Tin Roof Prices: Terne & Tin Roofing vs. Shingles Installation Costs

A misguided notion that installing a “tin” roof on your house is somehow old fashioned or associated with the unattractive tin roofs on the old rusty barns and industrial warehouses, could not be further from the truth when it comes to modern tin or terne metal roofing.

Tin and Terne metal roofs are some of the oldest, most reputable roofing systems in the world, boasting numerous advantages that are as desirable today as they were centuries ago! In fact, modern tin roof systems offer highly sophisticated and beautiful design options, superior strength and durability, long lasting protection, and superior energy efficiency.

For any homeowner looking to make a lifelong investment in their home, and get the most value for their money, a metal roof aka tin is an obvious choice.

Pricing Details:

It will cost between $12.50 and $20.50, on average, for a mid-range tin-styled metal roofing system that replicates the look of traditional tin roofing. That said, there are five different tin and terne styled roofing options to consider:

1. Terne-coated Stainless Steel (TCSS): $15.50 to $28.50 per sq.ft. installed.
2. Zinc coated to replicate the look of tin: $14.50 to $20.50 per sq.ft. installed
3. Terne-coated Steel (TCS): $12.50 to $18.50 per sq.ft. installed
4. Painted steel or aluminum: $12.50 to $20.50 per sq.ft. installed
5. Mill-finished aluminum panels: $12.50 to $18.50 per sq.ft. installed

Where to buy: MetalTech USA is an international company with presence in the US. They carry stainless steel and other coils for standing seam metal roofs.

Local roofing supply warehouses such as ABC or Beacon supply can also help you get some of these sheet metal coils and form or fabricate the metal panels specifically sized for your roofing project.

ABC and Beacon Supply generally work directly with contractors, so your installer will have to do all the ordering of the panels on your behalf. There are other sheet metal and roofing supply companies you should also explore in your local markets.

Brief History of Tin Roofs

While today, metal roofs are often referred to as “tin roofs”, the reality is that no roofing product has ever been made of pure tin. In Europe metal roofs have been around for centuries, originating in ancient Rome, and were made from copper, lead, and zinc.

Metal panels were produced by heating and hand hammering the metal to a thin sheet. In the 17th century, tin was first used in Bohemia as a coating for rolled steel to prevent rust.

Just before 1800s, “tin” plates, or shingles began to be imported into the US from Wales, where tin was mined. Since initially tin shingles were expensive, and imported, they were not used in residential construction.

However, after the Civil War, tin roofs became more widely used on homes when tin became available as shingles that could be installed with nails.

Tin’s popularity continued to grow due to declining prices, which resulted from replacing pure tin coatings with 65:35 lead to tin alloys. This newly created dull finish became known as “terne” plate. Tin roofs were highly esteemed for their durability in inclement weather, fire resistance, and longevity.

Metals Used in Modern Tin Roofing

Today, home and business owners can enjoy a wide variety of options when it comes to choosing a type of metal they would like to install on their roof. Tin is still available as a coating (combined with lead) on one of several soft metal options, such as steel.

One of the most popular and economical metals is galvanized (G-90) steel, made from alloyed steel with a protective coating of zinc to prevent corrosion. A step up from steel, is aluminum, which naturally resists corrosion and tends to reflect solar radiant heat better than steel.

Homeowners who want to the most durable and long-lasting protection for their roof, can choose to install a copper, or zinc roof. Both are premium metals that cost significantly more than others, but for the price, they offer great curb appeal, superior durability, and can easily last well over 100 years.

Advantages

Versatile and Attractive

Taking a look at various profiles of modern metal roofs, it becomes clear that there is nothing outdated about them. In fact, contemporary metal roofs are ultra-modern, stylish, and appealing.

Discerning buyers will find a wide variety of designs, colors, and textures that will compliment any type of architecture. Also, metal roofing can be manufactured in traditional vertical/standing seam profiles, or can be made to resemble shingles, cedar shakes, slate, or clay tiles.

Durable and Maintenance Free

Metal roofing systems are highly valued for their durability. They are resistant to cracking, shrinking, warping, curling, splitting, flaking, peeling, breaking, and being damaged by termites.

A metal roof provides superior protection in all types of climates, and is most resistant to freezing and thawing cycles, inclement weather, and natural disasters. It will keep your property safe from fire, hail, wind, heavy rains, snow, and iced dams.

This exceptional durability lends itself to a long, maintenance-free service life of at least 40-50 years. Given that your new metal roof is installed properly to begin with, you will not need to spend any extra money, time and energy on roof maintenance, and costly repairs that are common with asphalt shingle roofs.

Energy and Cost Efficient

While a metal roof initially costs more than asphalt, it is a highly cost-effective investment. Metal roof’s reflective properties allow home and building owners to save between 20% and 40% in annual cooling energy costs, depending on the geographical location.

A metal roof increases the resale value of a residential property, adding about $1.45 per square foot to a home’s overall value. Moreover, recognizing a metal roof’s superior durability, many insurance companies give discounts of up to 35% to homeowners whose homes are protected with metal roofing.

Green

For people looking for a “green” roofing material, metal is one of the most environmentally – friendly options. Metal roofs not only add to the home’s overall energy efficiency during their lifetime, they can also be recycled. Residential metal roofing systems are made from at least 30-60% recycled material.

Moreover, being lightweight, metal shingle roofs can often be installed over an existing roof, omitting the need to tear-off and send the old roof as waste to a landfill.

