How Much is a Metal Roof

How Much is a Metal Roof in Janesville, WI? Your Simple Guide by Rooster Roofing

We know thinking about a new roof can feel like a big deal, especially when you hear about options like metal roofing. People love metal roofs because they look great and last a super long time, but sometimes folks worry about the price.

Calculating the exact cost of a new metal roof isn’t always super simple. It’s not just about the size of your home and the cost of materials. There are lots of factors that change the price, and costs can even be different from one town to the next.

We’re here to help make it easy to understand! Think of us as your roofing guides, helping you figure out what goes into the cost of a metal roof installation. By the end of this, you’ll have a much better idea of what to expect for your project here in Janesville and our surrounding areas like Brodhead, Delavan, Edgerton, Beloit WI, Evansville WI, Milton, Monroe, Madison, and Lake Geneva.

What’s the General Cost of a Metal Roof?

Okay, let’s start with a ballpark idea. In April 2025, the estimated cost to install a seam metal roof might start somewhere around $17.21 to $23.21 per square foot. Another source gives a wider range, saying the average cost for a metal roof ranges from $5,500 to $15,500, with most costing just under $10,500 for an average-sized home. Another source suggests the overall range can be even wider, from $6,800 to $51,000, averaging around $28,500, depending on the size, style, and other factors.

For a typical home in Wisconsin, which might be around 1,600-1,700 square feet, the average cost for a metal roof could fall between $10,000 to $24,000. This range can depend on the type of metal you pick and your home’s design.

Remember, these are just averages or starting points. Your actual costs can be different because every project is unique. This is why getting a specific estimate from a local expert like Rooster Roofing is always the best next step.

What Makes Metal Roof Costs Go Up or Down?

Many things can change the final price of your new metal roof. Here are the main factors:

The Type of Metal

The kind of metal you choose is a really big deal for the cost. There are different types of metal roofing materials, and they each have their own prices.

• Steel: This is a popular choice. Steel roofs come with coatings to help stop rust and make them last longer, like galvanised or galvalume steel. The material cost for steel (galvalume/galvanised) can be about $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, while painted steel might be $2.00 to $4.00 per square foot. As an installed roof, steel shingles can range from $7 to $16 per square foot.
• Aluminum: This is often seen as an upgrade from steel because it’s better at resisting rust and can last longer. Aluminium material might cost about $3.50 to $6.50 per square foot. Installed, aluminium roofing can range from $4 to $11 per square foot. For a standard home, the total cost might start around $20,000.
• Copper: This is a top-tier material. Copper is super resistant to rust and fire and can handle severe storms. It’s also very durable and lightweight. Copper roofing costs range from $13 to $25 per square foot just for the material, and installed it’s about $15 to $30 per square foot.
• Zinc: Zinc has been used for over a hundred years! It’s known for being flexible, durable, and very strong. It’s usually priced the highest among common metal roofing materials. Zinc material cost is around $13 to $25 per square foot, and installed it’s about $6 to $12 per square foot.
• Tin: Pure tin roofs used to be common but are less so now, replaced by materials like Terne (steel coated with a tin alloy). Tin material cost can range widely, from $3 to $15 per square foot. Installed, tin might cost $5 to $12 per square foot.
• Metal Slate (Stone Coated Slate): This type is listed with a material cost range of $5 to $12 per square foot.
• Corrugated Metal: This is a specific style of metal panel (wavy or ribbed). The material cost is generally lower, from $4 to $7 per square foot.

You can see that the type of metal alone can make a huge difference in the final price!

The Style of the Metal Panels

Metal roofing comes in different styles or panel profiles. The style affects both the look and the installation cost.

• Exposed Fastener Panels: In this style, the screws or nails that hold the panels down can be seen. Corrugated and R-panel are examples. These panels are generally more affordable, costing about half the price of standing seam panels. The material cost for corrugated metal panels ranges from $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot depending on the gauge and paint finish.
• Concealed Fastener Panels (Standing Seam): With standing seam roofs, the fasteners are hidden beneath vertical ribs. This gives a clean, smooth look. Standing seam roofs with flexible panels are known for handling big temperature changes and severe weather well. These are usually more expensive than exposed fastener systems. The material cost for standing seam panels ranges from $2.20 to $8.25 per square foot, depending on the metal, gauge, and paint finish. For a standard Wisconsin home, a steel standing seam roof might start around $15,000, not including tearing off the old roof.

