An all-encompassing tin roof buying guide for beginners

Want to determine if this roofing type is right for your home? Read our tin roof buying guide to find the actual material and installation costs per square and the whole project. Here we dwell on the primary types of tin roofs, their benefits, and weak points. 

Table of contents

1. What are tin roofs, and what are the pros and cons of using them?
2. The types of tin roofs to consider
3. How much does a tin roof cost?

What are tin roofs, and what are the pros and cons of using them?

Like most other metal roofing materials, tin comprises different soft metals and is coated with protective coverage for better corrosion resistance and durability. Thanks to their steel core coated with a tin alloy, roofs of this type serve well in regions with extreme weather conditions as precipitation simply slides down the panels without accumulating on the top. 

Here are the primary advantages and drawbacks of tin roofing that will help you evaluate it from all angles.

Pros

• Eco-friendliness

Tin roofs are usually produced from 30–60% recycled materials, so you may be sure you use a sustainable material that does not harm the environment. 

• Energy-efficiency

Tin roofs have a reflective coverage that protects premises from heat and sun, thus cutting down cooling expenses. Experts say that you may save up to 30% of money spent on cooling your house in summer.

• Durability

If properly installed and maintained, tin roofs can last up to 40 years. 

• Ease of cleaning

Unlike shingles, tin roofs can be easily cleaned with a simple pressure washing.

• Improved resale value

A new metal roof not only improves the overall look of your house but also increases its resale value as potential buyers will be happy to purchase a home with a roof that doesn’t need frequent repairs.

• Fire-resistance

Tin roofing will easily withstand severe weather conditions like heavy rains, storms, and winds. And if your home is in an area prone to wildfires, a tin roof can protect it from catching fire.

Cons

• Regular maintenance

Unlike other roofing materials, tin needs regular maintenance to ensure long service life. Tin roofs should be painted at least twice a year to have reliable protection from the impacts of weather and extreme temperatures. Consider maintenance costs while selecting this type of roofing for your home.

• Installation and modification difficulties

Tin roofing mounting implies putting large metal sheets on the rooftop, which is definitely not the task for a DIY roofer. To ensure secure and airtight installation, you need a crew of proven experts who have experience working with tin roofs. Besides, this roofing material is not widespread in today's market, so it might be troublesome to find it quickly.

• High initial cost

Though initial tin roof installation costs can seem high, in the long run, they will pay off because of the long-term durability of the roofing materials used.

• Possible noise

In the case of poor insulation, tin roofing can be noisy, but you can avoid this by ensuring proper insulation during the roof installation.

The types of tin roofs to consider

Flat-lock and standing seam metal roofs are the most widely requested tin roofing variabilities. As a rule, flat-locked tin roofs are used on old houses, while standing seam panels are found on newer buildings. Specialists use blind-nailed clips hammered into the wood sheathing to install panels.

Flat-lock tin roofs

Tin roofs of this type are composed of wide panels locked with flat overlapping seams. Their downside is time-consuming and costly installation as they’re cut on-site.

Standing seam tin roofs

Tin roofs of this type are made of panels with overlapping edges that are joined together at the seams, with no visible fasteners. Standing seam tin roofs have a modern look and are considered among the most popular types of metal roofing.

How much does a tin roof cost?

If you're choosing between asphalt shingles and tin panels for your home's roof, consider both materials' longevity. Though the initial price of asphalt shingles is lower than that of tin panels, they are less durable, so you'll need to change your roofing coverage every 15–20 years. A tin roof, on the contrary, serves for up to 40 years, causing fewer troubles and bringing a higher return on investment. 

The overall cost of a new tin roof depends on the following factors:

• the material and its quality
• the roof’s size, pitch, and slope
• The region you live in
• The contractor you hire to install the roof

As a rule, the price of tin roofs is calculated per square foot. It includes tin roof installation costs and materials costs. The price of tin panels varies between $3.5 and $14 per square foot, while roofers charge $4–$6 per square foot. Thus, the total price of tin roofing, including installation, can amount to $8.5–$20 per square foot. Be ready to spend $12,750 to $30,000 on a 1,500 square foot roof.

The national average cost of tin panels varies between $3.5 and $15 per square foot, material only. Plus, add tin roof installation costs ranging from $4 to $6 per square foot. Thus, the total price of tin roofing, including installation, can amount to $8.5–$21 per square foot. 

To get more detailed information regarding your next roofing project costs, you’d better find a reliable local contractor who can conduct a thorough inspection, analyze your needs, and provide you with a detailed estimate.

MyHomeQuote is here to match you with the best local roofers ready to help you with tin roof repair or installation. Fill out a short questionnaire, get 3 to 5 quotes from verified contractors operating in your area, and make an appointment with the one who fits your budget and requirements. Don’t waste your time and get the roofing project estimate right now!