How much does a metal roof cost per square foot?
Short answer. Metal roofing cost per square foot varies more than almost any roofing material, because exposed-fastener panels and standing seam systems are very different products with different labor. Rather than relying on a per-foot number, compare complete quotes on the same measured roof area, with the panel type, gauge, finish, trim and underlayment spelled out.
What sets the per-foot price
- Panel system. Exposed-fastener panels screw through the face and install quickly. Standing seam panels attach with hidden clips and raised seams, require more precise labor and often on-site forming.
- Metal and gauge. Steel is most common; aluminum costs more and suits coastal areas. Thicker gauge costs more and resists dents.
- Finish. Premium paint systems hold color longer in Georgia sun and cost more than basic finishes.
- Trim and flashing. Ridge caps, eave and rake trim, valleys and wall flashings are custom bent and add up quickly on complex roofs.
- Underlayment. High-temperature synthetic or self-adhered membranes under metal cost more than basic felt.
- Tear-off and deck prep. Removing shingles and repairing decking applies here too.
- Roof shape. Metal shines on simple roofs with long, uninterrupted planes. Hips, valleys and dormers raise the per-foot cost sharply.
Roof area versus house area
Per-square-foot means roof surface, which is larger than your home's floor area once overhangs and pitch are counted. Make sure every quote uses the same measured roof area.
Comparing to shingles
Standing seam metal commonly costs several times what an architectural shingle roof costs on the same house, while exposed-fastener panels land closer to premium shingles. Metal lasts longer, but whether it pays back depends on how long you will stay. For a typical North Georgia shingle replacement, the benchmark is roughly $8,000 to $16,000. Read metal roofing in Georgia and how roofers measure a roof.