How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost? Benefits, Price & FAQs (2023)
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Are you looking to install metal roofing this year? If so, we bet you’re wonderin how much will it cost you. You can expect to pay between $9-$30 per square foot.
A metal roof is a durable, safe, and beautiful way to cover your home. Its natural look has made it a popular choice for many homeowners. These roofs are designed to be strong, but they can be a huge investment, so it’s crucial to know the installation cost. We’ll walk you through all the prices for metal roofing today. This way, you can be prepared when the time comes to make this big decision. Let’s jump right in!
Click to Skip Ahead:
- The Importance of Installing Metal Roofing
- How Much Does It Cost to Install Metal Roofing?
- Extra Costs to Expect
- Does Housing Insurance Cover the Cost of Installing Metal Roofing?
- Factors Affecting the Cost of Installing Metal Roofing
The Importance of Installing Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is an excellent choice to provide your home with the protection it needs. It will ensure your home stays dry and won’t be subject to weather damage. Here are other benefits of installing metal roofing:
It Improves Your Home’s Resale Value
Metal is a premium roofing material. So, installing it will make your home more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell it. Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting, making them the least likely roof material to need maintenance or repairs in the future.
It’s Easy to Clean
A metal roof is easy to clean. Metal doesn’t hold on to grime like asphalt shingles, so your roof will always look clean and fresh. Your roof will keep its good looks for decades.
It’s Fire and Weather-Resistant
Metal roofing is becoming more common because it can withstand different weather conditions. This roofing is also fire-resistant, making it an excellent option for homeowners.
Metal roofing has a Class A rating on the fire safety scale, like asphalt shingles. Besides, metal roofs are so resistant that some insurance companies offer discounts for houses with them.
Metal Roofing Is Energy-Efficient and Eco-Friendly
Metal reflects heat and UV rays, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. It also helps reduce HVAC system use and cuts down on energy costs. The material is even recyclable when you’re ready to replace it, making it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Metal Roofing?
Installing metal roofing is an excellent way to save money and preserve the value of your home, but it can be expensive compared to other roofing options. So, many homeowners are curious to know how much it will cost to install a metal roof. The average cost of materials and installation ranges from can range from $4–$40 per square foot, according to Fixr.com, depending on the type of roof you choose.
Here’s a breakdown of metal roofing installation costs based on the material:
1. Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum is one of the most popular choices in metal roofing. It comes in natural, baked enamel or anodized finishes. It has a long life and is resistant to corrosion and is an excellent choice for coastal areas.
Aluminum can also be recycled and is reflective, which translates to lower energy bills. The average cost of installing it is $9 per square foot.
2. Copper Roofing
Copper is the most expensive of the metals used for roofing but it’s also the strongest. Copper is attractive and has a pleasant color that can last for decades. Also, it can resist extreme weather conditions, such as high winds, rain, and hail.
Using copper to construct your roof will cost you more than other metal roofs, but it will also give your home an added appeal and value in the long run. The cost of installing copper roofs ranges from $14–$30 per square foot.
3. Steel Roofing
Steel roofing is the most common type of metal roofing. It’s durable and can withstand high winds and other extreme weather conditions. The steel panels have a special coating that protects them from rust. A typical steel roofing installation will cost you $3–$9 per square foot.
4.Tin Roofing
Tin roofing is a favorite for homeowners who prefer the look of traditional roofing materials but want something more durable. Although tin is a commonly used material for roofing, it can be expensive to install. The average cost of installing tin roofing ranges from $3–$15 per square foot.
Most tin roofs are made from 24- or 26-gauge steel. Some homeowners choose to use 20-gauge galvanized steel for added durability.
5. Zinc Roofing
Zinc is another stand-out option when it comes to metal roofing materials. It can last up to 100 years with little to no maintenance required. It’s also resistant to fire and insect damage. Zinc can cost $5.50–$10.50 per square foot.
6. Stainless Steel Roofing
Stainless steel is a popular roof material if you want something that is fire-resistant and durable. Stainless steel has an added advantage over other metal roofing—a protective layer of chromium oxide, which prevents corrosion.
Stainless steel is more expensive than galvanized steel, but this difference should not be a concern since stainless steel lasts longer than galvanized steel. Installing stainless steel roofing costs $15.50 per square foot.
| Roofing Material | Installation Cost (Per Square Foot) |
| § Aluminum | $9 |
| § Copper | $14–$30 |
| § Steel | $3–$9 |
| § Tin | $3–$15 |
| § Zinc | $5.50–$10.50 |
| § Stainless Steel | $15.50 |
Extra Costs to Expect
Installing metal roofing is a simple way to protect your home against the elements for years to come. But, installing a metal roofing system is not just about the metal sheets themselves. There are extra costs to consider when installing metal roofing for your home. Some of these costs include:
Labor Cost
Labor costs vary depending on whether you decide to hire a professional roofing contractor or install the roof yourself. Usually, roofing contractors will charge you between $40–$80 per hour to install a metal roof. Also, some charge an additional labor cost at $7–$14 per square foot.
Roof Flashing Cost
Flashing is a thin material used to seal seams on the roof and around chimneys and vents. Roof flashing costs depend on the flashing needed for your roof. The average cost of roof flashing ranges from $14–$25 per linear foot. It includes the new roof flashing and the caulking. The caulking can also cost extra.
Does Housing Insurance Cover the Cost of Installing Metal Roofing?
Housing insurance covers the costs of remodeling your home due to damage. However, there are limitations. Most housing insurance will cover the installation cost of metal roofing if it’s due to a fire or storm. If you already had metal roofing installed before and the cause of the fire was deemed arson, you will not receive compensation.
If you’re considering having metal roofing installed due to financial concerns, consider all aspects of doing it. This includes what type of policy you have for your home and if the policy covers the installation cost.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Installing Metal Roofing
Many factors will affect the cost of installing metal roofing on your home. Each one can increase or decrease the final price. By learning about each, you will be more informed about how much your project should cost.
Some of the factors affecting the cost of installing metal roofing include:
Metal Type
Metal roofing materials are available in different gauges, colors, and metal types. Steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc are the four primary materials for metal roofs.
Each of these materials has various gauges, styles, and grades that can alter their overall price. Copper is the most expensive metal you can choose for a roof.
Styles
Metal roofs are available in a variety of styles, including standing seam and corrugated panels and tile and shingle shapes. The price for each roofing style varies depending on the material used.
Configuration
The configuration of your roof matters a lot. While some of this is outside your control, you can’t change the fact that you have a complex roof with many angles, valleys, and chimneys. If possible, work to keep your roof as simple as possible. It’s easier and cheaper to install panels on a flat or slightly sloped roof than on one with a steep pitch.
Fasteners
You can choose between exposed fasteners and hidden fasteners for your new metal roof. Usually, exposed fasteners cost less but may sacrifice performance over time. Hidden fasteners are more labor-intensive to install but have better long-term performance.
Coatings
Metal roofing is available in coated and uncoated materials, so you can choose between a wide range of colors. Some metal roofs have a clear coat finish to protect them from oxidation and rust.
Conclusion
Are you putting up a small metal roof on an addition or a huge metal roof over your whole home? If you answer yes to either of these, it can be challenging to know how much the work will cost. With a careful budgeting process, you can create a spreadsheet that helps you plan your costs. When considering a metal roof for your home, don’t be afraid to gather as many quotes as possible before making your decision. We hope this guide has answered all your questions on the cost of installing metal roofing.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
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