The average cost of installing a metal roof ranges from $4 to $40 per sq.ft. installed. While most roofs are sold and installed by the square - 100 square feet - your installer may give you a square-foot cost. Many materials can create a metal roof. Several styles are available, depending on the metal, which may impact costs. The total cost depends on the roof size and metal. Larger roofs and more complex roofs cost more than smaller and simpler roofs. Your roof size and home’s square footage are not necessarily linked. Larger homes often have larger roofs, but pitch and shape can dramatically change the roof size. Below are the average costs for installing a metal roof based on the roof’s square footage.
| Roof Sizes | Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| 1,000 sq.ft. | $4,000 - $40,000 |
| 1,200 sq.ft. | $4,800 - $48,000 |
| 1,350 sq.ft. | $5,400 - $54,000 |
| 1,500 sq.ft. | $6,000 - $60,000 |
| 2,000 sq.ft. | $8,000 - $80,000 |
| 2,200 sq.ft. | $8,800 - $88,000 |
| 3,750 sq.ft. | $15,000 - $150,000 |
| 4,500 sq.ft. | $18,000 - $180,000 |
Metal roofing tiles are often sold per square, ranging between $400 and $4,000 per square. Each square is 100 square feet. The total cost depends on your roof’s size and material. In many cases, you need to round up to the nearest full square when purchasing materials. However, this is good because it is recommended to have leftover material for repairs. Below are the average costs for installing metal roofs based on the number of squares your home may need.
| Number of Squares | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|
| 10 Squares | $4,000 - $40,000 |
| 12 Squares | $4,800 - $48,000 |
| 15 Squares | $6,000 - $60,000 |
| 18 Squares | $7,200 - $72,000 |
| 20 Squares | $8,000 - $80,000 |
| 25 Squares | $10,000 - $100,000 |
| 30 Squares | $12,000 - $120,000 |
| 35 Squares | $14,000 - $140,000 |
Many materials are available for metal roofing, ranging from $4 to $40 per sq.ft. These include steel roofing, aluminum, copper, zinc, tin, and stone-coated metal. Each material has a different price, style, and appearance. Some types are more common, while others are more durable and longer-lasting. Costs for each range because of the different types and styles. Below are the average costs for the various metal roofing types.
| Materials | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Installed) |
|---|
| Steel | $4 - $20 |
| Aluminum | $6.50 - $21 |
| Stone Coated | $10 - $25 |
| Tin | $10 - $26 |
| Zinc | $14.50 - $21 |
| Copper | $20 - $40 |
Steel Roofing Cost
Steel roofing costs $4 to $20 a sq.ft. Many steel roofing types are on the market. These range from plain to painted to steel coated in materials like aluminum and zinc. Steel roofs are versatile and found in several styles, including panels and standing-seam roofing. It is common to paint steel roofs, preventing corrosion, but some types are left in their original finish. Steel roofing is less common than aluminum, mostly due to its increased weight and tendency to rust, but it is a durable option with many styles.
| Type | Average Costs per Sq.Ft. (Installed) |
|---|
| Galvalume | $4 - $9 |
| Painted | $4.50 - $17 |
| Galvanized | $4.50 - $17 |
| Stainless | $7 - $20 |
Galvalume Roofing Prices
Galvalume steel costs $4 to $9 a sq.ft. installed. Galvalume is steel coated in aluminum. The steel is heated first so that the aluminum bonds with the steel. This helps prevent corrosion and allows you to use the steel in its natural finish rather than requiring paint. Galvalume is one of the most common and popular steel roofing types. It is available in nearly all styles, including interlocking shingles 1, panels, and standing-seam.
Painted Steel
A painted steel roof costs $4.50 to $17 a sq.ft. Painted steel is powder coated for the appearance of another metal, such as copper, or a bold or bright color on its own. Powder coating steel can disguise corrosion and rust but does not prevent them. Painted steel fades, so you may need to repaint your roof to maintain its bright color. Painted steel comes in an incredible range of colors. It is most commonly available in standing-seam styles but may be found in interlocking shingles.
