How much will your roof installation or replacement cost?
Columbus, OH 43215
Roofers on Thumbtack cost$50 - $70
Average fixed price
- Lowest price:$30
- Most common low price:$50
- Most common high price:$70
- Highest price:$4500
How much does a copper roof cost?
By Melanie Fourie
Last updated Thu, Feb 01
On average, installing a copper roof costs $58,132-$101,631 in the U.S. You can expect to pay about $50,575-$88,418 on the low end, while a high-end copper roof replacement can range, on average, between $62,202-$108,744.
Copper roof cost.
| National average cost | $66,719 |
|---|---|
| Average cost range | $58,132-$101,631 |
| Low-end cost range | $50,575-$88,418 |
| High-end cost range | $62,202-$108,744 |
*All figures represent costs for 2,500-square-foot roofs.
The total cost of a new roof is determined by factors such as size, design, the cost of materials and labor costs. Compared to other roof types (like asphalt shingles), a copper roof is on the high end of the cost spectrum. Keep reading to find out why. Plus, get tips on how to stay within your budget and get estimates from a top-rated contractor near you.
What's in this cost guide?
- Copper roof cost.
- Material and labor costs for copper roofs.
- How much is copper roofing per square foot?
- Why are copper roofs so expensive?
- Copper roof cost factors.
- Cost of DIY vs. hiring a pro.
- How long will a copper roof typically last?
- Pros and cons of installing a copper roof.
- Get free cost estimates from local roofers near you.
Material and labor costs for copper roofs.
The cost of a new copper roof is largely determined by the cost of materials and the labor required. On average, the labor costs for a copper roof range from $18,033-$21,480. Average material costs range from $40,099-$80,149.
Labor cost:
| Average cost per square foot | Average total material cost* |
|---|---|
| $16.04-$32.06 | $40,099-$80,149 |
*Total average material cost is for a 2,500-square-foot roof.
Material cost:
| Average cost per square foot | Average total material cost* |
|---|---|
| $16.04-$32.06 | $40,099-$80,149 |
*Total average material cost is for a 2,500-square-foot roof.
Compared to other roofing types, copper is often more expensive — especially when it comes to materials. Here’s how material costs for copper roofing stack up against other roofing systems:
| Roofing type | Average material cost* |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingle | $5,019-$6,809 |
| Copper | $40,099-$80,149 |
| Metal | $5,799-$8,168 |
| Rubber (EPDM) | $847-$1,419 |
| Slate | $27,989-$54,547 |
| Tile | $7,902-$17,265 |
| Wood shake | $30,813-$38,293 |
*All figures represent costs for 2,500-square-foot roofs.
How much is copper roofing per square foot?
The average cost per square foot to install copper roofing is $23.25-$40.65*. When it comes to home improvement projects like installing or replacing a new roof system, the larger the square footage, the more roofing squares needed — and the higher your costs will likely be.
Here’s a look at how much you can expect to pay for your new copper roof, assuming you’re quoted between $23.25-$40.65 per square foot:
| Roof size | Estimated average cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $23,250-$40,652 |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | $34,875-$60,978 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $46,500-$81,304 |
| 2,500 sq. ft. | $58,125-$101,631 |
| 3,000 sq. ft. | $69,750-$121,957 |
Why are copper roofs so expensive?
Copper roofs are often more expensive than other roofing types, including asphalt shingle roofs, clay or concrete tile roofs and even slate roofs. However, some may argue the high price tag is worth it due to its beauty and longevity. A copper roof can last 70 years or more, adding value to your property and affording you years of protection from harsh environmental elements. A standing seam copper roof rarely has maintenance problems and it’s fire-resistant.
Similar to other metal roofs, copper roofing is also energy efficient. Because less heat is being radiated into your house, it will be cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Your energy bills may be reduced as a result.
Copper roof cost factors.
Now, let’s go through some of the most common factors that may impact the cost of a copper roof. Knowing these details can help you make a budget for a new roof:
The economy’s impact on material costs.
Copper is a commodity. That means its pricing may also fluctuate due to changes in the global economy. Depending on how the economy is doing, you may want to delay your roof installation project.
Labor costs for roof installation.
Because copper is a premium roofing metal, it may be hard to find an experienced roofer near you — which means (compared to other roofing types) you may pay extra when hiring a professional to install it.
Existing roof condition.
The condition of your current roof and structure may also affect overall costs. If your existing copper roof is in good condition, you may only need to partially replace it. This would be less expensive than a complete copper roof replacement.
Roof size.
A larger roof area requires more materials and more intensive labor. So, installing a copper roof over a smaller area would be significantly cheaper than if you were installing one over a large area. When working with a contractor, make sure you understand the cost per roofing square or per square foot (1 roofing square = 100 square feet).
Slope and pitch.
A flat roof is usually easier and cheaper to lay copper on. A pitched roof is usually much more expensive because of the increased risk and complexity involved.
