How Much Does a Steel Roof Cost to Install? [2025 Data]

Size of Steel Roof 

The size of your roof is the most significant factor when it comes to pricing out your steel roofing project. You’ll pay an average of $11 per square foot to install a steel roof, with a normal range of $6 to $16.

Roofer Cost 

Labor costs to install a metal roof will account for 40% to 60% of your total, or between $7,600 and $11,400 for an average roof size. Your price could increase if you have a complex roof design or need repairs to the roof decking before your metal roof pro can begin the installation.

Cost by Location 

Location significantly affects the cost of steel roofing because labor, material transport, and climates are different across the nation. Costs can be much higher in areas where building is difficult, such as in San Francisco, than in areas with plenty of space to work, such as Phoenix and Buffalo.

Additional Cost Factors 

Roof size and location are some of the most important cost factors to consider, but there are some other things to think about if you want the most accurate estimate possible.

Cost by Type of Metal Roof

There are a few different types of steel roof you can choose from, and these vary when it comes to material cost and aesthetics. A corrugated steel roof is going to be the most affordable but adds the least curb appeal and home value. A standing seam metal roof is the most expensive option, but it’s the nicest looking type of metal roof.

Cost by Type of Steel

The type of steel roofing material you choose affects the cost of your project, too. The most common steel choices are galvanized and painted.

Demolition and Prep 

You’ll need to remove your old roof and underlayment before you can install new materials. Expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for this portion of the job, including disposal. Many roofers will include this in their initial estimates, but check with the roofer you choose to make sure it’s not extra.

Permits

In almost all cases, you’ll need a permit to replace or install a roof. Roofing permits cost between $250 and $500. Building without a permit can result in heavy penalties, and you may even have to remove the installed roof, so make sure you double-check your permits before starting any work. 

Unexpected Repairs

When your roofer removes your old roof, there’s a chance they’ll uncover hidden damage to the materials below. If the damage is extensive enough, you may need to pay between $2 and $5 per square foot to replace the plywood or OSB.

Steel Roof Repair vs. Replacement

Steel roof repair costs an average of $1,500, with a normal range of $1,000 to $5,000. Unfortunately, repairing a metal roof involves replacing large panels that come with high material and labor costs. The good news is that this is still significantly more affordable than a full replacement, which costs an average of $19,000.

In almost all cases, it’s more adorable to repair your steel roof than replace it, but if the damage is severe and will cost 50% or more of the roof replacement cost, or you’ve had ongoing issues with roof leaks, a full replacement may provide greater value over time.

DIY Steel Roof Install vs. Hiring a Pro 

It’s always best to hire a local metal roofer to install a steel roof rather than do the work yourself. It’s possible to install a metal roof yourself, of course, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to roof leaks and major property damage. Ultimately, it’s worth the investment to hire a professional roofer.

Tips to Reduce Cost While Installing a Steel Roof 

The two main cost factors when installing a steel roof are materials and labor. Labor costs are something you can try to negotiate, but not by much. However, there are some other ways you can whittle down the bottom line:

• Negotiate with suppliers if available. Look for materials during the off-season to find deals.

• Use any discount codes (or sign up for some).

• Install your roof when the roofer has a lull in their schedule. Again, off-season work can often save you some serious money.

• Use recycled materials. 

• Gather at least five quotes and compare. 

• Buy everything in bulk. 

Does Adding a Steel Roof Increase Home Value? 

Steel roofs improve home value because they significantly increase a home’s ability to withstand bad weather, and they can even help keep your home cool by reflecting sunlight. Installing a steel roof—especially a stainless one—can result in a return on investment (ROI) of between 55% and 80% of the cost. Whether you’re replacing an old roof or building a new one, installing a steel roof is one of the best projects you can do to increase your home’s value. 

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to costquotes@angi.com. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.