True Cost Guide Roofing Install or Replace a Metal Roof

How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost in 2025?

Typical Range:

$5,712 - $17,690

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 4,304 HomeAdvisor members. Embed this data

How We Get This Data

Homeowners use HomeAdvisor to find pros for home projects.

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When their projects are done, they fill out a short cost survey.

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We compile the data and report costs back to you.

Updated November 14, 2024

Reviewed by Eric Gonzalez, Founder of Regions Commercial Roofing, Inc.

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Highlights

The average cost to install a metal roof is $11,701, with prices ranging between $5,712 and $17,690.
The cost of materials depends on the roof style, size, and pitch. The larger and more complex the design, the more you’ll pay.
Contractors either charge by the hour or size, with average labor fees of $11 per square foot or $60 per hour.
You’ll often require a permit to replace your roof, which costs between $150 and $500, depending on your location.
There are several types of metals to choose from, each varying in price, style, and durability.

The cost to install a metal roof ranges between $5,712 and $17,690, with most homeowners paying an average of $11,701. The total price largely depends on the type of metal you choose and the style, size, and pitch of your roof. Labor often accounts for up to 60% of the final cost, with contractors charging an average of $11 per square foot or $60 per hour.

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National Average	$11,701
Typical Range	$5,712 - $17,690
Low End - High End	$1,500 - $34,900

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 4,304 HomeAdvisor members.

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Metal Roof Cost Factors

The total cost of a metal roof depends on several factors, including the style, size, and pitch of your roof and whether you choose to coat it.

Roof Style

Metal roofs come in several styles, including corrugated sheets, standing seams, metal shingles, shakes, and tiles. Each style varies in look, functionality, and installation difficulty. The more complex a style is to install, the more you’ll pay per square foot. Corrugated panels are generally the most budget-friendly, while standing seams costs are often the highest.

Roof Style	Cost per Square Foot
Corrugated sheets	$4–$15
Shingles	$6–$22
Shakes	$13–$25
Tiles	$14–$25
Standing seams	$9–$26

Roof Size

Many local roofing contractors base their quotes on the size of your roof. The more square footage there is to cover, the higher the cost. On average, you’ll pay between $4 and $40 per square foot, depending on the style, materials, and pitch. For a standard 2,000-square-foot roof, expect to pay between $8,000 and $80,000.

Roof Square Footage	Average Cost Range
1,000	$4,000–$40,000
1,500	$6,000–$60,000
2,000	$8,000–$80,000
2,500	$10,000–$100,000
3,000	$12,000–$120,000

Roof Pitch

The pitch of your roof directly impacts the cost of materials and labor. The steeper the slope, the larger the area you must cover, increasing the time and materials required. Steep roofs are also more dangerous to work on, causing many contractors to increase their labor rates and require specialized equipment. If your roof has a pitch steeper than 6:12, you’ll likely see increased fees.

Coatings

While optional, homeowners are recommended to coat their metal roofs during installation to increase durability, lifespan, and energy efficiency. The earlier it’s coated, the stronger the protection. The average coating cost is $2 per square foot but varies depending on the type, brand, and quality of the coating.

Other Metal Roof Cost Factors

In addition to the above factors, you’ll also need to consider the cost of labor, removal, disposal, and permits.

Labor

Labor is often the most significant expense when installing a metal roof, accounting for nearly 60% of the total cost. The average cost to hire a roofing contractor is $11 per square foot or $60 per hour. Total labor costs vary depending on your location, the complexity of the roof design, and the installation difficulty.

Removal and Disposal

If you’re replacing an old metal roof, you’ll need to account for the cost of removal and disposal. On average, homeowners pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for labor to remove and dispose of the old material.

Permits

Depending on your location, you may have to purchase a permit to install a new metal roof. Prices vary by state and county, but most building permit costs range from $150 to $500. Your roofing contractor often handles the permitting process for you and includes it in their fee.

Metal Roof Cost by Type

The material you choose for your metal roof largely impacts the total cost. Several types of metal are available, varying in price, durability, and appearance.

Material	Average Cost per Square Foot
Steel	$4–$19
Tin	$5–$12
Aluminum	$4–$18
Copper	$15–$40
Zinc	$9–$25

Steel

Steel is a highly durable, rust- and corrosion-resistant choice that ranges from $4 to $19 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.

Aluminum

Aluminum is an eco-friendly roof option that ranges between $4 and $18 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 $40 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.

Zinc

Zinc is another long-lasting option, costing $9 to $25 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

Before starting your roofing project, consider whether repair or replacement is the best option. If you’re unsure which is best, you can hire a contractor to perform an inspection. The average cost of a roofing inspection is between $120 and $350. The inspection will help you understand the current condition of your roof and outline the most cost-effective option.

If your roof is still in decent condition and has over 15 years left in its lifespan, repair is likely a cost-effective alternative. Depending on the extent of damage, you’ll pay between $150 and $8,000.

If your roof has reached the end of its lifespan or is severely damaged, replacement is often the best option. A new roof provides long-term protection and prevents further damage down the line.

Does a Metal Roof Increase Home Value?

Installing a new metal roof increases a home's value, with most homeowners receiving a 60% return on their investment. Replacing your roof attracts buyers by enhancing curb appeal, durability, and energy efficiency. Potential buyers will also have peace of mind knowing they won’t have to pay for costly repairs and replacements for a long time.

Budgeting for a Metal Roof

Installing a new metal roof is a large project that can quickly add up. Consider the following tips to keep your costs down:

Determine the best material for your budget. While aluminum and tin are often the least expensive options, opting for a more durable option may save you money in the long run.
If replacing your old roof, dispose of the old material yourself to reduce labor costs.
Compare quotes from multiple contractors to find the most cost-effective option in your area.
If your current roof is in good condition, opt for repair rather than replacement.
Schedule the installation for the off-season to find reduced rates from local 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.

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FAQs

Is a metal roof loud when it rains?

With proper installation, a metal roof should not be loud when it rains. The contractor inserts a strong sheathing between the metal roof and the existing surface, reducing noise from rain, hail, and other weather conditions.

Are there any drawbacks to metal roofs?

While metal roofs have many benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, your roof may incur dents, cracks, and other damage. Depending on the metal material you choose, it may also rust or corrode over time.

Can I install metal roofing over existing shingles?

You can install metal roofing over existing shingles. If the shingles are in good condition, you can ask the contractor to perform a roof overlay rather than pay for the cost of a roof replacement. An overlay can help you cut labor costs by up to 25%.

What maintenance do metal roofs require?

To ensure your metal roof reaches its maximum lifespan, schedule cleaning once yearly and sealing every 10 years. The average cost of roof cleaning is between $300 and $600, while roof sealing costs range between $500 and $2,400.