Metal is becoming one of the most popular types of roof materials for commercial roofing systems. Along with its durability and energy efficiency, it’s also pleasing to the eye and available in a number or colors.
If you’ve been considering replacing your existing roof with a metal roof, then continue reading to find out more about metal roofing prices and the advantages that come with metal roof installation.
Advantages of Metal Roofing Materials
Metal has some great advantages over other types of commercial roofing materials. Bear in mind that your commercial building has to have an appropriate roof structure for a metal roof – if your commercial property has a flat roof, then metal isn’t right for your roofing project. Only pitched roofs are right for metal installation. (Pitched roofs are roofs that have a downwards slope.)
Fire Resistance
Metal roofs have great fire resistance, which is useful anywhere, but especially in areas of the country that are hot, dry, or simply more prone to wildfires. Metal roofs are very common in the western part of the United States.
Long Lifespan
As a building owner, you’re probably always looking for ways to invest wisely into your building and your business. With a lifespan of fifty years (or longer) with proper regular maintenance, a metal roof is an extremely cost-effective solution for your roofing needs.
Durability
Metal roofs are renowned for their durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and high winds. Metal roofs can be noisy during rain or hail, however, but this is easily avoided with an underlayment.
If your building is in an area that has harsh winters and heavy snow, rest assured that a metal roof can handle heavy snow loads.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs also offer business owners great energy efficiency. A building’s roof is exposed to the sun’s heat and UV rays more than any other part of the structure. So, it’s paramount that your commercial roof adds to your building’s overall energy efficiency.
Metal roofs cool quickly after the sun goes down, unlike asphalt shingles that absorb heat and reflect it into the building’s interior long after the sun sets. And, other commercial roofing materials like TPO and EPDM will eventually break down due to constant sun exposure, even with regular maintenance.
Unlike some other roofing materials, metal is able to withstand the elements and work FOR your building, which is why its energy efficient properties may help pay for your new roof within just a few years!
Types of Metal Commercial Roofing Options for Commercial Buildings
There are a number of options when it comes to metal roofing. Aluminum is a great choice if your building is near the coast, as it resists rust. It also weighs much less compared to other metals. However, since it’s thinner than steel, and can show dings and dents more readily.
Steel is the most common metal used for metal roofs and is extremely durable. Copper is very expensive but is a fine choice if you want the turquoise patina that this metal is known for. Zinc-coated steel is expensive, but the coating gives it even more durability and corrosion resistance.
The most common types of metal roofing include:
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- Steel
- Stainless steel
- Copper
- Aluminum
- Zinc-coated steel
- Corrugated steel panels
Common types of metal roofing panels:
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- Exposed fastener panels
- Standing seam panels
- Curved metal roofing
- Retrofit systems
The Average Cost of a New Metal Roof
The total cost of a new metal roof will vary widely, since materials and labor costs are different depending on the area of the country that your building is in. However, we can give you an estimate of the cost of the materials in 2023. These price ranges are for the approximate installed prices per square foot:
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- Steel: $8 to $16 per square foot
- Stainless Steel: $10 to $20 per square foot
- Copper: $20 to $40 per square foot
- Aluminum: $10 to $17 per square foot
- Zinc-Coated Steel: $12 to $25 per square foot
- Corrugated Steel: $6 to $12 per square foot
Although these costs are in square feet, roofing contractors typically measure in roof squares, which are closer to the size of the metal panels that are being installed. A roof square is 100 square feet.
Also, be sure to keep in mind that there may be additional costs associated with installation, depending on the condition of existing roof decks, materials that need to be added or removed and the type of commercial metal roof you choose (i.e. standing seam metal roof, exposed fastener panels, etc.).
Last but not least, be sure to check with your roofing company to see if your metal roof components carry a warranty. Since metal panels are manufactured, they may come with a warranty from the manufacturer. Warranties may also be dependent on proper installation, which is why you should always use a reputable roofing company!
Cost of a Metal Roof Compared to Other Materials
Many business owners mistakenly believe that a metal roof is too expensive. The reality is that this couldn’t be further from the truth.
The average cost per square foot of metal roof installed compares well to other types of commercial roof materials. In fact, two of the most used single-ply materials for commercial roofs, TPO and EPDM, both cost around $8 to $12, installed.
As always, the best course of action is to consult with an experienced commercial roof company like TEMA Roofing Services, who can advise you concerning your roofing needs.
TEMA: Commercial Roofers You Can Put Your Trust In
Replacing your old roof with a metal roof can be a great investment for your business, provided you’ve got the right building for it! Commercial metal roofs are durable, energy efficient, and last for decades with low maintenance. When you’re considering roof replacement or roof repairs, along with wondering about the cost of a commercial metal roof, give TEMA Roofing Services a call!
