Metal Roof Cost

With the rain and unpredictable weather we get in the UK, it’s no surprise that metal roofs are becoming more and more popular with homeowners. Compared to other materials, metal roofing typically lasts 40 to 70 years, is weatherproof, and requires very little maintenance.

If you’re looking to update or replace your roof, then you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about metal roofing, including the costs, installation time and pros and cons compared to other roofing materials.

Let's get started below!

How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost?

The average cost to fit a metal roof in the UK is between £70 and £120 per square metre.

However, prices you're quoted will depend on the type of metal used, the shape and size of your roof, labour costs in your area, and the number of non-standard customisations you want or need.

Aluminium and steel are the more affordable options, while zinc and copper are a bit more expensive. While the initial cost of metal roofing may seem a bit pricey compared to others, you’ll save money in the long run as it requires very little upkeep and lasts longer than others.

Metal Roofing Prices

Here’s a breakdown of the costs of each metal and the benefits and uses for each, so you can find the right one for your home.

We’ve also included a list of the common accessories you may want to consider for your metal roof and how these will impact the final cost.

Accessories

Metal Roofing Supply Costs

With a typical metal roof, the bulk of your spend usually goes on the materials — you’re looking at around 60% of the entire project cost. For copper or standing seam, it can creep closer to 70%, while basic corrugated steel pulls it back to nearer 50%.

Here’s a closer look at how metal roofing supply costs can be affected:

Labour Costs and Timescales

Depending on where you are in the country, the size of the job and other factors, you can expect to pay a professional roofer between £180 and £250 per day or £25 to £50 per hour.

Also, keep in mind that weather conditions and preparing the structure can also cause delays, so factor this in where possible.

Factors That Impact Metal Roof Costs

Some costs are easy to guess – bigger roof, pricier metal. But it’s the extra jobs like removal, waste, scaffolding and tweaks to the structure that often catch people out. Here’s what to look out for:

Roof Pitch

Steeper roofs are harder and slower to work on, which adds labour time. They can also call for greater or more complicated scaffolding, especially around cumbersome eaves and valleys (scaffolding is often £500–£1,000 depending on height and access).

When you get quotes, give the pitch if you know it, and ask the roofer to view in person if the angles are unusual.

Type and Thickness of Metal

Aluminium and steel tend to be more budget-friendly; zinc and copper sit higher up the scale. Thicker gauges and premium finishes (e.g., PVDF) last longer but cost more. Heavier systems can also have knock-ons for structure (see below).

Location

London and larger cities usually cost more because of overheads, parking, and demand. The flip side is you’ll have more choice, so it’s worth comparing a few local quotes.

Roof Condition

If the existing roof is tired or leaking, there’s extra work before the new metal goes on. That can include:

• Old roof removal — stripping tiles/felt or panels before re-roofing (typically £500–£1,500, depending on size and material).
• Waste disposal — legal disposal of stripped materials, often with skip hire (£200–£500).
• Hazards — if asbestos is found, you’ll need licensed removal and separate disposal (your roofer will flag this at survey).

Removing the Existing Roof: What Happens

Replacing an old covering with a new metal roof? Expect a short prep phase that affects time and cost:

• Strip off the old tiles/felt or panels.
• Inspect and prepare the roof decking (replace any rotten sections).
• Dispose of waste legally — usually via skip hire.
• Handle any hazardous materials (e.g., asbestos) via licensed contractors.

Access

If your property and particularly your roof is hard to reach or awkward, this will impact the cost, especially if scaffolding or special equipment is needed.

Tight drives, rear extensions, or no rear access can make everything slower and affect how scaffolding is designed. Expect costs for towers/bridges or extra lifts on scaffold (again, £500–£1,000 is a common ballpark for a standard house, more if complex).

Finish and Colour

Custom powder coating or colour-matching looks great, but it’s an upgrade that adds to the price. You may also need new trims to suit the finish, which leads neatly to…

Edges and Water Management

Many re-roofs sensibly include fresh perimeter metals and rainwater gear:

• Flashing upgrades — new flashings around chimneys, abutments, and valleys improve weathering and reduce future leaks.
• Guttering refresh — replacing tired gutters/downpipes while the scaffold’s up often saves hassle later (£200–£800 depending on material and run).

Structure

Most homes are fine, but if the deck or rafters are suspect, strengthening may be needed before the new metal goes on (allow from £500+ for minor reinforcement). Your roofer should check this at survey and explain options.

Insulation and Building Regs

Whatever you choose, the roof still has to meet current insulation and fire standards. If you’re short on thickness or the deck is being replaced, you may add:

• Thermal upgrades — insulation boards/rolls to hit energy targets (£10–£20 per m²).
• Underlay and air gaps — correct underlay and ventilation so the system stays dry and performs as it should.

Building Regulations for Metal Roofing

In most cases, you won’t need planning permission to install or replace a metal roof. However, there are some exceptions to this. Here are some of the things to check before you start getting quotes for a new metal roof:

If your property is listed

You can replace the roof in a listed property, but you will need special permission for this and will have to follow specific regulations.

If it’s in a conservation area

Much the same as above, you can replace a roof even if you live in a conservation area, but this will just require some special planning permission.

If the roof shape or height changes significantly

If you’re replacing or installing a roof that will change shape or height significantly from what was there, you may need planning permission for this.

Whether or not planning permission is needed, you must still meet UK Building Regulations. Key points include:

• Ensure the roof meets current insulation/energy standards.
• Maintain proper fire resistance (especially near party walls).
• Confirm the roof structure can support the metal roofing system.

If you’re not sure whether you need planning permission, check with your local authority before work starts. It's far cheaper than undoing work later.

To find out if you need planning permission or not, visit the Planning Portal.

