While metal shingles can have the same aesthetics as asphalt shingle roofs without inheriting their drawbacks such as susceptibility to high winds and severe weather, not everyone prefers a metal shingle roof due to its installation costs. The national average price is $15,600, but you can expect to pay between $11,400 and $19,800.
However, the benefits of metal roofing are numerous, including lower cooling costs and higher energy savings, as well as better return on investment in the long run. Therefore, knowing the significant cost factors that influence the upfront costs of this roofing option, such as the size and type of shingles, can help you determine how much you’re going to pay.
Technical measurement is usually done in squares, with 1 roofing square equivalent to 100 square feet. Currently, a metal shingle roof can cost as low as $4,800 to as high as $49,500, including materials and labor.
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 Metal Shingle Roof Costs
| National Average Cost | $15,600 |
| Typical Price Range | $11,400 – $19,800 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $4,800 |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $49,500 |
The national average cost is $15,600, with a typical price range of $11,400 to $19,800. However, these figures are not fixed, and the total amount you pay for your new metal roof can be influenced by various factors. The size of your roof, the cost of labor in your area, and whether you are replacing an existing roof or installing a new one can all affect the metal roof costs.
For example, small homes with thin metal roofs may have a lower total cost of around $4,800, but these roofs may not be as durable as more expensive options. On the other hand, high-end installations with larger square footage and premium metal materials can be costly, reaching as much as $49,500.
Metal Shingle Roof Cost Estimator by Size
Regardless of the type of material or design, your overall cost is always directly affected by the size of the roof. But we need to translate this rule into something that we can compute for better estimations. Here’s the formula:
Your home’s square footage x 1.5 = approximate roof size
Let’s say your home is 2,000 square feet. If you apply the formula above, your approximate roof size would be 3,000 square feet. Roofing contractors make use of the square as a unit of measurement, so you’ll still have to convert this number. With 1 square equals 100 square feet, the size of your roof is approximately 30 squares.
All that’s left to do is multiply the estimated roof size by the rate you got from the roofing contractor. Following the example above, if you received a quote of $1,300 per square, you only have to multiply it by 30 squares, and the estimated roof cost would be $39,000.
| Home Square Footage | Approximate Roof Square Footage | Number of Squares | Average Overall Cost (based on $1,300 average per-square cost) |
| 1,000 | 1,500 | 15 | $19,500 |
| 1,500 | 2,250 | 23 | $29,900 |
| 2,000 | 3,000 | 30 | $39,000 |
| 2,500 | 3,750 | 38 | $49,400 |
| 3,000 | 4,500 | 45 | $58,500 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
The price you get from roofing contractors depends on a number of factors, such as metal shingle type and labor cost. Let’s explore them in detail so you can understand if the rate they’re offering you is justifiable.
Metal Shingle Type
Metal shingle types generally fall under the domain of these five types, but keep in mind that roofing companies may have their own classification. However, these will give you a good overview of what to expect depending on the type of metal shingle you choose.
Aluminum Shingles
With prices ranging from $400 to $650 per square, aluminum roofs are more costly than galvalume and corrugated metal panels. So if your estimated roof size is around 1,500 square feet, expect to pay anywhere from $6,000 to $9,750 for the material.
While it costs more than other non-metal shingles like asphalt shingle roofs, it’s more affordable than stainless steel and copper roofs. Therefore, installing aluminum roofs is a great choice for people with homes in windy states, as it offers better wind resistance.
Steel Shingles
Steel shingles are also on the cheaper side, with prices ranging from $400 to $650 per square. However, if you include the labor costs, you may have to pay between $1,050 and $1,850 per square. Although the jump in cost is quite high, interlocking steel roof shingles are usually worth it because it makes the roof more seamless and weatherproof.
Copper Shingles
Copper metal shingles can set you back around $1,250 to $1,650 per square, and this is just for the materials. However, they are a practical and affordable solution for many homes because they are very light, simple to install, corrosion-resistant, and low maintenance.
In addition to their useful advantages, copper metal shingles can provide a home’s exterior with a distinctive, beautiful touch. And over time, they may acquire a characteristic patina that can enhance their beauty and character.
