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.
New Shingle Roof
$7,500 Average price |
New Metal Roof
$14,500 Average price |
New Flat Roof
$8,225 Average price |
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See costs in your area
Did 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 |
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New Shingle Roof
$7,500 Average price |
New Metal Roof
$14,500 Average price |
New Flat Roof
$8,225 Average price |
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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
Metal Roofing
Flat Roof
$14,500
$8,225
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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New Shingle Roof
$7,500 Average price |
New Metal Roof
$14,500 Average price |
New Flat Roof
$8,225 Average price |
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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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Hello,
I am a single female with a disability. I am looking at options for a new home I am buying. It needs a new roof. I have done some research on roofing options. I live in the South Plains of Texas. It’s very hot and we get high winds. We even had a couple of Haboobs.
Obviously, I am going to have to have this professionally done, and I can’t get onto the roof to inspect to check on the installation or screws after a storm, which I read could come lose. For a new roof, I am considering either:
1. Standing Seam Metal Roof
2. Concrete Tiles
What is your opinion on what would be the best roofing option for me?
P.S. Pricing is a bit of a concern, but I’m willing to pay up more money upfront for better choice, as it pays in the long run.
Thank you,
Angela
Hi Angela,
A metal roof could be an excellent option for an area that gets both, hot and windy, such as South Plains of Texas.
For example, a system such as a standing seam metal roof doesn’t have any exposed fasteners to worry about, so it’s practically maintenance free and with proper installation, it should withstand hurricane-grade winds, while providing durability, longevity, and energy efficiency.
There are other metal roofing options that are also worth considering such as metal shingles, and stone-coated tiles, depending on what your preferences are in terms of style, colors, and aesthetics for curb appeal. Both metal shingles and standing seam panels are available in Kynar 500 paint finishes designed for energy efficiency. Look for CoolRoof rated colors when considering various colors and paint finishes. More info here: https://www.roofingcalc.com/metal-roof-colors/
A concrete roof may also be a viable option. That said, concrete tile roofs are normally very heavy and may even require a roof frame reinforcement. In strong winds, if a piece of a tile roof were to break off the roof and fly off, it could potentially injure someone or cause property damage due due to its weight and sharpness. The likelihood of that happening is fairly low with proper installation, but it’s not something to completely dismiss.
Price-wise, a concrete tile roof will probably be on par with standing seam, depending on the contractor you hire to do the job. The key is that the installer has the necessary experience and expertise to carry out the installation in a way that meets both the system manufacturer’s specifications and the local building code requirements.
If you are looking to save money upfront, then consider getting a few quotes for a quality asphalt shingle roof, preferably for a system that is rated for 130 MPH winds and comes in CoolRoof rated colors for improved energy efficiency, which is undoubtedly important in the southwest.
Hi,
I am widowed and on my own, and I’m dealing with a roof leak that has been previously repaired twice and still leaks. My roof is 64 years old, it’s Spanish barrel tile. I live in Miami FL, although not on the water.
The pitch of my roof only allows the roof itself to be seen from down the street. From my driveway, I will only see the edge of the roof. I got some advice from a roofer used by many in my area, and he is saying because you cannot even see the roof except from a distance, asphalt shingles would be a better and more cost-effective choice for me.
Currently, I am looking at the variegated-look shingles from Timberline. The roofer has said they are made to withstand 130 miles per hour winds. Will these hold up through our rainy season and hurricane season? I love the flat tile and metal roofs, but they are much more expensive. I don’t want to make a mistake, but I also don’t want to pay for a more premium roof that I may not need and can’t see. I need help please. Your thoughts?
Hi Bobbye,
If you cannot really see the roof from the curb due to low-slope of the roof, then the curb-appeal is not all that relevant, hence practical aspects of the roof including its overall upfront cost take center stage.
You are correct to assume that a high-end metal roof such as standing seam would cost more than an asphalt shingle roofing system such as GAF Timberline HD.
Now, for a new replacement roof in Miami, you will need to meet the Miami-dade county building codes. That said, Timberline HD roof shingles are Miami-Dade county approved and rated for up to 130 mph winds. See the product specs here.
Note that hurricane nailing and overall roof installation technique to meet Miami-Dade county building codes will still be required. Also note that Timberline HD shingles must meet a minimum roof slope requirements. Since, you have a tile roof at present, we are assuming you have a roof with a slope of 4:12 or greater. However, if the roof slope is shallower than 4:12, then a double layer of deck protection will be required according to the manufacturer (PDF). Yet still, Miami-Dade county may have its own requirements for low-slope roofs, which is why you need to find a knowledgeable and conscientious installer.
Basically, if you were to go with Timberline HD shingles, you will want to make sure that the installer understands and complies with the local building code requirements including hurricane nailing technique, roof slope and product fit, ventilation, even potential roof-frame bracing, etc.
An asphalt roof such as GAF Timberline HD shingles will probably not be able to hold to a direct hit from a category 5 hurricane, but for the most part it should be an adequate roofing system, provided it comes with a proper installation and an adequate workmanship warranty. Depending on the roof slope and overall curb appeal considerations, you may also consider CoolRoof rated colors for improved energy efficiency.
