Standing seam, metal shingles, corrugated steel — real 2026 pricing plus a free calculator for your home.
Metal roofing has surged in popularity over the past decade — and for good reason. A metal roof lasts 40–70 years, reflects heat to reduce cooling costs, and can withstand winds over 140 mph. The tradeoff is upfront cost: metal roofs typically cost 2–4× more than architectural shingles.
This guide covers every metal roofing type, 2026 pricing by product, and a free calculator to estimate your specific project.
| Metal Roof Type | Cost Per Sq Ft | Per Square (100 sq ft) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standing Seam | $7–$14 | $700–$1,400 | 40–70 years |
| Metal Shingles | $5–$10 | $500–$1,000 | 30–50 years |
| Corrugated Steel | $3–$6 | $300–$600 | 25–40 years |
| Stone-Coated Steel | $4–$9 | $400–$900 | 40–70 years |
| Aluminum | $5–$11 | $500–$1,100 | 40–60 years |
| Copper | $15–$30 | $1,500–$3,000 | 70–100 years |
The classic objection to metal roofing is cost. But when you factor in lifespan, the math often favors metal:
| Arch. Shingles | Metal Shingles | Standing Seam | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost (2,000 sq ft home) | $10,000–$16,000 | $16,000–$28,000 | $22,000–$40,000 |
| Lifespan | 25–30 years | 30–50 years | 40–70 years |
| Replacements over 60 years | 2–3 times | 1–2 times | 0–1 times |
| 60-year total cost est. | $25,000–$48,000 | $22,000–$42,000 | $22,000–$40,000 |
Standing seam panels hide fasteners and require specialized tooling — which is why they cost more than exposed-fastener corrugated or metal shingles. If you want the cleanest look and the longest warranty, standing seam is worth the premium.
Thicker metal (lower gauge number) costs more but lasts longer. Most residential metal roofs use 24 or 26 gauge steel. Anything thicker than 22 gauge is typically for commercial applications.
Kynar 500® PVDF coatings (standard on premium metal roofs) last 30+ years without fading. Cheaper polyester coatings fade in 5–10 years. Make sure your quote specifies the paint system.
Use the calculator above to get an estimate for your specific home. Metal roofing options include standing seam and metal shingles — both with multiple pricing tiers based on material quality.
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