The national average cost to replace an asphalt roof ranges between $6000 – $12,800, with the biggest factor being the roof square footage.

CALCULATE THE COST

Back in 1837, the French discovered that galvanizing metal with zinc was the solution to rust resistance. Its popularity ensued, becoming common in the construction of trains and roofs of buildings. The first stateside galvanized roof was the U.S. Mint in New Orleans in 1857.

In 1885, the cap on the Washington Monument was the first example of aluminum being used architecturally. It marked the beginning of an era during which efficient separating mechanisms and recycling techniques were developed. Before that time, aluminum was considered a precious metal, glossed over by the building industry.

When considering a metal roof replacement, figuring out what it will run you can be confusing. Let’s go over the factors and choices to consider when calculating the total cost.

Metal Roof Replacement Costs 101

Metal is a common roof material because it’s strong, sturdy, and long-lasting. It’s environmentally friendly, able to be recycled countless times while remaining strong. They’re attractive and let you express yourself by offering different styles and sheens.

Metal roofs are around two to three times the costs of those made with other materials. On the other hand, by paying a higher upfront cost for a metal roof, you save yourself a lot of time and money down the road. Before you begin to browse contractors, think about the size of the budget you’re working with.

To get a ballpark figure of the total cost, it helps to know the:

1. Size of your roof
2. Materials
3. Forms
4. Price of labor

Let’s look at each one. These must all be considered if you want an accurate quote for your metal roof replacement.

1. Size of Your Roof

The unit of measurement used for roofs is the “square.” One square equals 100 square feet. Your home’s roof replacement will range from around $75 to $1,000 per “square.”

2. Materials

When we compare metal to slate, tile, asphalt, or wood shingles, metal is generally more expensive. But it’s easy to find an option within your roof replacement budget.

Here are the 5 most common metal roof materials:

• Tin was used before WWII (no longer a common choice)
• Steel(Galvanized, Galvalume, or Weathering steel) resists saltwater corrosion and can last over 100 years
• Aluminum is resistant to saltwater corrosion and has great longevity
• Zinc resists corrosion, has the lowest melting temperature and offers extreme longevity
• Copper has a low melting temperature, offers a unique aesthetic, and offers extreme longevity

Copper is expensive and beautiful, but being a soft metal, it’s prone to hail damage. Also, consider that it will expand and contract with swinging temperature fluctuations.

3. Forms

Now, each form comes in a variety of profiles (aka profile types). Let’s talk about each form more in-depth. They are shingles, standing seam, and sheet roofing.

Shingles

Metal shingles are also referred to as “modular panels” or “stamped”. They’re a lot like metal shakes but have a lower-profile design. They’re longer-lived, more durable than traditional split-wood options.

Price is around $200-$600 per square

Profile types:

• Shake
• Tile
• Asphalt
• Slate

Materials:

• Steel
• Aluminum
• Copper (only for slate)

Sizes (Shingles, shakes, and slate)

• 2′ x 1′
• 4′ x 1′
• 5′ x 1′

Sizes Available (Tile):

• 14″ x 16″
• 39 ¾” x 14″
• 3′ x 20′
• 43 ¼” x 23′

Coating options are stone or Kynar coating

Aesthetic is traditional

Pros:

• Rust-proof
• Wind-proof (up to 140 mph)
• Last 60 years longerthan asphalt shingles

Cons:

• Harder to match colors
• Energy-efficient because they deflect the summer heat

Standing Seam

This roofing style is simple because it doesn’t require very much bending of the metal. The 12″-20″ wide panels are cut to the correct sizes for your roof.

Price range is $200-$1,000 per square

Profile Types:

• Through-fastened (short-medium panels)
• Clip-fastened (long panels)

Materials:

• Galvanized steel
• Galvalume steel
• Aluminum
• Copper
• Zinc

Sizes:

• 18-28 gauge
• 24-26 gauge (residential)

Aesthetic is modern

Pros: They’re easy to install and inexpensive

Cons: They’re not as long-lasting structurally or aesthetically

Standing seam metal roofs used to be confined to very expensive architecture or commercial buildings. Not any more. They’re becoming much more popular for residential structures.

Sheet Roofing

Also known as “R” Panel, “SV” Crimp, Corrugated, and Through-fastened roofing, it’s always made with large sheets of metal that overlap. These sheets will vary in width and length and have exposed fasteners.

Price ranges from $75-$600 per square

Profile Types Available

• “R” Panel
• “SV” Crimp
• Corrugated roofing
• Face-fastened panels
• Through-fastened panels
• Screw-down panels

Materials:

• Galvanized steel
• Galvalume steel

Sizes are available from 20-30 gauge

Options:

• Painted
• Unpainted w/low-cost clear coat

Aesthetic is agriculture

Pros: Easy to install and inexpensive

Cons: Not as long-lasting structurally or aesthetically

The sounds of rain or hail on metal sheet roofing can be annoying to some. Also, consider that temperature changes can cause squeaking as the metal expands and contracts.

4. Metal Roofing Labor Cost

As you probably know, installing a new roof is rather labor-intensive, especially when building with metal. A project of this type requires professionals who have metal roofing experience. Labor costs will run between $350 and $700 per “square.”

Before replacing metal roofs, gather quotes from different roofers so you can get a rough idea of which direction you want to go in. Ask what each roof replacement service charges for labor by mentioning the size of your roof, material, and form you’d like them to use.

Getting a thorough and accurate quote will be even easier if you know those pieces of information, but it’s okay if you don’t. We’ll find out the size for you by checking online. We’ll gladly talk you through material and form options as well.

The Cost of Metal Roof Replacement Has Many Layers

When deciding on metal as your roofing material, think about whether you’ll use it long enough to reap the benefits of its longevity. Its steadfastness is one of the characteristics that set it apart from the crowd.

Best Roofing Estimate will be your go-to metal roof replacement cost estimator. We pride ourselves on accuracy, taking into account the average costs within your area. We offer you a quote no matter where you are in the United States!

Contact us today for a quote. We’ll answer any roof replacement or repair questions you may have.