If you are a homeowner considering installing a new metal roof on your house, then undoubtedly, one of the burning questions on your mind is how much will it cost?
Right of the bat: The national average cost to install a new residential metal roof is between $11.50 and $20.50 per square foot, depending on the metal type and profile, roof difficulty, and project location.
For an example of a typical project, you can expect to pay between $23,000 and $41,000 for a new 2,000 sq. ft. or 20-squares metal roof fully installed on a typical house.
This price range is for the installation of architectural or residential grade Kynar 500 or Hylar 5000 metal roofs like interlocking metal shingles, shakes, tiles, or standing seam. It includes all the necessary materials, matching metal trim, and supplies, building permits, professional installation and site clean-up, and comprehensive warranty from the installer.
Note: Installation prices can can vary greatly, depending on the type of metal alloy and roofing profile you want to install, whether it be standing seam, metal shingles or shakes, overall project difficulty, your home’s location, and from company to company in the same area.
The pricing difference in quotes from one contractor to another can be surprisingly high, which is why it’s so important to get several estimates from both local installers and those from outside the area.
$7,500 |
$14,500 |
$8,225 |
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See costs in your areaDid you know? In very expensive coastal cities and fire-prone areas on the West Coast including California, Oregon, and Washington state, standing seam metal roofs are currently averaging between $14.50 and $20.50 per square foot to install. Metal shingle roofs, meanwhile, are selling for between $12.50 and $18.50 per square foot in the same markets.
New Metal Roof Cost by Metro Area
| City | Typical Cost Range per Sq.Ft. | Avg. Cost per Sq.Ft. | Avg. Cost of 1,500 Sq.Ft. Roof | Avg. Cost of 2,000 Sq.Ft. Roof | Avg. Cost of 2,500 Sq.Ft. Roof | Avg. Cost of 3,000 Sq.Ft. Roof | Avg. Cost of 3,500 Sq.Ft. Roof |
| New York | $14.00 – $21.00 | $17.50 | $28,088 | $35,000 | $41,563 | $47,250 | $55,125 |
| Los Angeles | $13.50 – $20.50 | $17.00 | $27,285 | $34,000 | $40,375 | $45,900 | $53,550 |
| Chicago | $11.50 – $18.50 | $15.00 | $24,075 | $30,000 | $35,625 | $40,500 | $47,250 |
| Houston | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Philadelphia | $11.50 – $19.50 | $15.50 | $24,878 | $31,000 | $36,813 | $41,850 | $48,825 |
| Phoenix | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| San Antonio | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| San Diego | $13.50 – $20.50 | $17.00 | $27,285 | $34,000 | $40,375 | $45,900 | $53,550 |
| Dallas | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| San Jose | $14.00 – $21.00 | $17.50 | $28,088 | $35,000 | $41,563 | $47,250 | $55,125 |
| Austin | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Jacksonville | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Fort Worth | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Columbus | $11.50 – $18.50 | $15.00 | $24,075 | $30,000 | $35,625 | $40,500 | $47,250 |
| San Francisco | $13.50 – $20.50 | $17.00 | $27,285 | $34,000 | $40,375 | $45,900 | $53,550 |
| Charlotte | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Indianapolis | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Seattle | $13.50 – $20.50 | $17.00 | $27,285 | $34,000 | $40,375 | $45,900 | $53,550 |
| Denver | $12.50 – $20.00 | $16.25 | $26,081 | $32,500 | $38,594 | $43,875 | $51,188 |
| Washington D.C. | $14.00 – $20.50 | $17.25 | $27,686 | $34,500 | $40,969 | $46,575 | $54,338 |
| Boston | $14.00 – $20.50 | $17.25 | $27,686 | $34,500 | $40,969 | $46,575 | $54,338 |
| El Paso | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Nashville | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Detroit | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Portland | $13.50 – $20.50 | $17.00 | $27,285 | $34,000 | $40,375 | $45,900 | $53,550 |
| Las Vegas | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Oklahoma City | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Louisville | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Baltimore | $12.50 – $18.00 | $15.25 | $24,476 | $30,500 | $36,219 | $41,175 | $48,038 |
| Milwaukee | $12.50 – $18.50 | $15.50 | $24,878 | $31,000 | $36,813 | $41,850 | $48,825 |
| Albuquerque | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Tucson | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Fresno | $12.50 – $19.00 | $15.75 | $25,279 | $31,500 | $37,406 | $42,525 | $49,613 |