Galvanized Steel Roofing Prices
Galvanized sheet metal roofing prices range between $4.50 and $17 per sq.ft. installed. Galvanized steel 2 is made by coating the steel in zinc. Like galvalume, this is a chemical process by heating the steel so that the zinc bonds to its surface. Galvanized steel is less likely to corrode than other types, particularly when in contact with pressure-treated wood. These roofs last around 50 years and are low maintenance. Two common types of galvanized steel are used in roofing, including G-60, which is used for sheds and workshops, and G-90, more commonly used in residential settings.
Stainless Steel Roofing Sheet Price
Stainless steel roofing ranges from $7 to $20 per sq.ft. and comes in tile and sheet form. Stainless steel roofing materials are recyclable and maintain their appearance for over 100 years. Stainless steel roofing requires minimal maintenance and resists corrosion. The metal does not crack or fade but can dull if left in its natural finish. You can choose from various corrugated patterns and several finishes. If you paint this roof, it may fade and require periodic repainting to stay looking its best.
Aluminum Roofing Cost
Aluminum roofing comes in panels, standing-seam pans, or interlocking shingles, costing $6.50 to $21 per sq.ft. Aluminum roofing is made from recycled materials and aluminum, making it an environmentally friendly option, lasting 40 to 50 years. It reflects sunlight and emits heat to keep your home cooler so that you notice reduced power bills. Aluminum is a light material, making it easy for installers to use. Aluminum is less prone to corrosion and rust than steel, with high wind resistance, making it great for roofing in coastal areas. Aluminum is one of the most popular metal roofs available.
Stone Coated Steel Roofing Price
Stone coated steel shingles, usually referred to as stone-coated metal, cost $10 to $25 per sq.ft. installed. They last 40 to 70 years if installed properly. Stone-coated steel roofing has high durability, is energy efficient, and requires low maintenance. While functionality is essential, appearance and beauty are also important. Stone-coated steel roofing comes in various colors, textures, and designs to complement any home. You can find this material in tiles, shakes 3, and shingles that mimic materials like clay or slate. Because the material is so lightweight, you do not have the high installation costs of other materials.
Tin Roofing Cost
Expect to pay between $10 and $26 per sq.ft. for tin roofing. Tin, or terne, roofs are made by heating steel and saturating it with molten tin. Tin is durable, sturdy, and crack resistant. The term tin roof is often used synonymously with metal roofs. Actual tin or terne roofs, however, are relatively rare. They are mostly found on historic homes and may be used in restoration processes. When installed correctly, they can last 100 years with little maintenance.
Zinc Roofing Cost
Zinc roofing costs $14.50 to $21 per sq.ft. It has a lifespan of 60 to 100 years or up to 150 years in the right climates. Zinc is a naturally occurring, durable material with a self-healing property that allows it to form a coating to protect and reseal itself if it suffers scratches or dents. This rare ability eliminates the need for maintenance. Zinc comes in shingles or standing-seam styles. Zinc develops a natural patina 4, protecting it from corrosion and turning the metal darker.
Copper Roofing Cost
Copper roofing is a premium material ranging from $20 to $40 per sq.ft. It has a lifespan of 100 plus years and does not rust, corrode, or break down. Copper has a beautiful, eye-catching appearance and is low maintenance. Compared to other roofing materials, it is lightweight, and the materials are mostly recyclable. Copper roofing’s appearance changes due to sun exposure and humidity. The outer layer develops a patina, protecting the metal from corrosion and damage. This roofing material is difficult to work with and requires professional installation.
