adaptable, dependable, and affordable roofing material is aluminum. It is easily accessible, lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion.
Aluminum Standing Seam Roof: Best Metal Roof
Aluminum that has been coated white is the most affordable material available. The least expensive metal roof material available is aluminum. Long-term cost savings and increased UV ray deflection are both possible with a white heat-resistant coating.
Aluminum Standing Seam Roof: Best Metal Roof
Metal roofs made of copper and zinc have the longest lifespans. Under ideal circumstances and with appropriate upkeep, these roofs have a 100-year lifespan. They are less appropriate for locations with extreme weather, nevertheless, because they are softer than other materials. If you want sheer durability, steel roofs are a superior option.
White Metal Roofing Is the Most Energy Efficient
Depending on its coating, every metal roof can have an energy-efficient rating. An energy-efficient roof is one that is cool and light in color, such as a white metal roof.
Conclusion
In conclusion, navigating the costs and benefits of metal roofing demands thorough consideration of various factors. From material selection to roof size and pitch, each element influences the overall expense and performance. While initial costs may be higher, the durability, energy efficiency, and longevity of metal roofs offer compelling long-term advantages. Prioritize reputable installations and weigh the pros and cons of each metal type to make an informed decision aligned with your budget and needs. With proper research and planning, investing in a metal roof can be a wise and enduring choice for your property’s protection and value.
