How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost in 2025?
A metal roof can last 40–70 years, so treat it as a long-term investment. Most homeowners spend about $11,726 on the install, so build that figure into your budget early.
On average, installing a metal roof costs $11,743, with prices ranging between $5,741 and $17,753.
Your material cost depends on the roof’s style, size, and pitch—larger or more complex designs drive the price up.
Plan on labor making up roughly 60% of the total, whether your roofer charges by the hour or by the project.
Most areas require a building permit, which costs $250 to $500.
Hiring an experienced roofing contractor helps ensure a trouble-free install and years of protection for your home.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
A new metal roof costs $11,743 on average, with most homeowners paying between $5,741 and $17,753. Depending on factors like roof size, materials, and design, your total could be as low as $1,500 or as high as $34,982. Hiring a professional roofing contractor for the project ensures quality installation and long-lasting performance. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything that affects metal roof costs so you can plan your budget with confidence.
Metal Roof Cost Factors
Several factors influence the cost of your metal roof, such as the style, size, pitch, and whether you opt for a protective coating.
Roof Style
Metal roofs come in several styles—corrugated sheets, standing seams, metal shingles, shakes, and tiles—each delivering a distinct look and performance level. The more complex the install, the higher the cost per square foot. If you’re watching the budget, corrugated panels sit at the low end, while standing seam roofs land at the top.
| Roof Style | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Corrugated sheets | $3.50–$15 |
| Metal shingles | $7–$22 |
| Sheet metal | $4–$6.50 |
| Standing seams | $7–$30 |
Roof Size
Most roofers base their quotes on the size of your roof—the larger it is, the more you'll pay. On average, costs range from $4 to $30 per square foot, depending on factors like style, materials, and pitch. So, for a standard 2,000-square-foot roof, you can expect to pay between $12,000 and $90,000.
| Roof Square Footage | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $6,000–$45,000 |
| 1,500 | $9,000–$67,500 |
| 2,000 | $12,000–$90,000 |
| 2,500 | $15,000–$112,500 |
| 3,000 | $18,000–$135,000 |
Roof Pitch
If your roof has a steep slope (anything over 6:12), expect to pay more. The extra surface area and added safety gear push both material and labor costs up.
Coatings
While not mandatory, coating your metal roof during installation can boost its durability, lifespan, and energy efficiency. Applying a coating early on offers stronger protection. Coating costs vary based on the type, brand, and quality you choose.
Labor
Labor makes up the most significant portion of your metal roof installation cost—60% on average, or around $7,000. This can vary based on your roof's complexity and where you live. Professional roofers will handle tasks like removing old materials, preparing the roof deck, installing underlayment, and installing the new metal roofing system. Keep in mind that labor rates are often higher in urban areas or places with a higher cost of living.
Demolition and Prep
Budget an extra $1,000 to $5,000 to tear off and haul away the old roof before work starts. The final pricing depends on the size and type of your roof, so get an exact quote from your roofing professional.
Permits
Most municipalities require a permit, usually $250 to $500. Your roofer typically pulls the permit and folds the fee into the quote.
Metal Roof Cost by Type
The type of metal you choose for your roof significantly affects the total cost. You have several options, each varying in price, durability, and appearance.
| Material Type | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $4–$11 |
| Copper | $15–$30 |
| Lead | $10–$15 |
| Rusted | $9–$15 |
| Steel | $6–$16 |
| Tin | $5–$12 |
| Zinc | $6–$12 |
Aluminum
Aluminum is an eco-friendly roof option that ranges between $4 and $11 per square foot. It's energy-efficient, reflects the sun, and can last nearly 50 years without major repairs.
Copper
Copper is the most expensive metal roofing material, costing between $15 and $30 per square foot. It's rust-resistant and highly durable, lasting over 100 years with minimal maintenance. Over time, it will develop a nicely-colored film known as patina.
