Key Takeaways

• The Material Matters Most: Steel is the budget-friendly workhorse, aluminum resists corrosion in coastal areas, and copper is the luxury forever-roof.

• Installation Costs Vary: Standing seam metal roofs cost more to install than corrugated metal roofing due to labor complexity.

• Long-Term Benefits Win: Metal roofing material offers superior energy efficiency, fire resistance, and longevity compared to asphalt shingles.

• Cost Per Square Foot Ranges: Expect $7–$12 per square foot for steel roofing, $10–$16 for aluminum, and $18–$40+ for copper roofing.

• ROI Timeline: The higher upfront cost of a new metal roof pays off through energy savings, low maintenance, and extended lifespan.

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Metal Roofing Materials Explained: Cost, Performance, and Long-Term Value

Metal roofs aren't one-size-fits-all. The type of metal you choose dramatically impacts your metal roof cost, installation process, and how your roof performs over decades of harsh weather conditions.

Beyond price alone, factors like corrosion resistance, panel thickness, fastening systems, and local climate all influence which material makes the most sense for your home. What works well in a dry inland region may not perform the same way in a humid or coastal environment.

Let's take a deep dive into the three main players: steel, aluminum, and copper.

1. Steel Roofing (The Budget-Friendly Powerhouse)

Steel is the most popular metal roofing material in America. It's strong, versatile, and offers the best value for your dollar.

Types of Steel Metal Roofs

Galvanized Steel

Steel coated with zinc to prevent rust. It's the standard for most metal roofs and handles extreme weather like a champ.

• Cost: $7.00 – $10.00 per square foot
• Lifespan: 40–60 years
• Best For: Homeowners wanting affordability without sacrificing durability

Galvalume Steel (Aluminum-Zinc Coated)

Coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy for better corrosion resistance than standard galvanized steel. It's the go-to choice for standing seam roofs.

• Cost: $9.00 – $12.00 per square foot
• Lifespan: 50–70 years
• Best For: Long-term investment with maximum protection

Steel Roofing Styles

Corrugated Metal Roofing

The classic "wavy" metal panel with exposed fasteners. Installation is faster and cheaper, but those exposed fasteners can become leak points if the rubber washers degrade.

• Cost: $7.00 – $9.00 per square foot
• Pros: Affordable, quick installation
• Cons: Exposed fasteners need maintenance

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Raised ribs with hidden fasteners underneath. No holes in the roof surface means better leak protection and a sleek, modern look.

• Cost: $10.00 – $14.00 per square foot
• Pros: No exposed fasteners, modern aesthetic, best weather resistance
• Cons: Higher cost, requires skilled labor

Metal Shingles

Steel stamped to look like wood shake or slate, offering curb appeal with the strength and fire resistance of steel.

• Cost: $11.00 – $15.00 per square foot
• Lifespan: 50+ years

Why Choose Steel?

Steel roofing is the sweet spot...affordable compared to other metal types, incredibly durable in high winds and snow, and widely available.

The initial cost is higher than that of asphalt shingles, but the long lifespan and energy efficiency make it a smart investment.

If you're replacing an asphalt shingle roof and want something lasting 50+ years without premium pricing, steel is your answer.

2. Aluminum Roofing (The Coastal Champion)

Aluminum is the lightweight, rust-proof alternative to steel. If you live near the ocean or in a humid climate, aluminum is often the better choice because it doesn't corrode in salt air.

Aluminum Metal Roof Cost

• Cost: $10.00 – $16.00 per square foot (standing seam)
• Lifespan: 40–70 years
• Best For: Coastal homes, high humidity areas, lightweight needs

Aluminum Roofing Styles

Standing Seam Panels

Identical installation to steel with interlocking panels and hidden fasteners. Same sleek look and leak prevention, with total rust resistance.

• Cost: $12.00 – $16.00 per square foot aluminum

Corrugated Metal

Less common than steel due to aluminum's softness, but works well for low-traffic areas or accent structures.

• Cost: $9.00 – $12.00 per square foot

Why Choose Aluminum?

Living within 10 miles of the coast? Aluminum is worth the higher cost. Salt air destroys galvanized steel over time, but aluminum handles it effortlessly.

It's also perfect if your existing roof structure can't handle heavy materials.

The downside? Aluminum dents more easily, so if you're in a hail-prone area, steel might be safer.

3. Copper Roofing (The Luxury Forever-Roof)

Copper is the pinnacle of roofing materials. It's stunning, timeless, and will outlast your house. When you see a copper roof with that gorgeous green patina on a historic building, you're looking at a roof that could be 100+ years old and still going strong.

The Reality of Copper

Copper roofing isn't for everyone. It's expensive, as material costs are 3–4 times higher than steel's, and installation costs are equally steep because working with copper requires specialized skills. But if you can afford it? You're installing a roof that your great-grandchildren will inherit.

Copper Metal Roof Cost

• Cost: $18.00 – $40.00+ per square foot
• Lifespan: 100+ years (often 200+ with proper maintenance)
• Best For: Historic homes, luxury properties, heirloom roofs

The Patina Factor

Copper starts as a shiny, reddish-brown color. Over 15–20 years, it develops a green patina as it oxidizes. This patina is actually protective, preventing further corrosion. Some homeowners love the aged look; others maintain the original copper finish with special treatments.

Copper Roofing Styles

Standing Seam Copper

The most common application. Installed just like steel or aluminum, with hidden fasteners and interlocking panels. The workmanship warranty often lasts a lifetime.

• Cost: $25.00 – $40.00+ per square foot

Copper Shingles & Tiles

Individual copper panels shaped into decorative shingles or tiles for a more traditional look. Popular on historic restorations.

Cost: $30.00 – $50.00+ per square foot

Why Choose Copper?

Copper is about legacy. If you're staying in your home forever or own a historic property that deserves the best, copper delivers.

It's incredibly low maintenance, no painting, no sealing, no rust. Just beauty that improves with age.

The higher upfront cost is significant, but when you factor in the 100+ year lifespan, the cost per year is actually competitive with cheaper materials needing replacement every 20–30 years.

Steel vs. Aluminum vs. Copper: What's the Difference?

Now that you know each metal type, let's break down the key differences.

Weight

• Steel is the heaviest.
• Aluminum is almost one-third the weight of steel, perfect for homes that can't support heavy materials.
• Copper falls in the middle.

Corrosion Resistance

• Aluminum never rusts, even in salt air.
• Steel needs protective coatings and can corrode in coastal areas.
• Copper doesn't rust. It develops a protective green patina instead.

Strength

• Steel is the strongest and most impact-resistant.
• Aluminum is softer and dents more easily.
• Copper is malleable but can dent under heavy impact.

Cost

• Steel offers the best value.
• Aluminum costs 20 to 40% more than steel.
• Copper costs 2 to 4 times more than steel. Pure luxury pricing.

Best Climate

• Steel: Inland areas, snow zones, high winds
• Aluminum: Coastal homes, high humidity
• Copper: Any climate. It's bulletproof.

Maintenance

• Steel: Low maintenance, inspect annually
• Aluminum: Very low maintenance, virtually no rust concerns
• Copper: Lowest maintenance. No painting, no sealing, just let it age.



Steel vs. Aluminum vs. Copper: Side-by-Side Comparison

Can't decide yet? No problem. Here's how steel, aluminum, and copper compare head to head:

Metal Roof Pricing: What Actually Drives the Cost?

Understanding metal roof replacement cost means looking beyond just the metal type. Several factors can swing your total cost by thousands of dollars.

For a comprehensive breakdown of all cost factors, see our guide on 10 Key Factors That Affect Roof Replacement Cost.

1. Roof Size & Complexity

Contractors measure roofs in "roofing squares" (100 square feet). A simple gable roof on a single-story ranch is affordable. A multi-level roof with valleys, dormers, and chimneys requires more labor, more time, and more material costs.