| Mesa | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Sacramento | $12.50 – $20.00 | $16.25 | $26,081 | $32,500 | $38,594 | $43,875 | $51,188 |
| Atlanta | $12.00 – $19.00 | $15.50 | $24,878 | $31,000 | $36,813 | $41,850 | $48,825 |
| Kansas City | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Colorado Springs | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Miami | $12.50 – $20.00 | $16.25 | $26,081 | $32,500 | $38,594 | $43,875 | $51,188 |
| Raleigh | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Omaha | $11.00 – $17.50 | $14.25 | $22,871 | $28,500 | $33,844 | $38,475 | $44,888 |
| Long Beach | $13.50 – $20.50 | $17.00 | $27,285 | $34,000 | $40,375 | $45,900 | $53,550 |
| Virginia Beach | $11.50 – $18.50 | $6.50 | $10,433 | $13,000 | $15,438 | $17,550 | $20,475 |
| Oakland | $13.50 – $20.00 | $16.75 | $26,884 | $33,500 | $39,781 | $45,225 | $52,763 |
| Minneapolis | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
| Tampa | $11.50 – $18.00 | $14.75 | $23,674 | $29,500 | $35,031 | $39,825 | $46,463 |
$7,500 |
$14,500 |
$8,225 |
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The increase in prices last year, signals a significant inflation of 5% to 10% compared to the previous year. This price inflation is not unique to metal roofs. In fact, many asphalt shingle manufacturers have increased the prices of their products by 5% to 10% since last year, which also impacted the overall end consumer costs by about 5% to 10% compared to the previous year.
Most contractors measure roofs in squares. One square is equal to 100 sq.ft. A typical single-family house has a roof size of 1,700 to 2,000 square feet or 17 to 20 squares.
Important cost factors: Your roof’s overall complexity and the local real estate market conditions (property values and robustness of the local economy) are the two most important factors determining the price of a new metal roof. Note that the total amount of professional labor required (which is tied to the overall complexity of the roof) is by far the most significant cost factor!
On a possible wider range of prices: Because metal roofs come in different materials and metal alloys like aluminum, steel, zinc (premium metal), etc., and profiles like metal shingles, shakes, tiles, corrugated, ribbed, and architectural and structural standing seam panels, you can expect a rather wide price range between $8.50 and $20.50 per square foot of metal roofing installed.
The actual price per square foot will depend on the material type and profile, project complexity, and location. This wider price range translates to a total replacement cost ranging from $17,000 to $41,000 for a typical 20-squares or 2,000 sq.ft. roof.
Less-costly Metal Roofs: Corrugated Steel and Ribbed Panels
If you opt for a less-costly system such as corrugated or ribbed metal panels, your cost will likely fall within $6.50 to $10.50 per square foot or $650 to $1,050 per square installed, depending on the metal thickness (gauges for steel or mils for aluminum) and the quality of paint finish (polyester or acrylic paint vs. Kynar 500 or Hylar 5000) for the system being installed, as well as your home’s geographic location.
Important Points to Keep in Mind:
When considering the price of metal vs. asphalt, it’s important to keep in mind that with metal, you are not only paying more for a premium product and a longer-lasting material than asphalt, but you are also paying for a specialized, often tedious and involved (and hence costly) professional installation that requires special skills and expertise from the installer, as well as appropriate tools and equipment.
Keep in mind there are several factors that may influence your final price for a new metal roof. These include the type of metal and the roof style you choose, your home’s geographic location, and the overall complexity of the roof.
Pricing breakdown by the System Material and Type: Metal Shingles, Standing Seam, Materials & Installation:
- What to Expect
- Metal vs. Asphalt Shingles
- Understanding the High Cost of Labor to Install a Metal Roof
- Steel Shingles, Standing Seam, and Stone-Coated Steel Roofs
- Aluminum Shingles and Standing Seam
- Copper and Zinc
- Paint Finish Quality
- Metal Roof Colors
- Effects of a Home’s Location on Price
- Why Metal Roofing?
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1. What to Expect from This In-depth Guide
Our pricing guide will walk you through all the main factors determining the cost of a new metal roof. For your convenience, we provide a simple breakdown of costs for different types of materials and installation.