Standing seam is a premium style that adds to the overall cost.

The Size and Shape of Your Roof

It makes sense that a bigger roof size means you need more material. Most roofers measure the size of a roof in “squares,” where one square is 100 square feet.

Something interesting is that sometimes, really small jobs (under 500 square feet) can actually cost a lot more per square foot than bigger jobs. They could even cost double or triple the price of a larger project. This is because the roofing company still has costs for planning, getting materials, setting up, and cleaning up, no matter how small the job is.

Also, the shape and complexity of your roof matter. If your roof has lots of different sections, valleys, or a really steep pitch, it takes more labor and special tools, which adds to the cost. A curved roof is usually the most expensive to install because it’s more complicated.

Installation Labor

This is a big one! The labor costs to install a metal roof make up a large chunk of the total price – sometimes as much as 60% to 70%.

• Complexity: As mentioned, a complex roof takes more time and skill.
• Experience: A highly experienced roofing contractor who knows metal roofing well might charge more, but their skill can prevent costly mistakes later. At Rooster Roofing, our team has years of experience installing and replacing metal roofs right here in Wisconsin. We know how important it is to hire licensed and experienced professionals.
• Location: Labor costs can change depending on where you live. Cities with a higher cost of living, like Milwaukee compared to Mayville (near Janesville), might have higher roof replacement costs. However, here in Janesville, Brodhead, Delavan, and the surrounding areas, Rooster Roofing offers competitive and fair pricing because we are part of this community.
• Reroofing vs. Replacement: Are we putting the new metal roof over your old one (like over asphalt shingles) or completely tearing off the old roof first?. Removing the old roofing adds extra labor and disposal costs. We always check your existing roof first to see what’s needed.

Other Materials and Details

Beyond the main metal panels, there are other necessary parts of the job that add to the cost.

• Underlayment: This goes under the metal panels to protect your roof deck from leaks. If your old underlayment isn’t right for a metal roof, installing new underlayment adds to the cost. Synthetic underlayment is often recommended over felt. The cost varies depending on the type and warranty, from about $160-$355 per roll for popular synthetic options like Sharkskin®. Felt is cheaper, around 5 to 10 cents per square foot.
• Trim and Flashing: These are the metal pieces that go around edges, chimneys, skylights, and other spots to seal the roof. The cost of trim varies by type and whether you have an exposed fastener or standing seam system. Standing seam roofs usually need more trim. A rough guess for trim cost is adding an extra 25% to 40% of the total panel cost.
• Finishes and Paint: Metal roofs come with different paint finishes, like SMP and PVDF. PVDF costs more (about 30% to 40% more than SMP) but lasts longer and resists fading better. The choice of finish affects both the look and the durability.
• Gauge (Thickness): This is how thick the metal is. A thicker metal has a lower gauge number (like 24 gauge is thicker than 26 gauge). Thicker metal is stronger and costs more – 24 gauge steel can cost 25% to 40% more than 26 gauge steel.
• Job Supplies: Things like fasteners, sealants, and basic flashing are also part of the cost.
• Equipment: Sometimes special equipment is needed for the job, and the cost of using it is factored in.
• Debris Disposal: Hauling away and getting rid of the old roofing materials and waste from the new installation has a cost.

Putting all these pieces together helps show why the cost of a metal roof can vary so much!

Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles: A Quick Look

You’ve probably seen lots of roofs with asphalt shingles around Janesville. They are much less expensive upfront than metal roofs.

Here’s a simple comparison based on averages for a 1,700-square-foot roof:

• Asphalt Shingles: Total Cost typically $1,190–$6,800, Cost per Square Foot $0.70–$4. Lifespan: 20–30 years.
• Metal: Total Cost typically $6,800–$51,000, Cost per Square Foot $4–$30. Lifespan: 40–100 years.

