Choosing the roof for your home includes calculating the metal roofing cost. Whether you choose steel, aluminum, copper, or other metal, there are distinct costs associated with each one. Read expert tips when counting up the financial costs of metal roofing for your residence or business.
Know the Costs of Different Types of Metal Roofing
The biggest initial factor in determining the cost of your metal roof, other than how large your building is, will be the type of metal that you choose. Of the main types – aluminum, steel, and copper – copper is the most expensive type of metal roofing. It is quite beautiful. More homeowners will opt to use it only for accents or special architectural elements. Aluminum is more expensive initially than galvanized steel or galvalume steel. The lightweight rust-free metal has a higher cost. But it is almost entirely comprised of recycled metal.
When choosing between galvalume steel and galvanized steel, the galvanized steel is lower in cost. Other metal types like titanium and rolled zinc will vary in price point. You will want to speak with your contractor directly if you want to use something other than the more popular aluminum or steel roofing options.
How much will you need?
This may seem obvious, but knowing the exact amount of roofing that you will need is imperative before calculating your metal roofing cost. Take the time to have an accurate measurement made. You also want to figure in any decisions like using a specific metal like copper for accents or using other types of roofing for the garage or portions of the roof. For customized architectural plans, speak with your architect, engineer, and contractor about what you want. Ask which metal is best for your building. You might find that depending on where you live or how close you are to the coast, that some options may be better than others.
Calculate Maintenance Costs
Maintaining your metal roof is a hidden cost that many individuals don’t take into account. Why? Well, they might see the initial price tag and want to opt for something that is more affordable at the outset. However, long-term wear and tear on the roof will affect your cost. For example, while galvanized steel may seem a much more economical option than aluminum, it also is more susceptible to rust.
If you are building right by the coast or water, it is prone to inclement weather or salt spray. Rust may affect your roof sooner than you expected. Copper is very durable. Sometimes the high price tag puts it out of reach for most homeowners and many business owners. Speak with your contractor before making a final decision.
Choosing Shingles or Standing Seam?
Another major aspect of calculating the costs of your roof involves whether you are opting for shake, shingles, tile, slate, or standing seam. Options like shingles and tile will give your home a beautiful textured look that is more traditional.
Modern contemporary buildings may work best with a standing seam, which has a very distinct look. Metal slate, for example, is about half the price of real slate. Sheet roofing is more economical than standing seam. Residential homeowners who want to purchase standing seam roofing should speak with their contractor to determine end costs. Residential roofs often have more complex architecture than commercial buildings.
Work with your designer and contractor to determine which metal roofing option fits best in your budget and provides the most durability long-term.
