Whether you’re working on new construction or looking to renovate your home or office, you should consider the benefits of installing a metal roof. Metal roofs can be attractive due to their long lifespan, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance. Metal roofing can also be used as accent roofs rather than be installed over the entirety of the roof. The experts here at Signature Exteriors wanted to develop a guide to help better explain the types of metal roofs available in the market and the benefits of installing a metal roof on your home. Read on to find out more!
Average Cost of Metal Roofs
It is essential to understand that “metal roofing” is a broad term that covers a range of metal materials with varying price ranges. Installing a metal roof on your home or business will generally cost you anywhere from $1.00 to $25.00 per square foot, depending on the type of metal you choose to install. See the chart below for the most common metal roofing materials and the average costs for installation. You can also use this handy tool to understand what a metal roof may cost in your zip code.
| Type of Metal | Installation Cost (Depending on size of home) | Cost per Sq Ft | Cost per Square (100 sq. ft) |
| Aluminum | $15,000.00 – $28,000.00 | $3.25 – $5.75 | $325.00 – $575.00 |
| Copper | $23,000.00 – $48,000.00 | $16.50 – $25.00 | $1,650.00 – $2,500.00 |
| Corrugated Steel | $10,500.00 – $20,000.00 | $1.20 – $5.00 | $120.00 – $500.00 |
| Standing Seam | $23,000.00 – $30,000.00 | $4.00 – $6.80 | $400.00 – $680.00 |
| Steel | $15,000.00 – $25,000.00 | $7.00 – $9.00 | $700.00 – $900.00 |
Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum RoofingAluminum roofing is recommended for use in coastal climates as aluminum is more resistant to salt corrosion than other types of metal roofing. While the common perception is that aluminum roofing is not affected by any corrosion, this is untrue. The reality is that aluminum is a highly active and reactive metal. Due to that, aluminum roofs almost instantly react to atmospheric conditions. This rapid reaction is also what protects aluminum roofs. The outer layer of aluminum roofing material reacts with oxygen provided by the environment, creating a layer of aluminum oxide, which effectively seals the inner layers of the metal from any future corrosion. Aluminum roofing also boasts an average lifespan of 50 years. Aluminum roofing is a reliable option should you be interested in installing a metal roof on your home or business.
Copper Roofing
Copper roofing has been part of general construction for centuries around the world. Copper is a very long-lasting metal that, when installed in suitable environments and with the proper maintenance, can last well over 200 years. In addition, copper is a relatively soft metal, making it the quietest type of metal roofing. However, due to the malleable nature of copper, it can be easily damaged by falling hailstones or debris. Copper roofing, however, may not be ideal in regions with high winds as particular environmental stress can damage the metal roofing material. Due to this, some people will use copper roofing for accents on their homes rather than have their entire roof replaced with copper roofing. You will want to consider this when reviewing metal roof options and determining what metal to choose.
Steel Roofing
Steel RoofingSteel is an alloy metal made from elements such as iron. Steel roofing began its popularity with commercial buildings and is often incorporated into residential homes. Most steel used today is made of recycled material. Steel is the most recycled material globally, making it an incredibly green building material. Compared to other types of metal roofing, steel is also one of the least expensive materials. Steel roofing also offers an average lifespan of 40 – 70 years. Three primary types of steel are available for roofing: Galvanized, Galvalume, and Weathering Steel.
Galvanized Steel: This type of steel is created using a layer of Zinc to protect an inner layer of steel from corrosion. The coating on top of the steel helps extend the life of the steel panel and slow the corrosion process. Galvanized Steel is the most commonly used metal when installing a metal roof.
Galvalume Steel: This type of steel is similar to Galvanized steel. However, rather than using a primary zinc coating, Galvalume steel uses a combination of Aluminum and Zinc. Aluminum better protects against corrosion in specific environments when compared to Galvanized steel. Galvalume steel also provides a smaller, smoother spangle for a more uniform appearance. However, this metal roof is vulnerable if scratched and at cut edges.
Weathering Steel: This variety of steel was originally used in heavy steel industries like bridge construction. It is designed to allow the outer layer of steel to intentionally rust, helping to protect the inner layer of steel. It is vital to remember that Weathering Steel does intentionally rust. Due to this, it is often used in accent roofs rather than over the entire roofing system.
Metal roofs are known for their durability, but proper maintenance is still essential to maximize their lifespan and performance. Unlike some other roofing materials, metal roofs won’t require constant upkeep. However, regular inspections and occasional cleaning can significantly extend their lifespan and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Whether you are looking to replace your asphalt shingle roof with a metal roof or replace a metal roof currently installed on your home or business, contacting a local roofing company is the best way to go. A local roofing company can provide their professional opinion on what type of metal roofing would be best for your region and what metal roof is best for your home or business. A local roofing company can install a metal roof and ensure the installation is performed correctly. If you are local to the Charlotte, NC, market, reach out to Signature Exteriors today! Our professional field technicians are happy to come to inspect your roof and discuss what options will be best for your home or business. Call us at (704) 729-4898 or use our contact form to get in touch with us.