Tin is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and attractive roofing option. But whether a project involves new construction or roof replacement, many cost factors can affect the overall upfront installation costs. The cost of a tin roof installation typically ranges from $13,500 and $33,500, with a national average cost of $23,500.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or the best material for your project, tin is one of the best answers for your roofing needs. A tin roof not only adds a touch of style to your home, but it’s also low-maintenance and energy-efficient. You may pay as low as $6,750 to as high as $75,375. But it’s important to gather all the information you need to make an informed decision about your roofing project.
In this pricing guide, we’ll cover:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Size
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Cost by Location
- FAQ
Average Tin Roof Costs
| National Average Cost | $23,500 |
| Typical Price Range | $13,500 – $33,500 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $6,750 |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $75,375 |
The cost of installing a tin roof across the nation averages $23,500, with the typical price range falling between $13,500 and $33,500. However, similar to other home renovation projects, the price of tin roofing can fluctuate due to several variables. These may include the type of tin panel chosen for the material, as well as the roof size, style, and pitch.
The average cost for installing a tin roof typically ranges from $6.75 to $16.75 per square foot. R-panel tin roofing is the most economical option, while a standing seam tin roof tends to be pricier.
If you’re planning a small-scale roofing project and opt for more cost-effective materials, the total cost, including labor, could be roughly $6,750. On the other hand, if your project involves a very large roof and you choose high-end standing seam panels, the total cost may reach as high as $75,375.
Tin Roof Cost Estimator by Size
The overall installation cost you’ll have to pay for a tin roof significantly varies depending on your roof size. The larger the roof, the greater the expense for both the materials and labor involved. If you’re unsure about the exact size of your roof, don’t worry. You can determine the approximate size by using the square footage of your home and this simple formula:
Your home’s square footage x 1.5 = Approximate roof size
So if your home is around 3,000 square feet, multiplying that number by 1.5 will give you a rough estimate of 4,500 square feet for your roof size. Take note, though, that most roofing contractors use “square” as their preferred unit of measurement, where 1 square is equal to 100 square feet. So if you convert 4,500 square feet to square, your roof size will be 45 squares.
| Home Square Footage | Approximate Roof Square Footage | Number of Squares | Average Overall Cost ($6.75 – $16.75 per sq. ft., including labor) |
| 1,200 | 1,800 | 18 | $12,150 – $30,150 |
| 1,500 | 2,250 | 23 | $15,188 – $37,688 |
| 2,000 | 3,000 | 30 | $20,250 – $50,250 |
| 2,500 | 3,750 | 38 | $25,313 – $62,813 |
| 3,000 | 4,500 | 45 | $30,375 – $75,375 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Even though tin is not as popular as aluminum roofing, it’s still the preferred metal roofing material of some homeowners because it’s long-lasting, durable, corrosion-resistant, and affordable. But before deciding to go with this roofing option, remember that many cost factors can affect the overall cost of a metal roof installation. Apart from the size of your roof, the type of panel, roof style, and labor costs can all play a role in determining the total cost.
Type of Panel
Unlike copper roofing, tin won’t develop a patina over time. But its durability and sleek appearance make it worth considering. Plus, you can lower your cooling costs and extend your roof’s lifespan by applying a high-end coating like Kynar 500.
The type of panel you choose can considerably affect your tin roof installation cost. The material cost ranges from $3 to $8 per square foot, with R-panel being the most affordable of the three types. If you factor in the labor expenses, a tin metal roof costs around $6.75 to $11.75 per square foot.
| Type of Panel | Typical Price Range Per Square Foot (materials only) | Typical Price Range Per Square Foot (including labor) |
| Corrugated | $4 – $8 | $7.75 – $11.75 |
| R-Panel | $3 – $8 | $6.75 – $11.75 |
| 5V Crimp | $4 – $7 | $7.75 – $10.75 |
Corrugated
If you choose this type of panel for your roofing project, the material costs around $4 to $8 per square foot. You can expect to pay between $7.75 and $11.75 per square foot for both materials and labor.
Corrugated roofs are not only low-maintenance and energy-efficient, but they’re also fire-resistant and can withstand high winds. Due to this, homeowners prefer tin roofing in regions with a high risk of wildfires and unpredictable weather patterns.
R-Panel
The cost of materials for an R-panel tin roof can vary from $3 to $8 per square foot, while the price can go up from $6.75 to $11.75 per square foot if you include labor expenses.
R-panel tin roofs are known for their affordability and resilience, offering strong defense against water and wind damage. With a great balance between cost-effectiveness and toughness, this metal roofing panel is a fantastic option for those living in stormy regions like Florida and South Carolina.
5V Crimp
Another budget-friendly option, 5V crimp tin roof panels might be just what you need. You can expect to spend between $4 and $7 per square foot for the materials and around $7.75 to $10.75 per square foot, installed.
