How Much Is A Metal Roof? (2024 Ultimate Pricing Guide)
If your roof is old and leaking – it’s time for an upgrade. And for some homeowners, new, modern metal roofs are calling their name.
We know that metal roofs are expensive, but how expensive could they actually be? Is a metal roof really going to break the bank?
While Rescue my roof does not currently handle metal roofing projects, we have helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the roof budgeting process. With our strong belief in price transparency in the roofing industry, our customers understand what goes into the price of their roof – and you will, too.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that influence the cost of metal roofs and provide insights into what homeowners can expect when considering this resilient roofing option. Ultimately, you’ll be able to budget appropriately for your dream roof.
How Much Does A Metal Roof Cost in 2024?
Rescue My Roof does not currently handle metal roofing projects, but you need to have a full list of available options when looking into the price estimation for your next roof.
A metal roof is estimated to cost from $8,500 – $68,000. The range you see in price here is most likely impacted by the factors we are discussing in this article (size, complexity, etc.) but also by the type of metal roofing you are choosing.
To give you a better visual, on a standard 1,700-square-foot-roof, metal roof installation cost an average of $13,200. It is important to note that more than two-thirds of the price often goes toward materials alone. You’ll pay anywhere from $1 to $25 per square foot for metal roofing materials plus another $2 to $14 per square foot for labor.
Metal Roofing Costs by Type
The overall cost of your roof will fluctuate based on square footage, accessibility, time and labor, and, of course, materials.
The type of metal you choose for your roof will have an impact on the price. Below, we’ve broken down the price ranges for the most popular metal roofs.
Aluminum Roofs
Aluminum roofs are long-lasting, durable, and ideal in cases where you live in a hot climate as they reflect heat. Additionally, for eco-friendly homeowners, there are recyclable aluminum roofing options available.
Aluminum roofs also have an incredible lifespan: they can last up to 40 years. The downside: the price. Aluminum shingles can cost anywhere from $8 to $18 per square ft.
Copper Roofs
Copper roofs are extremely long-lasting (with some still standing over 60 years later) and they are fire-resistant.
But the benefits of this type of roof come at a high cost: Copper roofs are at the top of the price charts, coming in between $20 – $40 per sq. ft. And the price can fluctuate greatly depending on the current market rate.
A 1,700-square-foot roof could cost up to $68,000 between labor and materials. However, copper roofing will last over a century, resist corrosion and maintain its beauty as the patina changes in the sun.
To get an accurate estimate on a copper roof, contact a specialized contractor to get an estimate.
Steel Roofing
Steel roofs are incredibly versatile and cost between $5 and $17 per square foot for labor and materials, or between $500 and $1,700 per roofing square.
The wide price range accounts for everything from simple corrugated sheets of steel to galvanized steel that comes in shingles and tiles. Higher-end steel roofing features specialized coatings that alter the look and durability of the metal.
However, Steel roofs tend to have a shorter lifespan than other metals. For the high price point, its comparatively shorter lifespan is a drawback for most homeowners.
Unless the look of steel roofs has stolen your heart, you may want to consider other metal roofing options.
Tin Roofing
Many modern tin roofs are actually a combination of steel saturated with a tin coating. You’ll pay between $10 and $23 per square foot for tin roofing materials including the cost of installation.
However, not only is a tin roof not very common anymore, but it is also prone to rust and corrosion, so be sure to consider the long-term cost of roof repairs.
Cost to Install Metal Roofing
Installation plays a significant role in metal roofing prices. Here’s a breakdown of how labor prices can impact your estimate.
Labor
You’ll pay between $2 and $14 per square foot for metal roof installation, or between $3,400 and $23,800 for a 1,700-square-foot roof. The cost will depend on several primary factors, including:
- Your local cost of living
- Bulk rates for large roofs
- The pitch of your roof
- Special roofing elements
- The type of metal material
Underlayment
The final price tag of your metal roof heavily depends on if you need new underlayment as well. The synthetic or felt layer sits between the metal sheets or shingles and the roof’s framing.
You can add between $2 and $4 per square foot for the cost of underlayment installation and materials.
Pitch and Shape
The pitch and shape of your roof will play a role in your professional estimate.
Take a moment to think about the slope of your roof and how difficult it may be to access and stand on when installing the metal sheets. Steeper roofs are more difficult and will take longer to cover, increasing your bottom line.
Is Metal Roofing Worth It?
If it’s within your budget and you want a roof to truly last a lifetime, a metal roof may be calling your name.
But selecting the right metal roofing material involves a careful evaluation of your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize durability, energy efficiency, or a unique aesthetic, the diverse range of metal roofing materials ensures that there’s a perfect fit for every homeowner.
Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each option, consult with roofing professionals, and make an informed decision that not only protects your home but enhances its beauty for years to come.
Learn more about choosing the right roofing materials with “Why You Shouldn’t Install Metal Roofs over Shingle Roofs” and “Which Roofing Material has the Best Warranty?“While Rescue My Roof does not currently offer metal roofing, we are platinum-level certified installers of Atlas asphalt shingles. If you need asphalt roof replacements or repairs in southeastern Wisconsin, contact us today to get a free estimate.
