Metal Roof Cost

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.

Important Metal Roof Cost Considerations

The size and material of the roof are the two most important factors affecting the cost of metal roofing, but the pitch and style of your home’s roof will also have an impact. We’ll dissect these elements as well as unforeseen expenses like underlayment and permits below.

Kind 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, costing 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, costing 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 has 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.

Roof Dimensions

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.

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 rising 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.

Fashion

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.

Work

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 Expense Elements

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. Not considering labor costs, budget about $2 per square foot to get this done.

Selecting Metal Coatings and Colors to Save Energy: Selecting the appropriate coating can help you save more energy. White and cool-colored roofs reflect more solar radiation, reflecting more UV light 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. A roofing permit typically costs between $150 and $500. You can visit your local building authority to find out what permits are required in your area.

Climate-specific Best Metal Roof Types

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’ 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.

Extra Advantages 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 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.

Kinds of Rusting 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 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 roofs offer a number of long-term financial advantages. 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%.

Home Resale Value and Metal Roofs

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%.

Expert 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. This is why even tiny cracks or leaks have the potential to develop into expensive infestations over time.

How to Pick 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 Work

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.

Appropriate 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 Guarantee

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.

 

*These are cost estimates. Contact the team at Roof Pros Dallas for more information!

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