Metal roofing cost by gauge ranges from $1.50 to $25 per sq.ft. A gauge of metal roofing is a measurement of thickness. The smaller the number, the thicker the shingle or panel of metal is. For example, a 26 gauge is thicker than a 29 gauge. Thinner-gauge material may dent more easily and does not last as long. Most homes use 26-gauge roofing, and you are not given a choice in many cases. The metal type and style dictate the gauge. However, there may be times when a thinner or thicker material may be warranted. Not all metals or metal roofing are available in every gauge. The chart below highlights the cost of metal roofing based on different gauges. Only material costs are listed because many roofing styles can be found in different gauges, changing the installation.
| Gauge | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Materials Only) |
|---|
| 29-Gauge | $1.50 - $10 |
| 26-Gauge | $3 - $16 |
| 24-Gauge | $5 - $20 |
| 22-Gauge | $10 - $25 |
The cost of 29-gauge metal roofing ranges from $1.50 to $10 a sq.ft. for the material. This is the thinnest metal that can create roofing. It is not used very often on homes. You are more likely to use it on sheds and outbuildings. It is available in steel and some types of tin, but most other roofing materials are too soft to be used in this gauge.
The cost of 26-gauge metal roofing averages $3 to $16 a sq.ft. for the material. This is one of the more common gauges in residential roofing. Most metal roofs have at least one material available in this gauge. Individual copper and zinc shingles, stone-coated metal, and most sheet metal is found in this gauge. It is not as durable as 24 gauge, but it is fairly easy to work with. Some softer metals like aluminum may dent at this gauge.
24-gauge metal roofing costs $5 to $20 a sq.ft. for the material. This is the second-most common gauge in metal roofing. It is slightly more difficult to work with and install because it is so thick it can be harder to cut and shape. However, it holds up better in high winds and resists denting better than thinner gauges. Most rolled roofing and standing-seam roofing are in this gauge.
22-gauge metal roofing costs $10 to $25 a sq.ft. for the material. This is an uncommon gauge for most roofs. It is thick and difficult to work with and form. It is most commonly available in standing-seam and insulated panels. If you have long pans or are working on a commercial product, you are more likely to use this gauge.
The metal for your roof directly influences the cost, ranging from $4 to $40 per sq.ft. installed Many metal roofing types come in various colors and styles. The chart below highlights the different metal roofing types and their respective costs, followed by subsections explaining each.
| Types | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Materials Only) | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Installed) |
|---|
| Sheets | $1.50 - $26 | $4 - $40 |
| Standing Seam | $3.50 - $21 | $8.50 - $34 |
| Interlocking Shingles | $4 - $9 | $6.50 - $10 |
| Loose Shingles | $5 - $16 | $10 - $35 |
| Shakes | $8 - $15 | $13 - $25 |
| Tiles | $10 - $15 | $15 - $25 |
| Insulated Panels | $12 - $14 | $17 - $21 |
Metal sheets for roofing cost between $1.50 and $26 per sq.ft., depending on the material. Installed, they range from $4 to $40 a sq.ft. Metal roofing is not charged by the sheet but by the square footage of sheets. Metal sheets typically refer to flat, ribbed, and crimped profiles. The most common types include R Panel, 5V Crimp, corrugated, through-fastened, and screw-down. However, you can find sheets for tin roofing installed in a flat lock or rolled roofing for zinc and copper made from sheets. Sheet roofing is available in all materials and may be installed differently based on the metal. The less expensive sheets, such as corrugated, are fully formed and screwed down. The most expensive are plain, flat sheets formed directly to the roof, which can be used on domes and curved roofs.
Standing Seam
Standing-seam roofs cost $3.50 to $21 a sq.ft. for the material. Installed, these roofs range from $8.50 to $34 a sq.ft. Standing-seam roofs are one of the most common metal roofs. They are available in all metals but are most commonly installed as aluminum roofs. They are made of pans with standing edges. These edges overlap and fasten on the inside, giving the roof its name of a standing seam. Because of this overlapping seam, these are the most durable and watertight roofs.
