Quick Answer
Metal roofing installation in Tampa Bay costs $14,000-$55,000 depending on type and home size. Standing seam metal roofs last 40-50 years, reflect heat reducing cooling costs by 20-30%, and withstand hurricane-force winds up to 140 mph. While more expensive than shingles upfront, metal roofs save money long-term through energy savings, durability, and insurance discounts. Free estimates and financing available.
Types of Metal Roofing
We install all types of metal roofing systems designed for Florida’s climate:
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Most Popular Choice for Florida Homes
Standing seam is the premium metal roofing option with concealed fasteners and raised vertical ribs.
Features:
- Concealed fasteners - No exposed screws to leak or loosen
- Vertical ribs - 1-2” tall raised seams for water shedding
- Continuous panels - Run from ridge to eave without seams
- Interlocking design - Panels snap together for watertight seal
- Expansion/contraction - Clips allow metal to move with temperature
Panel Profiles:
- Snap-lock - Easier installation, 16” or 18” wide panels
- Mechanical seam - Crimped together, highest wind resistance
- Batten panel - Traditional look with wide flat panels
Materials:
- Galvalume (aluminum-zinc coated steel) - Most common
- Aluminum - Coastal areas, never rusts
- Copper - Premium, develops patina
- Zinc - Ultra-premium, 100+ year lifespan
Cost: $12-$18 per sq ft installed ($18,000-$45,000 average home)
Best For:
- Modern/contemporary homes
- Maximum wind resistance
- Coastal properties
- Long-term investment
- Homes with low to moderate pitch
Pros:
- No exposed fasteners to fail
- Wind rated to 140+ mph
- 40-50 year lifespan
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Superior water shedding
Cons:
- Higher initial cost
- Fewer color options than painted finishes
- Requires skilled installation
- Oil canning (minor waviness) possible
5V Crimp Metal Roofing
Traditional Florida Metal Roof Style
The classic “tin roof” look with exposed fasteners and vertical crimp pattern.
Features:
- Exposed fastener system - Screws through panels with rubber washers
- V-shaped crimp pattern - 5 crimps per 3-foot panel
- Overlapping seams - Panels overlap 1-2 crimps
- Simple installation - Faster than standing seam
- Traditional aesthetic - Classic barn/farmhouse look
Panel Width:
- Standard: 36” wide panels (covers 34-35” installed)
- Overlap pattern creates watertight seal
Materials:
- Galvalume steel - Most economical
- Painted galvalume - Color options
- Aluminum - Coastal properties
Cost: $7-$12 per sq ft installed ($10,500-$30,000 average home)
Best For:
- Barn/agricultural buildings
- Budget-conscious homeowners
- Steep pitch roofs (5:12 or greater)
- Traditional/farmhouse style homes
- DIY-friendly option
Pros:
- Lower cost than standing seam
- Faster installation
- Easy to repair
- Traditional Florida look
- Good ventilation under panels
Cons:
- Exposed fasteners can leak over time
- Washers deteriorate in UV/heat
- Lower wind resistance (90-110 mph)
- Requires periodic fastener inspection
- Less sleek appearance
Metal Shingle/Tile Roofing
Metal that Looks Like Other Materials
Stamped metal panels designed to mimic traditional roofing materials.
Styles Available:
- Shake/shingle pattern - Cedar shake appearance
- Slate look - Natural stone appearance
- Tile profile - Spanish/Mediterranean tile look
- Diamond/geometric - Victorian/historical patterns
Features:
- Interlocking panels for wind resistance
- Stamped 3D texture for realistic appearance
- Multiple colors and finishes
- Lighter than real slate or tile
- Concealed or minimal fasteners
Cost: $10-$16 per sq ft installed ($15,000-$40,000 average home)
Best For:
- Historical homes
- HOA restrictions
- Mediterranean/Spanish style
- Homes requiring tile appearance
- Areas with slate/shake requirements
Pros:
- Authentic appearance of expensive materials
- Fraction of weight (1/6 of real tile)
- Hurricane resistant
- No cracking like real tile
- 40-50 year lifespan
Cons:
- More expensive than simple panels
- Complex installation
- Limited contractor expertise
- Fewer color choices
- May not fool close inspection
Corrugated Metal Roofing
Budget-Friendly Utility Option
Wavy corrugated panels for sheds, barns, and utility buildings.
