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How Much Does A Metal Roof Cost? (What To Expect in Alabama)

Metal roofs are a type of roofing material made from an alloy of metals, typically copper, zinc, or some other metal. If some kind of metal roof is on your agenda for your home or business location, you'll want to inform yourself on the metal roofing prices available today.

They are more durable than shingles and less likely to catch fire. Light-colored Metal roofing reflects heat back into the atmosphere rather than absorbing it as asphalt does. However, price is one factor that must be considered before deciding on a metal roof. The price can vary greatly depending on the type of metal used in making the roof and where you buy it from. It's important to do your research so you know what price range you'll be looking at and what type of metal roof you want.

Average Cost of Metal Roofing

The price of metal roofing can range from $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the type you choose and where it's purchased. The average price is around $5 per square foot for steel or aluminum roofs while copper costs about twice that much at an average price of almost fifty dollars a square foot.


It may be more expensive than asphalt shingles, but homeowners can expect their investment to last twice as long with metal roof price ranges starting at $5 per square foot.



A metal roof's price will depend on the type of metal being used. Copper is usually the most expensive, but it is also one of the strongest. Aluminum is usually cheaper, but not as durable. Zinc roofs are in the middle price range and are typically the least expensive to install.

Cost of Aluminum Metal Roofs

Aluminum roofs are the second cheapest metal roof price range at around $25 per square foot. They can last up to 50 years and work well in coastal areas where there is a lot of rain or snow because they won't rust like steel does when exposed to saltwater air. Plus the reflective nature of aluminum roofs keeps houses cooler in the summer and reduces energy costs. But, it's important to note that aluminum roofs can be very hard to repair if there's a hole.


The majority of aluminum panels are composed of recycled aluminum, and the by-products are recyclable once they have served as a roofing system. Aluminum is a light material that makes it simple for installers to work with.


There are further three types of aluminum roofing.

  1. Standing Seam
  2. Sheets
  3. Shingles


Standing seam metal roof cost per square foot is the most expensive and costs around $12 per square foot. They are best for areas where there are extreme weather changes because they are very flexible, but it has to be installed by professionals or you run the risk of damaging your home's structure.


Metal roof sheet cost is the lowest will be around  $3 per square foot and $7 if you get them installed by a professional. They are very easy to install and have a low cost compared to other types of metal roofing. They come in panels that can range from  25 to 150 feet long. They are very easy for do-it-yourselfers or homeowners with some handyman experience to install, but they are not as durable and water can get between the seams which could lead to leaks.


Shingles, which cost around $9 per square foot, come in a wide range of colors and styles making it simple for homeowners to match their home's design. They are a great choice for those who want to add curb appeal and value to their home. Shingles can last from 20-30 years if installed properly, but it's important that homeowners have them inspected every few years by a professional so they don't wear out too quickly. Aluminum shingles cost is relatively high compared to metal sheets.

Steel Roof Cost

Steel roofs can last from 30 to 50 years and cost around $13 per square foot. They are one of the cheapest metal roof price ranges, but they also require a lot more maintenance than other types do because they rust over time.


Types of steel metal roof

  1. Corrugated Steel   
  2. Steel Shingles
  3. Standing Seam Steel


Corrugated steel roofs are the cheapest and cost around $6 per square foot installed. They come in a variety of colors, but their style is very simple so they don't add much to your home's curb appeal or value. The only problem with corrugated steel roofs is that they rust over time, especially near the seams, and they can be damaged by extreme weather changes. If you live in a coastal area or one that gets a lot of rain or snow then corrugated steel roofs may not be the best option for your home because it could lead to costly repairs down the road.



Steel shingles cost around $7.5 installed and come in but homeowners can expect them to last between 20-30 years. They are very easy to install and come in a variety of colors. Plus, homeowners can expect them to add value and curb appeal if they go with shingles that match their home's exterior design or color scheme.


Standing seam steel roofs cost around $13 installed per square foot but last up to 50 years. They offer the best protection because they are very durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Plus, homeowners won't have to worry about them rusting or corroding over time so there are no costly repairs down the road. These types of roofs require professional installation but do-it-yourselfers who know what they're doing should be able to tackle this project with ease. These steel roofing prices should help you decide what it's best for you in terms of your budget.

Copper Roof Cost

If you want something that will add value to your home and increase its curb appeal, then copper roofs are the way to go. Copper roofs are one of the more expensive metal roofing options costing around  $15 per square foot. 



While copper is a great choice for homes in coastal areas because it can withstand extreme weather changes, homeowners have to remember that the metal will oxidize and turn green after approximately 20 years. So while installation you can ask your contractor to give a clear polyurethane coat or a clear lacquer to preserve the natural new shine of your copper roof.


Homeowners who live in warm regions will appreciate that copper is a great fire-resistant material so it's unlikely you'll have issues with fires caused by lightning strikes or other factors.


