If you’re building a new home or considering replacing your existing roof, you may consider installing a metal roof. But how much does a metal roof cost?
Metal roofing is now the second-most popular material for both residential and commercial roofs and is considered the most durable and environmentally friendly option for several reasons. But the question is, can you afford one for your home?
In this article:
- A Snapshot of Metal Roof Cost
- Factors That Impact the Cost of a Metal Roof
- Different Types of Metal Roofs and What They Cost
- Frequently Asked Questions
A Snapshot of Metal Roof Cost
Metal roofs offer several practical advantages over typical asphalt shingle roofs, but did you know they can save you money, too?
– Erie Home (@ErieMidWest) July 30, 2018
Several factors can affect what your metal roof may cost, such as material quality, installation, the size and slope of your roof, and your geographic area.
There are several ways that metal roofs offer a return on investment. A professionally installed metal roof from Erie Home lasts three times longer than traditional asphalt shingle roofs. Rather than spending the money to replace your asphalt roof every 10 to 20 years, you won’t need to replace your metal roof for up to 50 years.
Metal roofs are also easier to maintain compared to traditional asphalt roofs, so you’ll spend less on maintenance over the years. Plus, metal roofs from Erie Homes are energy-efficient, helping to keep your home cooler in the hot summer months without the high cooling costs.
Your roof’s size, where you live, and the type of metal you choose will also affect the final price tag. Let’s look at each of these factors more closely.
Factors That Impact the Cost of a Metal Roof
Your Roof’s Size, Slope, and Pitch
Professional roofers like Erie Home measure your roof’s square footage to determine the price of the materials and installation. That means that the bigger your house, the more you can expect to pay for a metal roof.
The slope and complexity figure in too. If you can easily walk up and over your roof, it will cost less to replace than if you have a steep roof that has multiple tiers and is more hazardous to work on.
Keep in mind that the square footage of your home gives you only a vague idea of the square footage of your roof. The pros at Erie Home perform a full inspection that includes measuring your roof for a more accurate cost estimate.
Where You Live
How much materials cost and hourly labor rates will vary among different geographical regions within the United States. Some states have specific material and installation requirements, as well, that may affect your metal roof cost.
The Metal You Choose
Your new roof can be made of a variety of different types of metal. Which one you choose will affect the cost. We’ll review these in more detail below.
Other Factors
There are a few other factors roofers will also consider. These include the style of your metal roof (such as dimensional shingle, Spanish tile or shake), whether you need new underlayment (the material under the roof), and the type of trim and finish you use. The professionals at Erie Home can give you further details on these items.
Different Types of Metal Roofs and What They Cost
One of the biggest choices you’ll make when installing a metal roof is what type of material to use. Below are the most common options.
Aluminum
- Pros: Aluminum can help you save money on energy costs. It’s long-lasting and recyclable. The costs vary widely depending on the thickness of the aluminum as well as the color, style, and the going rate on the market.
- Cons: It can dent easily and expands and contracts more than other materials. You can pay more for thicker aluminum to help with durability. There are also fewer colors to choose from.
Copper
- Pros: Copper lasts about twice as long as aluminum and is one of the most attractive options for a roof. It ages much better than aluminum and is rust-resistant.
- Cons: Copper is very expensive; in fact, it’s more expensive than other types of metals used for roofing.
Steel
You’ll have some choices within the steel category: galvalume, galvanized, and stainless.
- Pros: Like copper, it’s highly durable and rust-resistant. Steel is also a low-maintenance option. Galvanized steel is coated with zinc to deter corrosion and is considered more durable than gulvalume, which is aluminum-coated. However, that aluminum coating helps this option resist corrosion. Stainless has a beautiful appearance and is highly durable, with an expected lifespan of 50 years.
- Cons: Stainless will cost the most, but it’s also the most durable. Galvalume and galvanized are more cost-effective, with galvalume typically coming in at the lowest price.
Tin
With more modern metal materials available, tin roofs are less common today. Modern options may include a tin roof that’s a combination of steel with a tin coating.
- Pros: Durable and highly corrosion-resistant.
- Cons: Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion.
Zinc
- Pros: Like copper, it can last more than 100 years when well maintained. It also ages well, developing a protective coating as it is exposed to the elements.
Cons: It is more expensive than some of the economical options. It will require less maintenance over time, however.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to put a metal roof over shingles?
Yes, you can. Metal roofing is lightweight, so there is no harm in placing it over your existing shingle roof.
How long will a metal roof last?
Metal roofs last an average of 50 years, though some materials can last even longer. Compare this to a traditional roof, which lasts from 12-20 years.
Is a metal roof worth the extra cost?
The extra advantages of a metal roof make the upfront cost worth it for many homeowners. Metal roofs typically last longer, are more energy efficient, and provide a more environmentally friendly option. In many places, a metal roof from Erie Home with a Class 4 hail rating could qualify you for an insurance premium discount of up to 25%.
Is it cheaper to put a metal roof or shingles?
While a traditional asphalt shingle roof typically has a lower upfront cost than a metal roof, an Erie Home metal roof offers many advantages that result in cost savings over time:
- Longer lifespan: An Erie Home metal roof lasts three times longer than a traditional asphalt shingle roof. A traditional shingle roof lasts 10 to 20 years, meaning you’d need to replace a traditional roof multiple times in the typical lifespan of a metal roof (up to 50 years).
- Insurance discounts: A metal roof with a Class 4 hail impact rating (such as an Erie Home metal roof) may qualify for a discount on your insurance premium of up to 25%. Check with your insurance carrier to find out if it applies in your area and how much you could save.
- Less maintenance: Metal roofs typically require maintenance just one or two times each year, so you’ll save on ongoing maintenance costs over the lifetime of your metal roof, as well.
- Lower energy costs: Metal roofs are energy-efficient and help to keep your home cooler in hot temperatures, resulting in lower cooling costs.
- Added value to your home: A metal roof can add to the resale value of your home, with homeowners typically recouping 54.8% of their investment.
How much should I budget for a metal roof?
The cost of a metal roof varies significantly depending on various factors such as material quality, installation, and other options. Get in touch with the professionals at Erie Home today for a free quote on a durable, energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and value-adding metal roof.