Features:
- Deep corrugations (waves) for strength
- Exposed fastener system
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Simple overlapping installation
- Available in various lengths
Cost: $4-$8 per sq ft installed
Best For:
- Sheds and outbuildings
- Barns and agricultural buildings
- Carports and patios
- Budget projects
- Non-living structures
Pros:
- Lowest cost metal option
- DIY-friendly
- Very lightweight
- Fast installation
- Wide availability
Cons:
- Basic appearance
- Exposed fasteners
- Lower wind resistance
- Not suitable for occupied buildings
- Shorter lifespan (20-30 years)
Metal Roofing Comparison Table
| Feature | Standing Seam | 5V Crimp | Metal Shingles | Corrugated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per sq ft | $12-$18 | $7-$12 | $10-$16 | $4-$8 |
| Average home cost | $18K-$45K | $10K-$30K | $15K-$40K | $6K-$20K |
| Lifespan | 40-50 years | 30-40 years | 40-50 years | 20-30 years |
| Wind resistance | 140+ mph | 90-110 mph | 120+ mph | 70-90 mph |
| Fasteners | Concealed | Exposed | Concealed/minimal | Exposed |
| Appearance | Modern/sleek | Traditional | Mimics other materials | Utilitarian |
| Best for | Premium homes | Budget-conscious | Historical homes | Outbuildings |
| Installation difficulty | High skill required | Moderate | High skill required | Easy/DIY |
| Maintenance | Very low | Low-moderate | Low | Moderate |
| Energy efficiency | Excellent | Very good | Very good | Good |
Metal vs Shingle Roofs in Florida
Choosing between metal and asphalt shingles? Here’s a complete comparison for Tampa Bay homeowners:
Cost Comparison
| Factor | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingle Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Initial cost | $14,000 - $45,000 | $8,000 - $18,000 |
| Cost per sq ft | $7 - $18 | $4 - $9 |
| Lifespan | 40-50 years | 15-25 years |
| Cost per year | $280 - $900/year | $320 - $1,200/year |
| Replacement frequency | Once in 40-50 years | 2-3 times in 50 years |
| Long-term cost (50 years) | $14,000 - $45,000 | $16,000 - $54,000 |
Winner: Metal (long-term), Shingles (short-term budget)
Performance in Florida Climate
| Factor | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingle Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Heat resistance | Reflects 70% solar radiation | Absorbs heat |
| Cooling cost savings | 20-30% reduction | Baseline |
| Hurricane resistance | 140+ mph winds | 110-130 mph winds |
| Heavy rain performance | Excellent water shedding | Good (if maintained) |
| UV resistance | Excellent, minimal fade | Good, granules erode |
| Mold/algae growth | Resistant | Common (black streaks) |
| Lightning attraction | Not more than shingles | Equal risk |
| Fire rating | Class A (non-combustible) | Class A (with underlayment) |
Winner: Metal (superior in almost every category)
Maintenance & Longevity
| Factor | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingle Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Annual maintenance | Minimal inspection | Regular inspection needed |
| Repair frequency | Rare | Common (wind damage) |
| Typical lifespan (Tampa) | 40-50 years | 15-20 years |
| Warranty coverage | 40+ year material, 15 year labor | 25-50 year material (prorated), 1-5 year labor |
| Moss/algae cleaning | Rarely needed | Every 3-5 years |
| Fastener maintenance | None (standing seam) | Occasional nail pops |
| Gutter compatibility | Excellent | Good |
Winner: Metal (far less maintenance)
Energy Efficiency
| Factor | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingle Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Solar reflectance | 0.60-0.70 (70%) | 0.10-0.25 (25%) |
| Thermal emittance | 0.75-0.85 | 0.75-0.90 |
| Attic temperature | 20-50°F cooler | Baseline |
| AC energy savings | 20-30% | Baseline |
| ENERGY STAR qualified | Yes (cool metal options) | Yes (some reflective shingles) |
