How Much Does Metal Roofing Cost? (2024 Pricing)
Typical Cost Range: $9,150 – $16,743
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A new metal roof costs $11,557 on average but can range anywhere from $9,150–$16,743.* Though metal roofing costs more than other materials, it often offers better roof insulation, providing energy savings and a greater return on investment. It also comes in various materials, styles, and designs.
According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, metal roofs can last 50 years or longer, making them an ideal roof type for long-term protection. Read our comprehensive cost guide to find out if they’re the right choice for you.
*Cost data averaged from multiple sources, including Fixr and Roofing Calculator.
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How Much Does Metal Roofing Cost By Type of Metal?
Metal roofs can cost anywhere from $4-$40 per square foot or $400-$4,000 per square installed, depending on the type of metal used. Metal roofing materials come in premeasured sheets, typically about 50–100 square feet. Professional contractors use a “roofing square” equal to 100 square feet to determine materials and costs.
Here are some of the most common metal roofing materials and their average costs. We’ve also included roofing square measurements in our calculations. The prices are calculated for the average American roof size of 1,700 square feet.
| Material | Average Price per Square Foot (Installed) | Price per Sheet | Price for 1,700 Square Feet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvalume Steel | $4–$9 | $400–$900 | $6,800–15,300 |
| Galvanized Steel | $4.50–$17 | $450–$1700 | $7,650–$28,900 |
| Aluminum | $6.50–$21 | $650–$2,100 | $11,050–$35,700 |
| Stainless Steel | $7–$20 | $700–$2,000 | $11,900–$34,000 |
| Tin (Terne) | $10–$26 | $1,000–$2,600 | $17,000–$44,200 |
| Zinc | $14.50–$21 | $1,450–$2,100 | $24,650–$35,700 |
| Copper | $20–$40 | $2,000–$4,000 | $34,000–$68,000 |
How Does Metal Roofing Compare to Other Roofing Materials?
Metal roofing is a great upgrade from standard asphalt shingles because of its durability and longevity. Its cost is typically in the middle of the roofing cost range. It is more expensive than asphalt and wood roofing but cheaper than slate and solar.
Though there are many factors to consider when choosing a new roof, two of the most important are the overall cost and projected lifespan of each material. Learn how metal roofing compares to other roofing material options by gauging both of these factors.
| Material | Cost per sq. ft | Lifespan in Years | Cost Per Year of Use* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $2.08–$3.50 | 20–30 | $220 |
| Built-up Roofing (BUR) | $3.42–$4.90 | 15–30 | $370 |
| Clay Tiles | $5.90–$14.68 | 50–100 | $275 |
| Concrete Roofing | $5.16–$8.60 | 50 | $275 |
| Green Roofing | $10–$28 | 40 | $950 |
| Metal Roofing | $9–$14.60 | 40–70 | $430 |
| Slate Roofing | $7.56–$18.70 | 75–200 | $190 |
| Solar Roofing | $16.10–$20.85 | 25–30** | $1,350 |
| Wood Roofing | $6.53–$9.90 | 15–30 | $730 |
*Cost per Year of Use is an estimate for how much each roofing material costs for a 2,000 sq. ft roof for each year of its life span and is meant to help show the potential value of each option.
**Solar roofing lifespan is a general estimate due to the technology only being 10 years old.
Your roof’s life span may vary depending on how well you maintain it and various weather and locational conditions. If not maintained properly, your roof may need replacement sooner rather than later.
What Is the Best Type of Metal Roofing?
Steel roofing is the best type of metal roofing for most people because of its strength and durability. The best type of metal roofing for you will depend on your location, budget, and aesthetic preference. The most common types of metal roofing materials include steel, aluminum, tin, and copper, all with unique benefits and costs.
There are several common types of steel roofing. Galvanized steel, which is coated with zinc to deter corrosion, is a popular choice for its strength and durability. A cheaper alternative is galvalume, which is aluminum-coated steel. On the high end of the scale is stainless steel, which is a rare but striking choice—the Chrysler Building, for example, is roofed with stainless steel.
