Metal Roofing Costs in Western North Carolina: 2025 Pricing Guide
Metal roofing costs more than asphalt shingles upfront. That’s the simple truth, and any contractor who suggests otherwise isn’t being straight with you. But the upfront cost is only part of the picture. When you factor in how long metal lasts, what you save on energy and maintenance, and what happens to your home’s value, the math often favors metal.
This guide provides realistic pricing information for metal roofing in the Asheville area and throughout Western North Carolina. We’ll cover what different types of metal roofing cost, what factors affect your specific quote, and how to think about the total value over time.
Average Metal Roof Costs in Western NC (2025)
Here’s what homeowners in our area typically pay for professionally installed metal roofing:
| Metal Roofing Type | Cost Per Square Foot (Installed) | Typical Home (2,000 sq ft roof) |
|---|---|---|
| Corrugated/R-Panel | $5 – $10 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Metal Shingles | $7 – $14 | $14,000 – $28,000 |
| Standing Seam (Steel) | $9 – $16 | $18,000 – $32,000 |
| Standing Seam (Aluminum) | $12 – $18 | $24,000 – $36,000 |
| Copper Standing Seam | $25 – $40+ | $50,000 – $80,000+ |
These rnges reflect typical residential projects in Buncombe, Henderson, and surrounding counties. Your actual cost depends on factors we’ll discuss below.
For comparison, asphalt shingle roofing in our area runs about $4 – $8 per square foot installed, or $8,000 – $16,000 for a typical home.
Understanding the Price Ranges
Why such wide ranges? Because “metal roofing” covers many different products, and every roof is different.
Low End of Range
You’ll land toward the lower end if your project has:
- Simple roof geometry (basic gable with few penetrations)
- Moderate roof pitch (4:12 to 8:12)
- Easy access for crew and materials
- Corrugated or basic panel profile
- Standard gauge panels and paint finish
- Minimal tear-off required
- No deck repair needed
High End of Range
Expect higher costs when your project involves:
- Complex roof geometry (multiple valleys, dormers, hip sections)
- Steep pitch (10:12 or greater)
- Difficult access (steep lot, limited staging area)
- Standing seam with premium profile
- Heavier gauge panels or upgraded paint systems
- Multiple layers of old roofing to remove
- Deck repair or replacement
- Extensive custom flashing work
Most residential projects fall somewhere in the middle.
Cost by Metal Roofing Type
Each type of metal roofing serves different needs and price points.
Corrugated and R-Panel Metal Roofing
Cost: $5 – $10 per square foot installed
Corrugated metal features a wavy profile, while R-panel has trapezoidal ribs. Both use exposed fasteners that screw through the panel surface into the roof deck. These are the most affordable metal roofing options.
Best for: Outbuildings, barns, workshops, budget-conscious residential projects where the utilitarian appearance fits.
Considerations: Exposed fasteners require periodic inspection and eventual re-sealing. Lifespan is typically 20-40 years rather than the 50+ years of concealed fastener systems.
Metal Shingles (Stone-Coated Steel)
Cost: $7 – $14 per square foot installed
Metal shingles mimic the appearance of traditional shingles, tiles, or shake while providing metal’s durability. Stone-coated steel products add a granular surface for texture and additional weather resistance.
Best for: Homeowners who want metal’s longevity but prefer a traditional roof appearance. HOA communities where standing seam might not be approved.
Considerations: More seams and overlaps than standing seam means slightly more maintenance over time. Some products have exposed fasteners; others conceal them.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing (Steel)
Cost: $9 – $16 per square foot installed
Standing seam is the premium residential metal roofing choice. Concealed fasteners eliminate leak points. Panels attach through clips that allow thermal movement. When people picture a “metal roof” on a modern home, they usually picture standing seam.
Best for: Primary residences where you want maximum longevity and the lowest long-term maintenance. Homeowners planning to stay in the home long-term.
Considerations: Higher upfront cost than other metal options. Requires skilled installation to realize the full lifespan potential.
Standing Seam (Aluminum)
Cost: $12 – $18 per square foot installed
Aluminum standing seam costs more than steel but offers superior corrosion resistance. It’s lighter weight and won’t rust even if the finish is damaged.
Best for: Coastal-influenced areas, locations with unusual corrosion concerns, or where the lighter weight matters structurally.
Considerations: Softer than steel, so it dents more easily. The price premium isn’t necessary for most WNC applications where steel performs fine.
Copper Standing Seam
Cost: $25 – $40+ per square foot installed
Copper is the prestige option. It develops a distinctive patina over time, lasts 100+ years, and makes an architectural statement.
Best for: Historic properties, high-end custom homes, or projects where the copper aesthetic is specifically desired.