Lastly, If money were not a question, then going with a high-end standing seam metal roof or a stone-coated steel tile roof would offer a more durable and longer-lasting roof protection from hurricane grade winds, but you can certainly still get an adequate asphalt roof with proper installation, venting, etc.
Here is a helpful guide on hurricane grade roofing for Florida, Texas and other areas: https://www.roofingcalc.com/best-roof-types-for-florida-and-coastal-areas/
We are considering replacing our current asphalt roof with metal, but I have read that you have to periodically check the screws and have them repainted every 2 or 3 years. If this is the case, I would not want a metal roof.
I would like it to be as close to 0 maintenance as possible. We live in upstate SC, and considering the cost we were thinking Galvalume Steel would be the right fit. But again, repainting and checking screws would be a no-go.
When I built my home, it took 24 squares of shingles, (one straight-line roof ridge-line), but we added a large gable to cover a screened in 12 x 20 porch. I’m thinking that was another 4 squares, but it overlaps some of the original roof. So, I’m still thinking around 28 squares for the replacement roof.
What would be your recommendation for cost / no maintenance / longevity / cool roof? Also, any idea on a ballpark price for this area of the country? We are just below Charlotte, NC.
Hi Ron,
I would recommend you go with either Aluminum or Steel Standing Seam Roof. Metal Shingles are also a good option. Both of these systems feature concealed fasteners, so no worries about the screws.
Price-wise, it sounds like you have a pretty-straight forwards single-story hip and gable roof. So, depending on the company you contract with, you can expect to pay anywhere from $700 to $1,000 per square of new metal roofing installed near Charlotte, NC.
If you choose to go with metal shingles (which offers a more traditional look of shingles), it will probably cost less than if you were to go with standing seam (more modern look, more expensive, and generally somewhat difficult to install. However, on a simple gable roof it can actually be easier to install and hence less costly).
In North Carolina, you may be able to find a company that can install standing seam for about $800 per square (give or take a couple hundred bucks depending on the overall scope of the project and contractor’s operational capabilities), thanks to the decent size of the overall project and what sounds like a straight forward, single-story hip and gable roof.
For comparison, it would probably cost you almost twice as much, if you were to do the same job in say near Boston or in Seattle.
Our home is 3,200 square feet and we have a hip roof with one chimney.
Our roof is almost 30 years old, but it’s still in good shape, however it was difficult getting roof insurance this year, so we need to get the roof planning started now.
What would you estimate the cost should be for a new metal roof in Florida?
Are we talking Miami-Dade county home or a home in say somewhere in Lake City, FL? Florida is big state and a new metal roof in Miami will cost significantly more than a comparable roof in a less costly part of the state.
Without knowing local real-estate values it’s almost impossible to give a precise estimate. That said, we can offer a fairly wide range to take into account different parts of Florida: So, assuming you go with a premium option, such as aluminum or zinc standing seam roof or a high-end stone-coated steel tiles roof, your cost could range from $8.50 to $14.50 per square foot installed, depending on the overall scope of work (remove and dispose of old roof, repair the roof deck, etc.), and the company you choose to hire. A tighter price range would probably be between $9.50 and $12.50 per square foot installed. The pricing assumes you would hire a licensed and insured contractor with worker’s comp coverage, providing a fully-warrantied installation.
Less premium options, such as metal shingles or steel standing seam might cost between $7.00 and $12.00 per square foot installed, depending on the company you hire (small operation vs. a larger remodeling contractor), scope of work, and workmanship warranty details.
Hi,
I’m strongly considering a Zinc standing seam roof in the future. I’m in Iowa and it would be for a brick ranch. I feel like a zinc metal roof would be a good investment, and on a basic ranch, installation shouldn’t cost me an unreasonable amount, hopefully. I like not having to worry about a roof so much. 🙂
Now, I just have one kind of silly question — do standing seam metal roofs come in different colors? I’m not looking for anything wild, just a nice, basic, dark grey.
I know zinc patinates to a lighter blue, but is there any way to get a color in there anyway, or is it just zinc color and anything else would be pointless since it patinates, anyway?
I’m assuming it comes in a few colors since the shingles do, but I don’t know for sure. I do know for sure I want a metal roof, and zinc is definitely what I’m leaning towards, but I just want to know if I would have to go with aluminum or steel standing seam roofs to have a choice over the color. 🙂
Thank you!
Hi Mariele,
Yes, indeed, standing seam metal roofs are available in a wide variety of colors. Here are some examples: https://www.roofingcalc.com/standing-seam-metal-roof/
For zinc standing seam, it would probably make the most sense to go with either the natural color in its original form, such as that available from Rheinzink classic or with pre-patina that hopefully matches the color you are looking for.
Although, zinc standing seam panels can come with PVDF coatings in different colors, as can be seen here: https://www.rheinzink.us/products/artcolor/, we don’t believe it would be worth the expense for a single family dwelling.
If you are looking for a specific color, we would recommend going with either pre-painted aluminum or steel standing seam panels installed by a company with expertise in metal roofing. Please feel free to use our free service (fill out the zip code in the form above) to find a trusted pro.