A 100-square-foot galvalume panel costs between $400 and $900 and installs for $6,800–$15,300. Galvanized steel runs $4.50–$17 per square foot, and materials plus installation come out to about $10 per square foot, or $7,650–$28,900. Stainless steel is significantly more expensive at $7–$20 per square foot, or about $11,900–$34,000 for 1,700 square feet.
Aluminum roofing is a good choice if you live near the ocean, as it’s resistant to corrosion and saltwater damage. It’s also relatively inexpensive, costing between $6.50 and $21 per square foot for the shingles alone.
The downside of aluminum is its appearance: It doesn’t age well and dents easily. Aluminum also expands and contracts more than other metals typically used for roofing, which can put wear down the roof and cause creaking sounds as temperatures change.
Pure tin roofs gained popularity after the Civil War and became the most widely used material in U.S. home roofing. They’re less common now that more modern roofing materials have been introduced.
Terne, which contains a steel core coated with a tin alloy exterior, has replaced pure tin as the new “tin roof.” Although not as popular as other metals, it’s durable and highly corrosion-resistant. Tin can either be painted or left to develop a natural matte gray patina, a film produced by oxidation over a long period.
The price range of tin panels varies by product, but many start around $10 and can be as expensive as $26. Installing a tin roof costs $10–$26 per square foot, for a total of about $17,000–$44,200.
Consider zinc if you want a high-quality metal roof that’s more durable than aluminum and more affordable than copper. This material can last up to 100 years and requires little to no maintenance due to its self-healing coating that covers scratches and scrapes. As long as the underside of the metal shingles or panels is sealed properly, zinc can resist corrosion entirely.
Zinc panels cost about $6–$10 per square foot.
Copper roofing is extremely durable and lightweight. It’s also one of the most attractive options for metal roof tiles. However, it’s among the most expensive roofing materials, costing $20–$40 per square foot. The total cost for a new copper roof is around $34,000–$68,000 for a 1,700-square-foot roof.
What Are the Benefits of Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing offers better durability and longevity than other roofing materials. These roofs are low-maintenance and resistant to extreme weather conditions. They come in various styles and colors to match your home’s design. Thanks to their reflective surface, metal roofs deflect the sun’s rays to help keep your home cooler and energy bills lower.
Longevity and Durability
A primary benefit of metal roofs is their longevity. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance’s (MRA) 2022 Residential Metal Roofing Buyer’s Guide, metal roofs have a life span of 50 years or more. Traditional roofing materials, such as asphalt, generally last only 15–20 years.
Metal stands up to severe weather events such as hail, high winds, and heavy storms, whereas other roof materials are prone to damage in such conditions. Metal is also fire resistant and resistant to smoke damage —a benefit if you live somewhere prone to wildfires.
Though metal roofs can become dented, it typically takes quite a bit of pressure to accomplish this. For example, golf-ball-sized hail will likely dent a metal roof, but smaller hail will have a minimal effect. It takes much less force to tear or damage asphalt shingles.
Ease of Cleaning
Metal roofs are much easier to clean than other materials. They stand up well to a simple pressure washing, whereas other roof types require specialty cleanings.
Energy Efficiency
Since most metal roofs are reflective, they direct the sun’s heat away from the building they cover. “Reflection of sunlight will lower surface temperatures on a roof and subsequently reduce attic temperatures, lowering energy costs,” John Foley, the New England branch manager of Long Home Products, says.
Even nonreflective metal can be treated with special paint that blocks ultraviolet (UV) rays. The MRA reported that metal roofs can save you up to 30% on energy costs. Considering that metal roofs last 50 years or longer, you’ll benefit from long-term savings on heating and cooling costs in the future.
Eco-Friendliness
Metal is highly reusable, as many metal roofs are made of 30%–60% recycled metal. Their high durability also means they don’t need to be replaced as often. Because metal roofs are resistant to fungus and moss, they don’t require harsh chemical treatments that could be harmful to the environment. They’re also 100% recyclable, compared to other roofing materials that end up in landfills.