Considerations: Significant cost premium. Requires specialized installation. The patina development takes years and goes through stages some owners don’t expect.
Breaking Down Material vs. Labor Costs
Understanding where your money goes helps you evaluate quotes and make informed decisions.
Material Costs (Approximate)
For a typical standing seam project, materials represent about 40-50% of total cost:
| Component | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Metal panels | $3.50 – $7.00/sq ft |
| Underlayment | $0.30 – $0.75/sq ft |
| Clips, fasteners, components | $0.50 – $1.00/sq ft |
| Trim, flashing, accessories | $0.75 – $2.00/sq ft |
| Total Materials | $5.00 – $10.75/sq ft |
Premium paint systems, heavier gauge panels, and complex trim requirements push toward the higher end.
Labor Costs
Labor represents the other 50-60% of project cost. Standing seam installation requires skilled work:
- Precise panel alignment
- Proper clip attachment
- Custom flashing fabrication
- Seam engagement (snap-lock or mechanical)
- Detail work at every penetration and transition
In the Asheville area, experienced metal roofing crews charge accordingly. This isn’t work where cutting labor cost improves value. Cheaper labor typically means less experienced installers, which leads to problems down the road.
Factors That Affect Your Specific Price
Roof Size
Larger roofs cost more in total dollars but often less per square foot. Fixed costs (permits, mobilization, setup) spread across more area. Material orders gain volume efficiency. A 3,000 square foot roof might come in at $10/sq ft while a 1,500 square foot roof of identical complexity runs $12/sq ft.
Roof Pitch (Steepness)
Steeper roofs require more safety equipment, slower work pace, and sometimes additional structural considerations. A roof with 12:12 pitch costs more to install than one with 5:12 pitch, even if the square footage is identical.
Roof Complexity
Simple rectangular roofs with few penetrations cost less than complex roofs with multiple planes, valleys, dormers, skylights, chimneys, and vents. Every transition point requires custom flashing work. Complex roofs can cost 30-50% more per square foot than simple ones.
Existing Roof Condition
If your current roof is a single layer of shingles in decent condition, tear-off is straightforward. Multiple layers of old roofing add removal time and disposal cost. If the deck underneath has rot or damage, repair costs add to the project.
Some metal roofing can install over existing shingles in certain conditions, saving tear-off cost. We evaluate whether this makes sense for your specific situation.
Accessibility
Can we easily get a material delivery truck close to your home? Is there a flat area for staging materials and equipment? Or is your home up a steep driveway with limited access?
Difficult access means longer material handling time, more manual labor moving panels into position, and sometimes additional logistics for equipment. This adds cost.
Geographic Location
Within Western NC, costs are relatively consistent. But remote locations far from supplier hubs may have higher delivery costs. Projects in areas with specific permitting requirements may have additional fees.
Project Timing
Roofing has seasonal demand patterns. Spring and fall are peak seasons with the highest demand. Winter and mid-summer often have more availability. While contractors don’t typically offer dramatic “off-season” discounts, scheduling flexibility can sometimes help with timing or priority.
Hidden Costs to Budget For
When comparing quotes, make sure you understand what’s included and what might be additional.
Tear-Off and Disposal
Removing your existing roof and disposing of materials properly costs $1 – $2 per square foot. Some quotes include this; others list it separately. Confirm whether tear-off is in the base price.
Deck Repair
If removing the old roof reveals damaged decking, it needs repair before metal goes on. We can’t know the deck condition until we remove the existing roof, so this is often an “if needed” allowance. Typical deck repair runs $2 – $5 per square foot for the affected area.
Permits
Most roofing projects in Buncombe County and surrounding areas require permits. Permit fees typically run $150 – $400 depending on jurisdiction and project scope. Responsible contractors handle permit acquisition as part of the job.
Upgraded Components
Standard quotes typically include standard underlayment, basic trim profiles, and standard clips. If you want upgraded underlayment (like peel-and-stick ice and water shield over the entire deck), premium trim packages, or enhanced snow guards, these add cost.
Gutters
Metal roofing doesn’t require new gutters, but it’s often a good time to address gutter needs. If your gutters are old, damaged, or undersized for your roof’s drainage, replacing them during the roofing project makes sense. Budget $1,000 – $3,000 for a typical gutter replacement if needed.