Zinc Shingles
When it comes to zinc shingles, the cost is usually between $650 and $850 per square. Homeowners love zinc’s resilience to extreme weather, extended lifespan, and ability to withstand corrosion. And since zinc is a naturally occurring and recyclable material, they are seen as a sustainable alternative for most roof replacements.
Although zinc shingles are typically more expensive than other types of roofing materials, their long lifespan and minimal maintenance needs can ultimately save you money.
Stamped Metal Shingles
This roof style that has been stamped or pressed into a specific shape or pattern usually costs between $400 and $650 per square for the materials or $1,050 to $1,650 per square, including labor costs. These shingles are known for their durability, longevity, and resistance to extreme weather conditions. Compared to standing seam metal roofs that are installed in panels and attached with no exposed fasteners, this roofing product is installed the same way as traditional asphalt shingle roofs.
Removal of Old Roof
When you ask for a quote from a roofing contractor, you need to check if they included the amount you have to pay for the removal of your old roof. Unless you’re building a new house, you need to take this into consideration, as it can significantly add to what you have to shell out. Basically, the bigger the size of the existing roof to be removed, the higher the removal cost will be.
Roofing contractors will usually charge you between $100 to $165 per square. Fortunately, the cost already includes the disposal of the old roofing materials as well, but it never hurts to ask them to specify this in the quote to keep yourself covered.
Installation of Underlayment
Your metal roof may be durable, but it’s important to also install underlayment for added protection. There are two options to choose from – synthetic and felt. Synthetic underlayment costs between $400 to $500 per square ($4 to $5 per square foot), while felt underlayment costs between $100 to $300 per square ($1 to $3 per square foot). Underlayment helps insulate your roof and can prevent leaks.
Felt can last 15 to 20 years, while synthetic underlayment has a lifespan of up to 40 years and is more heat-resistant. While synthetic underlayment comes with a higher price tag, it has more advantages than felt.
Steepness of the Roof
The cost of installing a new roof can be influenced by the pitch or slope of the roof. Generally, steeper roofs are more expensive to work on because they require more time, materials, and safety equipment.
For example, a roof with a pitch of 3 inches or more per foot may cost more to install due to the added difficulty for the roofing team. On the other hand, a roof with a pitch of less than 3 inches per foot may be more affordable due to the reduced labor and material costs.
Cost of Labor
Although metal roofing is relatively lightweight and easy to install, the labor involved can still be complex and costly. Many roofing companies charge labor fees ranging from $40 to $80 per hour on top of the material costs.
The number of hours required for labor can vary significantly based on the complexity of the roof’s geometry, with steeper roofs generally requiring more labor time. It’s also worth considering the time of year when you plan to have your roof installed, as labor costs tend to be higher during summer and early fall due to high demand.
Permits
The overall cost of your metal roof installation project also will be affected by the fees involved in obtaining building permits. These permit fees typically range from $255 to $500, but the cost can vary based on location, local building department requirements, and the size and complexity of the project.
In addition to paying these fees, obtaining permits may involve submitting project plans for review and undergoing inspections. To avoid fines and ensure that the project complies with local building codes and standards, it is important to obtain all necessary permits before starting a metal roof installation.
Be sure to inquire about the cost of acquiring permits and whether it is covered by the contractor’s estimate before selecting a roofing company to work with. While some professional roofers may include this cost in their total fee, others may charge it as an additional fee.
Shingle Thickness
The thicker the shingles are, the better they are for your roofing system. Thick shingles have a longer lifespan and are more resistant to harsh weather conditions, but they may come at a higher cost. Shingles that are more on the thick side tend to be more expensive on a per-square basis. On top of that, some contractors also may charge an additional fee for installing them.
Add-ons and Upgrades
Roof add-ons and upgrades such as vents, chimneys, and flashings also can raise the labor cost. This is because extra work needs to be done by roofing contractors for them to ensure that these features are installed and sealed properly. So if you’re planning to add dormer windows and skylights, expect to pay more if you don’t want to have issues with water damage and leaks.
