How Much Does a Zinc Roof Cost? [2025 Data]

Zinc Roof Size

Primary metal roof cost factors, including zinc roofs, are related mostly to the roof's size. In general, prices are higher for metal roofs versus shingle roofs. Within that category, zinc roofs stand out on the higher end of the metal roofing cost scale. That said, zinc roofs are one of the longest-lasting metal roof types and arguably one of the most attractive. Because zinc roof costs have much to do with the project's size, larger roofs will cost more on average than smaller ones for installation. 

Zinc Roof Type

There are basically two types of zinc roofs available—standing seam and shingles or tiles—both of which are excellent metal roofs for cold climates. Other styles, such as corrugated shapes, are also available but are less common.

Standing Seam

Most people think of standing seam zinc roofs when considering various metal roof types. Although standing seam metal roofs are the most costly style, they feature concealed fasteners and excellent weather protection. There are a handful of profiles available, most of which are flat panels with interlocking seams that run from the roof's ridge to its eaves. 

Shingles or Tiles

Zinc shingles and tiles are unique due to their ability to mimic other roofing types. Usually only slightly less costly than standing seam versions, zinc shingles and tiles rely on overlapping materials to conceal fasteners and require an installation process that allows material expansion and contraction. 

Roof Installer Costs 

Professional roofer labor costs will make up approximately half of your zinc roof installation’s total price. However, if extra attention to specific items is necessary due to the condition of your existing roof during replacement, you could see the following costs on your invoice. 

• Existing roof demolition and disposal costs: $1 – $5 per square foot

• Installing flashing costs: $200 – $500

• Installing drip edge costs: $1 – $3 per linear foot

General Contractor Cost 

If your new zinc roof is part of a larger project, such as building a new home or remodeling an existing one, your general contractor will likely be involved in the roofing portion of the job. In these situations, your contractor will include the roof's cost in the pricing estimate for the entire project, which will include overhead, profit, and labor costs of between 40% and 50% of the total price. 

Additional Pros to Consider Hiring

While it may not be mandatory to finish off your roof-related to-do list while installing a zinc roof, it may make sense to hire additional pros to coordinate related projects. Some common projects and their costs include:

• Gutter installation costs: $625 – $1,700

• Attic insulation costs: $1,700 – $2,100

• Chimney repair costs: $160 – $750

• Soffit and fascia repair costs: $600 – $6,000

• Skylight repair costs: $1,008 – $2,768

Additional Zinc Roof Cost Factors

Most costs associated with your zinc roof installation will appear in your pricing estimate for the entire job. However, it can help to understand where the money is going. Additionally, if your roofer finds unknown pre-existing conditions that require attention, you could be looking at some extra charges to successfully complete the project. 

Demolition and Prep 

Demolition and disposal costs are pretty straightforward for most roofing projects. However, if your home's roof is especially steep or difficult to access, you can expect extra costs for its removal and prep work of between $1 and $4 per square foot more than for houses with more shallow roofs. 

Roof Structure Repairs

Occasionally, roofing installers come across situations where the existing roof structure requires repairs before moving forward with the installation of the new materials. Significant roof repairs necessary to pass the coming permit inspection can cost between $600 and $6,000.

Accessibility

Accessibility can be a particular concern when installing a zinc roof. While you can walk on a metal roof under controlled circumstances, doing so requires the use of safety equipment. Because of the need for harnesses and other safety gear, working on excessively steep or hard-to-reach roof sections can incur additional costs over more shallow roofs that minimize the need for additional safety gear.  

Flashing

Because your new zinc roof is a significant investment and is expected to last for 100 years or more, updating the roof flashing during its installation is recommended to avoid trouble later. Flashing replacement or repairs cost between $200 and $500 in most cases. 

Permits 

There are few municipalities in which obtaining a permit for roof work is unnecessary. While your contractor is responsible for getting the permit and handling the necessary inspections to satisfy its terms, It's important to know that permit costs hover between around $250 and $600 for most zinc roof installations. 

DIY Zinc Roof Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Because zinc roofs require precise installations and special attention paid to how the material fastens to the home, DIY zinc roof installations aren't recommended. While installing your own zinc roof isn't technically impossible, you'll run the risk of voiding the warranty from some manufacturers and, of course, risk injury or worse from falling off the roof. Specialized equipment will also be necessary, which makes hiring a local metal roof installer more cost-effective as well.  

Zinc Roof Replacement vs. Repair 

If your home has a zinc roof that's less than 80 years old and in mostly good condition, you may benefit more by repairing damages to it than replacing it. In fact, talking to your roofing contractor about your repair versus replacement options is a good way to help you choose the right roofer for the job. 

Tips to Reduce Cost While Installing a Zinc Roof

Installing a zinc roof on your home is a long-term investment. While it's true that the cost of installation is higher than for most other roofing types, there are some ways to help control costs. 

• Talk about repair versus replacement options with your roofing company.

• Consider opting out of highly customized materials and using your roofing company's existing material stock. 

• Buy discounted materials if your roofer offers them. 

Does Installing a Zinc Roof Increase Home Value?

One of the myths surrounding metal roofs is that they'll rust under normal conditions. While that may have been true in the past, it's now an unlikely scenario. However, zinc roofs can face trouble in areas where salty air is present. For that reason, installing an unprotected zinc roof near the coast isn't recommended.

Installing a zinc roof can significantly increase the home's value and be an excellent selling point for buyers. Additionally, homeowners can realize up to an 80% return on investment at selling time.

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. 

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