How Much Does Aluminum Roofing Cost?

Thanks to its high recyclability and durability, aluminum roofing has become an affordable, long-lasting roofing solution for homes. Having aluminum roof panels can be advantageous if you are looking for a great return on investment from your new roof, thanks to its longer life span, high weather resistance, and low maintenance. In this article, learn about the benefits of aluminum roofing, its cost, and how it stacks up compared to other metal roofing materials.

How Much Does Aluminum Roofing Cost?

Aluminum roofing costs run from $7 to $17 per square foot on average, which includes the cost of materials, labor, and installation.

You can get aluminum roofing in the form of tiles, shingles, or metal panels. Aluminum shingles are typically more affordable than aluminum roofing panels. Aluminum shingles typically cost $7 to $9 per square foot, or $21,000 to $27,000 to install on a standard 3,000-square-foot roof. For aluminum roof panels, the cost is typically higher at $7 to $17 per square foot on average, or $21,000 to $51,000 for a 3,000 square foot roof.

Aluminum Roofing

Average Installation Cost $21,000 - $51,000

Cost Breakdown

• Materials 60.5%
• Labor 39.5%

See Local Pricing

Labor and Installation costs

Labor typically accounts for 30% to 40% of the total project cost for an aluminum roof installation. For example, for a standard-sized roof of about 2,000 square feet, labor could range from about $4,200 to $13,600 for a typical project.

Factors that Impact Costs

In general, the initial cost of a metal roof is more expensive than a typical asphalt roof but thanks to their long lifespans and warranties, they can become more cost-effective over time. As with other home improvement projects, the exact cost of aluminum roofing varies on several factors, including:

• Complexity of the Roof: The more complex the roof design (e.g., multiple slopes, valleys, and peaks), the higher the installation cost due to increased labor and material requirements.
• Roof Size and Pitch: Larger roofs require more materials and more labor. Steep roofs are harder and more dangerous to work on, which can also increase costs.
• Geographical Location: Labor costs can vary significantly depending on where you live. Areas with higher costs of living typically have higher labor rates.
• Existing Roof Condition: If the existing roof needs extensive prep work or repairs before the new roof can be installed, this will increase the overall cost.
• Type of Aluminum Roofing: The cost can vary depending on whether you choose aluminum shingles or standing seam panels, with standing seam generally being more expensive.

Additional Costs 

Note that your contractor may charge more for demolition and removal of your old roof, underlayment, and other necessary accessories needed for a successful metal roof installation. We recommend asking your contractor about the following potential additional costs ahead of starting the project:

• Removal of Old Roofing: Demolition and disposal of the old roof can add $1 to $5 per square foot to the total cost, depending on the material and labor required for removal.
• Underlayment: A new underlayment might be necessary to provide additional insulation and moisture protection, adding $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot.
• Permits: Depending on local regulations, you might need a permit for a roofing project, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000.
• Additional Materials: Items like flashing, gutters, and ridge caps are often required but not always included in initial quotes. Costs for these can vary widely.
• Warranty: Opting for a warranty can add to the cost but provide long-term protection against defects and damage.

How to Create a Budget for your Roofing Project

Explore these pro tips for creating a realistic budget ahead of your roof installation project

Take Me There

Benefits of Aluminum Roofing

There are several benefits to aluminum roofing that make it appealing to homeowners looking for a new, high-quality roof.

Durability

Aluminum is incredibly fire, wind, and impact resistant. The material is also resistant to corrosion and rot. When it does corrode, it oxides and forms a protective coating that effectively seals the inner layers. This helps to protect the material in corrosive environments, such as coastal regions.

Eco-Friendly and Energy Efficient

Aluminum is recyclable, so it can be reused when it reaches the end of its usable lifespan. In fact, about 95% of all aluminum roof panels are made from previously recycled aluminum materials. Aluminum roofing also boasts reflective properties against the sun’s rays. This makes it an energy-efficient type of roof – it can help reduce utility costs by as much as 40% and reduce interior air temperatures by an average of 12 degrees in warmer months.

Lightweight

Aluminum roofing is considerably lighter in weight than other roofing materials, putting less stress on the home. This lightweight feature makes it easier to transport, handle, and install—helping to keep installation and labor costs at a minimum.

