When you want to renovate your roof or are building a new house, the roofing cost is one of the main aspects you should consider. With the rising popularity of metal roofs, knowing the type and cost of a metal roof helps make this all-important decision.
A brand-new metal roof typically costs $11,557, but prices range from $9,150 to $16,743. Despite the cost, metal roofing provides higher durability, energy savings, and return on investment. It is available in a variety of materials, designs, and styles.
Having worked with several builders and building companies, I advise you to always consult with your building contractor and the company that makes the metal roofs to know exactly which roof works for you.
Metal roof cost comparison
It is crucial to select a roofing style that is appropriate for your region’s environment. Some metals can withstand corrosion, heat reflection, and impact damage better than others.
Metal roof components are frequently offered in “squares” (100 square feet), even though roofing professionals often break down the cost by square feet.
| Material | Cost per square foot ($) |
| Aluminum | $6.50 – $21 |
| Steel (Galvanized) | $1.50 – $3.50 |
| Steel (Painted) | $2 – $4 |
| Stainless steel | $7 – $20 |
| Tin | $10 – $26 |
| Zinc | $13 – $25 |
| Copper | $20 – $40 |
Metal roofs are the best type for long-term protection since they may last 50 years or longer, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance. Read our in-depth cost guide to make the best decision for you.
Copper
The most expensive roofing materials are made of copper; they cost between $2,000 and $4,000 per roofing square and range in price from $20 to $40 per square foot.
A 1,700-square-foot roof could run up to $68,000 between labor and materials. But even as the patina changes in the sun, copper roofing will survive over a century, withstand corrosion, and keep its beauty.
Tin
Tin roofing costs about $10-26 per square foot, depending on the quality of the materials. For a 1,700-square-foot roof, the costs start from $17,000 to as high as $44,200 or even more.
Steel
Steel roofs are adaptable, with labor and material costs ranging from $5 to $17 per square foot or between $500 and $1,700 per roofing square. Simple corrugated steel sheets to galvanized steel that comes in shingles and tiles are all included in the vast price range.
Specialized coatings are used on more expensive steel roofs to change the metal’s appearance and level of durability.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel roofing is distinct, with prices ranging from $7 to $20 per square foot. The superior metal can withstand storm damage, rust, and corrosion for up to 100 years without losing strength.
The popularity of stainless steel for residential buildings is rising, yet you might need to replace its fading patina over time.
Aluminum
The recyclable aluminum roofing alternatives are ideal for homeowners wishing to modernize in an environmentally friendly way. Additionally, aluminum excels at reflecting sunlight, which could reduce your need for air conditioning.
Aluminum roof installation will cost between $6.50 and $21 per square foot, including labor. These roofs can also go up to 50 years without needing significant maintenance. My house has had two previous owners, and the aluminum roof is still in great condition.
Zinc
Zinc roofing is an equally remarkable metal that keeps its protective patina and covering against harm. Zinc roofing costs, including installation, can range from $14.50 to $21 per square foot. Even in challenging conditions, you will spend much less on maintenance over time.
This shows that metal roofs are costlier than shingles which cost about $5,700 – $12,000.
What factors determine the cost of metal roofs?
The following aspects determine the total cost of a metal roof:
1. Current state and condition of your roof
The state of your current roof will impact how much it will cost to install a new one. Before you can install the new roof, the underlayment of your old roof must be repaired or replaced if it’s in bad shape.
2. Design and form of your roof
The cost of installing your roof will depend on the design and form of your roof. More complicated ceilings with chimneys, skylights, several levels, or valleys will be more challenging and cost more.
3. Roofing materials
You’ll need to buy other supplies in addition to the roofing panels. The final cost must include an account for materials, including decking, underlayment, vents, roofing nails, flashing, and trim.
4. Roofing Squares
A “roofing square” is a measurement equivalent to 100 square feet. When estimating the required materials and labor, roofing contractors typically utilize this standard unit of measure. Typically, a metal roof’s cost is expressed in roofing squares.