Related Services
While metal roofing is generally easy to maintain, it’s important to allocate funds for regular upkeep in order to extend the life of your roof.
Skipping out on maintenance can lead to the need for costly repairs or even the need to install a new roof sooner than expected. On the other hand, if you maintain it properly and regularly, you can help ensure that your metal roof lasts as long as possible, saving you money in the long run.
Roof Inspection
The cost of a professional inspection can range from $100 to $450, depending on the size and type of roof. An annual roof inspection is an important cost to consider when budgeting for your roof. This allows professionals to identify any potential issues and address them promptly, potentially saving you money on costly repairs down the road.
Roof Cleaning
On average, homeowners typically pay around $490 for a professional roof cleaning service. While cleaning a metal roof is not as difficult as other types of roofing, it’s still a good idea to hire professionals for the job. They have the necessary equipment and cleaning solutions to ensure your roof and gutters are thoroughly and safely cleaned.
Using a pressure washer is often the most effective way to clean a metal roof, but it’s important to have the proper training and techniques to avoid damaging the paint.
Roof Repairs
Before installing new shingles on an older roof, it may be necessary to make repairs such as reinforcing rafters or replacing rotten boards. These repairs are often required before a professional contractor will agree to install new shingles. The cost of roof repairs can range from $348 to $1,186, depending on the severity of the damage and the type of roof you have, among other factors.
It’s important to budget for roof repairs, as it’s likely that you’ll need to have your roof repaired at least a few times over its lifetime. This is due to the constant exposure to the elements, which can take a toll on your roof. If you live in an area with harsh weather, you may need to have your roof repaired more frequently.
Cost of Metal Shingle Roof by Location
The cost of a metal roof can vary significantly depending on your location. In areas with a high cost of living, such as Los Angeles or New York, you can expect to pay more for materials and labor. In contrast, metal roof installations in rural areas or areas with a lower cost of living may be more affordable.
Additionally, roofing costs may be lower in areas with warm climates and longer roofing seasons compared to areas with harsh climates and shorter roofing seasons. To get the most accurate cost estimate, it’s a good idea to request quotes from reputable contractors in your area and compare them.
FAQ About Metal Shingles
Yes, especially if you’re planning to stay in your home for a long time. It’s true that metal roofing can be more expensive upfront compared to other types of residential roofing materials, often costing two to three times more. However, it outweighs the initial investment because it’s long-lasting and energy-efficient, helping lower your energy bills.
Yes, but it’s better to have the roof installed by a professional to help increase the home’s curb appeal and resale value. Metal roofing is known for its durability, energy efficiency, and long lifespan of 50 years or more, which can be an attractive feature for potential buyers. However, if not installed properly, it can show signs of damage years before you even place your home on the market.
Never attempt to install a metal shingle roof. It can be a complex and challenging roofing project that requires a certain level of expertise, experience, and a qualified team to ensure it’s done correctly.
Depending on the specific metal roofing materials used, the installation process may be quite intricate and dangerous and may require specialized knowledge and equipment. Even a small mistake can be costly, not only in terms of repairs to the roof itself but also in terms of fixing underlying damage to the home’s structure, like wet drywall and rotten boards.
Additionally, failing to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications when installing a metal roof can void the warranty and potentially cause problems in the future. Given the difficulties and risks involved, you should hire a professional roofing contractor. A qualified roofer will have the right equipment, practical knowledge, and proper training to finish the job efficiently and safely.
Final Thoughts
With an average cost of $15,600, most homeowners are immediately discouraged from choosing to go with metal shingles. However, if the long-term benefits are taken into consideration, it’s easy to see why those who can afford it choose to install metal roofing systems.
Durability, eco-friendliness, and low maintenance are properties inherent in metal roofing, and if your priority is aesthetics, metal shingles offer numerous options. In the end, paying between $4,800 and $49,500 can be worth it if you take into account that you won’t be replacing the roof for the next 60 years or more.
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Main Image Credit: Vitaliy Halenov / Canva Pro / License