Here are some more examples of different colors available for standing seam panels, as well as metal shingles: https://www.roofingcalc.com/metal-roofing-buying-guide/#colors
And here: https://www.roofingcalc.com/metal-roof-colors/
Different locations have different price ranges. The metal roof is more expensive than asphalt in absolute terms, but in reality, it is a good foundation of a durable house. Easy maintenance and would last for several decades.
I got a quote for $44,000.00 to install 2,700 sq.ft. of metal roofing. Based on your per sq.ft pricing this seems high. Your thoughts/advice please.
Lloyd
Hi Lloyd,
Is this quote for standing seam and if so what metal type is it made out of?
Assuming it’s made out of high-end aluminum, we would expect this to be priced closer to $1,400 per square give or take vs. the quoted price of $1,630 per square ($44,000 / 27 squares).
Does this job include the removal and disposal of the old roof? How many stories is the house? Any peaks and valleys?
Lastly, where are you located? We need more details to advice on the fairness of the above quote.
We can’t image such a high quote to be for metal shingles, so our best guess the quote is for a high-end aluminum or zinc standing seam.
Hi,
I’m considering a metal roof for my house in Winter Springs, FL (NE of Orlando). I’m thinking I prefer the standing seam, black for color. My current roof is shingles and was installed in 2004, so it’s about reaching its end of life. My questions are these:
I currently have solar for pool heat on my roof, I saw that you said how solar panel could attach with clamps, but my solar panels are the dark black material, one that doesn’t look like what you show. Do you know if solar panels (I have 6 panels) could be installed on a metal roof? The current solar panels are on my one side of garage where the sun hits most of the day. So, should I be concerned about securing it in same location, as well? Or won’t that be a problem?
And did I read correctly your comments to say if I install standing seam, that I should have the current asphalt shingles removed to avoid damage?
I also currently have gutter helmets – to keep out debris – can those be remounted to a metal roof?
I’m thinking this will cost me a pretty penny — I think a roofer gave me a quote for shingles and said my 2,000 sq. ft. home is actually about 2,400 sq.ft. of roofing.
So, based on all the info I provided, what do you predict my cost will be for a metal roof, with removal of shingles (if best to do)? I have one skylight (that would have to be replaced I think when get a new roof) and one chimney.
THANKS! Thoroughly enjoyed reading your article and all the questions/answers. Very helpful.
Hi Ann,
Yes, PV solar panels can be attached to the raised seams of a standing seam metal roof with the help of special clamps/brackets, so there would be no need to drill any holes in the roof.
Cost wise, we estimate the expense of installing a new standing seam metal roof, including the removal and disposal of the old shingles at about $1,000 to $1,400 per square for a typical house in the US, depending on your location.
Assuming the average cost of $1,200 per square, we would estimate the cost of a new roof at $28,800.
Note that you may also be likely to incur an additional charge of $2,000 to $3,000 or so, to remove and remount the solar panels during the removal of the old roof and after the standing seam metal roof is installed. This, additional expense involves hiring a licensed electrician to reconnect the panels.
So, your total cost for the new roof and professional reconnected PV solar panels (removal/remounting/installation) should be around $30,000 to $33,000, give or take a couple of thousand dollars to account for the variation in pricing due to the difficulty of the roof and your home’s geographic location, accessibility, number of stories, etc.
Note that depending on where in the US you are located, your cost could be lower or higher. For instance, you may be quoted a price of up to $1,400 per square or more, if you happen to live in an expensive coastal city, such as Boston, NYC, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, etc, while pricing in Midwest or South would be closer to $1,000 per square. Thus, your location alone can result in the difference of close to $10,000 in terms of quotes you are likely to receive.
Lastly, there should be no issues with keeping the existing gutters, provided they are currently in good shape.
Hi,
We had a standing-seam metal roof installed last year. There were enough left-over panels for us to create awnings over the windows (we’d do that ourselves; that was not a part of the contract).
The roofing company came by after the installation and took all the left-over metal roofing. The contract mentions removing “debris.”
Two questions:
1. If I paid for the roofing material, why did the roofing company take it?
2. What did the roofing company do with the left-over roofing material?
When I mentioned to the roofing salesperson that our intention was to create our own metal awnings, we were told that the roofing company would be glad to sell us what we need.
We paid $34,000 for the new roof (removal of old roof, too).
Hi Rosemary,
Have you paid for the standing seam panels separately or were the materials quoted separately from the whole job? How long were the left over materials left on your property for? Also, does the contract say that any left over materials belong to the contractor?
Many contractors will include a clause saying that any excess or left over materials belong to the contractor, but if your contract didn’t explicitly say that, then you may indeed have the claim to the left over materials.
Also, do you know how big your roof is and/or approximately how many squares of standing seam panels the contractor has ordered for the job in the first place?
Hi,
I need a new roof and was considering the cool GAF architectural shingles or metal roofing. I live in Poway near San Diego.
