Metal roofing is becoming more and more popular. One of the biggest questions we get is how much does a metal roof cost and is it worth it?
Most homeowners are aware that a metal roof replacement will cost more than standard architectural shingles, but how much more?
This article will walk you through the different types of metal roofs and the costs of each. There is a large price range even within the subcategory of metal roofing. There are two major types of metal that you’ll see used, which are called exposed fastener and concealed fastener.
This type of metal has attached to the roof deck with screws that typically have a rubber washer or cap head on the screws. This is due to the fact that the fasteners will be exposed to the elements and more prone to rust than the standing seam metal option. The largest benefit of this type of metal is the price. All of the below types of exposed fastener roofing systems can be installed for $4.50-$5.50 per square foot, depending on current market conditions.
This is a very common option used on residential and commercial buildings. With full installation, it will cost around $5 per square foot.
This type of metal is more common on commercial buildings and is often used for both the roof and siding on commercial buildings. The cost is very similar to that of AG Panel, coming in around $5 per square foot.
This option comes at a slightly higher cost at around $5.50 per square foot. You will typically see 5V crimp metal used in more rural areas.
This option comes in again around $4.50 per square foot. Corrugated metal is typically used on sheds and detached garages due to it’s affordability.
This is the most expensive metal option, but comes with enhanced visual appeal and extreme longevity. A well installed standing seam metal roof will run between $8-$14 per square foot depending on some of the other factors we discuss below.
While the panel system you choose is a large factor in determining cost, there are a few other factors that come into play as well such as:
There are a number of different choices when it comes to the type of metal used on a metal roof. Steel has been common in the past, but modern aluminum products like Galvalume are now taking over the market. While they last longer, they also come with a higher price tag.
Gauge refers to the thickness of the metal panels. The thicker the metal, the higher the cost. It also increases the longevity of the metal though.
If you choose to go with a painted metal panel roofing system, you will have a number of options on the type of paint that is applied to the metal. The longer lasting paints will obviously come at a higher price. For more information on types of paint, take a look at this McElroy Metal post.
A simple gabled roof will be far lower in cost than a roof with many valleys, hips, and dormers. The complexity of your roof will play a large role in the cost.