How do you know when you're getting the best price for a new metal roof? Like most big purchases, getting the best price means doing your homework first. In the case of a new metal roof, the best price isn't limited to what the material itself costs. Here's a rundown on six critical factors that will add up to getting the best roof for your project at the best price:
1. Material Costs
The material cost itself is essentially the starting point. Metal roofing is generally sold by the square, which is equal to 100 square feet. Getting a per square price for a particular style and type of metal roof and then multiplying that by the square footage of your home is, however, deceptive at best. Attached garages, perimeter overhangs, slopes, detail pieces, underlayments, accessories and a percentage for waste will add considerably to the size of any job. If your roof is especially complex, costs will again go up.
So how should you begin to calculate ballpark pricing? An experienced supplier (ahem!) will be able to give you a general idea of cost after asking a few pertinent questions about your project. Don't hesitate to call and start the process with at least an idea of what the material will cost.
** We've got a great formula designed to help you ballpark prices for a range of roof materials available in our FREE re-roofing booklet. If you're not ready to speak with someone but you're still interested in general pricing, download it now! **
2. Installation Costs
Once you've got an idea of the price tag for the material itself, you'll need to consider the labor side. Your options here include purchasing and installing the materials yourself, purchasing the material and hiring an installer to put it on, or hiring a contractor to organize the entire project for you, from the material purchase to the installation. Prices, of course, will vary depending upon how involved you are. In our case, MRN is happy to supply your material and then recommend a qualified installer just right for your job. But you can certainly do your homework and hunt down the material and then find a contractor to do the job too. Just remember - you get what you pay for, and no one wants their metal roof compromised by a bad installation!
3. Energy Efficiency After Installation
One of the biggest advantages of metal roofing is the increased energy efficiency they can provide. The average metal roof will reduce energy costs from 20% to 30% compared to a conventional asphalt composition roof. And you can increase your savings with cool roofs, certified Energy Star finishes and solar components too. Imagine saving thousands over the lifetime of your metal roof and suddenly, the higher upfront cost doesn't seem so intimidating!
4. Taking Advantage of Special Offers
There are federal tax credits to be had when you re-roof with qualifying energy-efficient metal roof systems, and many suppliers offer steep discounts on materials at various times during the year. In fact, to kick-off our busy fall season (when everyone in need of a new roof before winter suddenly realizes they've basically run out of time!), we're offering discounts on coated steel and finished roofing. Don't hesitate to ask suppliers for discounts either. The average supplier is motivated to close a sale, and asking for a discount in exchange for a "yes" is a powerful move.
5. Considering the Long-Term
Quiz time! Which roof actually costs you less - the more expensive roof with the longer lifespan and reduced maintenance costs, or the less expensive roof that will need replacing within 10-15 years as well as general ongoing maintenance? It's an easy answer, of course, and it really hits home if you're planning on staying in your home. Why go through the headache and expense of re-roofing once every 10-15 years if you can do it once and be done with it? Over 50 years, you'll actually spend more on the "cheap" comp roofs than you would have with the better-looking, better-performing, eco-friendly metal roof!
6. Reduced Maintenance
Another factor to consider in the overall cost of a new roof? What kind of maintenance it will require during its lifespan! A benefit of metal roofing is the dramatically reduced maintenance it requires. In many cases, you won't have to do a thing. Compare that to the patching you'll need to do with a regular shingle roof and consider the savings there.
Here's what you need to remember. Metal roofs are more expensive than other roofing materials. But when you factor in all of these considerations and the advantages inherent in these roof systems, the cost of a metal roof compared to conventional roof choices becomes much more reasonable.