I have some questions that haven’t been addressed in the guide:
1. How does metal hold up to being walked on compared to asphalt? And how do I walk on a metal roof?
2. How do you attach Christmas lights to the roof? We usually attach lights along the edges and center ridges and also put inflatable displays on the roof with plywood propped to even out the roof.
Thanks.
Hi Mark,
1. A metal roof is perfectly safe to walk on as long as you wear rubber sole shoes and step in the middle of metal shingles of panels, not on the seams or edges of the shingles. Needless to say, you never want to walk on a metal roof that is wet or moist from the early morning condensation.
In many ways a metal roof is better for walking than asphalt because you are not going to rip off any stone granules from shingles or carry the risk of stepping on a loose shingle.
That said, walking on any roof is always inherently risky and should ideally be left to a pro.
2. If you have snow-guards on a metal roof you can use them as anchors. You can also use metal pieces in between the gutters or gutters themselves as anchors to attach all-purpose light clips.
If you have a standing seam roof, you could use the seams as anchors to attach the all-purpose light clips to as well.
Some people also use fascia board and shutters to attach the light clips to.
We hope this is helpful!
I have a 1953 post and beam house with 2-inch tongue and groove vaulted ceiling. The current roof has rigid insulation and asphalt shingles using the tongue and groove as roof deck.
All the roofers that we have had look at it insist on covering the whole roof with plywood if we go with asphalt shingles. Can metal roofing be installed without adding the plywood?
Yes, for example, some standing seam metal roofing systems are available as batten seams, with metal panels being installed over wooden battens. You can also get a structural standing seam metal roof, which can be installed over framing. These options don’t require plywood.
I have a Cape Cod (one & a half story) house. The asphalt roof started to leak inside the house at the top of a bow window’s inner edge on the first floor. Interestingly, it has stopped leaking during the subsequent rains.
I checked in the crawl space on the second floor above the bow window and found no evidence of leakage there. I’m in Wisconsin, with temps already below freezing, so it’s too late for replacement and I was advised not to try repair/patching. I’d appreciate any advice or comments you can offer.
My tentative decision is to wait until spring. If leaking begins again, I’ll simply have to deal with it by strategically placing buckets. I’ll appreciate any advice and/or comments you can offer.
It sounds like the leak you describe may have been caused by a wind driven rain. It could be either a sealant failure around the bow window or asphalt shingles being lifted by the wind at the drip edge of the roof, resulting in leak.
Without seeing the actual roof or pictures where the leaks occur, it’s hard to say.
If the roof deck itself is dry with no evidence of roof leakage, we recommend checking the area where asphalt shingles overlap the drip edge.
The asphalt shingles should extend beyond the drip edge. Make sure the shingles are properly secured, so they are not being lifted by the wind, exposing the drip edge and allowing the water leaks to occur.
You should also check to see whether the fascia board below the drip edge is damaged by water leaking behind the fascia board.
Also, if you happen to find any cracked or missing caulk around the bay window, we recommend using Solar Seal or similar sealant to reseal any areas that may be responsible for leaks.
It’s true that you should not replace an asphalt roof in during fall / winter, because asphalt shingles won’t adhere to each other due to low temperatures.
That said, a metal roof can be installed year-round if need be.
Bear in mind that undiagnosed, ongoing leaks can cause costly damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation in your home.
Hey there!
We’re about to buy a fixer upper in Melbourne, Fl.
The house needs a new roof and we know nothing about the roofing materials, etc.
Are metal roofs a good idea regardless of where you live?
Thinking of the possibility of hurricane damage specifically.
Thanks, Shannon
Hi Shannon,
Metal roofs are very versatile and work well in all climates. They are especially good option for Florida and hurricane-prone areas.
We covered this in more detail here: https://www.roofingcalc.com/best-roof-types-for-florida-and-coastal-areas/
Just drove to Florida last Monday, specifically to the areas of Port St. Joe and Mexico Beach which were hit by Hurricane Michael. I noticed many existing roofs with no damage were metal, while the same was not true of roofs with shingles. As I’ll be building in PSJ at some point in the future, it will be a metal roof for me!
Thank you for sharing that Erin.
Yes indeed, properly installed metal roofs will normally hold up much better than asphalt ones in hurricane prone areas.
We are exploring some new roofing options for our home located outside of the Twin Cities area in Minnesota where we experience very hot summers and snowy, cold winters.
We are currently evaluating GAF Timberline HD shingles and metal roofing.
For metal roofing we are looking at several types including ribbed metal panels with exposed fasteners, standing seam, as well as aluminum shingles and shakes from Interlock and Classic metal roofing systems.
It’s a two story house with two layers of old shingles that will need to be removed prior to new roof being installed.
With the exception of the exposed fastener system, metal roofing estimates came in at a little over double the cost of asphalt.
We are torn and seem unable to decide on which system would be the best choice for us. We would love to hear your thoughts regarding asphalt vs. metal for the Minneapolis / St. Paul area.
Hello Debbie and Mark,
Here is what we think: GAF Timberline HD asphalt shingles is a quality roofing option, as long as it’s installed correctly including chimney and skylight flashing, underlayment, ice and water shield, etc.
