How to Choose the Best Metal Roof in 2025 — Part 2: Costs, Installation & Choosing the Right Contractor

Part 1 of our guide covered all the information a homeowner needs to select the right metal roofing system — materials, profiles, performance, life expectancy, and more. If you haven’t read it, we recommend Part 1 as an essential primer to help you choose the most informed metal roof.

In Part 2, we drill down on the topics most important to many homeowners:

What are the costs of a metal roof in 2025?
What factors affect pricing?
And, how can you choose the right contractor to ensure the roof is installed correctly?

Let’s go over the numbers, variables, and tips to help you make the smartest possible decision.

How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost?

When upgrading to a metal roof, the first question that many homeowners ask is, “How much will it cost?”. Although the initial investment is higher than asphalt shingles, the savings over time and performance advantages make metal roofing a smart financial decision.

On average, in Canada, metal roofing costs between $7 and $18 per square foot installed (materials + labor) in 2025. That means a 2,000 sq. ft. home will cost between $14,000 and $36,000, depending on roof size, location, type of metal, complexity, and other factors.

As a comparison, an asphalt shingle roof replacement costs around $3 to $5 per square foot, but it will need to be replaced every 15–20 years. A metal roof lasts 50+ years, eliminating future tear-offs and replacement expenses.

Metal Roof Cost per Square Foot (2025)

• Roof Type Estimated Cost (Per Sq. Ft.)
• Corrugated Steel Panels $6 – $8
• Interlocking Steel Shingles $6 – $9
• Premium Aluminum Tiles $9 – $12
• Standing Seam Roofs $14+
• Exotic Metals (Copper, Zinc) $20+

All of these prices include professional installation. Prices may vary by region – for example, there is a bit more competition and easier supply access in Southern Ontario, making costs slightly lower in that region, while more remote areas of Alberta are likely to have higher transport and labor expenses.

As you research further, you will find that some roofing companies have extensive overhead costs and mark up materials and labor significantly. At Professional Metal Roofing, we transparently pass our actual costs along to you and do not add on a “business profit” margin for our services.

What Factors Affect Metal Roof Pricing?

A few variables will determine whether your project is near the low or high end of this price range. The main cost drivers are:

1. Type of Metal Material

• Steel: Cheapest overall; further savings with basic corrugated styles.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-proof, but more expensive.
• Copper or Zinc: High-end materials for luxury homes; unmatched longevity and beauty.
• Thicker gauges and specialty coatings (like anti-corrosion) will increase the cost.

To learn more about common roofing terms and materials, visit our Roofing Glossary.

2. Roof Style and Profile

• Corrugated/ribbed panels: most affordable.
• Metal shingles or standing seam with fancy detailing = higher labor costs and accessory costs.
• Fully concealed fastener systems cost more to install.

3. Roof Size & Complexity

• A larger roof = more materials + more labor.
• Simple gable roof is cheaper than complex roof with multiple slopes, dormers, or steep pitch.
• Steep or complex roofs take more safety equipment and cutting/custom work, which is priced higher.

4. Tear-Off & Roof Deck Prep

• If removing old shingles, that will add $1–$2 per square foot.
• If the existing roof cannot be overlaid, additional prep work may be required to the deck below.
• Deck repair/reinforcement, or additional underlayment layers ensure proper installation and structural integrity.

5. Labor & Installation Rates

• Installation requires skilled labor. Metal roofing is not the same as asphalt shingle installation, especially for standing seam systems.
• Contractor labor rates vary: higher in Ontario cities, lower in rural Alberta.

Always get a detailed quote that includes:

• Underlayment
• Flashings
• Fasteners
• Cleanup and disposal

👉 Feel free to request a Free Estimate from our team to get a transparent quote customized to your home.

The Long-Term Value of Metal Roofing

The higher cost of metal roofing pays off in the long term:

• Lower maintenance and fewer replacements
• Reduced energy bills with reflective coatings
• Possible insurance discounts with fire/hail resistance
• Higher resale value (up to 6% more than standard asphalt roofs)
• Homeowners staying in their home 15+ years usually find metal roofing is the most cost-effective and reliable roofing option over time.

As Environment and Climate Change Canada reports, the country is experiencing more frequent and extreme weather due to climate change, making choosing roofing materials more important than ever.

Choosing the Right Metal Roofing Contractor

Selecting high-quality materials is only half the battle — proper installation is key.

Follow our tips to find a roofing expert you can trust:

✅ Look for Specialized Experience

Metal roofing is different than asphalt shingle installation. Your contractor should:

• Specializing in metal roofs
• Be experienced with standing seam systems and thermal movement/expansion gaps
• Showcase a portfolio of past work

Feel free to ask them:
“How many metal roofs have you installed?”

✅ Check Licenses, Insurance & Reviews

• Confirm that company credentials and insurance coverages are valid and current.
• Ask for references or read their Google reviews.
• Reputable companies will gladly provide you with photos of previous work.

👉 View our work on the Our Works page to see samples of projects we’ve completed across Ontario and Alberta.

✅ Ask About Materials and Warranties

• Quality contractors use only proven brands and offer warranties for materials and workmanship.
• Steer clear of unrealistically low bids that often involve cheap materials.

✅ Choose Local Knowledge

Local contractors know:

• Harsh Canadian winters
• Violent prairie hailstorms
• Building codes and permit requirements
• Working with a regional specialist like Professional Metal Roofing means your installation is climate-ready and code-compliant.

✅ Get a Transparent Quote

A reputable contractor will itemize all costs: materials, labor, tear-off, flashing, debris removal.

Beware of vague or suspiciously cheap quotes that may come with extra “hidden” costs or substandard workmanship.

Conclusion: Invest in a Roof That Lasts

Choosing a metal roof means choosing lasting protection, elevated curb appeal, and long-term value for your home.

In this two-part guide, we’ve provided the key insights to help you make a confident, informed decision:

• Part 1 walked you through how to select the best metal roofing system for your needs.

• Part 2 (this article) detailed the costs, installation process, and how to choose the right contractor.

Whether you’re ready to start your roofing project or still exploring your options, the team at Professional Metal Roofing is here to support you every step of the way. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Ontario and Alberta, delivering exceptional results backed by quality materials and skilled installation.