If you think that metal roofing prices have gone through the roof, then you’ve probably never heard of corrugated roofing before. Currently, it can cost as low as $5,340, and that’s already including materials and labor. But if you use high-end materials like copper, the total cost can go up to as high as $34,800.
Like most commercial business owners, a lot of residential homeowners prefer installing corrugated metal roofing on their properties because of its durability, fire resistance, low maintenance, and energy efficiency
The overall cost of corrugated metal roofing will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the roof, the type of metal used, and the complexity of the roofing project. In general, you can expect to pay between $8,900 and $17,400, while the national average price is $13,150.
In this pricing guide, we’ll cover:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Size
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Cost by Location
- FAQ
Average Corrugated Metal Roofing Costs
| National Average Cost | $13,150 |
| Typical Price Range | $8,900 and $17,400 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $5,340 |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $34,800 |
The installation cost for corrugated metal roofing has a national average of $13,150, with a typical price range of $8,900 and $17,400. Keep in mind, though, that metal roof costs can be influenced by various factors. The size of your roof is the biggest factor that can affect your metal roof installation costs. For example, if you have a small roof, then the total cost you’ll have to pay for your new metal roof can be just around $5,340.
You also should consider the cost of labor in your area and the type of metal roofing material you’ll be using. Plus, if you’ll be doing a roof replacement, you will have to pay extra for removing your old roof. And if you have a big roof, the installation costs can reach as much as $34,800.
Corrugated Metal Roofing Cost Estimator by Size
The size of a roof always affects its overall cost, no matter what material or design you choose. Think about it. The larger the roofing system, the more materials and labor will be required, which, in turn, will increase the overall cost of the project. To make better cost estimates, you should first know the size of your roof. You can use this formula to get the approximate size of your roof:
Your home’s square footage x 1.5 = approximate roof size
For example, if your home is around 2,000 square feet, your approximate roof size would be 3,000 square feet. And once you’ve acquired an estimate from your roofing contractor, you can simply multiply their rate by your approximate roof size.
Following the example above, if you received a quote of $4.45 per square foot, you only have to multiply it by 3,000 square feet, and the estimated roof cost would be $13,350.
| Home Square Footage | Approximate Roof Square Footage | Average Overall Cost |
| 1,000 | 1,500 | $6,675 |
| 1,500 | 2,250 | $10,012 |
| 2,000 | 3,000 | $13,350 |
| 2,500 | 3,750 | $16,688 |
| 3,000 | 4,500 | $20,025 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
The price you get from roofing contractors depends on several factors, such as the labor costs in your area, as well as the material costs. So before deciding on the roofer to work with or the type of ribbed or corrugated metal roofing panel to use for your roofing project, first understand all the factors that may affect the overall cost.
Type of Material
Corrugated metal roofs are typically made from either aluminum, steel, or copper. While roofing companies may have different material prices, this will give you a general idea of how much your roofing project will cost depending on the type of material you choose.
Aluminum
Aluminum may be more expensive than galvalume, but it is more affordable than galvanized steel and standing seam metal roofs. It’s also the most affordable of the three materials commonly used for corrugated roofing, and you can expect to pay just around $4.69 to $10.30 per square foot. If your approximate roof size is around 1,500 square feet, installing corrugated aluminum roofing will cost around $7,035 to $15,450.
Homeowners living in coastal regions and areas with harsh weather conditions prefer having aluminum roofs since they are more corrosion-resistant. Apart from having a long lifespan of up to 100 years, aluminum is also energy-efficient and can help lower your home’s cooling costs.
Steel
Because of its durability and mid-range cost, steel is a popular choice for metal roofing, both for residential and commercial buildings. Its installation cost typically falls between $5.85 and $10.50 per square foot. However, it is important to note that steel roofing panels are prone to rust, so they should be coated with a protective layer such as Kynar or PVDF to increase their resistance to corrosion.
Whether used as corrugated, metal shingles, or sheet metal roofing, a steel roof can be fairly long-lasting and requires minimal maintenance. This type of roofing material is available in a variety of colors and styles, making it a versatile roofing option that can complement any home design, much like an asphalt shingle roof.
Copper
Copper is an excellent choice for metal roofing due to its exceptional longevity, with a lifespan that can reach up to 200 years under optimal conditions. However, it is worth noting that copper roofing is on the higher end of the price spectrum, even more expensive than zinc roofing. The installation costs range from $14.65 to $25.70 per square foot.
But despite the higher price, many homeowners consider copper roofing to be a worthwhile investment due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.
Over time, copper oxidizes and develops a patina that can add character and beauty to the roof. You won’t have to repaint it as it already has a natural coating that helps prevent corrosion. It is relatively low maintenance, lightweight, and easy to install.