Given the amount of snowfall the region receives, we recommend that proper consideration is given to ice dam prevention measures including roof ventilation and insulation during the planning and installation phases.
That said, metal roofing would certainly be a sound choice for any home located in continental climate zone such as Minnesota.
A properly installed meta roof would last two to three times as long as asphalt. Given hot summers and cold winters with a lot of heavy snowfall, our view is that a metal roof could provide significant energy savings during summer, while providing excellent protection from snow and ice dams during winter.
Both aluminum shingles/shakes and standing seam are excellent choices. It’s the quality of installation that matters most. Both Interlock and Classic are known for their great product, but the quality of installation depends on the crew doing the installation.
A standing seam metal roof should only be installed by a company that has ample experience and a proven track record of successfully installing this product. Checking contractor references and looking at some of their past jobs can help ensure you hire the right installer.
A metal roof with exposed fasteners, a less-costly option, will require some maintenance every 15 to 20 years; Over time, due to thermal movement / expansion and contraction of metal panels, the screws will become loose, necessitating re-drilling of the holes to make them wider and replacing the old screws with wider ones, as well as applying new washers to go with the new screws to replace the dried-out or damaged old rubber washers.
Our view: if the higher upfront cost is not a major concern, then going with either standing seam or aluminum tiles/shakes, depending on the shape of your roof and aesthetic considerations, would provide you with a durable and long-lasting roofing option, well-suited for the local climate. A quality installation is a must for a long-lasting metal roof.
Good Luck!
Hey Roof Guy! How does a metal roof stand up in the South Florida, one block from the ocean? EVERYTHING metal here starts to rust within a year or two, so wouldn’t a metal roof rust, too? Salespeople have assured us that it won’t, but confidence (in both the rust-proof-ness as well as being able to find the salespeople a few years down the road when it does start to rust) is low! Thanks for your advice!
Hi Deeann,
If you get a metal roof made out of aluminum or zinc, it will perform just fine, without any concerns as far as rust is concerned. Kynar 500 coated steel is also an option, however it will be subject to corrosion decades later. That being said, Galvalume steel will work better in a salt spray environment near the ocean than galvanized G-90 Steel. Here is more info on that: https://www.roofingcalc.com/galvalume-vs-galvanized-steel-roofing/
With standing seam metal roofing the quality installation is the key to a long lasting roof. So my best piece of advice is to hire the installer who will install a metal roof the right way in accordance with the local building code requirements.
Good Luck!
Hi Roof Guy,
I have learned so much from your site. We are considering replacing our 30 yr. asphalt shingle roof (only 12 years old) due to two leaks. We are looking at both metal and shingle roofs. What kind of maintenance is required on a metal roof with a 4:12 pitch? Our current roof has been needing constant moss removal and we are too old to keep doing it. Any help or suggestions you may have would be appreciated.
Hi Patty,
You really shouldn’t need much maintenance with a correctly installed metal roof. Moss won’t form on it. 4:12 is an appropriate pitch for metal roofs such as standing seam and metal shingles. Make sure your metal roof has a high-end coating such as Kynar 500 equivalent. The quality of installation and metal flashing details around chimneys and skylights are the key to a long-lasting metal roof. I also recommend using a breathable synthetic underlayment. Lastly, make sure you hire an experienced and proven metal roofing installer.
Good Luck!
The Roof Guy,
I have purchased my house 17 years ago with elastomeric coating applied to asbestos shingles. Twice since my purchase, I have had elastomeric coating re-applied to my roof. The roof does not currently leak, but my insurance company requires a statement every year that the roof will last 3 to 5 more years and I am anticipating the next time they will deny my coverage. The house is 92 years old and is historic. It has a gabled roof and is built of Dade County Florida pine. I want to replace the roof with a metal roof, but the cost of removing and disposing of asbestos roof tiles is considerable. Can a metal roof be installed over the asbestos tiles and if so what method do you recommend (plywood, batten or some other way?
Hi Doreen,
I’ve dealt with several asbestos shingles roofs in the past. Every time it was a real hassle! So, I feel your pain!
You would have to coordinate the work between a certified asbestos removal company and a quality metal roofing company.
I really don’t recommend trying to install a new metal roof over the asbestos shingles. Reason being is that there is a concern of added weight. Asbestos shingles are heavy. If you manage to mount a metal roof over the asbestos shingles with several liquid roof coatings, then the added weight of all of these roofing systems could become an issue. That being said, batten seam would be your best option, if you would like to try to install a metal roof over battens. If the crew succeeds in installing battens over the asbestos shingles, then this might be a viable option. Although, I still prefer the removal of the old roof option due to roof weight concerns.
You should have the roof deck, roof frame and trusses inspected before installing metal over-top. Make sure the roof frame will be able to support the added weight. I know metal is light, bus asbestos, plus the layers of liquid roof do add up to quite a lot of weight.
Good Luck and let us know how you make out!
I am having a metal roof placed on my house, and I just found out that with a metal roof, I will be able to save on money on my utility bills, like air conditioning during the summer, but what about heating in the winter? I live in Minnesota.
