Metal Roofing Installation Costs

Most homeowners find it impossible to believe that a significant household system can last a “lifetime,” and yet metal roofing installations offer just that sort of promise. Once considered appropriate only for barns and utility structures, metal roofing stands out today as quite chic in addition to being cost-effective.

Though an initial metal roofing installation costs more than the other common roofing types (such as asphalt shingles, wooden tiles, and slate), it is the durability and long years of service that make it less expensive over the long term. In addition to its 50+ years of service, it is also almost zero maintenance, resistant to most weather, and available in an array of metal materials to offer aesthetically appealing looks.

It can be steel or aluminum, as well as zinc or copper. It has a warranty of around 50 years for most brands, and it comes with substantial insulating benefits. After all, it reflects sunlight and keeps interiors cooler during summer months, but also works well for holding heated air inside during winter seasons.

Metal roofing installation: mid-range materials, labor, roof size of 1,000 square feet.

Other considerations and costs

• A metal roofing installation is an ideal time to consider updating the insulation in the attic. Though most metal roofing is fitted with soundproofing and insulation between the two layers of sheet metal (as this cuts down on the volume of rain and wind on the rooftop), a contractor is likely to suggest the addition of new insulation as the roofing panels are placed.
• Don’t skip the chance to have a specialized sealant applied to the roof at the time of installation. Though it may seem a costly extra at around $1,000 for most jobs, it is excellent at preventing interior leaks and protecting the roofing.
• The use of a waterproof membrane beneath the new installation also helps with any leaks. Also called an underlayment, it keeps the entire property water-tight until the roofing installation is complete and costs around $60 per square foot.

Check out our guide if you need a loan for your home improvement project.

DIY considerations

• While applying some metal roofing to a garden shed is the work of a long weekend for the avid DIY enthusiast, installing it on a home is not advised.
• It requires specialized skills and tools, ladder work, and even some roofing repairs. Instead, it is best to get quotes from licensed contractors and choose one with an excellent reputation, years of experience, and assured warranties on the life of the materials.

References

• Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2019.
• Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
• Literature review of DIY Web sites.