Labor Cost To Install Metal Roof
Labor costs to install a metal roof ranges from $3.50 to $12 per square foot, with most homeowners paying about $5 per square foot to install metal roofing. Labor comes out to between $3,000 to install an ordinary roof, and closer to $8,000 for more substantial, thicker, high-end materials. The cost of labor is around 3 to 5 times the rate of the materials alone.
How Different Factors Affect Price:
Substrate: The pricing on metals used to form the roofing panel are affected by supply and demand for raw materials and associated processing costs. Galvanized Steel and Aluminum are the most common metals used for residential roofing because they provide the best performance for the money. Although exotic metals like copper, zinc and stainless steel perform exceptionally well, they are less common roofing options because the cost is prohibitive for most people.
Panel Design: The 2 major design options that affect price are overlapping vs interlocking panels. Interlocking panels will cost more than overlapping panels because they have more structural detail, go through a more extensive forming process and take up more room on a truck to ship. Panels designed to interlock on four sides will also tend to have a better quality finish which also adds to the cost.
Finish: Also referred to as coating, is an important factor to consider as it can drastically change the cosmetic lifespan of a metal roof. Polyester based paints are the cheapest form of coating with the shortest lifespan while PVDF formula coatings are accepted as the industry gold standard due to their exceptional lifespan, adhesion, chalk and fade resistance.
Underlayment: Often overlooked, the underlayment of a metal roof is a crucial second line of defense against the elements. If the roof is a new build it will require an ice and water shield which costs up to 5 times more than a breathable synthetic membrane .
What Is A Metal Roof
A metal roof is a more premium roofing material option and comes in many styles and design options. Metal roofs may be made of tin, zinc, aluminum, steel, or copper and will be either standing seam, corrugated, or modular panels. They also come in shingles, which is a newer style and one that is growing in popularity.
When you think of a metal roof, you may think of the large exposed fastener panels you see installed on pole barns or lean-tos. But metal roofs have transformed to be one of the most attractive options for residential homes today. They are durable, fire-resistant, and give a great return on investment by lasting for 50+ years with little maintenance.
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Choosing Metal Roofing Materials
When choosing metal roofing materials, there are many things to consider. First and foremost, its important to ensure that the customers are receiving the highest quality materials. Many may have some sticker shock compared to the pricing of traditional roofing, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. Metal roofing materials with a lifespan of at least 30 to 50 years can help justify the higher initial cost, and brands that offer a warranty provide home and business owners peace of mind about the large investment.
Geographic locations will also play a part in the types of material selected. Homes near the beach may require materials that are more resistant to corrosion, like aluminum, where customers in colder climates might prefer insulated metal panels. Aesthetics are also an important consideration. Some styles offer more color and design options, while others may follow certain style trends, like the popular farmhouse look.
Which Metal Roof Is Right For You
Each metal roofing type has its own set of components and accessories, which are required for the system to function properly and not leak. These accessories are similar in nature, but differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, and from one type system to another.
For example, standing seam requires the use of Z-bar flashing between the ribs, when you do a head wall flashing or a ridge cap, and on pretty much any square penetration in the roof.
Metal shingles do not need these as they are flat in nature and do not have protruding ribs. A tile system has its own flashing that follows the barrel profile of the tiles.
If you are not sure which metal roof is right for you consider these tips:
1. Most homeowners looking to install their first metal roof usually select metal shingles. Their greatest advantage is the tremendous variety of colors and styles available. Many are designed to replicate the look of cedar wood, or architectural asphalt shingles. They are also a lot more affordable compared to standing seam roofing or stone coated metal tile.
2. If you are on an extremely tight budget, but still want to the advantages of metal roof, go for a high quality corrugated metal panel system, or low-end interlocking metal shingles.
3. If you want a high-end contemporary look, standing seam panels are your best bet. They are also ideal for homeowners who are interested in installing solar panels on their roof.
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Influences On The Cost Of A Metal Roof:
What’s The Average Cost Of Metal Roofing Per Square Foot
While metal roofing is primarily measured by the square, which is one hundred square feet, we are routinely asked for metal roof prices by the square foot. Here’s what you need to know.