Hi Jolene,
Home heating efficiency is primarily tied to how well your house is insulated. Having sufficient wall, floor, and attic space insulation is the key to maximizing your home’s energy efficiency over the cold season. A metal roof will help prevent any potential ice dam related issues during the winter, and that will be an important benefit in place that receives a lot of snowfall such as Minnesota, but again consider checking your home’s insulation levels to make sure that no heat energy is lost during the winter months.
Hi Roof Guy,
We’re also considering in metal roof in Wisconsin and have the same concerns as Jolene in the previous post. While I appreciate your point about ensuring that there’s adequate insulation, I’m still wondering whether a metal roof will make it colder inside. All things being equal, does a metal roof perform better in below freezing temperature than an asphalt shingle roof does, or will it be colder inside.
Thanks for this terrific site!
Hi Sheila,
Your attic space is supposed to be cold via proper venting, regardless of the roof. — It’s a very important point. There should be ample attic floor insulation to keep the warmth inside the house.
A metal roof is certainly a sound choice for colder climates such as Wisconsin, but no so much because of the temperature concerns, but rather because metal makes it easy for the snow to slide off the roof thereby helping prevent ice dams and damage to the roof and gutters.
If you are concerned about warmth beyond walls, floors, and attic insulation, you can have insulated metal roof panels installed as well: http://www.mbci.com/products/insulated-metal-panels/insulated-roof-panels/ — These are more for keeping the heat away from the house when it’s hot out, since the default is to keep the attic space nice and cold in winter or cooler in summer.
If you don’t have an attic in your home, the thermal metal roofing panels will certainly help with keeping the warmth inside the house.
Hope this clarifies the advantages of having a metal roof in a cold, snowy climate.
Our present metal roof is 22 years old, concealed fasteners, and has started to fade in the last 15 months. The faded areas are in different locations, not equal fading, but a white color, and is no greater or less in fading depending on if it is a southern exposure or not. The roof works fine, LOOKS bad.
We have a quote on it being professionally repainted, but feel that might be throwing good money after bad. The original product was through ABC, and was called Royal Lock. It was an architectural panel system, and pretty top of the line back in 1995.
Any suggestions on what to do and where to look for knowledgeable sales and installers? Or any suggestions?
Thanks,
Pat
Hi Pat,
If there is no visible rust and no leaks, then repainting may be a viable way to go, if you can find a quality metal roof painter who can get as close as possible to Kynar 500 Paint finish in terms of coating quality. It’s important to keep in mind that painting should only be an option, if there is a good warranty being provided. Where are you located? Have you tried to find a metal roofing contractor to get some replacement quotes to see which option makes the most sense? You can use the free estimate form for that.
Our old roof was heavily damaged from storms and our insurance is covering the replacement of a new one. We would like to go with a metal roof so it will last longer and we can try to avoid the hail damage again. How likely do you think it would be that the insurance would be willing to pay a little extra for us to use metal instead of the shingles which don’t last that long.
Hi Crystal,
I think it’s quite like they will pay for a metal roof, as long as you are willing to pay for the difference in cost between asphalt and metal. Needless to say, the metal roof itself would have to be approved by the insurance company. I think most standing seam and metal shingle roofs should qualify.
Let us know how it goes!
I have had damage to my existing asphalt roof from pests. I think the cause is raccoons. One hole in the roof is a half circle where the shingles and plywood are completely gone. The other hole may have been a broken limb, but could have been animals. My concern is if I replace the roof with the same type of roof, then I might have the same situation in a short period of time.
Therefore, I am leaning toward a metal roof. I have a fairly good estimate for Galvalume Steel, 24 or 26 gauge standing seam material. I am almost ready to contract for this. My main concern is whether a metal roof, beyond the other advantages, will prevent raccoons and other pests, such as squirrels from destroying my roof again?
No one I have spoken to seems to be able to actually state that a metal roof will be better in terms of animal damage. Additionally, will I be able to have a ridge vent with a metal roof? This system seems preferable. Thank you for your help.
Hi Delores,
Raccoons and squires won’t be able to eat through or break through a metal roof into your attic. However, if raccoons have a way to get onto the roof and run freely, there is a chance they may scratch and damage the paint finish with their claws. If the roof is steep enough, then this should not be an issue.
As far as making sure that raccoons and squirrels stay away from your attic, metal roof will pretty much guarantee that these animals are not able to enter your home through the roof.
Yes, you can have the ridge vent installed with a metal roof, provided there are also soffit vents in place. Ridge vent is essentially an air exhaust designed to work with the soffit vents aka the air intake.
What are the “tear off” costs?
Hi Michael,
The “Tear off” stands for the removal of the old roof. Typically, it will cost $1.50 per square foot to remove and dispose of the old roof.
Cheers
Will a metal roof really last forever?
Given proper installation methods were used including deck prep, ventilation, and fastening, your new metal roof should indeed last for a lifetime of the house. Of course, you need to do your own due-diligence when choosing the installer, so that your system is installed by the book. That also entails proper selection of the system to install, flashing elements, underlayment selection, etc. It’s the whole system, not just longevity of individual panel that should be taken into the account.
