How much does metal roofing cost?

Metal roofing has become famous for homeowners due to its durability, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. When considering how much do metal roofs cost, it’s important to note that while it tends to cost more upfront than traditional materials like asphalt shingles, its long-term benefits can make it a worthwhile investment.

How much does a metal roof cost? Typically, the cost ranges from $15,000 to $24,500, with an average of $18,600. Various factors influence these costs, such as materials, styles, and installation specifics.

At Five Points Roofing Company, we often get asked about the price of metal roofs, so here’s a straightforward breakdown of what factors contribute to the cost and what you can expect when choosing metal roofing.

Average Cost of Metal Roofing

On average, the metal roofing cost will range between $6 and $12 per square foot, including materials and labor. For a 2,000-square-foot home, the total cost ranges from $12,000 to $24,000. However, your final price depends on several key factors, such as the type of metal, roof complexity, and the installation process.

Factors Affecting the Metal Roofing Cost

Type of Metal

The type of metal roofing material you choose impacts the overall cost:

• Steel: Steel roofing is one of the more affordable metal options, typically costing between $5 and $12 per square foot. It’s durable, and you can choose between galvanized or galvalume finishes for better corrosion resistance.

• Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, aluminum roofing costs between $6 and $14 per square foot. It’s perfect for homes near the coast where rust is a concern.

• Copper: Copper roofing is on the higher end, ranging from $15 to $30 per square foot. It’s known for its beauty and longevity, lasting over 100 years, but comes with a premium price.

• Zinc: Another premium option, zinc roofing costs between $10 and $20 per square foot. It’s known for its self-healing properties, meaning minor scratches or imperfections can naturally be repaired over time.

Style of Metal Roof

The style of metal roofing also plays a role in pricing:

• Standing Seam Metal Roofs: This popular style features long, vertical panels that interlock at the seams. It provides a sleek look and excellent weather protection but costs more, typically from $8 to $14 per square foot.

• Metal Shingles: Shaped to resemble traditional shingles, slate, or tile, metal shingles cost between $6 and $10 per square foot. They offer the benefits of metal roofing while providing a more traditional appearance.

Roof Complexity

Roofs with steep slopes, multiple valleys, dormers, or skylights will cost more due to the extra labor involved. A simple roof design will be quicker and less expensive to install than a complex, steep roof.

Underlayment and Accessories

Underlayment provides a moisture barrier beneath the metal roof; higher-quality underlayment will increase costs. Accessories like flashing, vents, and gutters can also add to the price.

Labor and Installation

Installing a metal roof requires specialized skills, so labor costs for metal roof installation are higher than other materials. Labor generally runs between $3 and $7 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job and the type of metal roof you choose.

Location

Prices for materials and labor can vary depending on where you live. Areas with higher living costs will naturally have higher roofing prices, and homes in coastal or storm-prone areas may require specialized materials that increase costs.

Material Costs

When considering a new metal roof, it’s important to understand that the cost of metal materials can vary widely based on the type of metal, its thickness, and overall quality. Here’s a breakdown of approximate material costs for different types of metal roofing:

Comparing Metal Roofing to Other Materials

Metal roofing has a higher upfront cost than some other materials, such as an asphalt shingle roof, but it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits. Here’s how metal roofing compares to other standard roofing options:

• Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt roofing is more affordable, ranging from $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot, but typically lasts only 15 to 25 years. Over time, you may need to replace an asphalt roof two or three times compared to one metal roof.

• Slate: Slate roofing, another premium option, costs between $10 and $20 per square foot. Like metal, it’s long-lasting but much heavier, requiring additional structural support.

• Wood & Shake: Wood and shake roofing costs around $7 to $10 per square foot, similar to metal shingles. However, wood requires more maintenance and doesn’t last as long as metal.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

Though metal roofing may have a higher upfront cost, it offers several long-term benefits

• Longevity: Metal roofs can last between 40 and 70 years, with some materials like copper and zinc lasting even longer.

• Energy Efficiency: Metal roofing reflects sunlight, helping reduce cooling costs in the summer, which can lead to significant savings on energy bills.

• Low Maintenance: Metal roofs are generally low-maintenance and don’t require the frequent repairs that other materials might need.

• Weather Resistance: Metal roofing can withstand extreme weather, including high winds, heavy snow, and hail. It’s also fire-resistant, adding extra protection to your home.

• Sustainability: Many metal roofs are made from recycled materials, and at the end of their lifespan, they can be recycled again, making metal roofing an environmentally friendly option.

Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

While metal roofing offers numerous benefits, it’s also important to consider some potential disadvantages before making your decision.

Higher Upfront Cost

One of the primary drawbacks of metal roofing is the higher upfront cost. Metal roofing materials can be more expensive than traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles. For instance, while asphalt shingles typically range from $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot, metal roofing can cost significantly more, depending on the type of metal. However, it’s worth noting that metal roofs can last 50 years or more, potentially making them a more cost-effective option in the long run due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.

Noise and Denting

Another consideration is that metal roofing can be noisy during heavy rainfall or hailstorms. This can be a concern for some homeowners, but there are ways to mitigate the noise. Installing a solid sheathing layer underneath the metal roofing can help reduce the sound. Additionally, using a thicker gauge metal can help prevent denting, which is another potential issue with metal roofs.

It’s also important to note that some metal roofing materials are more prone to noise and denting than others. For example, aluminum and steel roofing can be more susceptible to denting compared to more durable options like copper or zinc.

Overall, while metal roofing has some disadvantages, the benefits of durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance can make it a great option for many homeowners. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.

Is Metal Roofing Worth the Cost?

Metal roofing is more expensive initially, but its durability, low maintenance, and energy-saving benefits often make it a better long-term investment than other roofing materials. Suppose you plan to stay in your home for many years or want a roof that can handle harsh weather conditions. In that case, metal roofing is worth considering. Learn more about metal roofing.

Conclusion

A metal roof costs between $12,000 and $24,000 for a standard 2,000-square-foot home. While the initial cost may be higher than other roofing materials, metal’s durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency make it a solid long-term investment.

Five Points Roofing Company is here to help if you’re interested in metal roofing. We can provide a detailed estimate and walk you through the various metal options to find the best fit for your home. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection