How do I estimate the cost of a metal roof?

The advantages of metal roofs are numerous. For instance, a longer lifespan and greater durability are some of the advantages. However, the cost of installing a metal roof is not low. Therefore, before installation, it is advisable to calculate a rough budget based on the area that needs to be replaced. 

This is a series of steps to estimating the price for a metal roof. Determine the Roof Size. First and foremost in the cost estimation of a metal roof is measurements of size. Roofing is normally per square foot. It measures the size of each section of your roof and multiplies its length and width. These metrics taken together are precisely the amount of space to cover the area of these dimensions. Take 2 rectangular sections as an example of a single roof, where one section is 30 by 20 feet, the other 25 by 15 feet. The first part area is 30 x 20 = 600 ft², and the second part area is 25 x 15 = 375 ft². Total area on roof = 600 + 375 = 975 ft². Select the Metal Roofing material. 

There are several types of metal roofing materials — each kind goes with a price range. These are often the best-selling options: · Steel: Budget-friendly and has high strength. Galvanized steel is zinc-coated to prevent rust and occurs in the 5–12 per square foot range. Galvalume steel itself can be sold at or near the same price and is sometimes coated with aluminum and zinc. · Aluminum: Light and corrosion-resistant, aluminum is a good choice for coastal areas as well. Its price is generally 7 to 14 per square foot. · Copper: A metal with a beautiful look or generally high-quality and higher than others is the most expensive; from 15 to 30 USD per square foot. · Zinc: A very special look and long service life is taken from zinc roofs. Typically, they sell for $12 to $20 a square foot.

3.Consider the Roof Style and Complexity

Your roof's style and complexity can have a huge influence on your cost. A simple slope-only gable roof is cheaper to install than a complex design like the hip roof with multiple slopes and valleys, or a roof with dormers and skylights. This makes complex roofs more labor and material intensive to install correctly. The installer gets extra cuts, has to fit the metal panels precisely around corners and obstacles and make sure there is proper water drainage. This more in turn can increase overall cost 20%-50% or above depending on complexity.

4. Factor in the Underlayment and Insulation

Before installing the metal roof panels, a layer of waterproof padding needs to be laid on the roof. The material of the waterproof padding varies and so does the price. The approximate market price ranges from $0.5 to $1.5 per foot. It is recommended to add a thermal insulation layer at the same time. This will help reduce heat penetration into the house during hot summer days. The cost of the insulation material will increase by 1-3 dollars per square foot.

5. Account for Labor Costs

The labor expense for installing a metal roof varies tremendously depending on where you're located, the skill level of the installer, and the specificities of the actual work that you're doing. Labor cost for metal roof installation averages between 3–7 per square foot. But in cities with high living costs or need for skilled roofing workers, the labor cost might be more. Get multiple quotes from reputable roofing contractors in the area for good value. That gives you a general idea about the average amount of labor that works while also getting a better pricing by a contractor around the quality-focused price

6. Include Additional Costs

Whether the old roof needs to be removed, if so, the cost of removing the old roof should be calculated before installing the new one. The charges should be based on the materials, height and difficulty of the roof to be removed. It is recommended to call the local removal company for consultation regarding the relevant charges.

The local regulations regarding construction requirements may vary. It is necessary to consult whether a construction permit is required for the demolition work.