These panels are a cost-effective solution for your metal roofing system. Plus, they’re super lightweight, making them great for installing on top of an existing roof. But even though they’re highly resistant to leaks, their shape makes them more susceptible to damage from high winds and storms. So, it’s important to consider your climate before choosing this type of metal roof.
Roof Style
Metal roofing is becoming more popular nowadays, and metal shingles and stainless steel roofing are often the first options that come to mind. But if you’re looking to add some flair to your roof, you have other options, like flat-lock and standing seam tin roofs. Just keep in mind that these stylish options may have different price points.
| Roof Style | Typical Price Range Per Square Foot (materials only) | Typical Price Range Per Square Foot (including labor) |
| Flat-lock | $5.25 – $9.50 | $9 – $13.25 |
| Standing seam | $8.50 – $13 | $12.25 – $16.75 |
Flat-lock
With the cost of materials alone ranging from $5.25 to $9.50 per square foot, get ready to spend anywhere from $9 to $13.25 per square foot for the overall installation costs. This type of roof uses tin sheets molded to fit the unique shape of your roof, so it’s perfect for domes and curved roofs, as well as other funky roofing styles.
However, flat-lock tin roofs are a bit of a rarity today. So, finding a roofer who knows how to install it might be a challenge. Your best bet is to look for roofing contractors who specialize in historic home renovations since this type of roofing is most commonly used in restoration projects.
Standing Seam
With overlapping edges and seams that stand in even rows, a standing seam tin roof has a clean, modern look. Expect to pay anywhere from $12.25 to $16.75 per square foot for overall installation costs, with material prices alone at around $8.50 to $13 per square foot.
While it’s less common than other metal roofing options, it has a unique matte finish that might just catch your eye. Since there are no exposed fasteners and seams, you won’t have to worry about water seeping inside. That’s why standing seam metal roofs are a popular choice in areas with heavy rainfall.
Labor Costs
The cost of a new metal roof installation, whether it’s for tin, aluminum, copper, steel, or zinc roofing, can be affected by the cost of labor. Normally, the labor expenses would amount to anywhere between $3.75 and $8.50 per square foot. However, the exact price may change based on your roof size, pitch, and style.
Despite its appearance, installing a metal roof is not a simple task and should be handled by expert roofers. It’s also worth noting that the cost of labor may increase during the peak roofing season, which generally runs from summer to early fall.
Old Roof Removal
When shopping around for roofing cost estimates, remember to factor in the expense of disposing of your existing roof. If you’re doing a roof replacement project and not constructing a new house, this fee can significantly increase the overall cost. Typically, the cost of removing an old roof is about $1 to $1.65 per square foot.
And if you don’t want to haul your old roofing all the way to the landfill site, you should verify that your roofing contractor will handle the disposal as well.
Roof Pitch
Another factor that can influence the cost of tin roofing is your roof pitch or slope. The steeper the roof, the higher the cost, as it requires additional materials, labor, and time to finish. Plus, your roofer will need to exercise more precautionary and safety measures during installation.
For instance, a tin roof with a slope greater than 3 inches per foot will require more materials and labor, leading to higher overall installation costs. On the other hand, a roof with a gentler incline, having a slope of less than 3 inches per foot, will be more budget-friendly as it entails less materials and poses fewer challenges for the roofing professionals.
Permits
When calculating the upfront installation costs for your tin metal roofing, remember to factor in the expenses for obtaining building permits. The fees can vary, with a range from $255 to $500, based on elements such as the size and intricacy of your project and your location.
Every city has unique regulations enforced by its building department, so be ready to complete extensive paperwork and undergo inspections. Obtaining the necessary permits is critical to complying with building codes and steering clear of penalties.
When shopping around for roofing companies, inquire about permit fees as some may include it in their quote, while others may bill it separately.
Underlayment Installation
Underlayment, although tucked away beneath your tin roofing panels, plays a significant role in your roofing system. It offers not only insulation and additional defense but also guards against moisture infiltration and leaks. You have three options for underlayment – rubberized asphalt, synthetic, or felt.
If you want exceptional protection, you can use rubberized asphalt, which can cost between 70 cents and $1.15 per square foot. Synthetic underlayment lies in the middle of the price range, costing from 32 cents to $1.05 per square foot. Felt is a cost-effective choice, with prices ranging from 20 cents to $1 per square foot.
Add-ons and Upgrades
Many homeowners consider upgrades and add-ons for their new roofs as these not only perform certain functionality but also add aesthetic appeal. Flashings can come with a price tag of approximately $300, while roof vents have an average cost of around $450.