The average lifespan of a standing seam roof is probably 40 to 50 years. It’s going to perform very well over that time, barring a major weather event such as a hurricane. The nice thing about standing seam roofing is that it is an engineered system, so it doesn’t matter the type of metal you choose. It will perform well. You obviously design it for where you are, which means you need to use the right metal for the right area. So, if you’re against the coast with lots of wind, it will be a different system versus in the middle of the woods somewhere.
Interlocking metal roofing costs $4 to $9 per sq.ft for the material. Installed, these roofs cost $6.50 to $10 a sq.ft. Interlocking metal shingles slide and lock in place. They are placed in a staggered pattern and secured with nail clips. These metal roofs ensure stability and resistance to maximum winds. They are very popular in hurricane and storm-prone areas. This roofing is most commonly available in aluminum. However, you may be able to find it in steel.
Loose shingles for metal roofs cost $5 to $16 a sq.ft. for the material. Installed, these roofs range from $10 to $35 a sq.ft. Several metal roofs are made from loose shingles. These include copper and zinc roofs, where the material is nailed individually to the roof deck. It can also include some stone-coated metal roofs. They cost more than interlocking shingle roofs but come in more patterns and styles because they are individual pieces.
Expect to pay between $8 and $15 a sq.ft. for materials for a metal shake roof. The cost of this roof installed is $13 to $25 a sq.ft. Metal shakes are another style of stone-coated roofing. These steel tiles are made to look more like larger, thicker shakes. They are lightweight, durable, and longer-lasting than other shake materials, such as cedar. This material does not have as many styles or colors as other types.
Metal roof tiles cost $10 to $15 per sq.ft. for the material. The cost of this material installed is $15 to $25 a sq.ft. Metal tiles are also a type of stone-coated metal roofing. They are made to look like concrete or clay tiles. There are many styles, profiles, and color options. These tiles are light and durable, making installation easy. Metal tiles interlock and overlap, keeping out the elements. They have the bonus of being a recyclable material with fire-resistant properties.
The average cost for insulated roof panels ranges between $12 and $14 per sq.ft. for the material. Installed, these roofs cost $17 to $21 a sq.ft. Insulated roof panels consist of metal panels with steel or aluminum skins and an insulating foam core. The foam core adds a layer of insulation, increasing energy efficiency. Insulated panels are known for their design flexibility, quick installation, and thermal properties. A bonus is their curb appearance. Insulated panels protect from wind, rain, and moisture.
Just as there are many types and materials for metal roofs, there is also a range of roof shapes they can install on. Your roof’s shape can impact the cost of your roof installation. Simple roofs like gables and hipped roofs have lower costs than more complex roofs like dormers and mansards. Not every roofing type can be installed on all roofs. For example, mansards, which curve, require rolled or flat-lock roofing and may be able to handle some shingles but cannot use panels or standing-seam roofs. However, gable and hipped roofs, which are two of the most common types, can use any metal roofing. The more complex your roof, the more material you need. A hipped roof needs more material than a gable roof - even if both are installed on homes of the same size. The complexity in dormer and mansard roofs also increases installation costs. Below are the average costs per square foot you can expect to pay for each roof shape.
| Shape | Average Cost per Sq.Ft. (Installed) |
|---|
| Gable | $4 - $30 |
| Hipped | $4 - $30 |
| Dutch | $4 - $30 |
| Butterfly | $4 - $30 |
| Dormer | $5 - $35 |
| Mansard | $6 - $40 |
Metal roofs have a labor cost range of $2.50 to $14 a sq.ft., depending on the installation type. For roof replacements, expect total cost ranges of between $3.50 and $16 a sq.ft., including the cost of a tear-off. Because tear-offs are not always required for every roof replacement, roof overs are an option for some roofs, which can affect total costs.
Metal roofs make a great addition to any home. They are long-lasting, durable, and may improve efficiency, which is why they are common for roof replacements. Your existing roof is torn off in a standard roof replacement. This exposes the roof deck, giving the installer a chance to inspect the deck and make repairs if needed.