Once you understand how the pricing works and decide on the type of system you want to install, you can then request free no-obligation quotes and confidently negotiate with any contractor so you can get the best possible deal in your area, without sacrificing on quality.
2. Metal vs. Asphalt Shingles
Currently, metal roofing commands approximately 13% share of the sloped roofing market, while asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles account for over 75% of all sloped roofs in the US. In terms of the expected durability, longevity, and performance, residential metal roofs are built to last two to three times longer than mid-range asphalt shingles.
However, the superior performance of metal vs. asphalt comes at a higher upfront cost. On average, metal roofs will cost two to three times higher than asphalt shingles. For example, a typical mid-range architectural asphalt shingle roof may cost approximately $9,350 for a 1,700 square feet or 17 squares roof replacement job at $550 per square, compared to $21,250 for a standing seam metal roof installed at $1,250 per square.
The difference is due to the higher cost of metal roofing materials and a far more tedious/technical, and hence costlier installation. More on this in the next section below.
Metal roofs will generally outperform asphalt roofs in important areas like energy efficiency, hail impact protection, and ice dam prevention. CoolRoof rated metal roofs are more energy-efficient than asphalt shingles including CoolRoof rated asphalt shingles because Kynar 500 finished metal roof products and colors usually have significantly higher SRI (solar reflectance index) ratings from Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) than asphalt shingle products.
In areas that are subject to severe hailstorms, metal roofs will provide better far protection against large hail stones than asphalt shingles. In fact, there is not a single asphalt shingle manufacturer that offers any kind of hail impact damage warranty coverage for their asphalt shingle products. On the other hand, manufacturers of stone coated Galvalume and G-90 steel tiles like DECRA or Boral Steel offer comprehensive hail impact damage warranty including the replacement of damaged tiles.
For homeowners interested in installing solar panels on their rooftop, a high-end system like standing seam offers a penetration-free attachment (no need to drill any holes in the roof) of the solar panels to the raised seam of a metal roof.
Fun Fact: As far as the frequently-mentioned myth that metal roofs are noisy compared to asphalt, the actual level of noise from raindrops hitting the surface of a metal roof is only 52 decibels vs. 46 decibels for asphalt shingles.
With solid wood roof decks and insulated attics for most homes, this level of noise is a virtual non-factor. The difference in rainwater noise between metal and asphalt is almost negligible. For context, the noise level that humans find annoying starts at around 70 decibels or higher.
3. Why the Cost of Professional Labor to Install a Metal Roof is So High
One of the main reasons for the higher upfront cost of metal roofs is the high cost of skilled labor. Installing high-end metal roofs like standing seam and interlocking metal shingles requires specialized skills acquired through expensive training, proven experience, and special equipment.
Unlike conventional asphalt shingle roofs, the installation of a metal roof must always be carried out in highly accurate and precise manner.
A metal roof is not simply nailed to the roof deck like its distant cousin, asphalt roofing. To install a typical metal roof, it can take up to two to three times longer than installing a comparable asphalt shingles roof.
To ensure the longevity of a new metal roof, the entire installation process must be carried out with a proper technical know-how, precision, care, and patience.
For instance, if you plan to install a standing seam roof, be prepared to pay more for the cost of labor, because standing seam installation can be quite technical and tedious compared to other types of metal roofing.
A typical price to install a new high-end architectural grade standing seam metal roof with Kynar 500 paint finish starts at around $11.50 (steel) to $12.50 (aluminum) per square foot or $1,150.00 to $1,250.00 per square installed. This figure does not necessarily include the cost of removing and disposing of the old roof, which could add between $1.50 and $2.50 per sq.ft, depending on the number of layers and the overall roof size, scope, and relative complexity of the project.
The installation typically includes a premium breathable synthetic roof underlayment, Ice-and-water shield installed in eaves and valleys on homes in an area that experiences heavy snow and ice build-ups, along with any necessary vent pipe boots, roof vents, snow-guards, and metal flashing details.
A breathable synthetic underlayment (highly recommended for a metal roof) like GAF Deck Armor will typically add an extra $30-$45 to the cost of materials on a per square (100 square feet) basis.
All the necessary trim and per-fabricated roof flashing is included in the cost of materials. One square equals to 100 square feet of the actual roof surface.