When shopping for a metal roof and establishing a budget, there are primarily three elements to include in your calculations – the metal material and profile accessories and underlayment and installation costs.
- Material & Profile
There are literally hundreds of types of metal roofs you could purchase. From the thinnest steel in simple panels to the heavyweight “exotic” metals like copper, zinc, stainless steel and others in shingles, diamonds, tiles and additional patterns, the prices range from cheap to very expensive. In the cheap category are simple, thin, painted steels that range between about $1 and $2 a square foot. Upgrading from there are heavier, better metals and finishes with more sophisticated profiles. This “middle quality” category usually ranges between about $2 and $6 a square foot. At the high end of metal roofing are options like copper and zinc. These premium choices usually range between about $8 and $15 a square foot. There are exceptions and caveats to every one of these price categories, but for budgeting purposes you’ll find these quite useful. Consult a knowledgeable metal roof source for help in narrowing down the many, many options.
- Accessories and Underlayment
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Concealed Vs Exposed Fastener Metal Roof
Did you know? Corrugated panels are an exposed fastener metal roofing system. This means that screws are used to penetrate the face of the panel and attach it to the roof deck, leaving the heads of the screws exposed to the environment.
In addition to the fact that these exposed fasteners dont look particularly attractive, they also make your roof susceptible to leaks. Thats right, this particular metal roof can leak, because due to thermal expansion and contraction of the panels the screws get loose over time, and water can seep through.
They are also susceptible to rust and corrosion. To combat this problem, you will need to periodically replace the old screws and dried up rubber washers with new ones that can be tight once again.
Many homeowners mistakenly think that corrugated metal panels are just a more budget friendly version of standing seam, because they look a little similar. Nothing can be further from the truth!
R-panels dont provide the same durability, longevity or energy efficiency as true standing seam metal. They last only about 20 years, because they are made from a lower grade G60 galvanized steel. This is not much longer than the service life of regular asphalt shingles. Ultimately, you get what you pay for, so you need to decide which product best suits your needs and wallet.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing Cost By Location
As with any roof type, a standing seam metal roof cost can vary significantly based on the cost of living in your area. Labor costs in metropolitan areas like New York City, Los Angeles, or Chicago will be much higher than in rural areas. Materials will typically cost more in urban areas, too.
Because accurate costs for you depend entirely on where you live, we recommend getting price quotes from at least three local pros. These quotes should give you a good idea of how much you can expect to spend.
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Does A Metal Roof Lower Your Insurance
Thats why having a newly installed roof can save you on insurance premiums. Insurance companies also look favorably on metal roofing because research has shown that homes with metal roofs receive less damage from storms and house fires, which means the company is much less likely to have to pay an insurance claim.
Metal Roof Installation Prices
Professional metal roof installers charge about $350-400 per square for labor. Standing seam installation can start out as high as $500 per square, because its more difficult and time consuming to install this roofing system.
Typically, roofers charge 2/3 of the total roof installation cost for labor and overhead. Cost of roofing materials is 1/3 of the total price. When estimating the total materials cost, roofers will include a waste factor of about 5-20% depending on the architectural design of your roof and the metal roof style you choose. For example, on a complex roof, there will be more waste if you want to install standing seam panels, than if you install metal shingles or tiles.
Keep in mind that price quotes that you get online are for a basic install on a one storie ranch of cape style home. If your roof has a lot of penetrations , valleys, curves, your installation cost can significantly go up.
Roof pitch is another factor that can increase your labor costs. Installing a metal roof over a low pitch is much easier and quicker compared to a high pitch roof architecture. If your roof is curved, expect to pay at least 50% more for labor compared to a standard roof install.
Some roofing contractors can initially quote you a very low installation price, around $260-280 per square. However, they will then charge you extra money for every item of labor that they perform, such as:
ridge hip ventilation
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Our Metal Roofing Pricing Includes:
At AMT Metal Roofing, the standing seam installation cost ranges between $9.00 and $12.00 per square foot. Depending on the size of the roof, the average cost of standing seam metal roof falls between $18,000.00 and $36,000.00. Various factors determine the cost, such as material, labour/installation, strapping, underlayment and delivery. Our prices for standing seam metal roofing include the following items:
Material: The material has a vital role in the calculation of the total cost of metal roofing system installation. At AMT Metal Roofing, we use metal tiles or standing seam roofing systems for residential, as well as commercial and industrial buildings. Contact us directly to get estimates for metal roofing in your area.