| Insurance discounts | Yes (5-35%) | Limited |
| Ideal color | Light colors best | Light colors best |
Winner: Metal (significantly more energy efficient)
Aesthetics & Home Value
| Factor | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingle Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Style variety | Modern, traditional, tile-look | Wide variety |
| Color options | Limited but permanent | Extensive, fades over time |
| Curb appeal | Modern/upscale | Traditional/familiar |
| HOA acceptance | Sometimes restricted | Widely accepted |
| Resale value boost | High (premium feature) | Standard (no premium) |
| Buyer preference | Growing popularity | Traditionally preferred |
| Noise (rain) | Slightly louder (with solid decking, minimal) | Quieter |
Winner: Tie (depends on personal preference and neighborhood)
Installation & Logistics
| Factor | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingle Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Installation time | 3-7 days | 1-3 days |
| Contractor availability | Fewer specialized installers | Many contractors available |
| Installation complexity | Requires expertise | Moderate skill level |
| Weight | 1-3 lbs per sq ft | 2-4 lbs per sq ft |
| Structural requirements | Lighter, less stress | Heavier |
| Re-roofing over existing | Not recommended | Possible (1 layer) |
| Permits required | Yes | Yes |
Winner: Shingles (easier, faster installation)
Environmental Impact
| Factor | Metal Roof | Asphalt Shingle Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Recyclability | 100% recyclable | Limited (some programs) |
| Recycled content | 25-95% recycled material | Some options available |
| Landfill waste | Minimal | 20 billion lbs/year in US |
| Manufacturing energy | Moderate | Lower |
| Lifetime impact | Lower (lasts longer) | Higher (replaced more often) |
| Cool roof benefits | Reduces urban heat island | Minimal |
Winner: Metal (much more environmentally friendly)
Why Metal Roofs Excel in Tampa Bay
Hurricane Protection
Wind Resistance:
- Standing seam: Rated to 140+ mph winds
- Interlocking panels resist uplift
- No shingles to blow off
- Concealed fasteners eliminate weak points
- Miami-Dade County approved (highest standard)
Storm Preparation:
- No pre-storm maintenance needed
- Won’t blow off in high winds
- Sheds water immediately (no ponding)
- Resists impact from flying debris
Heat & Energy Savings
Cool Roof Technology:
- Reflects 60-70% of solar radiation
- Attic temperatures 20-50°F lower
- AC runs less frequently
- Lower electricity bills (20-30% savings)
- More comfortable indoor temperatures
Tampa’s Brutal Sun:
- 246 sunny days per year
- Average summer temps 85-92°F
- Metal roofs prevent heat absorption
- Reduces strain on HVAC systems
Insurance Discounts
Florida Insurance Benefits:
- Hurricane-resistant roof discount: 5-15%
- Impact-resistant material discount: Up to 10%
- Newer roof discount: 15-35%
- Combined savings: 20-35% on insurance premiums
Example Savings:
- $2,500/year insurance premium
- 25% metal roof discount = $625/year savings
- 10-year savings: $6,250
- Helps offset higher installation cost
Longevity in Coastal Environment
Salt Air Resistance:
- Aluminum never rusts (best for coastal)
- Galvalume resists corrosion
- Painted finishes protect substrate
- Lasts 40-50 years even near water
UV Protection:
- Minimal UV degradation
- Colors stay vibrant longer
- No granule loss like shingles
- Maintains protective coating
Metal Roof Installation Process
1. Free Consultation & Estimate (1 hour)
We Discuss:
- Your style preferences and goals
- Metal type recommendations (standing seam vs 5V vs shingles)
- Color and finish options
- Budget and financing
- Timeline expectations
Site Assessment:
- Measure roof precisely
- Check structural capacity
- Assess attic ventilation
- Identify any repairs needed
- Note special features (skylights, chimneys, etc.)