My husband and I are about to buy a house that needs a new roof. I want to install aluminum, he is worried that the sound of rain on the metal will be loud inside the house. The roof is gabled and the upstairs has two bedrooms with about 2 or 2 1/2 feet crawl space at the peek, but a portion of the downward slant has no space between the bedroom wall and roofing structure. We live in Austin, TX, so can get intermittent rain storms, not much hail, though. What is your experience of noise with metal vs. asphalt shingle?
Hi Aphilley,
When a metal roof is installed over the attic space or craw space, there should not be any noticeable noise. If there is no attic space, but a metal roof is still installed over solid sheathing such as plywood, or tightly-fitted boards, covered by underlayment, or better yet insulation over the solid sheathing, plus breathable synthetic underlayment, then the level of noise during rainfall should be minimal.
The noise is only an issue if there is no solid sheathing underneath the metal roof, which was often the case with the “old school” shacks in the south, with their old tin roofs. Many old metal barns had similar issues.
Hope this was helpful.
You mention metal roofing is more specialized to install. Would a union sheet metal Journeyman with 17 years experience be suffice?
Hi Jessica,
Yes, I believe that’s plenty of experience with sheet metal for the job. Just make sure the installer is willing to familiarize himself with standing seam manufacturer’s installation specs. including underlayment, chimney and skylight flashing if applicable. I recommend using manufacturer-approved supplies such as underlayment, fasteners, etc.
Nice article, a fairly neutral take on the cost factors of metal roofing. The elephant in the room that you ignored, was explaining the benefits of metal roofing, and why in many cases it ends up being the better value long-term — triple the lifespan of asphalt, energy savings, fire & impact resistance (which can lower insurance rates) and even weather-tight warranties that traditional roofing cannot offer. For the environment, traditional roofing is filling acres of landfill each year; metal is 100% recyclable, and therefore environmentally friendly. Metal roofs are about a third of the weight of traditional roofs. The benefits go on and on. It comes down to higher up-front costs, but much better cost-value across the life of the roof.
All great points, thank you Doug!
Cost range for aluminum roof in Friendswood TX- near Houston? Low grade roof single story 2200 sq foot home. Acrylic or Kynar better finish?
Hey Brad,
Thank you for your interest in getting a new aluminum roof installed neat Houston, Texas. The easiest way to go about getting a few actual quotes is to submit your request by filling out our easy form at the top of the page. Just enter your zip code and provide some basic info about your roof above. You will receive quality estimates in no time.
Thanks and Good Luck!
I know this may sound dumb, but don’t you have to worry about hail damage on a metal roof? I can see the advantage of it lasting forever, but won’t it look terrible year after year that it endures hail damage?
Hi Carol,
Most modern metal roofs designed for residential uses are tested, rated, and warrantied to withstand hail. Most asphalt shingles roofs, on the other hand, would crack and fail when exposed to large hail.
Metal is def. the way to go if you live in a hail prone area such as Oklahoma.
Agreed. The key to hail resistance is the gauge of the metal. Hail-prone areas should be advised to purchase appropriate gauge and profiles for satisfactory performance.
I lived in a house with a standing seam metal roof, in a hail prone area of Colorado. I never saw the slightest damage – even cosmetic – from ten years of hail storms. I don’t know the specs of the roofing, as it was installed before I bought the house.
Probably one of the best metal roofing articles with follow-up comments I’ve ever read. Thanks for the info.
Considering a metal roof and the contractor indicated that he would just go over top of asphalt singles? He would lay down fabric, then the metal roofing? Does this application method seem reasonable?
Hi Don,
It could be reasonable depending on the type of metal roofing system being installed, the shape of your roof deck, and how many layers of shingles there are currently on the roof. Generally speaking, you can do it with metal shingles, if there is only one layer of asphalt (two at most, if it’s allowed by the local building code) and the roof deck is in good shape with no major gaps in between the boards. You would not want any screws or nails to end up in the gaps/space between the two boards comprising the roof deck. — The concern is that with the installation of metal shingles of the existing layer of asphalt, you could essentially end-up with a whole raw of metal shingles being “secured” by nails that ended up being driven into the empty space between the boards, rather than a solid substrate such as tightly-fitted wooden planks comprising your roof deck or plywood. If that’s a concern, you could always perform a tear off, and then install plywood over the boards/deck before installing underlayment and metal shingles.
With standing seam, it may not be a bad idea to remove the asphalt shingles first, as the longer standing seam panels have a tendency to expand and contract with temperature changes, which could cause the underside of standing seam metal panels to start rubbing against the sand granules on asphalt shingles. Overtime, this could lead to corrosion, if you choose to install steel panels rather than aluminum. Thus, I would not advice it with standing seam due to the expansion and contraction of metal panels rubbing against sand particles, as well as the telegraphing of shingles underneath the metal panels.
For underlayment, I would recommend using breathable synthetic underlayment such as DeckArmor by GAF, not the regular felt underlayment used with asphalt.
What kind of a metal roof were you thinking to install?
I am looking at the Heavy Gauge G90 galvanized Steel coated with Kynar 500 PVDF flouropolymer finish metal roof.