Types of Metal Roofing

The type of metal roof you should choose really depends on cost, best uses for each, and how easy they are to install. Always ask your roofer for advice on this so they can advise you on what’s best for your property.

Here are the main types of metal roofing available in the UK:

Corrugated Metal Panels

Cost: £70 - £90 per m²

Corrugated metal panels are a popular roofing option made from galvanised steel or aluminium, formed into rigid, wavy sheets. They’re lightweight, durable and easy to install, making them a cost-effective solution for both residential and commercial buildings. The corrugated profile helps water run off quickly, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage.

Pros:

• ✔ Lightweight and easy to install
• ✔ Great water runoff due to the corrugated design
• ✔ Long life (up to 40–60 years with maintenance)
• ✔ Rot, pest and fire resistant
• ✔ Can be installed over existing roofs in some cases
• ✔ Cheaper than standing seam or metal tile roofing

Cons:

• ✖ Can be noisy in heavy rain or hail
• ✖ Dents easily from impact
• ✖ More maintenance required in coastal areas
• ✖ Not all home styles suit the industrial look
• ✖ Exposed fasteners can work loose over time and cause leaks

Standing Seam Roofing

Cost: £95 - £120 per m²

Standing seam roofing is a premium metal roofing system with vertical panels and raised seams that hide the fasteners. This looks sleek and modern and is weather-tight. Made from steel or aluminium, standing seam roofs are used on high-end residential and commercial buildings because of their clean lines and long life.

Pros:

• ✔ Sleek modern look
• ✔ Concealed fasteners means less chance of leaks
• ✔ 40-70 year lifespan
• ✔ Low maintenance and fire, pest and rot resistant
• ✔ Solar panel compatible
• ✔ Performs well in harsh weather

Cons:

• ✖ More expensive than other metal roofing options
• ✖ Requires special labour to install
• ✖ More expensive to repair if seams are damaged
• ✖ Not suitable for very complex or irregular roof shapes
• ✖ Expands and contracts with temperature changes so needs to be allowed for in installation

Metal Shingles/Tiles

Cost: £30 - £100 per m²

Metal shingles or tiles look like traditional roofing materials like slate, clay or wood but with the durability of metal. Made from steel or aluminium these roofing systems combine classic looks with modern performance. They are installed in interlocking panels for weather protection and improved kerb appeal.

Pros:

• ✔ Looks like traditional roofing (e.g. slate or tile)
• ✔ Lightweight yet strong and durable
• ✔ Long life (40–70 years)
• ✔ Fire, rot, insect and mould resistant
• ✔ Lower maintenance than natural tile or wood roofs
• ✔ Can increase property value with looks and longevity

Cons:

• ✖ More expensive than asphalt or corrugated metal
• ✖ Individual tiles can be difficult and costly to repair
• ✖ Requires skilled professionals to install
• ✖ Noisy in heavy rain if not insulated
• ✖ Can dent under impact (e.g. falling branches)

Metal Sheets

Cost: £50 - £140 per m²

Metal sheet roofing refers to large flat or slightly profiled panels made from steel, aluminium or zinc. These are used in industrial, agricultural and low-cost residential buildings due to ease of installation and affordability. They’re less decorative than other options, but offer solid weather resistance and a long lifespan if maintained.

Pros:

• ✔ Cheaper than other roofing types
• ✔ Quick to install over large areas
• ✔ Lightweight, reduces structural load
• ✔ Durable and low maintenance
• ✔ Fire, pest and rot resistant
• ✔ Suitable for various roof pitches

Cons:

• ✖ Basic look may not suit all properties
• ✖Can be noisy in rain or hail without insulation
• ✖Prone to denting from impact
• ✖Expands and contracts with temperature changes
• ✖Exposed fasteners need periodic maintenance to prevent leaks

Alternative Roofing Options

Metal not the right fit? Here are the common alternatives at a glance — what they’re best for and the ballpark supply costs.

Tip: Unsure which way to go? Get a couple of quotes and ask roofers to explain the pros and cons for your particular roof shape and location.

Checklist: Hiring a Roofer to Install a Metal Roof

Before you book anyone, run through these quick checks so you know you’re in safe hands:

• Are they part of a recognised Competent Person Scheme? If they can self-certify, you’ll get a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate without separate council sign-off.
• Will they handle building control if needed? If they can’t self-certify, ask them to coordinate sign-off with your local authority and include any fees in the quote.
• Do they have public liability insurance? It’s not a legal must, but it protects you if something goes wrong on site. Ask for proof and check dates.
• Is scaffolding and access included? Metal roofs usually need full perimeter scaffolding. Make sure design, hire period, and extras (lifts, bridges) are in the price.
• Is waste removal covered? Confirm roof strip-off, skips, and licensed disposal are included, not “TBC.” Ask how they’ll handle any asbestos if it’s discovered.
• What experience do they have with your system? Standing seam, zinc, copper, or corrugated all install differently. You want recent, similar jobs — not guesswork.
• Can they show examples of similar work? Look for before-and-after photos and recent references on their MyJobQuote profile.
• Do they understand condensation control? Ask how they’re detailing underlay, ventilation, and insulation to prevent condensation under the metal.
• What warranties are you getting? Clarify manufacturer product warranties and the installer’s workmanship guarantee — and how to claim if there’s a problem.
• Will the quote be itemised? Request a written, fixed-price quote with timelines, materials (gauge/finish), flashing details, insulation spec, and any allowances.
• What’s the schedule and payment plan? Get start/finish dates, how weather delays are handled, and a staged payment plan tied to milestones — not “cash up front.”
• Who’s supervising the job? Name of the lead fitter on site, daily hours, and how they’ll keep the place tidy and safe for access.

FAQs