As a rule of thumb, the greater the overall square footage and span of the roof, the less you can expect to pay on a per square foot basis for your choice of material, especially if you opt for standing seam panels. Order size matters.
Did you know? Small-size orders requiring less than 300 sq. ft. or three squares of custom-sized sheet metal panels can be surprisingly expensive!
If you have a complex roof with multiple cut-up angles, dormers, sidewalls, chimneys, and/or skylights requiring metal flashing work, then your total installation cost will be proportionally higher.
Now, let’s take a look at the prices you can expect to pay for various types of metal alloys and popular profiles like standing seam, metal shingles, shakes, and stone-coated steel tiles.
4. Steel
G-90 – Galvanized Steel: Hot-dip galvanized steel is the most affordable (after G-60 steel, which is used primarily in low-grade/low-end corrugated sheet metal panels that are commonly used for low-end roofing applications such as sheds, garages, some homes in rural areas, and lower-end industrial and agricultural applications) kind of residential metal roofing material offering a solid value to price performance.
G-90 steel coil or sheet steel is coated with a thin layer of zinc oxide, which provides a reasonable degree of corrosion resistance and protection from the elements
G-90 steel panels are normally finished with Kynar-500, a paint finish known for high quality and longevity.
The following systems are usually made with G-90 Steel:
Interlocking Steel Shingles:
Materials including trim will cost around $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot or $350.00 to $550.00 per square (100 sq. ft.) of zinc-coated steel shingles finished with Kynar 500 paint.
The base level cost to install G-90 steel shingles starts at $11.50 per sq. ft. or $1,150.00 per square installed, not including the cost of tear-off.
Stone-Coated Steel Shingles and Tiles:
Stone-Coated steel roofing products are available in a wide variety of styles and profiles including tiles, slates, shakes, and shingles.
Material costs for stone-coated steel shingles and tiles range from $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot or $350.00 to $550.00 per square including trim.
With a professional installation, expect the starting cost of $11.50 per square foot or $1,150.00 per square for stone-coated steel shingles or tiles installed, not including the tear off and disposal of the old roof.
Galvalume Steel – A measurable improvement over G-90 steel, Galvalume steel has a coating of corrosion resistant aluminum-zinc alloy applied by a continuous hot dip process.
Galvalume offers longer-lasting protection against rusting and corrosion from exposure to elements. Note that most higher-end, residential standing seam steel panels can be manufactured from either Galvalume steel or galvanized (G-90 steel). The difference in price between the two options shouldn’t be too significant.
Kynar 500 Steel Standing Seam: Material prices start at around $4.50 to $6.50 per square foot of standing seam steel panels (including trim) fabricated and cut to order at a local sheet metal shop, such as Beacon Supply or ABC Supply.
The base level cost to install steel standing seam roof on a typical house starts at $11.50 per square foot or $1,150.00 per square installed, not including the cost of removing and disposing of the old roof.
5. Aluminum
Aluminum is a step up in quality and longevity from steel. Aluminum is a more appropriate metal for homes based in or near the coastal areas. Aluminum provides longer-lasting protection from corrosion compared to steel.
Aluminum Shingles: Materials range in price from $4.50 to $6.50 per square foot or $450.00 to $650.00 per square of aluminum shingles including trim.
The base level cost to install aluminum shingles starts at $12.50 per square foot or $1,250.00 per square installed on a typical house, without the tear-off.
Aluminum Standing Seam:
Depending on the profile and size of the order, material costs can range from $4.50 to $6.50 per square foot or $450 to $650.00 per square of aluminum standing seam panels fabricated and cut to order at your local building supply warehouse.
To install an aluminum standing seam roof on typical residence, expect a starting cost of $12.50 per square foot or $1,250.00 per square installed, without the removal and disposal of old roof.
6. Copper and Zinc
Copper is a premium quality metal and comes with a hefty price tag. For materials alone, you can expect to pay anywhere from $8.50 to $15.50 per square foot or $850.00 to $1,550.00 per square of copper shingles or standing seam panels, depending on the profile and order size, not including the cost of installation.
The cost of materials will range depending on the thickness and weight of copper shingles or copper standing seam pans. The cost of installation will also be significant, especially if you choose to go with copper standing seam panels requiring soldering of the 16oz. or 20oz. copper pans.