Types of copper roofing

  1. Copper Standing Seam - cost $18 installed per square foot
  2. Corrugated Copper Sheet Metal - cost 15-20$ per square foot
  3. Copper shingles or Tiles - cost $15 installed per square foot


Copper standing seam roofs are the most expensive metal roofing option and cost around $18 installed per square foot. They come in a variety of colors, but they require professional installation because homeowners have to make sure that all bends are perfectly straight for maximum durability. These types of roofs also add value to your home if you choose copper shingles that match its exterior design or color scheme.


Copper corrugated sheet metal roofs cost around $15-$20 installed per square foot and are very easy to install because homeowners can do it themselves if they have the right tools. These types of roofs require no maintenance, will never rust over time, and can be customized in a variety of colors.


Copper shingles offer the best value because they cost around $15 installed per square foot and homeowners can expect them to last between 20-30 years. Plus, these types of roofs add a lot of curb appeal or value if you choose shingles that match your home's exterior design or color scheme. Copper tiles offer the same benefits and cost around $15 installed per square foot.

Zinc Roofing Cost

Zinc roofing is much more popular in the commercial market thanks to its magical ability to self-heal. But homeowners can't deny that these types of roofs look pretty amazing and add a lot of value or curb appeal if they choose one that matches their home's exterior design or color scheme.


Zinc shingle prices vary depending on the shingle style, thickness, and manufacturer. Shingles cost between $8-10 installed per square foot. Plus, homeowners can expect them to last between 20-25 years.


Zinc standing seam roofs cost around $17 installed per square foot and are very easy to install because they require no maintenance, will never rust over time, and come in a variety of colors. it's slightly more expensive than steel standing seams but much cheaper when compared to copper roofs. 


These types of roofs are very durable thanks to their self-healing ability, are easy to install with the right tools and knowledge, require no maintenance over time so you won't have to spend extra money on roof repairs or replacements. Plus these types of roofs can last up to 50 years if they're installed properly by experienced contractors who know what they're doing.

Tin Roof Cost

When we say Tin roofing, we actually mean rolled steel with a coating of tin. So, it is basically galvanized steel roofing with rust protection. 



These roofs are very affordable, with the average tin roof price between $12-18 installed per square foot, and come in a variety of different colors. Plus they're extremely durable, long-lasting (between 30-40 years), easy to install with the right tools or knowledge so you can save more money on labor costs. Tin roofing is also available in different styles like shingles, tiles, or standing seams.

Metal Roof Underlayment Costs

If you are considering metal roofing for your home, the cost of underlayment will play a big role in determining your overall costs. The average price is around $5 per square foot and different contractors have different options available. Underlay can be attached with staples or adhesives that come with the product itself or it can use the backside of the product with an adhesive layer to stick to your roof deck.



Underlay comes in two forms – synthetic and felt paper, also known as asphalt felt tar paper or roofing tar paper. The heavier the material feels like materials that are more effective at keeping out water or wind damage for metal roofs. Also, the cost of underlayment will vary depending on the type of roofing you choose.

Maintenance Cost of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are very durable, long-lasting (up to 50 years), and require no maintenance over time so you won't have to spend extra money on repairs or replacements. Plus these types of roofs can last up to 50 years if they're installed properly by experienced contractors who know what they're doing.


Despite being more expensive than other types of roofing materials, metal roofs are a great investment that can save you thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars in the long run.

Cost of Metal Roof vs Shingles

Generally speaking, metal roofs cost more than traditional shingle roofs. However, when it comes to the long-term costs and benefits of each roof type, a metal roof is usually cheaper in the end thanks to lower maintenance and repair costs (or no repairs at all).



Nowadays you can find plenty of different types of metal roofing materials from steel shingles to standing seam metal roofs. Each of these roof types has a unique set of features and benefits that homeowners should consider before making a final decision.

Conclusion - Is a Metal Roof Worth it?

Metal roofs are a great long-term, low maintenance option for homeowners who want to add value and curb appeal without breaking the bank. They can last from 30-60+ years depending on the material you choose so while metal roofing prices are high at the setup, your purchase won't need to be replaced any time soon!  Plus, homeowners who live in areas that get a lot of rain, snow, or strong winds will appreciate the fact that metal roofs are extremely durable.


Please remember that metal roofs are very durable but they can also be costly to repair because there may be lead times for certain materials depending on availability. Plus, it's important you choose a reputable contractor who knows what they're doing so the quality of your roofing installation will last over time!

Contact Southern Roofing System for Metal roofing cost information

Contact Southern Roofing System today for more metal roof cost information. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help guide you through the entire process of choosing a new metal roof. Once we complete an inspection of your home, we'll provide you with a free estimate that includes all material costs as well as professional installation fees. We're looking forward to adding a new metal roofing system that's built to last for many years on your home.

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