2. Standing Seam vs. Exposed Fasteners

Standing seam panels cost 30–50% more than corrugated metal roofing because the installation process is more complex. But you're paying for performance, as standing seam roofs prevent leaks better than exposed fasteners.

3. Removing the Existing Roof

If you're tearing off old shingles, that's extra labor and disposal fees. However, roofing contractors generally recommend removing the old roof to inspect the deck for damage and ensure proper ventilation.

4. Labor Costs by Region

Where you live matters. Installation costs in major metro areas can be 20–40% higher than rural areas. Always get multiple quotes from local roofing contractors to compare.

Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles: The Real Comparison

Why pay 2 to 3 times more for a new metal roof when asphalt shingles work fine? It comes down to this.

Want a deeper comparison across all roofing materials? Check out our complete guide on Roof Replacement Cost by Material.

Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Value

• Asphalt Shingle Roof: $5–$9 per square foot, lasts 20–30 years
• Metal Roof: $9–$16 per square foot (steel/aluminum), lasts 50–70 years

Over 50 years, you'll replace an asphalt roof twice, spending $20,000–$35,000 total. A metal roof costs $18,000–$30,000 once.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs reflect the sun's heat, reducing cooling costs by 10–25% in hot climates. Asphalt shingles absorb heat. Those energy savings add up over decades.

Low Maintenance

Asphalt shingles require periodic repairs. Most metal roofs need virtually no maintenance beyond occasional inspections.

Curb Appeal & Market Value

A new metal roof increases your home's market value. Buyers see it as a premium upgrade that won't need replacement for decades.

Other Roofing Materials: How Metal Compares

Metal isn't the only alternative to asphalt shingles. Here's the quick rundown:

• Tile: Clay or concrete tile roofs last 50–100 years but are much heavier and cost $12–$22 per square foot. Metal is lighter and easier to install.
• Slate: Natural slate is the ultimate luxury roof (100+ years) at $20–$40+ per square foot. Copper is the metal equivalent in prestige and cost.
• Wood Shake: Has charm but requires constant maintenance, is a fire risk, and costs $13–$20 per square foot for 30–40 years. Metal offers better durability and fire resistance, though with a different aesthetic.

The Long-Term Benefits of Metal Roofing

Why are so many homeowners making the switch from traditional roofing materials to metal?

• Fire Resistant: Metal roofs are non-combustible with a Class A fire rating. In wildfire-prone areas, this can lower insurance premiums.
• Energy Savings: Reflective metal roofing cuts cooling costs significantly in hot climates. Over 50 years, those energy savings add up to thousands of dollars.
• Extreme Weather Performance: Metal roofs handle high winds (up to 140 mph for standing seam), heavy snow, and harsh weather conditions better than asphalt or wood.
• Eco-Friendly: Metal roofing is fully recyclable at the end of its life. Asphalt shingles dump millions of tons into landfills every year.

Choosing the Right Metal for Your Home

Still not sure which metal type is right for you? Here's a quick guide:

Choose Steel If:

• You want the best balance of cost and performance
• You live inland (away from salt air)
• Your budget is $10,000–$30,000 for a typical roof
• You want a roof that lasts 50+ years without premium pricing

Choose Aluminum If:

• You live near the coast (within 10 miles of the ocean)
• You have high humidity or heavy rain
• Your existing roof structure can't support heavy materials
• Rust prevention is your top priority

Choose Copper If:

• You own a historic or luxury home
• Budget isn't a concern
• You want a true heirloom roof that lasts 100+ years
• You love the aesthetic appeal of patina

Conclusion

The right metal roof for you depends on your priorities. Steel roofing offers affordable durability. Aluminum is worth the higher cost in coastal areas battling salt air and corrosion. And if you want a roof that becomes part of your home's legacy, copper is unmatched.

Whatever you choose, a metal roof is an investment in your home's future. The higher initial cost pays off through energy efficiency, low maintenance, and a lifespan that outlasts traditional roofing materials by decades.

Want an estimate before you call up the contractors?

Check our Roof Replacement Cost Calculator to get an estimate in under a minute!