How much is metal roofing per square foot?

If you are planning to install a new roof and looking for a durable option, nothing beats metal roofing.

While asphalt shingles roofing still remains a popular choice, the popularity of metal roofing has increased more than 300% over the last decade.

How much is metal roofing per square foot?

That depends on the type of metal you use and the labor charges. According to this article in Forbes magazine, looking at the national metal roofing market, they note that the average metal roofing costs can vary between $5 to $17 per square foot. The average cost of a metal roof is around $10,000.

Advantages of Metal Roofing Over Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Shingle roofing has been the traditional choice for decades. The low upfront costs and the ease of installation are two of the main reasons behind that.

But if you look closer, metal roofs have a number of advantages over shingle roofing.

Lightweight and Durable

Metal roofing panels are a lightweight material and easy to transport and handle. That means it will not put much additional weight on the building structure while providing significantly higher security during harsh weather.

One of the most important features of a metal roof is its excellent durability. A metal roof will easily last for 50 years or more. Some of the top-grade metals roofs made of copper or zinc can last for around 100 years.

On the other hand, shingle roofs can last between 15 to 30 years, based on external conditions.

Metal roofs are more resistant to heat and fire and can also withstand adverse weather conditions more effectively. Metal is least damaged by snow and extremely low temperatures. They can also withstand hail impacts more effectively than asphalt shingle roofs.

Once it is properly installed, a metal roof will require minimum maintenance. You can even clean the metal roofs to clear the spots and stains.

A Cost-Effective Choice
Even though the one-term cost of metal roofs is higher, they are a more economical choice in the long term. Quite simply, one durable metal roof can outlast multiple asphalt shingle roofs in the same time span.

Consider a 60-year span. The cost of a single steel or copper roof will be much less than three shingle roofs that will be needed during that period.

An Eco-friendly Option
Metal roofs are made from coils and sheets that are mostly made from previously recycled material, and they can be recycled multiple times even after years of use. Overall, metal roofs are the best choice for a sustainable home.

Asphalt shingles are petroleum-based products and are related to fossil fuels. Recycling old asphalt shingles is not easy and they are mostly used in landfills.

Higher Energy Efficiency
A wide range of metal sheets come with cool roofing features. That means these panels reflect heat in higher temperatures and absorb heat in lower temperatures. Special coatings and finishes can further improve these performances. That can make a big difference to your annual cooling bills.

Increased Property Value and Lower Insurance Premiums
Usually, a building with a metal roof has a value that is up to 6% higher than a building with an asphalt shingles roof. Buyers prefer to buy a building with a metal roof as they will not need to replace it any time soon.

You may also need to pay lower home insurance premiums if your home has metal roofing. Since metal is more weather and fire resistant, it is less likely to fail. However, there are other factors that can affect the final premium rates. Read this article from Progressive Insurance on your roof type and homeowners insurance costs.

Metal Roofing Vs Asphalt Shingle Roofing- Final Choice

While metal roofs require a higher initial investment and skilled labor for the complex installation, you cannot ignore the long-term benefits.

However, before making a decision, you need to consider a variety of factors. These include your budget, the property’s lifecycle, the environment, and the availability of qualified contractors. Your final choice will depend on your individual needs.

If you have decided to go with metal roofing, contact Tri County Metals for the best-in-class roofing materials.