Labor Costs
Installing a corrugated metal roof can be a complex and labor-intensive process, even though metal roofing itself is relatively lightweight and easy to work with. As a result, many roofing companies charge labor fees that range from $40 to $80 per hour in addition to the cost of materials.
The amount of labor required for a metal roof installation can vary depending on the complexity of the roof’s geometry, with steeper roofs often requiring more time to complete. You also should consider that labor costs for roofing tend to be higher during the peak season, which is typically in the summer and early fall, due to higher demand.
Permits
The cost of building permits also can impact the overall cost of a metal roof project. You may have to pay between $255 and $500 for the permit fees, although the exact cost may vary based on factors such as location, project size and complexity, and your local building department requirements.
It is important to obtain all necessary permits before starting a roofing project to avoid fines and ensure compliance with local building codes and standards. Obtaining permits may require submitting project plans for review and undergoing inspections.
Some roofers include this cost in their total fee, while others may charge it as an additional fee. Therefore, it is a good idea to ask about the cost of obtaining these permits and whether it is already included in the roofing contractor’s estimate before choosing a roofing company to work with.
Roof Slope or Pitch
It is worth considering the slope of your roof when estimating the cost of a new roof installation, as the slope or pitch of a roof can considerably impact the overall cost. Since steeper roofs will need more materials, labor, and safety equipment, they are more expensive to work on.
A roof with a pitch of 3 inches or more per foot may be more expensive to install due to the increased difficulty for the roofing crew. On the other hand, the installation costs for a roof with a pitch of less than 3 inches per foot may be less due to lower labor and material costs.
Removal of Old Roof
If you are not building a new house, you will need to factor in the cost of roof removal, which can significantly add to the overall price of the project. The cost of roof removal is generally based on the size of the existing roof, with contractors charging between $100 and $165 per square foot.
When requesting a quote from a roofing contractor, you should determine whether the cost of removing your old roof is already included. The cost of roof removal typically includes the disposal of old roofing materials, but it is always a good idea to confirm this with the contractor so you have a clear understanding of the costs involved.
Underlayment Installation
In addition to your corrugated metal roofing, it’s crucial to install underlayment to provide extra protection. Underlayment can help prevent leaks and insulate your roofing system. You have three options to choose from – felt, synthetic, and rubberized asphalt.
Felt underlayment costs between $0.20 and $1.00 per square foot, synthetic underlayment costs between $0.32 and $1.05 per square foot, and rubberized asphalt costs around $0.70 to $1.15 per square foot.
Roof Upgrades and Add-ons
Roof upgrades and add-ons, such as flashings, chimneys, vents, and roof decks, can increase the overall cost of a roof installation project. The reason for this is that these features require additional work from roofing contractors to ensure they are installed and sealed correctly.
If you are planning to add features like skylights or dormer windows to your roof, you can expect to pay more to cover the extra labor required to properly install and seal these features. This added cost is worth considering to avoid future problems, such as leaks and water damage.
Related Services
While corrugated metal roofing is easy to maintain, it’s crucial to spend time and money on regular cleaning and upkeep in order to extend its lifespan.
Skipping out on cleaning, roof inspections, and maintenance can lead to serious issues. So if you want to avoid costly repairs or premature roof replacements, you need to perform regular and proper maintenance. This way, your corrugated roofing can last longer, helping you save money in the long run.
Roof Inspection
A professional roof inspection can cost between $100 and $450, depending on the type and size of the roof. It is a good idea to allocate a budget for an annual roof inspection as a way to identify and address any potential issues before they become more serious and costly to fix. By getting a professional inspection on a regular basis, you can help ensure that your roof is in good condition and extend its lifespan.
Roof Cleaning
Professional roof cleaning services typically cost homeowners around $490 on average. Even though cleaning a corrugated metal roof is easier than other types of roofing, like asphalt shingle roofs, it is still recommended to hire professionals to do the job. They have the necessary equipment and cleaning products to ensure the roof and gutters are cleaned properly and safely.
A pressure washer is often the most effective way to clean a corrugated metal roof, but it is important to know how to use it correctly if you don’t want to damage the paint.
Roof Gutters
The cost of installing metal gutters on a standard roof of around 1,500 square feet typically ranges from $900 to $5,000. But the price will still depend on the type of metal chosen and the amount of guttering required. Copper, aluminum, stainless steel, zinc, and galvanized steel are the most common materials used for roof gutters, with galvanized steel being the most budget-friendly option.
Roof Painting
The cost to paint a corrugated metal roof typically ranges between $1.50 and $2.50 per square foot. The final cost for the roof painting may be affected by various factors, including the roof’s size, accessibility, steepness, and condition, as well as the type of paint used. Additional expenses may be incurred for power washing or cleaning if the roof section to be painted is dirty or in poor condition.
