Metal Roofing Cost Ontario
Last Updated on February 5, 2021 by mwimetal
Metal Roofing Cost in Ontario – The 2021 Ultimate Guide
Wondering how much a metal roof costs Ontario? The initial investment is probably a lot more affordable than you think. Best of all, there are plenty of metal roofing choices available to us in Canada. What you may not have bargained for was the amount of research needed to make the right investment for your home, cottage, farm or business. With so many choices it’s hard to cut through all the noise and focus on what will perform best within your budget. Ultimately your reward for shifting away from disposable roofs to a permanent metal roof will be that you never need to do this again!
Metal Roof Cost vs Asphalt Shingle Cost
Have you had a quote for regular asphalt shingles? If you’re completely new to metal roofing you may just want to understand in ballpark terms what the investment will be…
The average price range on an entry level residential metal roofing system in Ontario is $6.50-7.50/Sqft. In Ontario, a reputable roofing company (with WSIB and liability insurance) charge from $3-4/sqft for an asphalt roof. In other words, a metal roof is about twice the initial cost of an asphalt roof.
Please Note: Since the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Canada, the supply chain of manufactured goods has de-stabilized and caused significant increases in cost for contractors and home builders. The pandemic has also caused a sharp rise in the cost of shipping affecting all industries. The metal roofing prices listed in this article have been adjusted to reflect the current circumstances.
METAL ROOFING COST BY PRODUCT TYPE
There are 4 main categories of metal roofing in Ontario: Exposed Fastener, Concealed Fastener, Standing Seam and Agricultural Panels. The list below explains the characteristics, options and typical prices of each. Price to install in Ontario is provided in tables at the end of each description.
Note: If you are a DIY expert and want an idea on how much materials will cost budget for about 1/2 of listed installed prices. Labour makes up a significant portion of the total price as installation requires skilled contractors with metalsmithing abilities.
1. Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing System (Sheet Metal Panels)
Example of an exposed fastener metal roof installed on wood strapping.
Exposed fastener metal roofing systems are commonly used on suburban homes in Ontario. As the name suggests, the fasteners (screws) are exposed. Screwed through the surface of the metal panels, these metal roofs are installed over battens or wood strapping. The panels overlap on all sides. These metal roofs have the following major advantages of a metal roof.
Advantages
- permanent roofing material
- energy efficient
- recycled/recyclable content
- high speed wind resistant
- fire resistant
- hail resistant
- pest resistant
- does not support fungus/organic growth
- less expensive than asphalt shingles over time
In addition to having all of the major benefits a metal roof can offer, an exposed fastener metal roofing system has the following extra advantages.
Exposed Fastener Extra Advantages
- can square up the appearance of a sagging roof
Locally Available Materials: galvanized steel, galvalume steel and aluminum.*
*Note: it is generally not recommended to install aluminum over strapping because it is a softer metal and can bend over the gaps if stepped on.
Locally Available Finishes: pre-painted SMP, PVDF and stone coated (textured).
Locally Available Styles: metal tile, metal shake, metal shingle.
Example of Metal Tile Exposed Fastener roofing panels.
Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Cost
| Metal Substrate | Average Warranty | Cost/Sqft. |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Steel | 40 Years | $6.50-$8.00 |
| Galvalume Steel | 40 Years | $6.50-$8.00 |
| Aluminum | 50 Years and up | $8.00-$9.00 |
2. Concealed Fastener Metal Roofing System (Metal Shingles)
Example of Concealed Fastener Metal Slate Shingles.
Concealed fastener metal shingles interlock with adjacent panels (all 4 sides) for a smooth and clean appearance. These systems are designed to be installed directly to the roof deck. Important to note is that they are not “through fastened” meaning the panels are not penetrated with screws. Interlocking metal roofs cost more than overlapping metal roofs because they have more detailed designs and complex manufacturing.
Advantages
- permanent roofing material
- energy efficient
- recycled/recyclable content
- high speed wind resistant
- fire resistant
- hail resistant
- pest resistant
- does not support fungus/organic growth
- less expensive than asphalt shingles over time
In addition to having all of the major benefits a metal roof can offer, a concealed fastener metal roofing system has the following extra advantages.
Concealed Fastener Extra Advantages
- superior wind resistance
- no need for battens or strapping
- negligible gap between roof and metal panels
- no extra screw holes or washers necessary*
- no maintenance required
- works well on roofs with low dormer windows
- diverse and detailed style choices
*In Canada metal roof starter strips, valleys and trims are usually screwed down for extra resistance against heavy snow and ice and wind.