The metal roof you have impacts installation costs. Interlocking and panel installations cost the least, while standing-seam and rolled roofing installations cost the most. However, this can change with the roofing you install. Aluminum and steel installation costs are much lower than copper, tin, and zinc because the latter materials are much softer and more difficult to work with. Your roof’s complexity also impacts labor costs. Penetrations, valleys, curves, and other special features can increase the labor cost. Below is the average cost for a metal roof replacement.
| Project Area | Average Costs per Square Foot |
|---|
| Tear-Off (Optional) | $1 - $2 |
| Material | $1.50 - $26 |
| Installation | $2.50 - $14 |
If you have an existing shingle roof in good condition, you may be able to roof over it. This means leaving the shingles and installing a new metal roof over them. This cannot be done with all existing roofs or metal roofs. It is most common when installing standing-seam roofs but can be done with some sheets, stone-coated metal tiles, and shingles. It is not available for flat-lock and rolled roofing because these materials need a smooth deck to install on.
Without the tear-off, this installation costs less. Expect to pay between $4 and $35 a sq.ft. total to install a metal roof over shingles. Doing this means the roof deck may not be inspected, and some issues go undetected.
Installing new metal roofing costs $4 to $38 a sq.ft. if you are building a new home or addition. This includes material and installation costs. New roofs are easier to install because the roof deck is in good condition, and there is no old roof to remove. This makes the process faster and easier, reducing labor costs. Any metal roof can be installed in new construction. Because metal roofs last for 100 years or more, depending on the material, a new metal roof can be considered an investment and may be the only roof your home ever needs.
Metal roofs are incredibly durable, long-lasting, and attractive. They can be installed on the main area of your home, outbuildings, and areas like patios, garages, barns, and sheds. If you have a metal roof on the main area of your home, adding a metal roof to outbuildings and attached areas can give your property a cohesive appearance. You also gain the benefits of metal roofing for those areas with the material’s durability. This means lower maintenance and a longer lifespan for your property.
You can also mix and match, using the metal roof as an accent on bay windows or porches. Doing so can call more attention, so installing higher-quality materials like copper or zinc is common, but it is fine to use aluminum or steel.
The cost for each area depends on several factors, including the metal material and style. It can also be impacted by the size and if it is a standalone installation or attaches to your home like a porch or bay window. The more complex the installation, the higher the costs.
Below are the average costs to install a metal roof on common areas on your property, based on the most typical sizes. Your costs may vary if your space is larger or smaller than average.
| Project Area | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|
| Bay Window | $500 - $7,500 |
| Shed | $600 - $8,000 |
| Porch | $800 - $10,000 |
| Garage | $3,000 - $20,000 |
| Barn | $3,500 - $25,000 |
| Patio | $4,000 - $30,000 |
| RV | $5,000 - $20,000 |
| Townhouse | $5,000 - $30,000 |
| House | $6,000 - $60,000 |
Many mobile homeowners opt for metal roofs for their homes, ranging between $2,500 and $15,000, depending on the roof size and material. Metal roofs are popular due to their improved look and function. Adding a metal roof increases your mobile home’s energy efficiency and reduces sound, making your climate control easier to maintain all year. The material is extremely durable and can be installed on many roof slopes and types. The installation process is fairly easy and takes 1 to 2 days.
You may have a color choice, depending on the metal roof. While some roofs, such as copper, zinc, tin, and some steel, have natural or living finishes that create a patina, many steel and aluminum roofs are available in a range of colors. Metal roofing comes in various colors and finishes so that a homeowner can choose the perfect fit. Some popular colors include dark bronze, matte black, medium bronze, aged copper, patina green, and an antique bronze metal roof. When selecting a metal roof color, consider energy efficiency and location. The color influences your home’s energy, so careful selection can save money on energy bills. Light colors, compared to dark, are better at reflecting the sun’s heat rather than absorbing it. Light metal roofing colors are often referred to as cool metal roofing colors. Several colors are Energy Star-certified, earning you a tax credit on top of energy savings. The roofing color should complement the home. Choosing neutral colors helps your home blend with surrounding residences. Darker colors are best if you want to stick out. Some locations may have stringent color guides for residences in urban or suburban areas. While all metal roofing exhibits some color change on exposure to weather and elements, the color variation may be barely noticeable in some and more in others. Some manufacturers offer a warranty for the metal color for up to 15 years, meaning you do not worry about fading.