Detailed Quote:
- Itemized pricing breakdown
- Material specifications
- Labor costs
- Permit fees
- Timeline estimate
- Warranty information
2. Design & Material Selection (3-7 days)
Choose Your Metal System:
- Standing seam, 5V crimp, or metal shingles
- Panel profile and width
- Metal gauge (thickness)
- Material type (galvalume, aluminum, copper)
Select Color & Finish:
- Standard or premium paint systems
- Matte, semi-gloss, or high-gloss
- PVDF or SMP coating technology
- Energy Star qualified options
- Sample panels for approval
Engineering (If Required):
- Wind load calculations
- Structural capacity review
- Miami-Dade approval documents
- Manufacturer certifications
3. Permitting & Scheduling (1-2 weeks)
Building Permits:
- We handle all permit applications
- Submit engineering documents
- Pay permit fees
- Schedule inspections
- Ensure code compliance
Project Scheduling:
- Lock in installation dates
- Order custom-fabricated panels
- Coordinate material delivery
- Schedule crew (3-5 installers)
- Arrange equipment (scaffolding, lift, etc.)
4. Tear-Off & Preparation (Day 1)
Existing Roof Removal:
- Remove old shingles and underlayment
- Inspect decking for damage or rot
- Replace any compromised plywood
- Install drip edge and starter strips
- Dispose of all debris properly
Deck Preparation:
- Ensure deck is level and secure
- Replace any damaged sections
- Install synthetic underlayment
- Apply ice & water shield in valleys and eaves
- Mark panel layout lines
Protection:
- Cover landscaping and AC units
- Protect pool/patio areas
- Place tarps for debris collection
- Set up dumpster or trailer
5. Metal Panel Installation (Days 2-4)
Underlayment & Flashing:
- High-temperature synthetic underlayment
- Install valley flashing
- Chimney and wall flashings
- Vent pipe flashings
- Ridge and hip preparation
Panel Installation:
- Start at eave, work toward ridge
- Install panels vertically (standing seam)
- Secure with concealed clips
- Interlock seams properly
- Ensure proper overlap and alignment
- Cut precisely around penetrations
Quality Checks:
- Verify straight lines and alignment
- Check seam engagement
- Ensure proper fastening
- Inspect panel flatness
- Test for oil canning
6. Trim & Finishing (Day 5)
Trim Installation:
- Ridge caps and closures
- Gable trim (rake edge)
- Eave trim and drip edge
- Corner flashings
- Transition pieces
- Valley covers
Penetrations:
- Seal vent pipes with proper boots
- Flash chimneys with step and counter-flashing
- Install skylight flashings
- Seal all penetrations with high-grade sealant
Accessories:
- Snow guards (if desired)
- Ventilation components
- Pipe collars
- Roof access hatches
7. Final Inspection & Cleanup (Day 5-6)
Quality Inspection:
- Walk entire roof checking installation
- Verify all seams properly engaged
- Check all trim and flashing
- Test for proper water flow
- Photograph completed work
Cleanup:
- Remove all debris and packaging
- Magnetic sweep for metal shavings
- Clean gutters
- Wash windows if needed
- Haul away all waste
Final Walkthrough:
- Show you completed work
- Explain care and maintenance
- Provide warranty documents
- Answer any questions
- Collect final payment
8. Building Inspection & Certification
Official Inspection:
- Schedule county building inspector
- Walk inspector through installation
- Address any minor issues
- Receive approval and permit closure
Documentation:
- Certificate of occupancy/completion
- Manufacturer warranty registration
- Contractor warranty documents
- Maintenance guidelines
- Product specifications
Cost Breakdown
Metal roof pricing varies by system type, materials, home size, and complexity:
Standing Seam Metal Roof Costs
| Home Size | Square Footage | Typical Cost Range | Cost per Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1,000-1,500 sq ft) | 1,200-1,800 roof sq ft | $14,400 - $32,400 | $12 - $18 |
| Medium (1,500-2,500 sq ft) | 1,800-3,000 roof sq ft | $21,600 - $54,000 | $12 - $18 |
