How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost? (Is it Really Worth the Price?)

Is a metal roof worth the price?

And if so, how much can you expect to pay?

Metal roofing systems are known to outlast shingle roofing systems by many years. Not only that, they also hold up well in Myrtle Beach weather and require less maintenance. But there’s a catch – metal roofs are more costly than shingle roofing systems. 

In our 39+ years in business at Linta Roofing, we've discovered that homeowners who want to pass their home down to family or plan to stay in their home for a long time find a lot of generational value in a metal roof. While a metal roof is more expensive, it is also more resistant to wind damage, lasts longer, and requires less maintenance than shingle roofs. In the long run, a metal roof could save you money if you plan to stay in your home for a long time. 

The cost of a metal roof could range anywhere from $13,500 to $60,000+ or around $6 to $12 per square foot. Which is a pretty broad price range to work with, but on average we see our customers pay around $35,000 for a metal roofing system. To help you make the right decision, we’ll break down the cost so you can decide if a metal roof is worth it for you and your home.

Let’s take a look at metal roof costs.

Understanding the Cost of a Metal Roof for Your Home

The price range for a metal roofing system is vast because there are two types to choose from, the corrugated metal roof and the standing seam metal roof. The prices reflected below are based on the average roof size for homes in Myrtle Beach, which are around 3,000 square feet. With this in mind, it is important to note that your home’s foundation will be smaller than your roof.

Corrugated Metal Roof: $13,500 to $21,000

• May require significant maintenance around the 15 year mark. This is due to the exposed fasteners on a corrugated metal roof. The washers that seal the fasteners protect water from entering your home, however, they can wear down over time. Maintenance can cost $2,400 - $3,600 if all of the fasteners need replacing. 

Standing Seam Metal Roof: $30,000 to $60,000

• We call this the “Legacy Roof” because it can last anywhere from 25 to 50 years depending on material type and external variables, most notably extreme weather conditions.
• Requires more detailed work and time to secure metal panels together.
• Price is dependent on the metal you choose, generally the higher quality the metal, the more durable the roofing system is.
  • Steel is the lowest cost standing seam metal roofing material
  • Aluminum is in the middle cost range
  • Copper is on the high end of this cost range

Now, you may be wondering, "what other factors affect the cost of my metal roof?"

Factors that Affect the Cost of a Metal Roof

There are a few factors involved that make a metal roof a larger investment than a shingle roof. Of course the type of metal roof you choose and the material will have an impact on the cost, but there are a number of unique elements that sway the final cost.

Let’s take a look at some of those elements.

Roof Complexity

Unlike shingle roofs, metal roofs need new flashing whenever it is installed or replaced. There are costs associated with removing or replacing flashing, and the more flashing you need to protect vulnerable areas of your roof, the higher the cost.

Roof Height 

Similarly to shingle roofs, roof height plays a factor in the final cost of a metal roofing project. The reason height increases cost is because your project may require additional equipment to lift the metal panels onto a roof. 

Roof Size

The average roof size in Myrtle Beach is around 3,000 sq feet. However, elements such as ridges, hips, valleys, rakes, and eaves can increase the cost of a roofing project.

Roof Pitch

The pitch is sometimes referred to as the slope. This is the vertical rise of your roof. The steeper your roof slope, the more it will impact the final cost of a metal roof.

Accessory Types

Roof accessories include skylights, underlayment, upgraded pipe boots, and more. Upgrades have a varying impact on the price depending on what you decide to upgrade. 

Tear-off

As with any re-roofing project, there will be a cost associated with removing previous roofing material from your home. Factors that play into the cost can be from removing multiple layers of shingling on your roof and costs associated with disposing of torn off material.

Is a Metal Roofing System Worth The Cost?

When weighing pros and cons of shingle and metal roofing systems, the metal roof is appealing for its longevity, durability, and sleek appearance. But it doesn’t discount the fact that the cost difference between metal and shingle material is significant. And let’s face it, even a shingle roof can be a substantial investment based on some of the factors listed above.

However, now that you’re aware of the cost ranges for corrugated and standing seam metal roofs along with the factors that increase cost, you can plan effectively. If you're planning to stay in your home long-term or pass it down to family members, a metal roof isn't just a wise financial choice; it's also a thoughtful and resourceful gift for future residents.

Although we would be thrilled to install a stunning new metal roof for your home, as a family-owned business, we know that whether you opt for shingle or metal, we want you to be confident that you're making the right decision for your home and family.

Whether you are ready to install a metal roof right away or need more information about shingle roof costs, please contact us and let us answer any questions you may have!