Locally Available Materials: galvanized steel, galvalume steel and aluminum.
Locally Available Finishes: pre-painted SMP, PVDF, matte, glossy, crinkle and stone coated (textured).
Locally Available Styles: cedar shake look, slate look and architectural shingle style.
Example of a Metal Slate Shingle Concealed Fastener roofing product.
Concealed Fastener Metal Roof Cost
| Metal Substrate | Average Warranty | Cost/Sqft. |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Steel | 40 - 50 Years | $7.80-$10.500 |
| Galvalume Steel | 40 - 50 Years | $7.80-$10.500 |
| Aluminum | 50 Years and up | $9.50-$12.00 |
3. Standing Seam Metal Roofing System (Roll Formed)
Standing seam metal roofing system with concealed fasteners.
Standing seam metal roofs are the most traditional form of metal roofing but have the most modern look because of their sharp and clean lines. Popularized by modern architects, the standing seam roof has made a huge comeback in the last decade as the specified roof for custom built and luxury homes in Ontario. The name standing seam refers to the distinct raised vertical seams that lock one panel to the next. Each panel runs continuously from the roofs eave all the way up to the ridge providing maximum protection from wind, rain, ice and snow. There are 2 main types of standing seam used locally, Mechanical Lock and Snap Lock which refers to the method used to lock one seam to the adjacent panel.
Advantages
- permanent roofing material
- energy efficient
- recycled/recyclable content
- high speed wind resistant
- fire resistant
- hail resistant
- pest resistant
- does not support fungus/organic growth
- less expensive than asphalt shingles over time
In addition to having all of the major benefits a metal roof can offer, a standing seam metal roofing system has the following extra advantages.
Standing Seam Extra Advantages
- no need for wood strapping
- no gap between roof and metal panels
- best wind resistance of any roofing product
- no extra screw holes or washers necessary*
- no maintenance required
- works well on roofs with low dormer windows
- provides the best weatherproofing for low sloped roofs
- available in unlimited metals, alloys, and pre-painted finishes
- available in heavier gauges or thickness than other metal roofs
*In Canada metal roof starter strips, valleys and trims are usually screwed down for extra resistance against heavy snow and ice and wind.
Locally Available Materials: galvanized steel, galvalume steel, aluminum, zinc and copper.
Locally Available Finishes: pre-painted SMP, PVDF, matte, glossy, crinkle textured and natural unpainted metals.
Locally Available Styles: snap lock and mechanical lock.
Standing Seam Metal Roof Cost
| Metal Substrate | Average Warranty | Cost/Sqft. |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Steel | 50 Years | $9.50-$13.00 |
| Galvalume Steel | 50 Years | $9.50-$13.00 |
| Aluminum | 50 Years and up | $13.00-$18.00 |
| Weathering Steel | 50 Years | $17.00-$28.00 |
| Zinc* | Up to 100 Years | $28.00-$40.00 |
| Copper* | Up to 100 Years | $25.00-$35.00 |
*Zinc, Copper and Weathering Steel are considered specialty metals and can come in a wider range of gauge or thickness. Price variance will be more considerable as the price/tonne of raw material is far greater than steel and aluminum. Metal roofing suppliers will need to check prices for these daily rather than list static prices.
PHOTO CREDIT: @signature_copper on IG | Examples of custom copper roof, soffit and eavestrough.
4. Agricultural Panel Metal Roof (Corrugated Metal Panels)
Agricultural/Ribbed/Corrugated metal roof installed over wood strapping.
Also known as ribbed, corrugated, or barn metal roofing, agricultural metal panels (ag panels) are commonly used over barns, cottages, garages, boat houses, and sheds. Whatever your use is, this roofing product is the no frills economical choice and will get the job done.
Advantages
- permanent roofing material
- recycled/recyclable content
- high speed wind resistant
- fire resistant
- hail resistant
- pest resistant
- does not support fungus/organic growth
- most economical roofing option over time.
Locally Available Materials: G90 Galvalume Steel
Locally Available Styles: vertical ribbing in a variety profiles.
Locally Available Finishes: pre-painted SMP and unpainted metal.