The cost of a zinc roof is roughly 30% to 40% lower than copper, thanks to the overall lower material cost of zinc.
7. Paint Finish Quality Considerations
Today, you can get a metal roof in almost any color finish, with special paint coatings available in different grades ranging from low-end acrylic paints to high-end Kynar 500 premium finishes.
It is often best to pay more upfront and step up to a premium grade. If this is for a home you want to be proud of, then aim for a Kynar-500 or equivalent paint finish.
Ultimately, it will be a difference of only several hundred dollars, but you will have a longer-lasting, high-quality paint finish that comes with a lifetime transferable warranty, instead of getting stuck with a low-end non-warrantied paint finish.
To make an informed decision, make sure your contractor discusses a full range of paint finish grades and metal thickness gauges available, and suggests the one that would be the best option for your home.
8. Colors
Most modern residential metal roofs are available in a wide array of energy efficient, CoolRoof rated colors.
The array of color choices is greater with standing seam, but metal shingles, tiles, and shakes do offer a wide selection of standard colors, as well.
Examples of Steel Shingle Colors
Examples of Standard Standing Seam Colors
Estimated Roof Costs (1,700 sq.ft.)
Asphalt Shingles
Metal Roofing
Flat Roof
$7,500
$14,500
$8,225
See Roof Costs in Your Area
9. Did You Know? Your Total Cost May Vary Greatly with Your Home’s Geographic Location.
The actual price of a new metal roof can vary quite a bit depending on your home’s geographic location. The cost of labor can vary greatly in different cities and states across the US.
If you happen to live in an expensive coastal area such as Boston, New York City, Washington DC, Seattle, Miami, or San Francisco, the cost of labor for a roofing contractor will be a lot higher than in areas with a lower cost of living, such as Memphis, TN or Louisville, KY.
No matter where you live, it is critical to not cut any corners on quality by trying to save money on the cost of installation. Regardless of the price, you should only trust the job to an experienced and conscientious installer who takes pride in their work.
Durability and longevity of a new metal roof are largely a factor of its proper installation. So, it is best to hire the most-experienced installer to get the job done right the first time, rather than having to spend a lot of money on costly repairs down the road.
10. Why a Metal Roof can be a Smart Investment in your Home and Environment
Thanks to its superior durability, longevity, and energy efficiency, a metal roof can be a smart investment in your home.
With an energy efficient metal roof, you can save a good chunk of “change” on you air conditioning costs over the summer.
Electricity savings of 20% are common for CoolRoof rated metal roofs during the peak AC usage months. Over the years, these savings add up.
Durability, Longevity, ROI and Recouped Value
Another benefit of metal roofing is its superior durability and longevity. Metal roofs are built to last. While the average lifespan of an asphalt roof is about 17 years, a properly installed metal roof will easily last 35 to 50 years.
Have you ever seen what a hurricane can do to an asphalt roof? It can literally rip off all the shingles from the roof deck! 😉 A properly installed metal roof will withstand most hurricane-grade winds, hail, snow, and ice build-up.
In terms of curb appeal and beyond, a home protected by a metal roof not only looks beautiful, but the value of a metal roof will maintain for many decades to come.
A typical value recouped at resale for a metal roof hovers at around 85.9% for metal shingles and standing seam that were installed at about $11.50 to $12.50 per sq.ft. For metal roofs that were installed at $15.00 to $20.00 per sq.ft. or higher, the value recouped at resale ranges between 60% and 70%. Unlike asphalt shingles, the value recouped doesn’t change much with the age of the roof, as metal roofs can maintain their value for many decades, making them a solid long-term investment.
Meanwhile, a homeowner gets to enjoy the classic beauty of metal and substantial energy savings (with CRRC rated colors), while also potentially benefiting form reduced homeowners insurance premiums.
Green, Fully Recyclable Material
For environmentally conscious homeowners, a metal roof will often contain over 30% of post-consumer, recycled metal content, and unlike its “ugly cousin” asphalt shingles, a metal roof is fully recyclable. Every year, billions of pounds of asphalt end-up in our landfills.
Standing Seam Means Solar-ready
A metal roof can help you save money in more than one way. For instance, a standing seam metal roof is ready for a seamless PV solar system integration.
