If you are a homeowner researching a roof replacement, you’ve likely noticed that trying to figure out how much a metal roof costs can be difficult. You may have heard it costs double or triple the price of asphalt shingles, or you might have received quotes that vary by tens of thousands of dollars.
The reason it is so difficult is that asking “How much does a metal roof cost?” is like asking “How much does a car cost?” The answer depends entirely on the quality, materials, and longevity you are looking for. Below, we break down the real numbers and the five key factors that drive metal roofing prices.

The Baseline: Understanding the Range
When we discuss pricing, it is important to distinguish between the square footage of your home and the square footage of your roof. Because of pitches, overhangs, number of stories and garages, your roof surface is typically much different than your home square footage.
In the current market, a metal roof typically ranges from $7 to $30 per square foot installed.
- A 2,500 sq. ft. roof could range from $17,500 to $75,000.
- While majority of our customers will fall somewhere between $12 – $20 per square foot, let’s discuss what influences the wide gap.

The Type of Metal
Material choice is the biggest price driver.
- Steel: The most affordable and common entry point.
- Aluminum: Costs slightly more than steel but is our preferred choice for the PNW because it is 100% corrosion-resistant, ideal for coastal areas or damp conditions.
- Zinc & Copper: Premium, architectural metals that sit at the top of the price scale but offer a unique natural patina and centuries of life.

Thickness and Weight
Metal durability is measured by gauge (for steel) or ounces (for copper).
- Steel: A lower gauge number means thicker metal (e.g., 22-gauge is thicker and more expensive than 29-gauge).
- Copper: Measured by weight; heavier copper provides better dent resistance but increases material costs.

The Coating System
Unless you choose copper or zinc, your roof will have a finish.
- Polyester/SMP: Budget-friendly but prone to chalking or fading over decades.
- PVDF (Kynar 500/Hylar): The premium standard we use. These offer superior color retention and are designed to withstand the heavy UV and rain cycles.

Installation Method
How the panels are attached to your home changes the labor and specialized hardware required.
- Exposed Fasteners: Least expensive, but requires more maintenance as rubber washers can degrade over time.
- Concealed Fasteners: Systems like Snap-lock or Metal Shingles cost more upfront because all screws are hidden from the elements, providing the ultimate watertight seal.

Panel Width on Standing Seam Roofs
For standing seam systems, the width of the panel matters. Narrower panels (12-inch vs. 20-inch) require more material and more labor to seam, increasing the cost but often providing a look that some homeowners desire.
Beyond the type of material you decide to install on your home, different factors will play a factor of the cost.

Roof Complexity
The number of roof planes can increase the waste factor used for materials.

Installation Requirements
Will the new roof require new plywood, flashing, etc., or not?

Business Structure
A small company that lives from job to job will typically offer lower pricing than a larger, long-term focused company.

Roof Pitch
A low-slope roof requires additional underlayment considerations, while a steep roof incurs higher labor costs.

Installer Experience Level
How much a company pays its installers based on their experience level can influence the overall cost.
Is A Mountaintop Metal Roof Right For You?
It all comes down to what your plans are for your home in the Pacific Northwest. This is the reasons why our customers in Oregon and Washington choose Mountaintop Metal Roofing:
- They plan to stay in their homes for over 10 years
- They want to make their home look amazing
- They don’t want to worry about maintenance
- They have no interest in replacing their roof ever again.
While a Mountaintop Metal Roof comes at a higher initial price, the peace of mind that comes from the talented installers and Lifetime, Transferable, Non-Prorated warranty more than pays for itself.

Services We Provide

Get a No Pressure Quote Today
The only way to know exactly what your project will cost is through a professional evaluation. We’ll look at your home’s specific needs and help you choose the right metal for your budget and goals in the Pacific Northwest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an exact quote online?
While calculators can give you a “ballpark,” they are often misleading. Every home has unique factors like roof pitch, chimney flashing, and existing tear-off requirements that require a physical evaluation to price accurately.
