You can go over the existing roof with coated steel shingles, but I would not recommend it with standing seam, once again due to thermal movement. Also, if you are in salt spray environment or right near the ocean’s shore, such as a beach house, then consider going with aluminum rather than steel.
The Roof Guy is spot-on with his recommendations, although there are additional methods for roofing over shingles. The most common is to add battens to the roof, and constructing the new roof on the battens. This keeps the metal panels from contacting the old roof surface, and provides a small airspace which helps both with improved energy performance and reduced condensation. For a short read on the topic, go to: http://www.metalpanelsinc.com/Library/MPI-roof-over-shingles.pdf
Completely agree here. Battens could solve the problem of contact between the surfaces, but totally support The Roof Guy’s emphasis that your substrate must be solid and in good repair, otherwise you’ll be vulnerable to early failure. We don’t even sell felt, as the current synthetic underlayments are so much better and long-lasting. Nails are never a good idea for metal products, though, and recommend specifying screws specifically for the task. They will hold tight longer, and resist uplift better giving you a more weather-tight, secure roofing system.
Thank you Doug, appreciate you mentioning the batten system as an option for constructing a metal roof in such a way that there is space/air pockets between the old surface and a newly installed metal roofing system.
Given that different regions and geographic areas will have different prices, what is the cost difference in metal vs. asphalt in Pasadena, Los Angeles, and San Diego markets?
Hello Martin,
A typical standing seam metal roof for your average house in Pasadena will cost around $15,000 to $20,000 depending on the size and shape of the roof, number of storeys, and whether or not the old roof requires a removal. For asphalt, it would be roughly half the cost of metal, or $7,500 to $10,000 for a fully-warrantied and insured job by a licensed contractor.
For comparison, a similarly-sized clay tile roof would probably cost twice as much as metal in Southern California, where clay tile roofs, with their “Spanish Tile” look are very popular.
I am pretty impressed with your information. It is honest and realistic. It is not too often that there is someone that has the info and the knowledge that you have. We are a supplier of metal roofing and siding products and have a sister company that installs metal roofs (installation only). We just drove past a job that was being installed on a large fire company. The installation crew was pounding down the original standing seam and laying a new standing seam roof directly over top of the old one. I never saw this done and was amazed. I feel that this is a very poor application and nothing but a problem in the future. Your thoughts?
Hi Lisa,
This certainly sounds like the crew is trying to cut some corners, and this could potentially end up being a major problem in several ways:
First of all, the metals could be incompatible; for instance, if the old roof was made of steel, while the new one is made of aluminum. — these metals should not be in contact as they will oxidize. There could also be some undiagnosed deck issues requiring repairs if the old roof has had any major leaks.
Not sure how any storms or strong winds (uplift) will affect the new roof, as it may end up not being properly anchored to the roof deck, not to mention the issues with potential thermal expansion of the two metals being in contact, any resulting scratching of the metals from thermal expansion and contraction, and aesthetically uneven application of the panels, etc. – The building inspector may or may not approve the job if they learn about what’s underneath the new standing seam metal roof.
Hi,
Our current roof is about 11 years old. We’re considering changing our roof from asphalt to metal. We are in the Orlando, FL area.
We sustained 85 mph winds last year during Hurricane Irma and the old roof is still with no damage. However, for the new roof, should we go with aluminum standing seam or aluminum shingles?
What are the pros and cons of each?
We have a single story home built in 1981, block, stucco construction. Currently, there are solar panels for the pool on about 1/3 of the roof.
Hi Rita,
In terms of pros and cons, both aluminum shingles and standing seam are pretty much on par. The key difference is that standing seam profile lends itself nicely to PV solar installations.
With aluminum shingles, you will normally end-up having some holes in the roof in order to mount the solar panels.
With standing seam, there is no need to drill any holes in the roof. Solar panels can be mounted over the raised seams of a metal roof with the help of special “S-5” brackets designed to attach to the raised seams. No holes in the roof, means there are fewer points of failure to worry about.
Given that a third of your roof has solar panels, going with standing seam seems like the preferred route.
Other than that, there are no real differences in terms of performance expectations. The quality of installation is still the single most important variable determining the durability and longevity of a metal roof.
If you are installing a metal roof over the existing asphalt roof, then aluminum shingles would be a preferred choice, because with standing seam, there is a chance that old shingles might telegraph underneath the standing seam panels following the installation.
With over-top installations (no tear-off), there is also a bit of a risk of standing seam panels rubbing over the old asphalt shingle granules due to thermal expansion and contraction of the panels.
Another point of consideration is the shape of the roof. Standing seam panels are fairly easy to install on gable, hip, shed, saltbox, and barn style roofs.
For homes with difficult and cut-up roofs and/or more intricate roof architecture, such as roofs with multiple towers, multiple dormers, level changes, etc. aluminum shingles can be easier to install, as they allow more flexibility during installation.
In terms of aesthetic considerations, metal shingles provide more traditional look, while standing seam offers a more modern look.
Let us know whether this was helpful and what you ultimately decide!