Roof Maintenance
Corrugated metal roofs made of top-notch materials like copper are known for being long-lasting and durable, but they still need regular maintenance to stay in good condition. The cost of maintaining a metal roof is typically between $100 and $750 per year, which may cover basic tasks like removing debris and fixing loose or broken shingles.
While it is possible to save money by doing some DIY roof maintenance, such as visual inspections and removing debris, it’s usually a good idea to hire professional roofers to handle all roof maintenance work.
Roof Repairs
Before installing new corrugated roofing, especially on an older roof, it may be necessary to make some repairs first, such as replacing damaged boards or reinforcing the rafters. Professional roofers often require these repairs to be made before they will install new corrugated metal roofs. The cost of metal roof repairs can vary widely, from $559 to $2,101, depending on the extent of the damage, the type of roof, and other factors.
You should always have funds ready for roof repairs as it’s likely that you’ll need to have your roof repaired a few times throughout its lifetime due to exposure to the elements, which can cause wear and tear. And if you live in an area often battered by extreme weather, you may need to have your roof repaired more often.
Cost of Corrugated Metal Roofing by Location
Location can be a significant factor in the cost of installing corrugated metal roofing. In general, the cost of materials and labor can vary depending on the region you live in. For example, you may pay more for metal roofing in areas with a high cost of living, such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, or New York, compared to rural areas or areas with a lower cost of living.
In addition, corrugated roofing costs may be lower in regions with warmer climates and longer roofing seasons compared to cities with harsh weather and shorter roofing seasons. You should request quotes from reliable roofers in your area to get a more accurate estimate of the cost of a corrugated metal roof in your area.
FAQ About Corrugated Metal Roofing
Corrugated metal roofing can use either exposed or hidden fasteners. Exposed fasteners are visible on the surface of the roof and are used to secure the roof panels to the underlying structure. Hidden fasteners, on the other hand, are not visible from the surface of the roof and are used to secure the panels in place.
The type of fasteners used on a corrugated metal roof will depend on the specific product being installed and the preferences of the homeowner or contractor. Both types of fasteners can be effective, but hidden fasteners may be preferred in some cases because they can give the roof a more seamless and finished appearance.
Yes, it is possible to bend corrugated metal roofing. Since corrugated roofing is made from sheet metals that are formed into waves or ridges, this gives the material its strength and allows it to span longer distances without sagging.
Bending corrugated roofs is possible using a variety of methods, depending on the size and shape of the panel being bent and the type of metal it is made from. Some common methods for bending include:
• Hand bending: Smaller panels of corrugated metal can often be bent by hand using a hammer and a block of wood.
• Bending with a jig: A jig can be used to bend larger panels of metal roofing more accurately. A jig is a tool that holds the panel in place while it is being bent.
• Rolling: You also can bend corrugated roofs using a rolling machine. This method is often used for larger panels or for bending the metal into complex shapes.
You should always use the appropriate tools and techniques when bending metal roofs to avoid damaging the material. However, it’s much better to hire a professional contractor with experience in bending corrugated metal roofing to ensure the job is done correctly.
Installing a corrugated metal roof is a complex and labor-intensive project that requires specialized tools and skills. While it is possible for a DIY enthusiast with some experience in roofing to install a corrugated metal roof, it is generally recommended to hire a professional contractor to do the job.
The process usually involves numerous complicated steps, including:
• Preparing the roof deck: This may involve reinforcing the roof deck, adding a moisture barrier, or replacing damaged boards.
• Measuring and cutting the metal panels: The panels must be cut to fit the roof accurately. This requires precise measurements and the use of specialized tools.
• Installing the roof underlayment: A roofing underlayment is a layer of material that is installed under the roofing panels to provide additional protection against moisture.
• Laying down the panels: The panels are attached to the roof deck using fasteners or clips. The panels must be properly spaced and aligned to ensure a seamless, watertight installation.
• Sealing the seams: The seams between the panels must be sealed to prevent leaks. This requires the use of specialized sealing materials and techniques.
If you don’t follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications when installing a metal roof, it can void the warranty and potentially lead to problems in the future. To avoid these risks, it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor. A qualified roofer has the necessary equipment, expertise, and training to complete the job efficiently and safely.
Find a Roofing Contractor Near You
The cost of corrugated metal roofing, which is typically around $13,150, may deter some homeowners from choosing this type of roofing. However, there are numerous long-term benefits of corrugated roofing, such as energy efficiency, durability, low maintenance, and a wide range of aesthetic options.
Corrugated metal roofing systems can last for up to 200 years, which means you won’t have to worry about replacing the roof after just a few years. The cost for this type of roofing ranges from $5,340 to $34,800, but when you consider the longevity and benefits of metal roofing, it may make it well worth the investment.
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