Your roof’s finish can depend on several things, including the material. Some roofs, such as copper and zinc, have a living finish. A living finish means the roof develops a protective patina. The finish evolves and changes with the roof as it ages.
Other roofs, such as stone-coated metal and tin, have a matte finish. In the case of the stone-coated metal, this finish is created by the crushed stone coating the metal. You can choose the color, but the finish has a stone texture. Tin roofs have a natural matte finish.
Steel and aluminum roofs may be given different finishes, which can be matte or reflective, depending on the metal and your preferences. Not all colors are available in all finishes. Reflective finishes are more likely to keep your roof cool and are most commonly found with light colors.
Metal Roof Maintenance Cost
Most metal roofs are considered low maintenance, durable, and long-lasting. Depending on the material, you may need to clean, paint, or seal the roof. Other materials may need to be treated for cracks or dents after hail. Inspect your roof at least twice every year and after major storms. Your roof needs more attention the more extreme the weather is in your location. Regular maintenance involves clearing debris, trimming back low-hanging branches, and checking the sealant (if it has been used) on your roof. If the sealant shows signs of breaking down, such as flaking, peeling, or discoloration, the roof may need to be resealed. Cleaning and resealing a roof costs $1,500 to $2,000 for a 2,000 sq.ft. roof. If hail damage or other problems need professional repairs, expect to pay between $300 and $1,500 to fix it. Other roofs may need low or high pressure to clean them, depending on the material and gauge. Most metal roofs resist algae and moss growth, but there may be debris or dirt that needs to be rinsed away. If your roof is painted, cleaning may be necessary to remove the old paint before it can be repainted. The cost to clean a metal roof averages $0.05 to $0.75 a sq.ft., depending on the method.
Pros and Cons
Many things must be considered when installing a metal roof. Each home and situation is different. It is helpful to be aware of all the pros and cons before deciding if it is the correct choice. A metal roof has many advantages, including easy maintenance, a long lifespan, energy efficiency, durability, easily recyclable, environmental friendliness, the ability to be installed over an old roof, lightweight, and resistant to fire, insects, rot, and damage. Like other roofing types, metal has disadvantages. These include complex installation, high upfront cost compared to other roofing choices, and the fact that not all metal roofs can be treated the same way. Some may be higher maintenance than others, meaning you must do your due diligence for any metal roof. Some roofs like steel may corrode, particularly if installed near the coasts. Others like aluminum may dent easily in hail, while copper and zinc should be cleaned carefully to avoid removing their patina.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs are one of the most energy-efficient roofing materials. A metal roof is more energy-efficient than many other roofing types, including asphalt shingles, plastic shingles, and some types of concrete, slate, and cedar. Metal roofs provide great insulation during the cold season, and the metal reflects sunlight, keeping energy costs down during the warmer months. Studies have shown that metal roof finishes reflect solar radiant. Expect to see savings of up to 40% in your energy bills. While the initial costs of metal roofing are high, homeowners may find the energy savings compensate for the high initial investment.
Life Expectancy
While metal roofing costs more upfront, this cost is offset by its longer life expectancy, 40 to 100 years with little-to-no maintenance. The number of years your roof lasts depends on many factors, some of which are under your control and others that are not. Some factors include climate, precipitation, roof color, sun exposure, roof pitch, and roof ventilation. Extreme weather conditions or precipitation affect the roof’s lifespan. Strong winds cause loosening of tiles or shingles, and heavy rainfalls pose great risks of leaking. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can shorten the roof’s life. The UV rays cause expansion and contraction. Roofs with higher pitches last longer than flatter sloped roofs because they deflect heavy rainfalls and precipitation. A well-ventilated roof prolongs life because it balances air intake and output.
