May 27, 2025

How much does a metal roof cost?

A Metal Roof in Cape Cod Homes: A Smart Investment. Installing a metal roof is a valuable investment for Cape Cod homeowners. It provides a strong, long-lasting roofing system that can serve you for 40 years or more. Metal roofs resist corrosion, mechanical impact, saltwater, and snow. They are strong enough to support additional structures, like solar panels. The main factor that often discourages homeowners is the higher upfront cost. However, thanks to its durability and performance, the investment pays off over time.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Metal Roof?

The cost of a metal roof depends on several key factors. Understanding them will help you find the best balance between price and quality.

Main cost factors include:

Roof Design. The more complex the design, the higher the cost. Steep slopes, multiple levels, or intricate features require more labor and materials. Simpler, flat roof designs are more affordable.
Roofing Type. The choice between metal shingles and standing seam panels impacts the price.
Metal Quality. The type and grade of metal used affect both the price of the material and the overall roofing system.
Additional Expenses. These may include removing the old roof, repairing the roof deck, or making structural adjustments to accommodate the new system.

The final price should always be specified in the contract and must not change during the project.

Cost by Metal Type

Metal prices can vary significantly, with copper topping the list as one of the most expensive roofing materials.

Material	Average Price (USD per Square Foot)
Galvanized steel	7–12
Tin	5–12
Aluminum	4–11
Stainless steel	10–16
Zinc	6–12
Copper	15–30

Cost by roof size

Installation costs range from $4 to $30 per square foot. As for material purchase, it’s common to add around 10% to the total amount to account for waste and additional expenses.

Size (square feet)	Cost
1	4 000–30 000
1,25	5 000–37 500
1,5	6 000–45 000
2	8 000–60 000
2,5	10 000–75 000

Other Factors That Affect Roofing Costs

Several additional elements come into play when calculating the estimate for a future metal (or other type of) roof.

Labor Costs. Labor, equipment, and scaffolding account for about 60% of the total roof installation cost.
Location. In high-demand or prestigious areas, roofing costs tend to be higher. Local climate and weather conditions also influence the choice of materials.
Roof Pitch. This refers to how many inches the roof rises vertically for every 12 inches of horizontal distance. Typical pitches range from 3:12 to 6:12. The steeper the pitch (like 6:12), the more challenging and hazardous the installation becomes.
Underlayment. Used to add an extra layer of protection against leaks and moisture intrusion.
Style. Roofing comes in two common styles: corrugated and standing seam panels. Corrugated metal is generally more affordable and easier to install due to its wavy design. Standing seam panels have concealed fasteners, providing superior waterproofing at any temperature but at a higher cost.
Sheathing & Waterproofing. The cost of roof decking (sheathing) depends on the structure’s design. Features like skylights, chimneys, or other architectural elements can significantly increase the waterproofing budget.
Coating Type. The color and durability of the metal roof depend on its coating. Common options include Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) and Silicone-Modified Polyester (SMP). PVDF coatings offer superior UV resistance, environmental durability, and longer warranties, but they are more prone to scratches. SMP coatings are tougher and more scratch-resistant but can fade or crack under intense UV exposure. PVDF coatings typically cost 30–40% more.
Gutters. Gutter replacement or repair may be necessary. Installation ranges from $2,300 to $6,000, averaging about $32 per linear meter. Gutter guards can also be added for additional protection.

How to Compare Different Types of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is one of the most durable and long-lasting options in residential and commercial construction. To help you make the right choice—both functionally and financially—here’s a breakdown of the most common types of metal roofing and their key characteristics.

Galvanized Steel

A budget-friendly option starting at around $7 per square foot. It offers durability and corrosion resistance, making it a solid choice for Cape Cod’s weather conditions.

Pros: Cost-effective, Versatile and durable (lifespan up to 100 years), Low maintenance.

Cons: If the surface is scratched, it may rust over time.

Aluminum

An affordable option that performs well in coastal areas due to its resistance to saltwater exposure.

Pros: Lightweight and long-lasting, Minimal maintenance required.

Cons: Generally more expensive than galvanized steel.

Copper

A premium metal used for custom elements, accent roofs, or flashing. A full copper roof for a 1,700 sq. ft. home can cost between $34,000 and $51,000.

Pros: Elegant, lightweight, and extremely durable (up to 100 years), Timeless design appeal.

