Metal roofs are a growing trend throughout the United States. The metal roofing market is strongest in southeastern states such as Florida, accounting for about 14% of re-roofing jobs (Professional Remodeler, August 2009). Metal roofing is most popular in the Southeast because homeowners need extremely durable roofs to withstand the harsh storms that pass through the region.

Benefits and Costs of Metal Roofs

Installing metal roofs has tremendous benefits. These include:

• high durability
• fire resistance
• resistance to mildew, insects and rot
• low maintenance
• easy installation

Installing metal roofs is expensive; it can cost double the price of conventional asphalt shingle installation. However, due to their insulation and durability, installing metal roofs has long-term economic benefits and can significantly increase the resale value of your home. The average cost for installing metal roofs is about $5.00–$11.00 per square foot depending upon the type of metal roofing materials used. For example, interlocking steel shingle installation starts around $3.00–$7.50 per square foot, while copper shingles can cost as much as $15–$18 per square foot.

Metal Roofing

There are several types of metal roofing materials, including aluminum, copper, steel and zinc. The most popular types of metal roofing are metal roof tiles, metal roof shingles and sheet metal roofing. Sheet metal roofing is one of the most popular and durable choices, which includes corrugated metal roofing and standing seam metal roofing.

Sheet Metal Roofing

Sheet metal roofing refers to flat sheets of metal that can be used to sheath both residential and commercial roofing applications. The flat sheets of metal are formed into roofing panels and installed on roofs. Sheet metal roofing is available in many shapes, sizes and colors.

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam metal roofs are made up of interlocking metal panels that are placed vertically from the ridge (top) of the roof downward (to the eave). The interlocking design creates a unique pattern. The most commonly used metal for standing seam systems is galvanized steel. Standing seam metal roofs are extremely durable, puncture resistant, and can usually withstand hurricane winds. 

Corrugated Metal Roofs

Corrugated metal roofing is comprised of corrugated or rippled sheets of metal. Like all types of metal roofing, corrugated metal roofs are extremely durable and can withstand extreme weather such as hail, heat, snow, storms and even hurricanes, because they're able to contract and expand with heat and cold. Metal roofs are strong enough to hold heavy amounts of snow and won't fade or peel in the sun -- unlike other roof types, such as asphalt-shingled roofs. Corrugated metal roofing is lightweight, which makes installing it a simple process. Most metal roofs take a number of days to complete installation. Corrugated metal roofs take less time because they are lightweight and easy to handle.

Find professional metal roof installers.

Updated July 23, 2018.