Metal Roofing Prices Explained

There are so many variables that go into metal roofing installation that it is not possible to quote prices online or over the phone. Variables include the current roof condition, shape, and pitch (slope) which all affect price. Also where the property is located and how well is the roof accessibility (or lack of accessibility) are important considerations. In addition to physical conditions there is the cost of labour. Most metal roofing providers in Canada sub-contract installers or contractors, however at Shoreline Roofing we install all our own metal roofs. Since Shorline Roofing in Victoria is a reputable and long established company and since we are (most likely to be around in the future) we have higher prices because they we have higher costs for liability insurance (protecting you and your home), and education and training programs for roofs. Having a highly skilled roofing contractor like Shoreline Roofing that specializes in metal roofing is invaluable as we will be able to provide recommendations for proper ventilation, insulation, or water management. The final major factors affecting price are metal roofing material, coating system, and style profile that you choose.

In 2016 the average cost of installing a high quality roofing system (designed for residential use) was $22 000 CAD. Residential metal roofing product prices ranged from $7.00 to $15.00 per square foot installed.

Note: On batten mounted roofing systems you will pay more on labour. In some cases the cost of labour will exceed the cost of materials as it is a complicated and labour intensive installation method.

Metal Roofing Prices in Canada by Product Type

Lets look at what to expect in terms of pricing for each type of metal roofing product in Victoria BC.

Economy or Low-End Metal Roofing: At the low-end of metal roofing options are products with exposed fasteners. Designed for agricultural or commercial use, these products usually will also have a lower quality paint finish and be compromised of a lower grade of steel alloy (iron to carbon ratio). These roofing products will have minimal flashings, and will depend on sealants and overhanging panels at their lower end. Low-end roofing will also rely on problematic battens or strapping for installation. Another consideration with cheap metal roofing is country of origin. Offshore manufacturers are unlikely to have regulated quality control measures.
Re-Roofing Cycles: 2-3
Steel Standing Seam and Shingles: As with economy steel roofing, there is a range in quality of metal and finishes. Galvanized steel or galvalume steel, with a quality coating system should be on the higher end of this spectrum, with the higher life expectancy. Problematic battens and strapping may be necessary.
Re-Roofing Cycles: 2 (due to rust staining and corrosion)

 High-end Steel Shingles: with high-end steel roofing systems accessories and trims will be factory-formed for quality and consistency. Coatings on a high-end steel system may include reflective pigments to enhance energy efficiency. A high-end steel system will not need battens and strapping for installation, and panels will be interlocking (won’t blow off due to high speed winds).
Re-Roofing Cycles: 1-2 (possible rust staining and corrosion)
High-End Aluminum Shingles: Aluminum roofing systems installed professionally will have a lifetime warranty due to outstanding longevity. Hidden fasteners, interlocking panels, accessories and trims will be factory-formed for quality and consistency. These roofing systems are superior in terms of energy efficiency due to their high emissivity. When manufactured with high SRI (Solar Reflectance Index) PVDF coatings, they are also classified as “Cool Roofs” as they deflect the suns rays away from the building. The energy savings on high-end aluminum offset the premium you will be paying up front for the better product. With the highest strength to weight ratios, it is often possible to install aluminum roofing over existing asphalt shingles saving on costs associated with tear down and disposal of existing roof.
Re-Roofing Cycles: none (aluminum will never rust)

Aluminum Standing Seam: Solid Aluminum standing seam is less common than steel standing seam products due to it’s higher price tag. When designed to allow for natural thermal movement, aluminum standing seam will not buckle (known as oil canning) over time.
Re-Roofing Cycles: none (aluminum will never rust)

Exotic Metal Roofing: Mill finished zinc or copper roofing are available as standing seam panels or shingles. Often used on churches or historical buildings, exotic metal roofing is a sort of “specialty” roofing that is not widely available or accessible due to a higher priced product and the level of expertise needed for installation.
Re-Roofing Cycles: none (copper and zinc will never rust)

 Other Considerations: Fees associated with tear down and disposal of your existing roof are to be included into considerations. In the case of aluminum roofing it may be possible to install on top of your existing shingles. Careful analysis of product warranties can often reveal a product’s true life expectancy.

Conclusion: If you have only ever had quotes for asphalt roofing then chances are you are still in shock. In general metal roofing cost will usually be about 3 times that of a professionally installed and fully insured asphalt roofing quote. If you are planning on staying in your home for 15 years or more, you stand a good chance of saving a substantial amount of money by upgrading to a permanent metal roofing system.

Contact Ed at Shoreline Roofing in Victoria for a FREE quote.