Wood strapping: This includes the use of additional material and hence the cost of installation automatically increases. Wood strapping is important as it offers support and ventilation to metal roofing system.
Underlayment: Roof underlayment is an essential additional layer of protection to avoid any kind of water leakage. At AMT Metal Roofing, only top quality underlayment is provided to ensure complete security and protection.
Labour + installation:AMT Metal Roofing is a renowned roofing company set in Edmonton and Toronto. Our labour charges always include complimentary warranty, liability insurance, training programs, WCB and project management cost. The metal roof cost differs on the size of the roof and its complexity.
Average Cost Of Materials For A Metal Roof
As described above, the average cost of materials for a metal roof is around $12.00 $13.00 per square foot, but that can definitely vary based on your area, the exact type of material you choose for your metal roof, and the idiosyncrasies of your property, and other environmental factors that impact the final metal roofing quote.
Installation and labor costs also make up a major component of the cost of your new metal roof, regardless of the type of materials that you choose, so take that into consideration when you are getting started on choosing a metal roof or any kind of roof for your home.
That said, knowing the average cost of materials for a new metal roof in the United States is an important starting point!
The national average for a new metal roof is $18,500 , but of course, that varies depending on the type of roofing materials, your location, and your property.
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Steel Roofing Myths Vs Facts
Many myths have risen about metal roofs because they are not as popular as other roofing options. Which is fact and which is fiction?
- Metal roofs will dent underfoot. As long as your metal roofing is well supported, it will not buckle when you walk on it. However, metal roofs can be slippery during moist conditions, so it is best not to walk on them.
- Metal makes your roof a lightning rod. No, metal does not make your roof a lightning rod.
- Metal is heavy. Metal is actually 50% lighter than asphalt and 75% lighter than concrete tile, slate, and fiber cement shakes.
- Metal roofs easily get hot. Metal can be easily coated with colors that reflect solar heat to keep your home comfortable.
- Metal rusts easily. Metal will rust when exposed to the elements without any protection. Protection such as galvanized coating is usually included in roofing estimates.
- Metal roofs are noisy. Todays metal roofs have sound-deadening underlayment and homeowners have even reported that their houses are quieter after they had metal roofs installed.
Why Metal Roofing Is The Best Option For Energy Efficiency
Before settling for any type of roof, its essential to consider the benefits youll gain from the option. Metal roofs are the best when it comes to energy efficiency. This is because metal can reflect heat up away from buildings.
When metal roofs redirect such heat away from the buildings, your house achieves a high energy efficiency level. When you install high-quality metal roofs, you can save as much as 40 percent of your energy costs, which is a significant cost saving outcome. Before installing your roof, it would help to consider this vital energy saving aspect.
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Top Benefits Of Metal Roofing Compared To Shingles
- Metal roofing is durable and routinely lasts 2-4 times longer than shingles.
- Homeowners like the idea of buying only one more roof in their life instead of potentially several.
- Metal roofing outperforms shingles in cases of hail and other severe weather events.
- Metal roofing is highly reflective and can save 20-40% on electricity bills.
- Metal roofing has a high recycled content which means it helps reduce landfill pressure instead of adding to it like asphalt shingles.
- Metal roofing looks great, improving curb appeal and resale values.
Given the sharp increase in market share, it seems that more and more homeowners are making performance, not price, their dominant purchase decision.
Learn more about metal roof cost.
What Is The Size Of The Roof
As you could probably already guess, the cost to complete a roofing job varies depending on the size of the roof . If you need help calculating the square footage of your pitched roof, which is different from the flat base area of a home, follow these instructions:
Square foot base area x Roof pitch multiplier = Roofing square feet
1,200 x 1.202 = 1,442.4 roofing square feet
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