How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost? (2024 Pricing)
Typical cost range:
$15,000–$24,500
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Metal roofs have increased in popularity in recent years because they are considered aesthetically pleasing and often offer better roof insulation than other materials, providing energy savings over time and a greater return on your investment.
Metal roofs also come in various materials, styles, and designs, allowing you plenty of customization options. Another benefit? 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 learn which factors impact metal roof prices and whether one is the right fit for your home.
*We averaged cost data from multiple sources, including Fixr and Roofing Calculator.
Key Takeaways
- Installation of a metal roof costs between $4 and $40 per square foot or $400–$4,000 per square with a national average of $18,600.
- Metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingle roofs but last twice as long.
- Metal roofs can save homeowners up to 25% in energy costs if installed to optimize ventilation and if solar reflective coating is used.
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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. You should budget anywhere from $6,800 to $34,000 for the total installation cost of a metal roof. We learned from our experience shadowing an Erie Home metal roofing consultation that 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. The Erie Roofing representative explained that roofers usually order slightly more material than required in case of any issues, which often causes roughly 10% of the material to go to waste.
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. As you will see below, shingle roofs are significantly cheaper than metal roofs but only last half as long. Though there are many factors to consider when choosing a new roof, two of the most important are each material’s overall cost and projected lifespan. Learn how metal roofing compares to other roofing material options by gauging both of these factors.
| Material | Total Cost* | Cost per Square Foot | Life Span in Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal | $15,300–$24,820 | $9–$14.60 | 40–70 |
| Asphalt Shingles | $7,225–$14,025 | $4.25–$8.25 | 20–30 |
| Built-up Roofing (BUR) | $5,800–$8,330 | $3.42–$4.90 | 15–30 |
| Clay Tiles | $10,030–$24,950 | $5.90–$14.68 | 50–100 |
| Concrete | $8,770–$14,620 | $5.16–$8.60 | 50 |
| Green Roofing | $17,000–$47,600 | $10–$28 | 40 |
| Slate | $12,850–$31,790 | $7.56–$18.70 | 75–200 |
| Solar Roofing** | $27,370–$35,450 | $16.10–$20.85 | 25–30 |
| Wood Shingles | $11,100–$16,830 | $6.53–$9.90 | 15–30 |
**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.
How Do the Different Types of Metal Roofing Compare?
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.
Steel Shingles
There are several types of steel shingle materials to choose from.
They range from $4 – $20/sq ft, depending on the type of steel used.
Aluminum
Aluminum roofing is inexpensive and fairly resistant to saltwater corrosion.
It can range from $6.50-$21 a square foot when installed.
Tin Roofs
Tin Roofs were commonly used in the 1800s. Their price ranges from $10-$26 per square foot installed.
Zinc Panels
Zinc is one of the most corrosion-resistant choices and ranges from $14.50-$21 per square foot when installed.
Copper Tiles
Copper roofing is extremely durable, lightweight, and is one of the most unique-looking roofing options ranging from $20-$40 per square foot installed.
Steel Shingles
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
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.
Tin Roofing Panels
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.
Zinc Roofing Panels
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 Tiles
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 non-reflective 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.
- By adding reflective or lighter paint colors, homeowners could create what’s known as a cool roof. According to Energy Star, cool roofs have higher solar reflectance that lowers your home’s internal temperatures. Many cool roofs are Energy Star-certified and help you save up to 15% more on energy bills.
What Are the Disadvantages of Metal Roofing?
While there a distinct benefits of metal roofing, there are also a few drawbacks.
Cost
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.
Difficulty of Installation
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 is affordable and easy to install due to its wave-like appearance. However, it’s not as durable as standing seam metal roofs, and improper installation can lead to leaks and water damage. These panels cost between $4 and $6 per square foot, and the total cost for a 1,700-square-foot roof with labor falls between $8,412 and $12,004.
- Standing seam panels: Standing seam roofing panels feature concealed fasteners beneath vertical raised ribs, allowing for thermal expansion and contraction. While some interlock, others require metal caps. This design protects fasteners from weathering. Materials include aluminum, steel, copper, and zinc, costing $7–$13 per square foot. With labor, the typical installation cost is $11,900–$22,100, depending on the metal chosen. Aluminum and steel are more economical than copper or zinc.
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
Metal roof finishes provide color and durability. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and silicone-modified polyester (SMP) are the main types. PVDF better resists fading and elements but scratches more easily. SMP is harder but more prone to UV cracking and fading. PVDF costs 15%-35% more than 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.
What Are Common Myths About Metal Roofs?
- You can’t install metal roofing over an old roof: You can install a metal roof over an old asphalt shingle roof, but it’s not recommended and is 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 removed before work continues.
- Metal roofs affect cellphone reception: 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 loud when it rains: 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.
How Can You Save Money on a Metal Roof?
Our experience observing Erie Home’s metal roofing consultation revealed ways to save on your metal roof. Here are some tips based on our observations:
- Find discounts: You should research available discounts the roofing company is offering. Chances are that the salesperson won’t add any to your quote unless you ask. For example, some companies offer senior discounts that the representative will forget to add to your quote.
- Negotiate: We learned that roofing companies are willing to negotiate, and we’ve seen how this can benefit homeowners. In one particular consultation visit, we discovered that the homeowner was able to adjust the price by negotiating certain terms around payment methods. Additionally, they were able to strike a deal to have their home photographed for promotional purposes, further reducing the cost.
Are Metal Roofs Worth the 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 long-term investment for most homeowners, even if they don’t live in extreme climates. 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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