Cons: Very high cost compared to other materials.

Zinc

Zinc roofing is valued for its durability and distinctive aesthetic that improves with age.

Pros: Exceptional longevity, Low maintenance.

Cons: High cost.

Tin (Terne-Coated Steel)

Tin roofing is made from galvanized steel or steel with a polymer coating. It offers a good balance between affordability and durability. Although it’s used less frequently than other materials, it still provides reliable solutions that can last for decades.

Pros: Budget-friendly, Long-lasting (40–60 years), Visually appealing.

Cons: Not as durable as copper or zinc.

Corrugated Metal

Corrugated panels are most commonly made from galvanized steel or aluminum. This is one of the most affordable metal roofing options, especially when made from galvanized steel sheets.

Pros: Budget-friendly, Visually appealing, Available in a variety of styles and designs.

Cons: Shorter lifespan (20–30 years).

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Modern aesthetics and versatility are the main reasons why standing seam metal roofing has become so popular. These panels are typically made from steel, aluminum, or zinc, which means pricing can vary.

Pros: Long lifespan (40–70 years), Sleek, contemporary look, Wide range of color and finish options.

Cons: Complex installation that requires a larger investment in labor.

Price Differences Between Metal Roofing and Other Materials

Choosing a new roof can be a complex process with many factors to consider. But two of the most important are upfront costs and expected lifespan. Metal roofing is generally stronger and longer-lasting than asphalt shingles. And with the right material selection, you can reduce the overall budget while still getting a high-quality solution.

Cost of Installing a Metal Roof

Installation costs typically account for 60–70% of the total roofing cost. However, it’s difficult to provide exact numbers because the estimate consists of dozens of variables. Each project is priced individually. To determine how much you’ll need to spend on labor, consider the following factors: Roof design (simple/complex), Regional wage rates, Contractor experience, Structural modifications required for replacement.

01.Roof Complexity

If the roof has a complex design with irregularly shaped elements or varying elevations, it will cost more than installing a simple roof with eaves, gables, and a ridge.

02.Regional Wage Rates

Installation costs largely depend on the home’s location and the average wage levels in that region.

03.Contractor Experience Level

The contractor’s experience and professionalism matter. The more skilled and qualified they are, the higher the price is likely to be. However, in this case, it’s better not to cut corners—it’s wise to trust an experienced, licensed contractor. Even minor installation errors, such as over-tightening a screw, can quickly lead to costly repairs later on.

04.Re-Roofing or New Installation

Whether the old roof needs to be removed is a major factor in the estimate. You can either dismantle the existing structure or install the new one over it. For example, if the current roof is made of asphalt shingles, removing them before installation is a costly service.

What Are the Advantages of Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing is a smart investment in strength, durability, and ease of maintenance. It’s ideal for extreme weather conditions and comes in a wide variety of designs. Its reflective surface also helps keep your home cool in the summer.

Durability and Wear Resistance

The main advantage of metal roofing is its long lifespan—typically 40 years or more. In comparison, asphalt shingles generally last 15 to 30 years.

Metal withstands harsh weather like hail, storms, and strong winds. It’s also fire-resistant, which is a major benefit in wildfire-prone areas.

If a heavy branch falls, it might leave a dent—but the force required is significant. Asphalt, by contrast, is much more easily damaged.

Ease of Maintenance

Metal roofs are easy to clean. You can even use a pressure washer—something other roofing materials typically can’t handle.

Energy Efficiency

Metal’s reflective properties help deflect heat during hot summer days, keeping attic temperatures lower and reducing air conditioning costs.

Even non-metal surfaces can be coated with reflective paint to block UV rays. Given the long lifespan of metal roofs, this energy savings becomes significant over time.

Eco-Friendliness

Metal is recyclable. Many metal roofing systems on the market are made from 30–60% recycled content. Its durability also means fewer replacements over time, reducing environmental impact.

The smooth surface makes it difficult for moss, mold, or lichen to take hold. Plus, metal doesn’t require harsh chemical treatments, which can harm the environment.

Increased Resale Value

A new metal roof increases curb appeal—and with it, your home’s overall market value. Studies show that this type of upgrade has a strong return on investment—averaging 48.1%. In other words, you can recover nearly half of the roof’s cost when selling your home.

Aesthetic Appeal

Metal roofing is easy to customize. You can choose from a wide variety of colors, finishes, styles, and materials.