Roof style.
Roofs are designed differently by architects and roofing contractors, which may lead to a range in prices. For example, a curved or dome-shaped roof may be more expensive to install, depending on how hard it is for the professional to complete.
Finish or coating.
One common question among owners of copper metal roofs is whether or not they may be painted. Copper doesn't need any kind of finishing or painting. It’s up to you whether you choose to paint it.
You might like the aged appearance that the green patina gives copper. Or, you might want a more up-to-date, modern-looking copper roof in a different color. Just keep in mind that the cost may increase if you decide to finish or paint your roof.
Geographical location.
The costs of installing a new copper roof will vary across the country. The local economy and cost of living will always have an impact on labor and/or material costs.
Sealing around a chimney.
If you have a chimney, chances are you'll want to pay more to install a copper roof, as there is additional workmanship required. When the flashing around chimneys isn't properly sealed, leaks might occur in the roof.
For proper roof maintenance, it’s crucial to seal the metal roof surrounding the chimney. This task can be completed in a few hours of additional labor. If you don't do it, you might end up paying a lot more to fix the leaks that develop down the line.
Installing copper roof vents.
Roof vents are often composed of cheaper stainless steel or aluminum. However, copper vents offer a more unique and visually pleasing look. But there may be an additional cost — be sure to check with your contractor.
Bay window.
If you have a bay window, chances are you're going to want to install a copper roof on it as well. If so, you'll need to factor the costs into your roofing budget.
Gutters and downspouts.
Because copper is one of the oldest and most resilient building materials, it’s an excellent option for gutters and downspouts. Due to its high resistance to environmental elements, copper is superior to vinyl and aluminum in its ability to withstand the stress of sluggish and stagnant water. If you want copper gutters and downspouts, ask your contractor how much it may cost.
Discarding materials.
When a roofing contractor removes an old shingle roof, the shingles need to be disposed of. If you do not intend to dispose of your old roofing materials yourself, your contractor will likely do so for an additional fee.
A copper roof isn’t cheap, so finding ways to save money and not go over your budget is crucial. Keep the following tips in mind when beginning your roofing project:
- Schedule your project for the offseason when most businesses slow down. Just make sure the weather won’t disrupt your project.
- Purchase discounted or rebated roofing supplies. Talk to your contractor about your options.
- Look into your insurance options. If harsh weather has damaged your roof, contact your insurance company and see if they may cover some (or all) of the cost to repair or replace your copper roof.
- Negotiate a counteroffer with your roofing contractor. Sometimes, you’ll receive competitive (yet reasonable) quotes from other roofers. But the one roofer you really want to hire is charging a price that’s outside of your budget. In those instances, it doesn’t hurt to ask that roofer if they can meet you in the middle — especially if you show them the quotes you received from other contractors.
Cost of DIY vs. hiring a pro.
The following is a list of the pros and cons of replacing your copper roof yourself versus hiring a roofing contractor or company.
| DIY | Hiring a contractor | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Lower labor costs | Experience and skills, potential warranties on workmanship, and expert advice on design and style |
| Cons | You risk damaging copper material, and mistakes during installation may lead to costly repairs | May be expensive |
How long will a copper roof typically last?
According to InterNACHI, a copper roof can last more than 70 years. This enduring aspect is one of the primary reasons why homeowners choose to install a copper roof over other types
Pros and cons of installing a copper roof.
Still not sure if a copper roof is worth the cost? Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons to help you make the right decision for your home and budget:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable and long-lasting | Expensive premium material |
| Weather-resistant | Requires highly skilled contractors |
| Energy-efficient | May be loud during a storm |
| Fire-resistant | Major repairs may be expensive |
| Little to no maintenance | |
| Added curb appeal |
In short, if you value beauty, added curb appeal, less maintenance, durability and longevity when it comes to your roofing, a copper roof may be worth the cost. But if your budget doesn’t support the upfront installation cost, you may want to consider other roofing types.
Get free cost estimates from local roofers near you.
Seeking a permanent answer to your roofing woes? If so, then consider installing a copper roof. Start your project today by contacting top-rated contractors on Thumbtack.
FAQs
Does a copper roof increase home value?
Metal roofing (like copper) has a reputation for being one of the most long-lasting roofing options, but that's not all it has going for it. Because of its durability, longevity and attractiveness, a new copper roof may boost your property’s value.
Can you walk on a copper roof?
Even though copper roofs are walkable, homeowners are advised against doing so for their own safety. A contractor who has to go on your roof should do it safely and in accordance with OSHA regulations.
Do copper roofs rust?
In contrast to steel and aluminum, copper will never rust. It never requires painting because of the natural patination process.
What type of roof is the cheapest?
The cheapest roofs tend to be rubber or 3-tab asphalt shingles.
*All project cost estimates included in this article were provided by Xactware’s pricing data (unless otherwise noted). For more information, visit Xactware’s pricing methodology page.
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