So, while the initial cost for metal is higher, they last a lot longer.

Why Choose Metal Roofing for Your Janesville Home?

Even though the initial price might be higher, metal roofs have some great benefits that make them a good investment for many homeowners in Janesville and Wisconsin.

• Long-lasting & Durable: Metal roofs can last 40 to 100 years or even longer!. They stand up really well to severe weather like hail, strong winds, and heavy storms that we can get around here. They are also fire-resistant.
• Low Maintenance: Compared to some other roofs, metal is easier to take care of. They can handle simple cleaning like pressure washing.
• Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs can help keep your home cooler in the summer by reflecting sunlight. This can lower your energy bills over time. Even darker metal can have special paint to block UV rays.
• Eco-Friendly: Many metal roofs are made with recycled metal. Because they last so long, you replace them less often, creating less waste. They don’t need harsh chemicals for moss or fungus, and they are 100% recyclable.
• Boosts Home Value: A new metal roof can make your home look nicer and increase its value if you sell. Homeowners might get back about half the cost of the roof replacement when they sell.
• Looks Great! Metal roofs come in lots of colors and styles. They can match your home’s design or stand out as a cool feature. You can even get metal that looks like wood.

Are There Any Downsides?

The main drawback people think about is the initial cost. It’s true that the upfront price is often more than asphalt shingles.

Also, metal roof installation needs experience. It’s not really a DIY (Do-It-Yourself) project for the average homeowner. You need experts who know how to do it safely and correctly. That’s where Rooster Roofing comes in!

How Can Rooster Roofing Help You?

At Rooster Roofing, we are your local experts in Janesville and the surrounding communities like Brodhead, Delavan, Edgerton, Beloit WI, Evansville WI, Milton, Monroe, Madison, and Lake Geneva. We know Wisconsin weather and what it takes to install a durable roof that lasts.

Saving Money on Your Metal Roof Project

A metal roof is a big investment, but there are ways to manage the costs and potentially save some money.

• Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t just go with the first estimate. Contact a few reputable local companies, like Rooster Roofing, to compare prices and proposals. An educated consumer knows what questions to ask.
• Ask About Warranties: Check the warranties offered by both the manufacturer (for the materials) and the contractor (for the workmanship). Good warranties can save you money on future repairs.
• Consider Different Options: Talk to us about the different types of metal, styles, and finishes. A corrugated steel roof with an SMP finish might be much more affordable than a standing seam copper roof with a specialty PVDF finish. Choosing a thicker material (lower gauge) costs more initially but can offer better durability.
• Look into Financing: Your contractor might offer financing, but you can also look into home equity loans, HELOCs, or personal loans. For smaller repairs or renovations, a credit card might be an option, especially with 0% introductory APR offers. Compare interest rates and terms carefully.
• Check for Tax Credits: Metal roofs can be energy efficient, and sometimes this qualifies them for tax credits, which can help offset the cost.
• Insurance Coverage: If you’re replacing your roof because of storm damage, your homeowners insurance might cover a good part of the cost. Understand what your policy covers.

By doing your homework and working with a trusted local company, you can feel confident about your metal roofing decision.

Is a Metal Roof Worth the Cost for Your Janesville Home?

For many homeowners in Janesville, WI, and the surrounding areas who value long-term durability, protection against weather, and energy savings, a metal roof is definitely worth the higher upfront cost. It’s a solid investment that can last for many, many years, potentially saving you money on repairs and replacements down the road compared to materials like asphalt shingles.

Whether you choose metal or another material, the most important thing is to get a quality installation from experienced professionals.

Ready to Talk Roofing?

If you’re in Janesville, WI, or any of our service areas like Brodhead, Delavan, Edgerton, Beloit WI, Evansville WI, Milton, Monroe, Madison, or Lake Geneva, and you’re thinking about a metal roof or any other roofing needs, give Rooster Roofing a call! We’d love to answer your questions and provide a free estimate tailored to your specific home and project.

Getting an estimate from us is easy! We’ll look at your roof, talk about your options (like different types of metal, styles, and colors), and give you a clear idea of the cost. There’s no pressure or obligation.