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Roofing

Steel Roofing

Average cost range:

$18,000 - $36,000

On average, the cost to install steel roofing on a home costs $18,000 to $36,000 for a standard 3,000 square foot roof. You can expect to pay about $6 to $12 per square foot, or $600 to $1,200 per square, for steel roofing. Keep in mind that costs can vary depending on the size, slope, and pitch of your roof, as well as local installation costs in your area.

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Installing Steel Roofing

Steel roofing is a durable type of metal roofing found on many homes today. A steel roof is resistant to cracking, shrinking, and eroding. It is capable of protecting your home from the elements including snow, hail, and wildfires.

In some states, installing a steel roofing system will earn you a discount on your insurance premium because it is superior in durability and weather resistance compared to traditional  asphalt roof shingles.

While the initial material and installation cost of a metal roof is higher than asphalt or other standard types of roofs, the longevity is far superior. Steel metal roofs last two to three times longer than a typical non metal roof. Metal roofing is often worth the extra cost since it will increase the resale value of your home. Across the country, homeowners who invest in metal roofing can get an average ROI of 85.9%.

Steel Metal Roofing

Steel is a great material choice for a home roof due to its strong durability and weather resistance

  • More durable than standard roof materials

  • Energy-efficient and recyclable

  • Can improve home resale value

  • Lasts 40 to 70 years

Steel Metal Roofing Costs

The average roofing installation price for a steel metal roof costs anywhere between $18,000 to $36,000 depending on the slope, pitch, and size of your roof. You can expect to pay $6 to $12  per square foot or $600 to $1,200 per square installed on a standard roof. Use our roof installation cost calculator below to get an estimate of your roofing project.

Roof Installation Cost Calculator

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Repair and Maintenance

At some point, long term exposure to the elements will deteriorate the protective finish on your steel roof and you will need to recoat. A simple recoat with a polymer coating (Kynar is the most popular) will restore your roof to like-new conditions. You can also repaint as you remodel your home or to accommodate your evolving taste.

To wash the roof, use simple soap and water. A hose or a pressure washer can be used, but avoid abrasive tools like wire brushes or steel wool that can scratch your roof. If you do scratch your roof, the scratched area can be wiped down with mineral spirits and touch up paint can be applied with a paintbrush.

Remember, the long life of your steel roofing can be enhanced with proper maintenance. It may be a good idea to speak to a local steel roofing repair contractor to see what your options are for your roof or doing a installing a new metal roof.

metal roofing

Pros and Cons of Steel Roofs

Because steel roofing is installed with large metal panels, a roof replacement is more difficult if damaged than replacing individual metal shingles.

  • Pros

    • Cost-effective for a metal roof
    • Highly durable and weather resistant
    • Keeps you safer during storms
  • Cons

    • Harder to repair than metal shingle roof
    • Panels are subject to expansion and contraction
    • Can be noisy during storms

Additionally, while the sounds of rain and wind are part of the appeal of a metal roof for some homebuyers, if you prefer a quiet home, make sure that your attic is properly insulated (a good idea regardless).

Keep in mind that steel roofing is not dangerous during a lightning storm. While metal does conduct electricity, electricity is not drawn to it. In fact, because metal roofing is fire resistant, if your home is struck by lightening, your risk of fire is actually decreased. So your steel roof may keep you safe, too, on top of all of its other benefits.

Steel Roofing vs Aluminum Roofing

Aluminum roofing is a premium roofing option and is slightly expensive compared to steel roofing. Irrespective of being lightweight (40 lbs./square), aluminum roof has higher strength-to-weight ratio and is resistant to rust. Steel roofing on other hand has higher weight (200 lbs./square) comparatively and is not resistant to rust so if you are living around coastal regions steel roofing would not be the right choice.

Another difference that can make homeowners prefer aluminum roofs over steel roofs can be because aluminum roofing can be recycled to up to 95% and has a lifespan of 50-60 years whereas steel roofs can be recycled to up to 35%  with lifespan of 40-50 years. However, aluminum roofing is more prone to bents and dents compared to steel. You can choose the ideal option for your home based on region you live and your budget for your roofing project.

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