Trying for find how much a metal roof costs?
Metal roofing is becoming a prevalent choice for homeowners looking to replace their roof. It offers durability, longevity, and a modern look that can increase the value of your home. But many homeowners think a new metal roof will cost them an arm and a leg, which isn’t entirely true.
While the cost of a metal roof is higher than that of a standard asphalt shingle roof, you get a lot more out of this valuable investment in your home. This guide will break down the cost of metal roofs by type to be better informed when making your purchase.
The Benefits of Investing in a Metal Roof
There’s a reason metal roofs continue to climb the ladder of popularity among today’s homeowners: they’re fantastic. They’re also durable, easy to maintain, long-lasting, fire-resistant, and more. Investing in a metal roof is a long-term investment with a massive ROI. The benefits of metal roofing include:
Durable
Metal is one of the more robust roofing materials and can withstand severe weather, strong winds, and even fire. It’s not the easily dented tin roofs you may be familiar with. Instead, corrugated steel is one of the primary materials used and is very strong.
Long-Lasting
Metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years with little to no maintenance. That’s over twice as long as the average asphalt shingle roof (25 years). So while you may be spending more upfront, you’re saving money by not having to replace your roof again for as long as you own your own.
Fire Resistance
Metal roofs are rated Class A against fire, the highest rating for a roof. This is incredibly enticing to people who live in areas susceptible to forest fires and those who want that added security in keeping their families safe.
Insect Resistance
Termites, mice, and other insects or rodents can wreak havoc on roofing materials but chewing through and making little holes where they get into your attic to build their nest. They can’t penetrate the metal, making your home much more secure against such small animals.
High Wind Resistance
A well-installed metal roof can withstand winds up to 140 mph.
Pro tip: When installing a metal roof, look for manufacturers who offer wind warranties.
Beautiful Aesthetic
Metal roofs not only protect your home for decades, but they look good while doing it. The days of a mundane, ugly exposed fastener metal roof are long gone. Now, homeowners can get standing seam, corrugated steel panels, and even metal shingles—so there’s no sacrificing style for durability.
Sustainable Materials
Metal roofs are made of recyclable materials and are highly sustainable for the environment. They also drastically improve your home’s energy efficiency, more so than many cheaper roofing materials. Asphalt shingles only end up in landfills, while metal can be recycled and reused many times.
Versatility
There is a lot of versatility when it comes to metal roofs. There’s something for everyone’s needs and budget, from design to functionality.
5 Factors That Affect Cost
The average installation cost of a metal roof in 2022 is $10,600. But that cost is not a flat rate, by any means. Costs can be affected by several factors, and also the more you pay, the more you get. So here are some of the critical factors that may raise or lower the cost of your metal roof.
1. Type of Metal Used
Common types of metal used for roofs include stainless steel, galvanized steel, tin, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Stainless steel is the most expensive, and zinc is the least.
2. Style and Color of Metal Roof
Going with the standard metal color for your roof can work great—you still get longevity and durability, but without the added style. The more complex the style, color, and texture of your roof, the more it will cost.
3. Cost of Labor
Labor costs can go up for more complex jobs and installation. For example, stainless steel roofs take longer because of the complexity of the installation and the weight of hauling the material up to the roof. This type takes longer to install, and you can expect the labor costs to be the majority of your overall installation cost.
4. The Size of Your Roof
Of course, the size of your roof is one of the most significant determining factors of the total cost. Most metal roofs are charged via cost per square, so the more square footage, the more expensive it will be.
Sometimes people will do metal on one section of the roof and a more standard shingle on the other to save money and give a different look to their home. So that’s also an option.
5. The Contractor You Hire
Ultimately, the contractor you hire can charge different amounts because they may use better quality materials, have faster timelines, or use more advanced techniques—thus driving up their costs. However, choosing an expensive roofer or a cheap one can actually make a significant difference in whether or not you get a good roof that lasts. So keep that in mind if you find contractors charging far less than their competitors. It may be for a (bad) reason.
How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost (By Material)?
Now the fun stuff—how much is this going to cost? As we said, a big factor that dictates how much your metal roof will cost is the type of material used. Each metal roofing material has different costs per square (100 sq. ft.) and even different labor costs. So knowing what to expect can help you make an educated decision of which one to go with.
Aluminum: $150-$650 per square
The price of aluminum can vary depending on whether it’s shingles or sheets. Aluminum is very cost-effective due to its easy installation reflectiveness and is 100% recyclable.
Copper: $750-$1,750 per square
Copper is one of the more expensive roofing materials because it’s more complex to install, thus requiring some more extensive professional training. However, it is very low maintenance, resistant to rust, lasts up to 100 years, and develops a beautiful, unique patina.
Galvalume: $75-$225 per square
This product is similar to galvanized steel in that it has a steel core but then has an aluminum/zinc coating. It’s the lower-cost option of the two and remains resistant to corrosion, but the colors can fade.
Galvanized Steel: $150-$400 per square
Galvanized steel is manufactured with a steel core and a zinc coating that prevents rust. It’s heavier and more expensive but is very impact resistant and provides excellent cost-saving energy efficiency.
Stainless Steel: $350-$1,250 per square
Stainless steel is the most expensive choice of metal roof, but it remains prevalent, especially in larger commercial buildings, due to its immense durability and corrosion-resistant alloy.
Tin Roof (Terne): $300-$1,500 per square
Today, tin roofing products are known as Terne, and it also has a steel core but a tin coating on the outside. Terne roofs will develop a gray patina over time and are naturally corrosion-resistant.
Zinc: $650-$1,000 per square
Did you know zinc can heal itself? Yes, it’s true. As it weathers over time, it forms a coating to protect the zinc exterior, resealing any scratches or minor dents. The standing seam version of zinc is on the higher end of cost, while shingles are on the low end.
The style of the metal roof also greatly impacts cost. You can expect the following costs for panels vs. standing seam vs. shingles:
- Metal panels: $50-$600 per square
- Metal shingles: $150-$650 per square
- Standing seam: $150-$2,000+ per square
Getting Your New Metal Roof Installed
While the cost of your metal roof can seem intimidating, it’s essential to know that you’re making an incredible investment in your home that will pay back with years of solid protection, low maintenance, and outstanding warranties.
When you decide to install a metal roof, choosing the right contractor for the job can ensure your investment is protected. And working with Durashield can make that happen. Our highly skilled professionals will take great care of your home and roof, and you can rest easy knowing your premium roof is in great hands.
If you’re curious about how a metal roof can benefit your home, reach out to Durashield today!