Copper Roof Replacement: Calculate The Cost Per Square Foot
NATIONAL AVERAGE COST TO REPLACE COPPER ROOF:
The national average cost to replace a copper roof ranges between $9,022 – $14,800 for smaller roofs, and $29,639 – $59,332 for larger roof systems. Those prices can increase based on the materials and labor. It is helpful to budget for a roof when times of natural disaster hit, such as hurricanes, hail, or wind.
Most roofs need replacing after a certain amount of time has passed, just like an air conditioning unit or HVAC system might. A copper roof is a great way to transition to something durable and long-lasting.
It also gives your house some nice curb appeal. Keep reading on to learn more about the cost of copper tiles and installation.
Copper Roof Benefits – The Pros
Why is a copper roof superior to other materials? Copper falls under the classification of fine metals. Some other fine metals are stainless steel and zinc.
LONG LASTING
Yet, copper proves to be a timeless staple in an industry where materials begin to wear with age. It is also one of the most aesthetically appealing roofing materials – if you have a taste for it.
Additionally, over time copper actually develops a protective layer. Just like the Statue of Liberty, you could start to notice a green hue as the copper ages. Not to worry – this is not a sign of rust or integrity issues.
Copper is also deemed as one of the longest-lasting materials. Do you live in a hurricane zone? Or does your neighborhood experience high winds or hail? A new roof with copper materials is arguably the best design for handling disastrous weather.
FIRE RESISTANT
How about fires? The western United States has been devastated by raging forest fires this year (and prior years). Luckily, copper is completely fire-resistant.
If you have a house fire, it can actually help prevent the spread due to its fire-protective textiles.
Additionally, if you are trying to be more environmentally friendly (let’s be honest, we all should), copper comprises approximately 75% recycled materials.
Copper Roof Downsides – The Cons
Similar to other fine metals, copper is expensive (more on that later). Keep in mind; copper is designed to last for decades. Some projections expect copper roofs to last 100 years.
However, it does not mesh well with other fine metals and can be pretty noisy during heavy storms. It also takes a very long time for the green hue to start showing up on your roof. Sometimes, this process can take up to a decade.
Make sure you do your research beforehand and talk to a qualified roofing company before deciding.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Copper Roof?
The cost of a copper roof replacement and installation can cost around $14.75 – $19.50 per square foot, including material, labor, and equipment. How does this fare in terms of total square footage?
For a 1,000 square foot home, it would cost around $14,500 – $20,480 and approximately $37,760 for a 2,000-square foot house. Some contractors project a bit higher on the cost per square foot. Keep in mind, in some parts of the country the prices for materials have increased by 5 to 10% this year alone.
Just like many other things typical of roof replacement cost – the cost of your new roof may be projected a bit higher.
If you include a broader range of $18 to $30 per square foot in some markets, then you could easily be looking at projections of $46,000 or more.
It is fairly common for people to only put copper tiles in certain areas of their roof. If you are looking at a new awning or bay window roof replacement, the cost drops. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $7,500.
There are plenty of factors that can increase or decrease the price of your new roof.
Cost of Additional Features on Copper Roofing
Standing seam panels are crucial if you want your roof to withstand devastating storms. They can run just over $17,77 per square foot and, on average, costs $1,875.
The curve of your roof also plays into the cost. If you have a lower pitch, then snow and ice can accumulate in these regions. In that case, you will need additional underlayments.
If you opt for a heating cable, then tack on $183 to $2,014 – depending on the region of your roof you want it installed.
Additionally, if you are sealing your new roof, it can cost just under $970, not including the additional $3 per square foot for labor.
Labor Cost for Copper Roof Installs
Labor fluctuates based on the company and region you live in. You want an experienced and skilled craftsman for the installation of your new roof. Some of the projections above have included the cost of labor.
You can break down the details based on the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics for employee rates and expected time for an average roof replacement.
With a crew of three to four people, you could be paying up to approximately $2,500 for labor alone. It is not suggested that you try and replace the roof yourself unless you have the qualifications and training.
A roof repair or replacement can be dangerous without the right safety tools in place. Additionally, you want to ensure your roof is properly installed and sealed to prevent damage to your house.
Copper Roof Repair Costs
You have discovered a lot about a copper roof cost, but what about roof repair costs? If you aren’t replacing your entire roof, then the price of a repair drastically decreases.
Depending on the square footage, you can expect one-third to two-thirds of the cost of your roof installation.
If you take the example of $60,000 for a new copper roof, the repair costs would be anywhere from $1,300 to $7,800.
Is Now Is the Time to Replace Your Copper Roof?
Late summer and fall are one of the best times to look at getting a new copper roof. Don’t wait any longer to get your dream roof.
Not only will you increase the curb appeal of your home, but you can rest easy knowing that your new roof is designed to last for years to come.
Although the cost is higher, it will last longer than other fine metal roofs.
Check out a trusted professional roofing company with skilled laborers and contractors to handle your new roof installation.
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