Many metal roof styles are available. One of the oldest types is a style of sheet roofing, known as a corrugated metal roof, while one of the more popular, newer styles is a standing-seam roof. A corrugated-style, sheet metal roof consists of a formed metal sheet with alternating curved and U-shaped ribs. The edges of each sheet overlap and are fastened using exposed fasteners 5 that penetrate the sheet. A standing-seam roof consists of a formed metal sheet with vertical ribs at the edges. They are installed by lapping and interlocking the edges of adjacent panels. Standing-seam panels are attached using concealed fasteners, meaning the fasteners do not penetrate the panel.
Standing-seam roofs are available in more metals. They are more durable and less likely to leak because the edges overlap and interlock. A corrugated roof has fasteners that penetrate the roof, a potential source of leaks. However, corrugated metal roofs are much less expensive than standing-seam roofs. This is because they are not as widely available in all materials, including costly materials like copper, but also because they are easier to install. Below are the average costs for corrugated and standing-seam roofs installed.
| Style | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|
| Corrugated | $4 - $10 |
| Standing Seam | $8.50 - $34 |
Metal roofs and asphalt shingle roofs are two of the most popular styles. Asphalt shingles come in a few types, including inexpensive 3-tab and more durable architectural. Asphalt shingles last 15 to 50 years, depending on the type, and come in several colors for easy customization. They are versatile, easier, and faster to install than metal roofs of all kinds.
Metal roofs come in many forms, including metal shingles. They are more durable, lasting 40 to 100 years, but also more expensive. Metal roofs are generally lower maintenance because they are not impacted by algae or hail like asphalt shingles are. However, asphalt shingles can be relatively easy to repair, while metal roofing may be more complex, depending on the type. Depending on the metal type and shingle, there can be some overlap in price, but shingles are generally more affordable. Below are the average costs for installing both roofing types.
| Type | Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $3 - $15 |
| Metal | $4 - $40 |
Tile roofing comes in many styles and material options, including metal tiles. It is a beautiful and highly durable roofing option and comes in many shapes, including curved, flat, fluted, and interlocking. Tile roofing is expensive, but that is expected for a roofing material that lasts up to 100 years.
Metal and tile roofing have much in common. They are durable and come in many materials, with tile found in metal, clay, concrete, composites, slate, and solar tiles. Some tile roofing is fragile and may break easily, while others are as durable as metal roofs and can last as long.
Tile roofs tend to be higher maintenance than metal roofs, and many tile roofs are heavier. This means you may need to reinforce the roof deck to hold them. Because both materials come in so many forms, there can be an overlap between the materials in costs. Generally, low-cost metal options are more affordable than low-cost tile, but their mid-range and high costs are similar. Below are the average costs per square foot for both.
| Type | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Installed) |
|---|
| Metal | $4 - $40 |
| Tile | $7 - $41 |
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Sealant
Some metal roofs require a sealant to protect them from corrosion and wear. If the sealant shows signs of breaking, such as flaking, peeling, or discoloration, the roof may need to be resealed. One gallon of sealant covers about 100 sq.ft. Consult your roof professional to ensure your estimate includes this service. Sealing a roof adds $2 to $4 a sq.ft.
Venting
The underside of a metal roof gets very hot. Hot air rises and needs good ventilation to allow the hot air to escape. Intake vents are installed in the soffit 6. Gable venting can be used, especially if the attic is unfinished. Ridge venting 7 is necessary for finished attics. If ventilation needs to be added during the roofing job, expect to pay $300 to $550 for a roof vent.
Not all metal roofs need to be painted. Many can be left in their original color and finish. However, colored or painted metal roofs may fade. You may want to have it periodically repainted to maintain its appearance. Hiring a professional to paint your metal roof costs between $2 and $4 per sq.ft.