Steel
Steel is a highly durable, rust- and corrosion-resistant choice that ranges from $6 to $16 per square foot. Several types are available, including galvalume, galvanized, and stainless steel. Stainless steel often has the highest price point but is the most durable, lasting up to 100 years. Some high-end options also include specialized coatings to enhance the look and strength.
Tin
Tin roofs are often seen on older homes and range in price from $5 to $12 per square foot. They're becoming less common as they're prone to rust and corrosion. If you plan to install a tin roof, consider the additional maintenance costs you'll incur to prevent weather damage.
Zinc
Zinc is another long-lasting option, costing $6 to $12 per square foot. With proper maintenance, zinc has a lifespan of over 100 years. It also develops a protective patina and has self-healing properties that allow it to repair nicks and scratches.
Metal Roof Repair vs. Replacement
If your metal roof is showing signs of wear, you'll need to decide whether repairing or replacing it is the better choice. Consider factors such as:
Lifespan and Extent of Damage: If the roof is relatively new and damage is limited to a few panels or minor leaks, a repair—about $1,800 on average—can be a cost-effective choice, roughly one-sixth the price of a full replacement.
Warranty Considerations: Check if your roof is still under warranty. Specific issues may be covered, which can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for repairs.
The 50% Rule: A common guideline is that if the repair costs exceed 50% of the replacement cost, it might be more economical to replace the roof in the long run.
Replacement Benefits: When the roof is near the end of its 40- to 70-year life span or the damage is widespread, replacement—typically $5,738 to $17,731—delivers long-term protection and can boost home value.
Does a Metal Roof Increase Home Value?
Installing a new metal roof can boost your home's value, with an expected return on investment of close to 60%. A new roof enhances curb appeal, durability, and energy efficiency, which can attract potential buyers. Plus, they'll appreciate knowing they won't have to worry about roof repairs or replacements anytime soon.
Budgeting for a Metal Roof
Installing a new metal roof is a significant investment, but there are ways to keep costs down. Here are some tips to help you stay within your budget:
Choose the best material for your budget. While aluminum and tin are often the least expensive options, investing in a more durable metal might save you money over time.
Consider disposing of the old roofing material yourself to cut down on labor costs.
Get quotes from multiple roofing contractors to find the most cost-effective option in your area.
Opt to repair instead of replace if your current roof is still in good shape.
Schedule the install during the off-season to take advantage of reduced rates from local roofing contractors.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
When properly insulated and installed, rain on a metal roof shouldn’t sound much different from rain on asphalt shingles—it’s more of a muted thud than a drumbeat. Noise only becomes an issue when there are gaps between the panels and the roof deck. A reputable roofer will secure every panel and add the right underlayment, keeping your home quiet even during heavy downpours.
Metal roofs hold up well, but they’re not indestructible. Large hail or falling branches can dent thinner panels, and the wrong fasteners or flashing can invite corrosion over time. In very hot or very cold climates, expansion and contraction put extra stress on seams. Choosing the right gauge, adding protective coatings, and hiring an experienced installer go a long way toward preventing these issues.
Technically you can lay metal over old shingles, but it’s rarely wise. Trapping asphalt under metal creates a moisture barrier that can foster mold and shorten the roof’s life span. Tearing off the old shingles first lets your roofer check the decking, install fresh underlayment, and vent the roof correctly—steps that help the new metal system last as long as advertised.
Metal roofs need regular maintenance to stay durable and efficient. Annual cleaning and periodic sealing are essential to protect the roof from debris build-up and prevent corrosion. You should schedule yearly inspections, clean the roof to remove dirt and potential corrosive agents, and seal it every 10 years. Roof cleaning costs between $150 and $1,000, and sealing costs range from $150 to $5,700.
You can install solar panels on a metal roof, but extra care is required during the installation. Metal roofs' thermal characteristics require specific spacing and secure mounting techniques to ensure the panels work efficiently. Installers need to account for the different heat dissipation of metal compared to asphalt to prevent overheating. Professional roofers can ensure the safety and efficiency of both your roof and the solar panels.
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