5. Waste Factor
To avoid running out of the necessary resources in the middle of a task, most contractors add up to 15% of the materials required as a buffer. The waste factor considers material not used or removed around penetrations, flashing, and gable ends.
6. Roof square footage
The overall square footage of your roof will play a significant role in deciding how much to install a metal roof. Your roof’s size will affect how much material and labor you need, raising the overall cost.
Besides these aspects, consider roofing accessories such as roof gutters which complete a roof.
Metal roofs pros and cons
Curious as to why so many homeowners use this building material? Below is a complete list of the advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing. If you consider them, you will realize that this dependable roofing overhead would also benefit you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Durable and long-lasting | Costly |
| Environmental friendly | Can get dented |
| Energy efficient | Can be noisy |
| Stylish/ Aesthetically pleasing | Fade over time |
Advantages of metal roofs
Below are some of the reasons why you should get a metal roof:
1. Metal roofs are strong and resilient
Most homeowners choose metal roofing over other options, whether re-roofing an existing structure or building a new one, because of its extended lifespan, which tops the list of the material’s “pros.”
An adequately fitted metal roof usually lasts up to 70 years and comes with a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty, making it endure as long as the house.
Thanks to rust-proof coatings, you can rely on the material’s exceptional resilience to survive the elements, including strong winds, and not rust or break.
2. Metals are eco-friendly
Metal roofs are regarded as an environmentally friendly option. To begin with, they are 100% recyclable and include at least 25% recycled materials.
Metal roofing offers a perfect platform for homeowners who want to implement various eco-conscious projects, such as solar panels and rainwater collection systems.
3. Metal roofs are energy-efficient
Because of how reflective a metal roof is, the expense of installing one can be paid for by the money you save on monthly heating and cooling bills. Throughout the year, but especially during the long summer days, metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat instead of absorbing it, which can cut cooling expenses by as much as 25%.
Additionally, some metal roofing is coated with heat-reflective pigments to reduce heat input and keep people comfortable without running the air conditioner.
4. Metal roofs are appealing
The corrugated tin barns of bygone days are a far cry from today’s metal roofs; you may now choose from tin, zinc, aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel in a bewildering array of colors, finishes, and even designs!
There are more than 100 different colors available for modern metal roofing, including basic, superior, and custom shades.
Disadvantages of metal roofs
Here are some of the disadvantages of having metal doors:
1. The cost of metal roofs is high
A metal roof costs a lot of money despite promising many years of service. Per 100 square feet, this material might cost anywhere between $120 and 900.
However, this price range is similar to other high-end roofing materials. More expensive metals can cost up to 10 times as much as asphalt shingles.
Furthermore, due to the specialized training, knowledge, tools, and equipment required for installation, not only do the materials have high price tags, but the labor is also more expensive than what you would pay for other types of roofing.
2. Metal roofs are prone to dents
Large hail or falling branches can puncture some metal, even though modern metal roofs are made to survive decades of abuse from intense weather. You might not even be able to walk on the metal shingles without destroying them, depending on the type of roof.
If these flaws sound more like deal-breakers, you can avoid them altogether if you pick the correct shingle. However, some metals are more durable than others. For instance, aluminum and copper are more susceptible to this harm because they are softer than steel.
3. Metal roofs can make noise
Despite being labeled as a “con” above, this negative isn’t necessary. Metal roofing can be noisier than other types, especially during a downpour or thunderstorm, but this is usually mitigated by installing additional layers of solid sheathing or insulation beneath it.
With soundproofing materials and many other methods, you can reduce upstairs noises, such as those from a metal roof.
Summary
In conclusion, even though they can offer protection and comfort over the long haul, metal roofs are undoubtedly a popular choice or a superior general roofing solution to more often used options. But like they say, you get what you pay for. Metal roofs’ sturdiness, longevity, and sustainability can’t be surpassed.