Installing dormer windows could cost around $2,500, while skylights are available at a lower cost, starting at $1,185. Adding a chimney to your roof can be quite expensive, with a minimum cost of $3,500 or higher.
But remember that these fancy additions require extra effort during installation to prevent any water infiltration and leaks. Metal roof sealing, which can range from 58 cents to $11 per square foot, is a wise investment to prevent leaks and water damage.
Related Services
While tin metal roofs are known to be low maintenance, it’s still crucial to perform routine upkeep to extend their lifespan. Neglecting maintenance can result in leaks, costly repairs, and even an early roof replacement. On the contrary, performing proper maintenance on your roof can ensure a long and healthy life, ultimately saving you money on fixes in the future.
Roof Maintenance
Durable and long-lasting, tin roofs are capable of withstanding the elements for up to 70 years, even with minimal care. Nevertheless, to guarantee the optimal performance of your metal roof, a yearly maintenance routine is advisable. The cost of upkeep can range anywhere from $100 to $750 annually.
For the best outcomes, consider working with a professional. Hiring an expert can prevent future complications and maintain the appearance of your tin roof for years to come.
Roof Repairs
Sooner or later, you’ll need to address repairs for your tin roof. The necessary fixes could be small, such as repairing a minor dent, or more complex, like replacing a large portion of your roof’s steel core. The cost of metal roof repair services can range from $559 to $2,101, depending on the extent of the damage, your roof type, and other relevant factors.
As your metal roof may require repairs multiple times due to harsh weather conditions and regular wear and tear, it’s wise to start setting aside funds and preparing for these unavoidable situations.
Roof Painting
The cost of painting a metal roof can vary depending on various factors, with prices ranging from $1.08 to $2.85 per square foot. The final roof painting cost will be influenced by the style and size of your roof, the type of paint selected, and your roof’s current state. If the roof requires thorough cleaning before being painted, there may be additional charges for power washing.
It’s also important to consider the color chosen for the roof, as dark hues will absorb more sunlight and cause the roof to heat up, causing the color to fade faster. In areas with hot and sunny climates, it might be more advantageous to opt for a lighter color with a cool roof finish, which reflects the sun’s heat away from the roof.
Roof Inspection
It’s important to have your tin roof inspected by a professional to ensure its longevity and avoid costly repairs. A roof inspection typically costs anywhere from $120 to $320, but prices may vary.
During the inspection, the roof will be thoroughly examined for any damage, and you will receive a comprehensive report of the findings. Scheduling regular inspections at least every two years can help detect potential problems and allow you to address them before they escalate into more costly repairs.
Roof Cleaning
Investing in the services of an expert roof cleaner could cost you around $490, but it’s worth it for the efficiency and safety they bring to the job. These pros show up equipped with the necessary tools and proper cleaning solutions to get your metal roof sparkling clean in no time.
Cost of Tin Roof by Location
Keep in mind that the price tag for tin roof installation may differ significantly based on your location. Metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Austin, and New York may have elevated material and labor expenses, while people residing in regions with a lower cost of living may find a tin roof to be more budget-friendly.
The cost of roofing also can vary according to the climate and weather conditions in a specific location – regions with longer roofing seasons and milder weather may incur lower expenses compared to places with shorter roofing seasons and harsh weather conditions.
FAQ
Yes, a tin roof can last up to 70 years. That’s more than double the lifespan of a regular asphalt shingle roof, which only lasts 15 to 30 years. And if you give your tin roof a little TLC, it can even hold up to 100 years.
Aluminum roofing is a common choice among homeowners because it’s lightweight and durable. Other popular metal roofing options include copper, zinc, stainless steel, galvalume, and galvanized steel. You can customize your metal roofing system to balance style, durability, and affordability.
Installing a tin roof requires expertise and should not be attempted by individuals without prior experience. Improper installation can lead to severe consequences, such as leaks, decay, and damp drywall, and even reduce the resale value of your property.
Not following the manufacturer’s guidelines also can result in warranty issues, rust, and other costly problems in the future. Hiring a professional roofer is the best way to ensure the installation is done correctly and to avoid any potential headaches.
Find a Tin Roof Professional Near You
Installing a tin roof is not for the faint of heart. With so many factors to consider, including roof size, style, type of tin panel, labor costs, project complexity, and location, tin metal roofing prices can vary from a modest $6,750 to an extravagant $75,375.
But this investment is well worth it for those who want a flashy and sturdy roof over their head. On average, the cost comes in at a cool $23,500, but the real cherry on top is that tin roofs are recyclable and energy-efficient, making your investment a win for both your wallet and the planet. So, before you jump in with both feet, make sure to gather quotes from trustworthy contractors near you and factor in other expenses like maintenance, repairs, and inspections.
Reach out to roofing contractors in your area today.
Main Photo by: derek*b / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