Increased Resale Value
A new metal roof can improve your curb appeal and increase your home’s resale value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report, the average return on investment for metal roof replacement is around 61.2%. Homeowners can recoup more than half of their roof replacement expenses when they sell their homes.
Customization and Enhanced Aesthetic
Metal roofs offer various customization options, such as paint colors, roof styles, finishes, and materials. Aluminum and steel roofs offer the widest color options. Other materials, such as copper, tin, and zinc, have natural finishes and textures that make their appearance unique. Metal roofs can blend into your color scheme or become accent pieces in your home. In its 2023 Curb Appeal Trends report, the MRA predicts more homeowners will start mixing and matching metal roof patterns, designs, and colors for bolder combinations. If energy efficiency is your goal, there are plenty of light shades and hues that help with efficiency and boost design appeal.
What Are the Disadvantages of Metal Roofing?
The cost of metal roofing and the difficulty of installation and repair are a few of the drawbacks that homeowners may face when trying to decide whether to add a metal roof or not.
Cost may be the largest deterrent in choosing a metal roof. With higher material and installation costs than many other roofing options, some homeowners may opt for a roofing material with less up-front cost. However, with its above-average durability and longevity, metal roofing can prove to be a good option for many homeowners.
The difficulty of metal roof installation and maintenance can be a drawback to many homeowners who are looking to install roofing themselves. Metal roofing is not typically a good option for the average DIY-er and takes and advanced amount of experience and knowledge to do safely and effectively.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Metal Roofs?
Your location, roof pitch, and additional roofing elements are all additional cost factors that affect your metal roof’s price. We’ll explain those factors below.
Labor
Roughly two-thirds of a new metal roof’s cost goes toward labor, according to Roofing Calculator. This includes associated labor costs, such as specialized equipment and scaffolding. Labor costs start around $350–$400 per sheet (roughly 100 square feet).
Location
Areas with a higher cost of living incur higher roof replacement costs. Your local weather and climate also determine the roofing materials you’ll need. For example, if you live in an area that frequently experiences severe weather patterns, such as heavy winds or hail, you may need a more durable material.
Pitch
A roof’s pitch is measured by a ratio that indicates how many inches the roof rises for every 12 inches in depth. Most homes have roof pitches between 3:12 and 6:12. Any roof that exceeds a 6:12 pitch is considered steep, making it more complicated and hazardous to work on. Homes with steep roof slopes incur higher installation costs because additional safety equipment is needed.
Underlayment
Underlayment is required on top of your roof deck to provide leak protection. Your current roof’s underlayment might not work for a metal roof. If so, a new underlayment will increase your total cost. According to Roofing Calculator, synthetic underlayment costs between 15 cents and 65 cents per square foot.
Style
Metal roofing most often comes in two metal panel profiles: corrugated or standing seam panels. Both styles have different benefits and installation costs. We’ll explain each panel option below.
Corrugated Metal Panels
Corrugated metal roofing (or exposed fastener) is one of the least expensive metal roofing panels, but it’s not as durable as a standing seam metal roof. Corrugated metal panels have a wave-like appearance that makes installation more straightforward because the grooves of each wave fit together seamlessly. The panels easily expand and contract under changing temperatures, are lightweight and can be installed over an existing roof.
Because corrugated metal panels are attached with thousands of fasteners, they may be damaged by overtight or loose fasteners. Improper installation can lead to possible leaks and water damage. Fasteners may also loosen or corrode over time, requiring additional repairs.
Though many types of metal can be made into corrugated sheets, galvanized steel or a less expensive galvalume are most common. These metal panels cost between $4 and $6 per square foot. Based on metal roofing prices from Roofing Calculator, your total cost with labor will fall between $8,412 and $12,004 for a 1,700-square-foot roof.
Standing Seam Panels
Standing seam roofing panels have a vertical ribbed appearance, with the raised ribs concealing the fastening between the panels. Some panels can be snap-locked together, but others require special metal caps to fasten the pieces in place.