Long Lifespan

Because of their durability, aluminum roof panels typically last 40 years or more. Compare this lifespan to asphalt shingles, which last 15 to 30 years on average. With an aluminum roof, you will not have to worry about roof replacement costs until decades down the road.

Roof Replacement Cost Calculator

Take Me There

Various Color Options

Luckily, aluminum roofing comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose the right fit for your home’s exterior look and feel. Popular color choices for aluminum roof panels in 2024 include neutrals such as beige or slate, gray, clay, and black. Some roof manufacturers also offer aluminum roofing that looks like cedar shakes or natural stone, so you can achieve a high-end look at a lower price.

Aluminum Roofing Panels vs. Other Metal Roofs

Aluminum is one of several metal roofing options that homeowners have to choose from. Here’s a quick look at how some of the other common metal roofing materials compare to aluminum roofing in cost, durability and average lifespan.

Aluminum vs. Steel Roofing

• Cost. Steel roofing costs run from $6 to $12 per square foot on average, or up to 3 times the cost of an aluminum roof. Steel shingle roofing on a standard-size home would cost around $18,000 to $36,000 to install. 

• Durability. Steel is stronger than aluminum and is more fire-resistant without the need for additional layers. Aluminum does not have a Class-A fire rating, but can achieve it with the proper underlayment and sheathing (which will cost extra). On the other hand, steel is susceptible to salt damage over time when installed in coastal areas, while Aluminum is extremely resistant to salt damage and corrosion.
• Lifespan. Aluminum has an average of 40 years or more, while steel has a longer average lifespan of 40 to 70 years with proper maintenance and care.

Aluminum vs. Copper Roofing

• Cost. Copper roofs cost between $13.54 to $24.69 per square foot on average. For a standard 3,000-square-foot roof, you can expect to pay between $40,608 and $74,064. Generally speaking, a copper roof will cost at least 3 times more than an aluminum roof.

• Durability. Copper roofs are incredibly strong, lightweight, and highly resistant to fire, hail, and mildew. However, they tend to expand and contract frequently during weather changes. When this happens, the fasteners can become loose and require repair. Thanks to its natural patina (oxidation) process, copper roofing is naturally protected against rust and corrosion. Note: Your contractor can add a clear, polyurethane coat or a clear lacquer to preserve the natural new shine of your copper roof.
• Lifespan. Aluminum roofing has an average of 40 years or more, while copper roofing has a longer average lifespan of 60-100 years or more.

Aluminum vs. Tin Roofing

• Cost. Tin roofing costs between $3 to $15 per square foot on average. For a standard 3,000-square-foot roof, you can expect to pay between $9,000 to $45,000, which tends to be a bit more expensive compared to an aluminum roof.

• Durability. Generally speaking, a tin roof is durable and resistant to cracking. A tin roof should hold up well during rain and snowstorm, however, tin roofing can dent in heavy hailstorms. Tin roofing tends to be slightly more durable in inclement weather than aluminum roofing.
• Lifespan. A new tin roof should last around 40 to 70 years when properly maintained, compared to aluminum roofing’s average 40 year lifespan.

Aluminum vs. Zinc Roofing

• Cost: Zinc roofing costs run from $5.65 to $11 per square foot, or between $16,950 to $33,000 for a standard $3,000 square foot roof, which is slightly more expensive than an aluminum roof.

• Durability. Zinc is fire-resistant, insect-proof, and prohibits the growth of mold and mildew. Similar to copper, zinc roofing materials undergo a patina process that protects them from rust and weathering. It is considered slightly more durable during inclement conditions compared to aluminum.
• Lifespan. Zinc roofing can last an impressive 60 to 100 years, which is about double the lifespan of aluminum roofing.

Is Choosing Aluminum Roofing Worth it?

Aluminum roofing can increase the resale value of your home and provide homeowners with an average return on investment of about 60%, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report.

Aluminum roofing, as with all metal roofing, can also lower your insurance rates and save you money due to its weather resistance, especially in states like Texas and California which are vulnerable to wildfires. 

While these factors can make aluminum roofing an appealing option to homeowners, ultimately, it comes down to your budget, your home’s location, and what meets your personal style and needs. Connect with local contractors and request a personalized quote to see if a new aluminum metal roof is the right fit for your home and budget.

Find Local Pros