What To Know About Long-Lasting Metal Roof Panels

Metal roofing systems you can install yourself are readily available, but you need to feel comfortable working with metal and with investing more upfront for materials. You’ll see some savings in the long run, so the cost will eventually balance itself out. The only specialty tool you’ll need for installation is a locking sheet metal tool, which is available at roofing suppliers or online.

Metal roofs are fire-resistant, so you may earn a discount on your homeowner’s insurance. They also look nice—which can improve curb appeal—and melting snow easily slides off, eliminating the extra weight on the roof. All in all, installing metal roofing is a sound investment for your home.

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Metal roofs can be special-ordered in various colors at lumberyards and roof supply companies. Edco (shown in the photo) and Tamko both make interlocking metal roofing panels that you can install with clips and roofing nails. The systems have specially designed starter strips, valleys, gable trim flashing and flashing for dormers, chimneys and skylights. Each panel interlocks with the underlying and adjacent panels or with the flashing.

Manufacturers say homeowners’ most common questions are about the potential for noise. Don’t worry; rain hitting a metal roof won’t be noticeably louder than rain on an asphalt roof, so you don’t need to worry about stormy nights becoming a nuisance.

Metal Shingle Roof Cost

Metal roofs cost about $250 per square (1 square = 100 square feet). If you plan to install the metal roofing yourself, the average roof would cost about $4,000. This is significantly less than hiring a contractor to install three-tab shingles. And while the price of materials is six times as much as low-end three-tab asphalt shingles, which start at $35 to $40 per square, metal roofs last 50 years or more, so you won’t have to worry about reroofing.