Thanks to the raised seams on the standing seam metal roof, PV solar panels can be mounted over the raised seams with the help of the special S-5 holding brackets attached to the seams. Because of the raised seams used for attachment of the solar panels, there is no need to drill any holes in the roof.
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Pros and Cons to Consider:
Pros:
- Durability: Metal roofing is known for its durability and can last for 50 years or more with proper maintenance. It is resistant to weather, fire, and pests.
- Energy efficiency: Metal roofing can reflect the sun’s rays, reducing heat absorption and lowering cooling costs in hot climates.
- Low maintenance: Metal roofing requires very little maintenance and can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer or hose.
- Lightweight: Metal roofing is lightweight compared to other roofing materials and can be installed over existing roofs without the need for structural reinforcement.
- Versatile: Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes to match the look of any home.
Cons:
- Cost: Metal roofing can be more expensive than traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles or wood. However, it can offer long-term cost savings due to its durability and energy efficiency.
- Noise: Metal roofing can be a tad bit noisier during rain or hail storms. Proper insulation and underlayment can help reduce noise levels. However, the actual level of noise from raindrops hitting the surface of a metal roof is only 52 decibels vs. 46 decibels for asphalt shingles.
- Denting: Metal roofing can dent from hail or falling debris. Thicker gauges of metal can help reduce the risk of denting.
- Expansion and contraction: Metal roofing can expand and contract with temperature changes, which can cause the metal to warp or buckle over time.
- Rusting: If not properly coated, metal roofing can rust over time, especially in areas with high humidity or salt exposure.
Overall, metal roofing can be a durable and energy-efficient option for homeowners, but it may come with a higher upfront cost and require proper installation and maintenance to avoid potential issues. It’s important to consider the climate and location of your home when choosing a roofing material and to consult with a professional roofing contractor to ensure proper installation and maintenance.
FAQs
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$14,500 |
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Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about metal roofing, along with some in-depth information and data:
- How long does metal roofing last? Metal roofing can last for 50 years or more with proper installation and maintenance. Some metal roofing manufacturers offer warranties of up to 50 years.
- Is metal roofing energy efficient? Yes, metal roofing is known for its energy efficiency. It can reflect the sun’s rays, reducing heat absorption and lowering cooling costs in hot climates. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, a reflective metal roof can reduce cooling energy costs by up to 40%.
- Can metal roofing be installed over an existing roof? Yes, metal roofing can often be installed over an existing roof without the need for structural reinforcement, depending on the condition and number of layers (normally up to one layer of shingles) of the existing roof.
- Is metal roofing more expensive than other roofing materials? Metal roofing will normally be more expensive than traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles but similar in price to wood shingles or shakes. However, it can offer long-term cost savings due to its durability and energy efficiency.
- Is metal roofing noisy during rain or hail storms? Metal roofing can be slightly noisier during rain or hail storms, but proper insulation, proper sheathing, and underlayment can help reduce noise levels. That said, the actual level of noise from raindrops hitting the surface of a metal roof is only 52 decibels vs. 46 decibels for asphalt shingles.
- Is metal roofing prone to denting? Metal roofing can dent from hail or falling debris. Thicker gauges of metal can help reduce the risk of denting.
- What types of metal are used for roofing? Common types of metal used for roofing include steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc.
- Can metal roofing rust over time? If not properly coated, metal roofing can rust over time, especially in areas with high humidity or salt exposure. However, most metal roofing is coated with a protective layer to prevent rust. That said, in the heavy salt spray environment, it’s preferred to use aluminum, or Galvalume, rather than G-90 galvanized steel.
- Is metal roofing environmentally friendly? Metal roofing is often made from recycled materials and can be fully recycled at the end of its life. It can also be more energy efficient than other roofing materials, reducing the carbon footprint of a home.
- How does metal roofing compare to other roofing materials? Compared to asphalt shingles, metal roofing is more durable and long-lasting but is also more expensive. Compared to tile or slate roofing, metal roofing is lighter and less expensive but may not offer the same level of aesthetics.
- What is the cost of metal roofing? The cost of metal roofing can vary depending on factors such as the type of metal, the complexity of the roof design, and the location of the home. On average, metal roofing can cost between $6.50 to $20.50 per square foot, but this can vary widely depending on the specifics of the installation.