Aluminum and steel options offer the broadest color palettes. Copper, tin, and zinc come with their own natural colors and textures. With so many options available, it’s easy to select a roof that complements your home’s architectural style.

And if energy efficiency is your priority, you can go with lighter shades—which also look great.

What Are the Disadvantages of Metal Roofing?

Like any roofing option, metal roofing comes with some drawbacks that homeowners should be aware of in advance.

Cost

The high price is often the biggest barrier for homeowners considering metal roofing. Due to higher material and installation costs, some people lean toward more budget-friendly alternatives. However, metal roofing is a smart investment.

Its long lifespan, durability, and energy efficiency allow it to pay for itself over time.

Installation Complexity

Some homeowners hesitate to invest in a roofing system that’s difficult to install—especially if they’re hoping to take on the project themselves.

Metal roofing isn’t a DIY-friendly material. Safe and proper installation requires experience, technical knowledge, and specialized tools.

Is Metal Roofing Worth the Time, Effort, and Investment?

Steel, zinc, and copper roofing is well worth the investment for homeowners looking for a durable, weather-resistant system.

Metal roofs are especially common in hot climates—like the Southwest—thanks to their ability to reflect sunlight, remain cool, and retain indoor heat. They’re also ideal for cold regions, as the structure is strong enough to handle heavy snow loads.

Because of their reliability and longevity, metal roofs are often the preferred choice in areas with extreme weather conditions—such as storms, high winds, and hurricanes.

The final price depends on the material, type of panel, and additional factors. But by investing upfront, you’ll avoid frequent and costly repairs down the line.

DIY or Hire a Pro?

Metal roofing is a complex system that can’t be installed without proper training, experience, and equipment. If you’re investing in quality and long-term performance, it’s best to leave the job to professionals—like the team at Roofing and Siding of Cape Cod.

We’ve been building, repairing, and replacing roofs throughout the Cape Cod area for years. We’ll help you select the best materials, calculate the exact amount of shingles needed, and complete the entire installation to the highest standards.

Repair or Replace Your Metal Roof?

If the damage is minor, repair may be enough. But in cases of significant wear or structural issues, we recommend replacing the roof surface entirely with a new one.

FAQs

We’ve collected the most common questions and provided clear, concise answers.

Can I install a metal roof over my existing roof?

Yes, in many cases you can—especially if your current roofing is asphalt shingles.

However, it’s essential to have a professional roofer inspect the structure to check for any underlying damage. If the base is in poor condition, a full roof replacement may be necessary.

Does a metal roof interfere with cell phone reception?

No, metal roofing does not affect cell signal reception.

Weak signals are typically due to your location—specifically how far you are from your cell provider’s tower. Weather conditions and your service provider’s infrastructure also play a role.

Is a metal roof louder when it rains?

No. That’s a common misconception. Metal roofs are no noisier than other roofing materials when installed with proper insulation.

Can I install solar panels on a metal roof?

Absolutely. Metal roofs provide a strong and durable base that easily supports the weight of solar panels, mounting racks, and related equipment.

Does a metal roof increase my home’s value?

Yes, definitely. Homes with steel, zinc, or copper roofs tend to sell at higher prices than comparable properties with other roofing materials.

Dmitry Labkovich

Since 2002, I have dedicated my career to construction, starting as a cleanup worker and laborer. Despite tough conditions, I quickly mastered roofing and siding, and within six months, I was handling complex tasks. Later, I became a subcontractor, growing the business with a partner and expanding our team.

In 2011, I founded Roofing and Siding of Cape Cod and Boston. At the same time, I continued working with major firms, building a reputation through high-quality work and excellent service. In 2010, I joined the Coast Guard Reserve, which helped me develop leadership skills. Before my deployment in 2018, I built a reliable team that ensured steady company growth.

Today, Roofing and Siding of Cape Cod and Boston is a team of 30+ professionals, all OSHA-certified. We continue to expand while maintaining top-quality standards and exceptional customer service.

**Experience & Expertise**

- 20+ years in the roofing and siding industry
- Hands-on experience from laborer to business owner
- Managing a team of 30+ professionals
- Business development and client relations

**Education & Certification**

- Practical training in roofing and siding techniques
- OSHA safety certification
- Coast Guard Reserve service experience
- Ongoing professional development in construction

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