Disadvantages of Metal Roofs

In comparison to other roofing materials, there are relatively few drawbacks to metal roofs. One of the main disadvantages of metal roofs is their relatively high upfront cost.

For people who are not planning to stay in their home for decades, installing a metal roof may not be the most economical option, as they will not realize a quick return on their investment. Another drawback is that dark colors will tend to fade over time, so it is better to go for lighter colors, which will not have this issue.

Additionally, metal roofs tend to expand and contract more than other roofing materials during the thermal cycle. However, properly installed metal roofs have built-in design features to counter this issue. Lastly, it is critical to take extra care when walking on a wet metal roof, as it will get very slippery.

Tin Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: A Detailed Comparison

When deciding between tin metal roofing and asphalt shingles, it’s essential to consider durability, cost, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. Here’s a closer look at the key differences:

Tin Metal Roofing

• Durability: Tin roofs are incredibly durable, with a lifespan of 35–70 years when properly maintained. They resist weather damage, including hail, high winds, and fire.
• Energy Efficiency: Tin roofs often come with reflective coatings, reducing cooling costs by up to 15%. They meet California’s Title 24 cool roof standards, making them a sustainable choice for Los Angeles homeowners.
• Installation Costs: The initial cost is higher, ranging from $12.50 to $20.50 per square foot installed.
• Maintenance: Low-maintenance overall, but they may require occasional repainting to prevent corrosion, especially in salty coastal environments.
• Aesthetics: Offers a sleek, modern appearance. Available in a range of colors and profiles, including standing seam panels and metal shingles.
• Environmental Impact: Fully recyclable and often made from recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly option.

Asphalt Shingles

• Durability: Asphalt shingles are less durable, with a lifespan of 20–30 years. They are more prone to cracking and fading under intense sunlight.
• Energy Efficiency: Standard asphalt shingles lack high reflectivity but can be upgraded with cool roof coatings to meet Title 24 standards.
• Installation Costs: Significantly more affordable upfront, costing between $6.00 and $10.50 per square foot installed.
• Maintenance: Requires periodic inspections and repairs, particularly in areas with heavy UV exposure or rainfall.
• Aesthetics: Available in a wide variety of colors and styles, including architectural and 3-tab shingles, to complement diverse home styles.
• Environmental Impact: Petroleum-based and not easily recyclable, though some manufacturers offer sustainable options.

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Comparison Table: Tin Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles

This comparison provides a balanced view, helping homeowners weigh their options based on budget, sustainability, and long-term performance.

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Key Takeaways

• Choose Tin Roofing if you’re prioritizing longevity, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics, and are willing to invest more upfront.
• Choose Asphalt Shingles if affordability and versatility in style are more important, and you’re okay with shorter durability and higher maintenance over time.

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FAQs About Tin and Terne Roofing

1. What is the difference between tin and terne roofing?

• Tin Roofing: Traditional tin roofs are made of rolled steel coated with tin. They are lightweight, rust-resistant, and historically popular for their affordability and durability. However, modern “tin roofs” are often a general term for metal roofs rather than being composed of true tin.
• Terne Roofing: Terne refers to steel or stainless steel coated with a lead-free alloy (historically tin and lead), designed to replicate traditional tin roofing aesthetics. Terne-coated stainless steel (TCSS) and terne-coated steel (TCS) are modern evolutions that prioritize longevity, corrosion resistance, and a classic weathered appearance.

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2. How much do tin and terne roofs cost?

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3. What are the benefits of terne-coated materials over traditional tin?

• Durability: TCSS and TCS significantly outlast traditional tin roofs, with lifespans exceeding 50 years in many cases.
• Corrosion Resistance: Terne-coated materials offer better resistance to rust and environmental wear, especially in coastal areas or regions with heavy rainfall.
• Aesthetic Versatility: Modern terne coatings replicate the timeless look of tin while accommodating custom finishes and patinas.
• Sustainability: Lead-free coatings make terne materials more environmentally friendly and compliant with modern safety standards.

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4. Are tin and terne roofs eco-friendly?
Yes, particularly modern variations.

• Recyclability: Most tin and terne roofs are made from recyclable steel or aluminum, reducing environmental impact.
• Energy Efficiency: Reflective coatings and natural emissivity can lower cooling costs, making them compliant with California Title 24 and other energy codes.
• Sustainability: Lead-free terne coatings and sustainable production processes enhance their eco-credentials.

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5. What maintenance is required for tin and terne roofs?

• Cleaning: Annual cleaning with mild soap and water prevents debris buildup and preserves the coating.
• Repainting: Painted roofs may require periodic repainting every 10–15 years to maintain their finish.
• Inspections: Regular inspections ensure screws, seams, and coatings remain intact, minimizing risks of leaks or corrosion.
• Touch-ups: Small scratches or chips in the coating should be addressed promptly to prevent rust.

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6. How do tin and terne roofs compare in weight?
Both materials are lightweight, but aluminum and mill-finished panels are particularly advantageous for structures with limited load-bearing capacity. Terne-coated stainless steel and steel panels are slightly heavier, offering more durability but requiring proper roof framing.

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7. Are terne-coated materials suitable for modern homes?
Absolutely. While terne roofs are often associated with historic restorations, their sleek and customizable finishes work well with contemporary architectural styles. Painted steel or aluminum options provide additional design flexibility for modern homes.

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Conclusion

Tin and terne roofing systems combine classic appeal with modern technology, offering exceptional durability, eco-friendliness, and versatility. Their cost varies by material and finish, but their longevity and low maintenance requirements make them an excellent investment for both historic and contemporary homes.