Having no exposed fastened parts means the fasteners aren’t subject to weathering, moisture, wind, or other stresses that can break them down over time. Additionally, the ribs and unique locking mechanisms of standing seam panels allow them to expand and contract as temperatures change.
Typical standing seam materials include aluminum, steel, copper, and zinc. The panels cost between $7 and $13 per square foot, depending on your chosen material. Roofing Calculator estimates that with materials and labor, the average cost for standing seam panels is $11,900–$22,100. Aluminum and steel standing seam panels are typically less expensive than copper or zinc panels.
Trim/Flashing
Your estimate should include the necessary metal trim and flashing for your roof. The cost of trim depends on the type of metal roof. Overall, exposed fastener roofing costs less than standing seam systems. Below are the latest 2023 cost estimates from Western States Metal Roofing.
Here are the average costs for metal trim for exposed and standing seam fastener panels:
| Trim/Flashing | Cost per linear foot |
|---|---|
| Exposed Fastener Eave Trim | $2.50–$4.00 |
| Exposed Fastener Gable Trim | $2.50–$4.00 |
| Exposed Fastener Ridge Cap | $3.50–$5.00 |
| Standing Seam Eave Trim | $5.50–$8.00 |
| Standing Seam Gable Trim | $5.50–$8.00 |
| Standing Seam Ridge Cap | $7.00–$10.00 |
Finishes
Finishes boost your roof’s paint color and extend its durability. The two main types of metal roof finishes are polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and silicone-modified polyester (SMP).
PVDF coating provides the best protection against fading, cracking, and harsh outdoor elements, but its softer composition makes it easier to scratch. SMP coatings are harder, making them more resistant to scratches and chalking, which is when a powder-like substance forms on a surface. However, UV rays make SMP more susceptible to cracking and fading. PVDF coatings cost between 15% and 35% more than SMP options.
Gutters
Depending on your roof layout and existing gutter systems, you may require gutter replacement or repair. Gutter installation costs $1,000–$7,000, or about $10 per linear foot. You may also want to consider installing gutter guards for added protection and performance.
Common Questions About Metal Roofing
You can install a metal roof over an old asphalt shingle roof, but it’s not recommended and only done to save money. You should have a professional roofing contractor check your existing roof for any damage before installing a new roof over it. If your roof is in poor condition, have it taken off before work continues.
No, metal roofs don’t affect cellphone reception. A poor cellphone signal is likely the result of where you live, your home’s distance from a utility tower, harsh weather conditions, and the cell service carrier you use.
Metal roofs are not loud when it rains. This is a common misconception about metal roofs. In fact, metal roofs aren’t any noisier than other types of roofs.
Are Metal Roofs Worth the Extra Cost?
Metal roofing is most common for homeowners who live in hotter climates, like the southwest, because of their ability to reflect sunlight and resistance to heat retention as well as colder climates that require enhanced durability due to their heavy snowfall. Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting, making them a wise investment for most homeowners wherever they live. Metal roof costs vary based on your selected material, panel style, and other customization options. Though more expensive than other roofing materials, metal roofs can help homeowners save money on future roof repairs and replacements.
FAQs About Metal Roofing Cost
Can a metal roof be installed over my old roof?
Yes, in most cases, you can install a metal roof over your old roof. These installations are most common with existing asphalt roofs. You should have a professional roofing contractor check your existing roof for any damage before installing a new roof over it. If your roof is in poor condition, you may need to replace it entirely.
Can I install solar panels on a metal roof?
Yes, you can install solar panels on a metal roof. In fact, metal roofs are the top roofing choice for solar system installations. Metal roofs are strong and durable, allowing them to easily support solar panels, mounting racks, and other necessary equipment.
Can I repaint a metal roof?
Yes, you can repaint a metal roof to give it a fresh look or a new color. It’s important to wash and prime the surface before painting. Your paint choice will depend on your metal roof material. Acrylic latex paint or oil-based alkyd paint are typically the best options.
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