The 60-Year Cost Comparison
Upfront cost matters, but lifetime cost matters more. Here’s how metal compares to shingles over a 60-year period:
Scenario: 2,000 Square Foot Roof
Asphalt Shingles (20-year lifespan)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial installation | $12,000 |
| Replacement at year 20 | $15,000 (inflation adjusted) |
| Replacement at year 40 | $19,000 (inflation adjusted) |
| Maintenance over 60 years | $3,000 |
| Total 60-Year Cost | $49,000 |
Standing Seam Metal (50-60 year lifespan)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial installation | $25,000 |
| No replacement needed | $0 |
| Maintenance over 60 years | $1,000 |
| Energy savings over 60 years | -$6,000 to -$12,000 |
| Total 60-Year Cost | $14,000 – $20,000 |
Even at higher upfront cost, standing seam metal saves $29,000 – $35,000 over 60 years in this example. And you never deal with the hassle of roof replacement during that time.
Adjusting the Math for Your Situation
The comparison shifts based on your specifics:
Metal looks even better if:
- You have high cooling costs (greater energy savings)
- You plan to own the home 20+ years
- Shingle prices in your area are relatively high
- You value low maintenance and peace of mind
Shingles might make sense if:
- You plan to sell within 5-10 years
- The home is a rental or investment property with different priorities
- Budget constraints make upfront cost the deciding factor
- The roof geometry makes metal installation unusually expensive
We’re happy to run the numbers for your specific situation during your consultation.
Insurance Premium Savings
Metal roofing can qualify for homeowner’s insurance discounts. Here’s what’s available in North Carolina:
Impact Resistance Discounts
Metal roofing products rated Class 4 for impact resistance (the highest rating) may qualify for insurance premium discounts of 5-30% depending on your carrier and policy.
Class 4 rating means the roofing material passed testing where 2-inch steel balls dropped from 20 feet didn’t cause damage. Most quality metal roofing achieves this rating.
Wind Resistance Discounts
Standing seam’s high wind resistance (140 mph for most systems) may also qualify for wind-related premium reductions, particularly if you’re in a higher-risk area.
How to Get the Discount
Contact your insurance agent before your roofing project. Ask:
- Does your carrier offer metal roof discounts?
- What ratings or certifications are required?
- What documentation do you need to provide?
Get this information upfront so you can ensure your material choices qualify and you have the paperwork to claim the discount after installation.
Typical Savings
We’ve had customers report annual premium savings of $200 – $800 after switching to metal roofing. Over the roof’s lifespan, this adds significantly to the value equation.
Financing Your Metal Roof
The higher upfront cost of metal roofing stops some homeowners even when the long-term math makes sense. Financing can solve this.
Our Financing Partners
Secure Roofing works with Service Finance and Advancial to offer financing options for qualified customers. Terms available include:
- 12 months same-as-cash
- Extended payment plans up to 144 months
- Competitive interest rates
- Fast approval process
With financing, your monthly payment might be similar to what you’d save on energy costs and avoided future roof replacement.
Home Equity Options
If you have equity in your home, home equity loans or lines of credit often offer the lowest interest rates for home improvement projects. Your mortgage lender or bank can discuss these options.
Insurance Proceeds
If you’re replacing a roof due to storm damage, insurance proceeds may cover much of the cost. Metal roofing that meets code requirements is typically covered. We work with all insurance companies and can help with the claims process.
How to Get an Accurate Estimate
Online calculators and general pricing guides (including this one) provide ballpark figures. Getting an accurate price for your specific roof requires an in-person assessment.
What Happens During Our Consultation
- Roof measurement and inspection: We measure your roof precisely and note its geometry, pitch, and complexity.
- Existing condition assessment: We evaluate your current roofing and visible deck condition to anticipate tear-off needs.
- Access evaluation: We determine how materials will be delivered and staged.
- Discussion of your priorities: What matters most to you? Longevity? Appearance? Budget? Energy efficiency?
- Options presentation: Based on everything above, we discuss which metal roofing options make sense and what each would cost.
- Detailed written proposal: You receive a written estimate itemizing everything included so you can compare apples-to-apples with other quotes.
This consultation is free with no obligation. We want you to have accurate information to make your decision, whether you choose us or not.
Getting Multiple Quotes
We encourage getting 2-3 quotes for significant roofing projects. When comparing:
- Make sure you’re comparing similar specifications (same panel type, gauge, finish)
- Verify what’s included in each quote (tear-off, permits, deck repair allowance)
- Check credentials (licensing, insurance, manufacturer certifications)
- Ask about warranties (both material and workmanship)
- Consider reputation and track record, not just price
The lowest bid isn’t always the best value. A quote that’s significantly below others may mean inferior materials, inexperienced labor, or items you’ll pay for later as change orders.
Ready for Your Free Estimate?
Metal roofing represents a significant investment, and you deserve accurate pricing for your specific situation. Our team has been installing metal roofs throughout Western North Carolina since 2012. We’ll give you honest information whether you’re ready to move forward or just exploring options.
Call 828-888-ROOF to schedule your free consultation, or fill out our online form. We serve Asheville, Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Brevard, Waynesville, and communities throughout WNC.
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