Installing your roof is also a good time to install gutters. Your gutters protect your home and foundation by directing rainwater. Gutters are also a good indicator of your roof’s health. Homeowners have a wide range of materials for gutters. Some common materials include copper, aluminum, galvanized, and zinc. You can match your metal roof or mix and match for a different look. Installing metal gutters costs $900 to $7,500, depending on the material.
Solar panels are an increasingly popular addition to many homes. They can be added to any metal roofing. However, the mounting hardware or rack should be made of materials that do not interact with the metal. For example, copper roofs require galvanized racks. If you are unsure, speak to your solar panel installer. Installing solar panels on most homes costs $15,000 to $21,000.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Permits and licenses. In some areas, a roofing permit is required to install a new metal roof. The cost for a permit is around $400 to over $1,000 for a residential roof up to 2,000 sq.ft. Check with your local municipality for more information. Also, ensure the roofing company is licensed and insured.
- DIY. A DIY metal roof saves a bit of money, but it is recommended to hire a professional. Professionals have the experience to install a metal roof efficiently and correctly to avoid leaks and problems.
- Warranty. Many metal roofs come with an extended warranty. This may be on the material or installation and ranges from 1 year on labor to a lifetime warranty. Speak with your installer for more information.
- Insurance savings. It may be cheaper to insure a home with a metal roof. Keep in mind the roof is not the only thing affecting the cost of homeowners insurance. Other things like multi-policy discounts and a professionally installed security system can reduce rates.
- Additional roofing materials. Roofing projects need to budget for extra materials because of waste and overage. Expect to budget an extra 5 to 7% of your roof size.
- ROI. Metal roofs are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and weather-resistant, which are attractive to buyers. It can raise the resale value and have a high return on investment.
- Cost fluctuations. Supply chain issues, factory shutdowns during the pandemic, and an increase in material costs may cause the cost of a metal roof to fluctuate. Always speak with your installer to get the most accurate and up-to-date costs.
- Pitch. The roof pitch can influence costs. Steeper pitches generally have higher costs than moderate pitches, while low-pitch or flat roofs may need different materials than metal.
- Underlayment 8. All metal roofs need an underlayment over the roof deck. This may be felt or a synthetic material, based on the roofing type. Speak to your roofer about what may be the best material.
- Replacement vs roofing over. While metal roofs can be installed over some asphalt roofs, this is not always the best decision. While it costs $1 to $2 a sq.ft. less to roof over, there could be hidden issues below the shingles that you cannot find. This could lead to problems.
- SMP vs PVDF. Two paints are available for painted metal roofs. SMP is more likely to fade and become chalky, while PVDF is more likely to scratch and develop signs of wear. Of the two, SMP is more affordable.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to put a metal roof on a 2,000 sq.ft. house?
A 2,000 sq.ft. house may have a wide range of sized roofs because interior square footages and roof sizes are not necessarily correlated. However, the average cost to install 2,000 sq.ft. of metal roofing is $18,000 to $30,000.
- Is it cheaper to get a metal roof or shingles?
Shingle roofs are generally less expensive than metal roofs. However, many materials can produce shingles, and some may be more expensive.
- What is the best underlayment for a metal roof?
Although felt was the norm for many years, most roofing contractors now turn to synthetic underlayment for superior protection.
- Can you install metal roofing directly to plywood 9?
Yes, as long as the plywood is first covered with an underlayment material.
- Do you need to vent a metal roof?
Yes. Intake vents and ridge or gable vents are necessary.
- Do you need sheathing under a metal roof?
Not necessarily. Sheathing under a metal roof is the norm, but there are other options, such as water-resistant membranes.
- Is there a tax credit for installing a metal roof?
Until recently, there was a federal tax credit for Energy Star-certified metal roofs. This credit has expired, however, but some states may still offer a tax credit.
- Do metal roofs attract lightning?
No, a metal roof will not attract lightning. In fact, if lightning strikes your home, the metal roof will diffuse the electricity away and make your home less likely to catch fire.
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