EXTERIOR
How to Estimate Metal Roofing
Contractor method to estimate metal roofing by roof area, panel type, gauge, underlayment and removal with clear materials and labor lines.
Metal roofing prices by the roof area, and the panel type, gauge and underlayment change the number a lot. Removal of the old roof is usually the deciding line between a re-cover and a full tear-off. This guide covers measuring the roof, choosing the panel and gauge, and quoting removal.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How to Estimate Metal Roofing
1,500 sq ft of standing seam, 24 gauge, with underlayment, old roof removal and install at $4/sq ft totals about $14,700.
Measure the roof area
Price by the square footage of roof, not the footprint. Multiply the footprint by the pitch factor to get the true surface you will cover.
- Roof area
- Panel type
- Gauge
- Underlayment
Panel type and gauge
Standing seam and exposed-fastener panels price differently, and thicker gauge costs more but resists dents. Match both to the roof and the budget.
Underlayment protects the deck
A quality underlayment under the metal stops moisture and ice-damage. It is a small line that matters, so keep it in the quote.
Re-cover vs full tear-off
Laying over the old roof is cheaper but not always allowed. A full tear-off adds removal and disposal, and it is the biggest variable in the bid.