Agricultural Panel Metal Roof Cost
| Metal Substrate | Average Warranty | Cost/Sqft. |
|---|---|---|
| Galvalume Steel | 25 Years | $5.50-$7.00 |
Factors That Affect Metal Roof Cost
Outside of the cost of materials there are factors that affect the installed price of the metal roof you decide to go with. You can see in the table below how each factor will affect price and why. If your roof situation warrants 2 or more increase factors, expect to pay on the high-end of the listed prices.
| Condition | Description | Why it Affects Cost | Cost Affect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roof Pitch | Steep slopes that are not walkable | Steep roofs or “non-walk” roofs take longer to install and require special equipment. | Increase |
| Location Accessibility | Is it accessible by car? Is there parking for trailers near the base of roof? | Extra travel expenses may be incurred and it may take longer to get materials/equipment up to the roof. | Increase |
| Multiple Intersecting Planes or curves | Roofs that have multiple hips, ridges and valleys that intersect | Multiple intersecting planes like combination gable/hip roofs need more time for trims and flashing. More cutting of panels results in more wasted product and slows down installation. Details like Turrets and bell curved roof sections are especially difficult. | Increase |
| Dormer windows | Windows protruding from the roof | Dormer windows require hand trimming of panels and custom flashings | Increase |
| Chimney | Masonry considerations | If your chimney is brick your roofing installer may suggest cutting into the brickwork for a better seal | Increases |
| Ridge Venting | Depending on your roof, ridge venting may provide the best air circulation | Your roof may need to have the roof vent cut out if there is none pre-existing | Increase |
| More than 2 layers of asphalt | Ontario building code does not allow for more than 2 layers due to weight load | Stripping, disposal and premium ice & water membrane to protect roof deck | About $2.75/Sqft |
| Country of Origin | Imported metal roofing panels | Imported products are subject to additional shipping costs and tarifs | Increase |
Extra Options and Cost
Here are some upgrades you may want to consider and how they will affect the total installed price.
| Upgrade/Extras | Description | Why it May Be Worth Considering | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| PVDF finish | Polyvinylidene fluoride finish | PVDF is a specialty thermoplastic touted as the gold standard for metal building products. | Add .50/sqft |
| Stripping/Disposal Ice&Water Underlayment | Strip & dispose of old asphalt shingles. Install Ice & Water shield | If the roof has over 2 layers asphalt it will have to be stripped. A premium underlayment (ice&water) must be installed prior to metal roof. | Add $3.00/sqft |
| New Skylights | Replace existing skylights | If there is little or no warranty left on skylights then it makes sense to replace before you install a 40-50 year metal roof | Ask Contractor |
| Premium colours | Metallics, textured, multi-coloured | Aesthetic consideration only | Up to $1.00/sqft |
| Dormer work | Do dormers need repairs | It makes sense to do dormer repairs before installing a 40-50 year roof | Ask Contractor |
| Steel Snow Guards | Snow guards break up large sheets of falling ice & snow | Metal roofs are designed to shed snow quickly. Snow guards protect what is below | $10-$15/each |
| Aluminum Snow Guards | Snow guards break up falling ice & snow | Stripping, disposal and premium ice & water membrane to protect roof deck | $20-$25/each |
| Steel Snow Rails (standing seam) | Snow rails break up falling ice & snow | Metal roofs are designed to shed snow quickly. Snow guards protect what is below | $35/lineal foot |
How to Figure Out Your Roof Area
Now that you know all of the metal roofing prices per square foot, you’ll want to understand your roof area as well. It’s not as simple as measuring the area of your house footprint. Don’t forget you have a garage with a roof and slope to factor in. There are several online services that will give you detailed measurements of every aspect of your roof via satellite if you don’t mind paying. If you want to do the math yourself this roof calculator makes it easy. You will just need a pitch measuring tool that you can get for free in the app store on your phone. If you are interested in an exposed fastener system, this steel roof cost calculator gives a pretty good ballpark in a few seconds.
QUICK TIP: The average roof size in Ontario is about 2000 Sqft. and the average metal roof costs around $8.00/Sqft. So the average cost of a metal roof in Ontario is $16,000.
Conclusion
Metal roofs all have the benefit of strength, durability and long term cost savings compared with asphalt. Depending on the style of your home or structure and budget, most likely you can find a great fit. Some metal roofing products are even made right here in Ontario, so you can save even more money and support the local economy at the same time.
Ready for your first quote?
MWI Metal Roofing & Siding is a local company that only uses products made in Canada. Offering most of the options mentioned in this article, you can request a free quote here.
Very informative. My 30 year shingles only lasted 12. My next roof will be metal!
Great post! A metal roof has many benefits over other roofing materials. Many homeowners have queries regarding the cost and this article is the best answer to get an idea of making a budget on the roof according to the size and shape they own.
Thanks for sharing this piece!
Thanks Brian! I see you’re a metal roofing contractor, What city are you in?
Nice article dude
Hugely helpful. Thank you.
Hi – looking to get a quote to replace an existing metal roof with a new metal roof. I am located in Gravenhurst, thank you!