If you’re searching “What does a metal roof cost 1600 square foot house?”, you’re likely planning a roof replacement and want a realistic price range before hiring a contractor. Metal roofing is known for durability, energy efficiency, and long-term value, but the upfront cost varies greatly. This guide breaks everything down clearly so you understand material pricing, labor, cost factors, and what to expect for a 1,600 sq ft home.
What Does a Metal Roof Cost 1600 Square Foot House?
For a 1,600 square foot house, the cost of installing a metal roof typically ranges from $9,600 to $40,000, depending on the type of metal, roof pitch, labor rates, and location.
Read too: How Long Do Standing Seam Metal Roofs Last? A Comprehensive Guide to Durability and Longevity
Here’s the breakdown by material:
| Metal Type | Cost per Sq Ft Installed | Total Cost (1600 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Corrugated Metal | $6 – $10 | $9,600 – $16,000 |
| Aluminum Panels | $9 – $15 | $14,400 – $24,000 |
| Standing Seam | $10 – $20 | $16,000 – $32,000 |
| Steel Shingles | $12 – $18 | $19,200 – $28,800 |
| Copper Roofing | $20 – $40 | $32,000 – $64,000 |
Metal roofing prices fluctuate based on supply, labor demand, and the roof’s complexity.
According to roofing industry references (source: Wikipedia), metal roofs are valued for their longevity and energy efficiency, often lasting 40–70 years.
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Metal Roof
To give you accurate insight, here are the main cost drivers:
1. Type of Metal Roofing Material
Material choice impacts over 40% of total cost.
Corrugated Metal
- Cheapest option
- Easy to install
- Best for budget-conscious homes
Standing Seam Panels
- More durable
- Premium look
- Hidden fasteners = longer lifespan
Aluminum Roof
- Lightweight
- Rust-resistant
- Great for coastal regions
Steel Shingles
- Look like asphalt shingles
- Higher-end durability
Copper
- Extremely long-lasting
- Premium and aesthetically unique
- Most expensive option
2. Labor Costs
Labor rates depend on:
- Roof pitch (steeper = more expensive)
- Roof complexity
- Removal of old roof
- Local market demand
Average metal roof labor costs:
- $3 – $7 per sq ft
- Total labor estimate for 1600 sq ft: $4,800 – $11,200
3. Geographic Location
Roofing prices differ across the U.S.
Regions with highest labor rates:
- West Coast
- Northeast
- Mountain states
Regions with lowest rates:
- Midwest
- South / Southeast
4. Roof Pitch (Slope)
Steeper roofs require more safety measures and slower installation.
Pitch cost impact:
- Low slope: base price
- Moderate slope: + 10–20%
- Steep slope: + 30–40%
5. Removing the Old Roof
Roof removal costs:
- Single layer: $1 – $2 per sq ft
- Two layers: $2 – $4 per sq ft
Total removal for 1,600 sq ft: $1,600 – $6,400
6. Underlayment & Accessories
Metal roof systems require:
- Synthetic underlayment
- Ice & water shield
- Ridge caps
- Venting
- Flashing
Expect: $1,000 – $3,500 for accessories.
Total Price Breakdown for a 1600 Sq Ft Metal Roof
Low Budget Option ($9,600 – $16,000)
- Corrugated metal panels
- Standard roof slope
- Basic underlayment
- Low labor region
Mid-Range Option ($16,000 – $28,000)
- Standing seam or aluminum panels
- Moderate pitch roof
- High-quality underlayment
- Average U.S. labor rates
Premium Option ($28,000 – $64,000)
- Copper or steel shingles
- Steep roof pitch
- Complex rooflines
- High-cost region
Cost Comparison: Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles
| Roof Type | Cost for 1600 Sq Ft | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $5,000 – $10,000 | 15–30 yrs | Moderate |
| Metal Roof | $9,600 – $40,000 | 40–70 yrs | Low |
| Copper Roof | $32,000 – $64,000 | 70–100+ yrs | Very low |
Conclusion:
A metal roof costs more upfront but lasts 2–3× longer and increases home resale value.
Is a Metal Roof Worth It for a 1600 Sq Ft Home?
Yes — especially for long-term homeowners.
Metal Roof Benefits
- Very long lifespan
- Fire-resistant
- Energy-efficient (reflects heat)
- Withstands extreme weather
- Increases home value
- Environmentally friendly (recyclable materials)
Potential Drawbacks
- Higher upfront cost
- More difficult installation
- May require additional insulation for noise
How to Calculate Your Exact Metal Roof Cost (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Measure Roof Area
Roof area is usually 1.1–1.5× the home footprint.
For a 1600 sq ft house:
Roof area ≈ 1760–2400 sq ft depending on slope.
Step 2: Choose Metal Type
Example: Standing seam.
Step 3: Multiply by Price
$10 – $20 per sq ft × 1760 sq ft
= $17,600 – $35,200
Step 4: Add Labor
$4,800 – $11,200
Step 5: Add Removal (if needed)
$1,600 – $3,200
Step 6: Add Accessories
$1,000 – $3,500
Total Estimated Cost:
$25,000 – $52,000 for a standing-seam metal roof.
Cost of Metal Roof by Material for 1600 Sq Ft House
| Material | Installed Cost per Sq Ft | Total Cost (1600 Sq Ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Steel | $7–$12 | $11,200–$19,200 |
| Galvalume | $8–$14 | $12,800–$22,400 |
| Aluminum | $9–$15 | $14,400–$24,000 |
| Copper | $20–$40 | $32,000–$64,000 |
| Zinc | $15–$25 | $24,000–$40,000 |
Metal Roof Lifespan and Maintenance
Average Lifespans
- Corrugated steel: 40–60 yrs
- Standing seam: 50–70 yrs
- Aluminum: 45–60 yrs
- Copper: 70–100+ yrs
Maintenance Requirements
- Annual inspection
- Tighten loose fasteners
- Remove debris
- Clean gutters
Metal roofs require less maintenance than asphalt shingles.
What Increases Metal Roof Cost the Most?
These factors significantly raise costs:
- Steep roof pitch (+40%)
- Complex roof shapes (hips, dormers, valleys)
- High-cost labor area
- Premium metal types (copper, zinc)
- Tear-off of multiple old roofing layers
DIY Metal Roof Installation Costs
While DIY metal roofing may seem appealing, it’s not recommended unless you have experience.
DIY Material Cost Only:
$3 – $10 per sq ft
Risks of DIY:
- Voids manufacturer warranty
- High fall risk
- Errors cause leaks or structural damage
- Requires specialized tools
FAQ (H2)
1. What does a metal roof cost 1600 square foot house?
Depending on material and labor rates, a metal roof for a 1600 sq ft house costs $9,600–$40,000, with premium copper roofs reaching $64,000.
2. What is the cheapest metal roof option?
Corrugated steel panels, costing $6–$10 per sq ft installed.
3. How long does a metal roof last?
Most metal roofs last 40–70 years, while copper can last 100+ years with minimal maintenance.
4. Is a metal roof more expensive than shingles?
Yes. Metal is 2–3× more expensive upfront but lasts significantly longer and increases energy efficiency.
5. Does roof pitch affect metal roof cost?
Yes. Steeper roofs take longer to install and require more safety gear, increasing cost by 10–40%.
6. What is the best metal roof type for value?
Standing seam metal roofing offers the best balance of durability, energy efficiency, and resale value.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly what does a metal roof cost 1600 square foot house, including labor, material prices, installation factors, and long-term value. Metal roofing is a smart investment for homeowners who want durability, energy savings, and decades of performance. If this guide helped you, feel free to share it on your social media to help others planning a roofing project.
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