- What are the maintenance requirements for metal roofing? Metal roofing requires very little maintenance compared to other roofing materials. It’s important to keep the roof clean and clear of debris to prevent damage, and to inspect the roof periodically for any signs of wear or damage. Any necessary repairs should be made promptly to prevent further damage.
- Can metal roofing be painted? Yes, metal roofing can be painted to match the style and color scheme of a home. It’s important to use high-quality paint and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper application.
- Can metal roofing withstand extreme weather conditions? Metal roofing is known for its durability and can withstand a wide range of weather conditions, including high winds, heavy snow, and extreme temperatures. However, it’s important to ensure proper installation and maintenance to ensure that the roof is able to withstand any weather conditions that may occur.
- What are the environmental benefits of metal roofing? Metal roofing is often made from recycled materials and can be fully recycled at the end of its life. It can also be more energy efficient than other roofing materials, reducing the carbon footprint of a home.
- Can metal roofing be installed on a flat roof? Metal roofing is not typically recommended for flat roofs, as they require a certain pitch to ensure proper drainage. However, there are metal roofing systems that are designed for low-slope roofs.
- What is the weight of metal roofing compared to other roofing materials? Metal roofing is typically lighter than other roofing materials, such as tile or slate. This can make it easier to install and can reduce the need for structural reinforcement.
- How does metal roofing affect home resale value? Metal roofing can increase the resale value of a home, as it is a durable and long-lasting roofing option that can improve the energy efficiency of a home.
- What are the differences between Kynar 500 and polyester paint finishes for metal roofs? Kynar 500 is a high-performance fluoropolymer resin coating that is known for its durability and resistance to fading, chalking, and weathering. It is often used for architectural applications where color retention is important. Polyester paints, on the other hand, are a more affordable option and offer good color retention, but may not be as durable as Kynar 500.
- Which type of color finish is better for a metal roof? The choice between Kynar 500 and polyester paints depends on factors such as the climate and weather conditions in the area, the desired aesthetic, and the budget. Kynar 500 is often preferred for high-end residential applications (and commercial), while polyester paints may be more suitable for budget-conscious homeowners, or for use on sheds and garages.
- What type of metal roof makes for a good solar option? Standing seam metal roofs are considered the best option for solar panel installations due to their ease of installation, durability, and low maintenance. The raised seams on standing seam metal roofs provide a secure base for solar panels to attach to, while also protecting the roof from water infiltration. Additionally, standing seam metal roofs often have a longer lifespan than other types of metal roofs, making them a cost-effective option for homeowners who want to install solar panels on their roof.
- Why are metal roofs a good option for going solar? Metal roofs are a good option for going solar because they can be designed to accommodate solar panels without compromising their structural integrity. They provide a sturdy, long-lasting base for the panels and are typically more resistant to damage from wind and weather than other roofing materials. Metal roofs also have smooth surfaces that allow for easy installation of solar panels, and they are often made from recycled materials, making them a sustainable choice for homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Are metal roofs at a higher risk of a lightning strike? There is a common misconception that metal roofs are more likely to attract lightning strikes than other roofing materials. However, this is not necessarily true.
- Why are metal roofs not at a higher risk of a lightning strike? Lightning is attracted to the highest point in an area, regardless of the material. While metal is a conductor of electricity, it does not attract lightning strikes more than other materials such as wood or asphalt. Additionally, metal roofs are typically grounded and can dissipate the electrical charge from a lightning strike, which can help prevent damage to the home and its occupants.
- Can a metal roof protect a home from lightning damage? While a metal roof cannot completely protect a home from lightning strikes, it can provide a safer path for the electrical charge to dissipate. Metal roofs are often installed with lightning rods or other grounding systems that can help protect the home and its occupants in the event of a lightning strike.
- Should I avoid installing a metal roof if I live in an area with frequent lightning storms? No, living in an area with frequent lightning storms does not necessarily mean you should avoid installing a metal roof. Metal roofs are a durable and long-lasting roofing material that can withstand harsh weather conditions. If you are concerned about lightning strikes, you can install lightning rods or other grounding systems to help protect your home and its occupants.
As you can tell from the FAQs list above, metal roofs are energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly option for homeowners, but residential-grade metal roofs do come with a higher upfront cost and require proper installation and maintenance to avoid potential issues. It’s important to consider the climate and location of your home when choosing a roofing material and to consult with a professional roofing contractor to ensure proper installation and maintenance.
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