| Large (2,500-3,500 sq ft) | 3,000-4,200 roof sq ft | $36,000 - $75,600 | $12 - $18 |
| Very Large (3,500+ sq ft) | 4,200+ roof sq ft | $50,400+ | $12 - $18 |
What’s Included:
- Complete tear-off of existing roof
- New synthetic underlayment
- Ice & water shield in critical areas
- Premium standing seam panels
- All flashing and trim
- Proper ventilation components
- Debris removal and cleanup
- Building permits
- 15-year workmanship warranty
- 40-year manufacturer warranty
5V Crimp Metal Roof Costs
| Home Size | Square Footage | Typical Cost Range | Cost per Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1,000-1,500 sq ft) | 1,200-1,800 roof sq ft | $8,400 - $21,600 | $7 - $12 |
| Medium (1,500-2,500 sq ft) | 1,800-3,000 roof sq ft | $12,600 - $36,000 | $7 - $12 |
| Large (2,500-3,500 sq ft) | 3,000-4,200 roof sq ft | $21,000 - $50,400 | $7 - $12 |
| Very Large (3,500+ sq ft) | 4,200+ roof sq ft | $29,400+ | $7 - $12 |
5V Crimp Benefits:
- Lower cost than standing seam
- Faster installation
- Traditional Florida appearance
- Easy to repair
- Good for steep pitches
Metal Shingle/Tile Costs
| Home Size | Square Footage | Typical Cost Range | Cost per Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1,000-1,500 sq ft) | 1,200-1,800 roof sq ft | $12,000 - $28,800 | $10 - $16 |
| Medium (1,500-2,500 sq ft) | 1,800-3,000 roof sq ft | $18,000 - $48,000 | $10 - $16 |
| Large (2,500-3,500 sq ft) | 3,000-4,200 roof sq ft | $30,000 - $67,200 | $10 - $16 |
| Very Large (3,500+ sq ft) | 4,200+ roof sq ft | $42,000+ | $10 - $16 |
Metal Shingle Advantages:
- Looks like slate, shake, or tile
- Lighter than real materials
- Hurricane resistant
- No cracking or breaking
- Premium appearance
Cost Factors That Increase Price
Roof Complexity: (+10-30%)
- Multiple valleys and peaks
- Complex hip and ridge lines
- Dormers and architectural features
- Multiple chimneys or skylights
- Steep pitch (over 8:12)
Premium Materials: (+20-50%)
- Copper roofing ($20-$30 per sq ft)
- Zinc roofing ($18-$25 per sq ft)
- Premium paint finishes (PVDF vs SMP)
- Thicker gauge metal (24 gauge vs 29 gauge)
Location Factors: (+5-15%)
- Coastal areas (corrosion-resistant requirements)
- HOA-restricted communities (specific aesthetics)
- Multi-story homes (safety equipment)
- Difficult access (crane required)
Additional Work: (Variable)
- Decking replacement: +$3-$5 per sq ft
- Enhanced ventilation: +$500-$1,500
- Skylight replacement: +$800-$2,000 each
- Chimney rebuild/repair: +$1,000-$5,000
- Structural reinforcement: +$2,000-$8,000
Cost Savings & Discounts
Energy Savings:
- Cooling cost reduction: 20-30% annually
- Average Tampa home: $2,400/year AC cost
- Metal roof savings: $480-$720/year
- 10-year savings: $4,800-$7,200
Insurance Discounts:
- Hurricane-resistant discount: 5-15%
- Impact-resistant discount: Up to 10%
- Newer roof discount: 15-35%
- Total possible savings: 20-35% on premiums
- Average Tampa insurance: $2,500/year
- Potential savings: $500-$875/year
Tax Credits & Rebates:
- ENERGY STAR metal roofs may qualify for credits
- Solar-ready metal roofs eligible for incentives
- Check federal and state programs annually
- Potential savings: $500-$2,000
Lifetime Value:
- Metal roof: $25,000 upfront, lasts 50 years = $500/year
- Shingle roof: $12,000 every 18 years, 3 times in 50 years = $2,000 total / 50 = $400/year PLUS labor = $720/year
- Long-term metal savings: Significant
Financing Options
In-House Financing:
- 0% APR for 12 months (with approved credit)
- Low monthly payments
- Quick approval process
- No prepayment penalties
Home Equity Line of Credit:
- Tax-deductible interest (consult tax advisor)
- Lower interest rates
- Flexible repayment terms
FHA Title 1 Loans:
- Up to $25,000 for home improvements
- No home equity required
- Fixed interest rates
PACE Financing:
- Property Assessed Clean Energy
- Repaid through property taxes
- Transfers to new owner if selling
FAQ
How much does a metal roof cost in Tampa Bay?
