How Much Does Metal Roofing Cost?

Metal roofing is becoming more and more popular in residential roofing. This is due to its lifespan, warranties, and the curb appeal it adds to your home. 

But one big hurdle for homeowners interested in metal roofing is how much it'll cost. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot of transparent information about metal roofing costs. 

For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has taken on the tough questions the rest of the roofing industry avoids. That’s why I’ll break down how much metal roofing costs. 

This article covers the following:

• The cost of the two types of metal roof systems.
• The factors that impact the cost of a new metal roof. 
• The type of metal roof recommended for residential roofing. 

How much does metal roofing cost?

There are two types of metal roofing systems, standing seam and screw down panel. They both have their place in the roofing industry but come at very different price points. 

Below is some basic information about both types and how much the two metal roof systems cost. 

Disclaimer: These numbers aren’t perfect. The actual price you'll pay depends on multiple factors determined by your roof and the contractor you hire.

How much does screw down metal roofing cost?

A screw-down panel metal roof system (also known as an exposed fastener) is just what it's called; it's screwed down. The screws are screwed through the face of the metal panel down to the decking. 

This leaves no room for expansion and contraction when the metal roofing goes through thermal expansion. You can expect screw down panel metal roofing to cost around $4.50 per square foot.

Just know that the screws will eventually wallow out the holes in the metal. Because of this, you’ll have to pay to replace the screws with the next size up every 5 years or so.

How much does standing seam metal roofing cost?

A standing seam metal roof system is a series of panels locked together at the seams or seamed mechanically. Under each rib (seam) is a clip that fastens the panels together and allows them to glide back and forth.

Unlike screw down metal roofing, this allows the panels to expand and contract freely when the metal panels go through thermal expansion. You can expect 24 gauge steel standing seam metal roofing to cost around $12.00-$15.00 per square foot.

I understand this is a big difference in price compared to screw down metal roofing. However, standing seam metal roofing requires a thicker gauge of metal and a skilled craftsman for installation. 

This makes the labor and material costs go up, which is the main reason it costs almost triple the amount than screw down metal roofing.

What impacts the cost of metal roofing?

Now you know how much the types of metal roofing cost. I get the cost is intimidating, but there’s a lot that goes into installing metal roofing.  

That’s why it’s important to understand where your investment goes when getting a new metal roof. Below is a list of factors that directly affect the price of your new metal roof:

• The gauge and type of metal you choose (steel, copper, aluminum, etc.) 
• The rest of the metal roof system’s materials
• Labor and time
• Your roof’s accessibility
• The number of penetrations your roof has
• Your roof’s size and the complexity of it
• The amount of decking that may need to be replaced
• Dump fees
• Operating costs

I’m sure you noticed, but most of the factors are specific to your roof and the roofing contractor you hire. Now you see why it’s impossible to give you exact pricing for a metal roof. 

However, knowing these factors helps you understand what a roofing contractor takes into account when estimating a new metal roof. 

Which metal roof is recommended for residential roofing?

As I said, both metal roof systems have their in place in residential roofing. But I’m sure it’s tempting to go with a screw down panel metal roof as the cheaper option. 

Just know that a standing seam metal roof is the recommended choice for residential purposes. While it has a better lifespan and warranty than a screw down panel metal roof, the main reason for this comes down to its expansion capability. 

Now, you can still choose to get a screw down metal roof over your home. However, you’ll spend more money to maintain it by having to change out the screws periodically. 

(Wallowed out screws on a screw down metal roof)

You’ll also be more prone to leaks because the screws go straight through the metal. Because of this, I always recommend investing the extra money in a standing seam metal roof for any heated living space. 

Is a residential metal roof worth the investment?

Now know how much metal roof costs, what impacts the cost, and which metal roof is recommended for residential roofing. I understand a new metal roof is a large investment and intimidating. 

The truth is that most homeowners won’t be able to afford it. However, a metal roof is one of the best roofing materials on the market. 

But is it really worth the investment? I wrote another article answering that exact question. 

The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided high-quality metal roof replacements to homeowners in Nashville and surrounding Middle Tennessee areas since 1990. We take pride in our metal roofing work and back it up with a lifetime craftsmanship guarantee. 

Check out Is a Residential Standing Seam Metal Roof Worth It to learn if metal roofing is right for you and worth the investment.