Metal roof installation in Tampa Bay costs $14,000-$55,000 for most homes, depending on type and size. Standing seam costs $12-$18 per sq ft, 5V crimp costs $7-$12 per sq ft, and metal shingles cost $10-$16 per sq ft. A typical 2,000 sq ft home (2,400 roof sq ft) costs $21,000-$43,000 for standing seam or $12,000-$29,000 for 5V crimp. This includes tearoff, materials, labor, permits, and warranties.
How long do metal roofs last in Florida?
Metal roofs last 40-50 years in Florida’s harsh climate, significantly longer than asphalt shingles (15-20 years). Standing seam and metal shingles with concealed fasteners last longest. Coastal aluminum roofs can last 50+ years as aluminum never rusts. Proper installation and minimal maintenance ensure maximum lifespan. This longevity makes metal roofs cost-effective despite higher upfront costs.
Are metal roofs worth it in Florida?
Yes, metal roofs are worth it in Florida due to hurricane resistance (140+ mph winds), energy savings (20-30% cooling cost reduction), insurance discounts (20-35%), and 40-50 year lifespan. While costing 2-3x more upfront than shingles, metal roofs save money long-term through energy savings, lower maintenance, insurance discounts, and avoiding multiple re-roofs. They’re ideal for homeowners planning to stay 10+ years.
Do metal roofs make your house hotter?
No, metal roofs actually make houses cooler in Florida. They reflect 60-70% of solar radiation instead of absorbing it like shingles. This keeps attics 20-50°F cooler and reduces air conditioning costs by 20-30%. Choose light colors and “cool roof” finishes for maximum energy savings. Metal roofs are ENERGY STAR qualified and significantly reduce cooling loads in Tampa’s hot climate.
Are metal roofs loud when it rains?
Modern metal roofs are not significantly louder than shingles when properly installed. Solid decking, quality underlayment, and attic insulation dampen sound. Most homeowners notice minimal difference, especially in air-conditioned homes with closed windows. 5V crimp with exposed fasteners may be slightly louder than standing seam, but neither is objectionable in properly built homes. The “noisy tin roof” stereotype is outdated.
Can you walk on a metal roof?
Yes, you can walk on metal roofs, but caution is required. Wear soft-soled shoes and walk on the flat areas between seams (standing seam) or on the flat panels (5V crimp). Avoid stepping on raised seams which can dent. Metal roofs are slippery when wet or dewy, so only walk when completely dry. For maintenance, hire professionals with proper safety equipment and experience walking on metal roofs.
Do metal roofs attract lightning?
No, metal roofs do not attract lightning more than any other roofing material. Lightning strikes the highest point in an area regardless of material. If struck, metal roofs are actually safer because they’re non-combustible and disperse energy safely. Metal roofs will not catch fire if struck, unlike shingles or wood. Insurance companies recognize this safety benefit with premium discounts.
Will my HOA approve a metal roof?
HOA approval varies by community. Some Tampa Bay HOAs restrict metal roofs, while others allow them with aesthetic guidelines. Standing seam and metal shingles that mimic traditional materials are more likely approved than industrial-looking 5V crimp. We help navigate HOA requirements, provide samples, and submit applications. Always check your CC&Rs and get written approval before installing.
What colors do metal roofs come in?
Metal roofs are available in 20-40 colors depending on manufacturer. Common Florida colors include: white, light gray, tan/beige, brown, bronze, charcoal gray, black, red, green, and blue. Light colors are most popular in Tampa for energy efficiency. Premium PVDF finishes resist fading better than SMP finishes. Some manufacturers offer custom colors for large orders. We provide color samples for approval before ordering.
How do metal roofs handle hurricanes?
Metal roofs excel in hurricanes with wind ratings up to 140+ mph for standing seam systems. Interlocking panels and concealed fasteners resist uplift better than individual shingles. Many metal roofs are Miami-Dade County approved, the nation’s strictest hurricane standard. During Hurricane Ian and other recent storms, properly installed metal roofs significantly outperformed shingle roofs, with far fewer blow-offs and less damage.