Choosing metal roofing companies in my area shouldn’t be a gamble. The right roofing contractors show proof, such as licenses, insurance, written specifications, tested assemblies, and clear warranty policies, before they discuss price. Use this checklist to standardize quotes for metal roof installation, repairs, and replacements.
How to Use This Checklist (and What to Prep)
Measure roof size and slope, and photograph all planes and penetrations. Note exposures: hail, high wind, wildfire, coastal air, hot/humid, or winter freeze. Ask for a roof inspection if the roof deck might need repair.
Request cut sheets for panels (factory-crafted steel panels, galvanized steel, aluminum), accessories, and details for skylights/sun tunnels. If converting shingle roofs, wood shake, or architectural shingles to metal, have the contractor flag any structural or code adders.
The 8-Point Checklist to Find the Best Metal Roofing Company
1) Licensing, Insurance, and Permits—All in Writing
Confirm an active license, general liability, and workers’ comp, and who pulls the permit. Keep documents handy for any insurance claims or insurance restoration needs.
2) Written Specs: Panel, Metal, Gauge, Finish, Underlayment, Flashings
Lock in the panel profile (standing seam, metal shingles, exposed-fastener), metal (steel or aluminum), gauge, and finish (PVDF/Kynar). Specify underlayments, valley/eave membranes, and all flashing at penetrations. “Tin roofs” is just a nickname, so use modern metal roofing materials.
3) Rated Performance for Your Region (on the actual assembly)
Ensure that the roofing company you are hiring has a wide knowledge of the material and standards needed for your roofing, giving you the best fit for your property. See the the examples of standard materials below:
- Impact: Choose UL 2218 Class 4 where hail risk exists.
- Wind/structural: Ask for assemblies tested to ASTM E1592 and uplift standards UL 580/1897.
- Fire (wildfire/WUI): Target Class A per ASTM E108/UL 790.
- Cool roof: Use independent CRRC ratings (SRI).
4) Installation Details That Prevent Leaks
Require clip/fastener layout and spacing, careful panel handling, and correct penetration flashing (vents and skylights/sun tunnels). For hot regions, consider above-sheathing ventilation; in snowy regions, specify a snow-retention strategy. Plan periodic roof washing.
5) Warranties You Can Actually Use
Look for finish coverage (many offer a 40-year warranty), substrate/perforation, and workmanship. Verify coastal limits, such as aluminum near salt air; some steel warranties require distance from surf. Clarify maintenance duties to protect the total cost of ownership.
6) Line-Item Quote & Total Cost Transparency
Request a cost analysis that lists tear-off, disposal, deck repairs, underlayments, trims, membranes, permit fees, and cleanup. Use the $8 to $12 per sq. ft. installed trade-association benchmark as a sanity check for many systems. Expect premium profiles to trend higher, which aligns with the national metal roof replacement job-cost average above.
7) Track Record, Training, and References
Ask for recent, similar projects and homeowner references. Verify training for the exact metal roofing products. Evaluate customer service by response times and clarity. Professional proposals and a friendly user experience signal reliability.
8) Logistics, Timeline, and Safety
Confirm start/finish window, crew size, daily cleanup, and access/staging for urban, suburban, or rural lots. HOA/ARC submittals and OSHA-compliant safety should be standard. If you’re weighing a DIY route, weigh risks carefully against any perceived savings.
Next Steps: Compare Metal Roofing Companies in Your Area—Side by Side
Send each bidder a one-page spec listing the assembly, ratings, and warranty requirements for your roofing project. Request a consistent metal roofing estimate for repair, roof replacements, or metal roof replacement using the same scope. Shortlist proposals that align with reputable cost references.
FAQ
How do metal roofs compare to asphalt shingles in cost?
Metal often starts around $8 to $12 per sq. ft. installed, per a trade-association cost sheet. A full standing-seam replacement averages $49,928 nationally vs. $30,680 for asphalt shingles.
Can I install new panels over existing shingles?
Sometimes. It depends on the deck condition and code. Confirm underlayments and any weather-proof membrane details in writing.
Do color and style affect performance?
Yes. Certain metal roof styles and lighter color families reflect more heat; pick finishes with published reflectance values. For labeling, CRRC ratings now lead.
Ready to Find Metal Roofing Companies in My Area? Get Matched With Vetted Pros
This checklist keeps bids consistent, reveals true value, and protects your budget. You now know how to compare specs, assemblies, installation costs, and warranty terms—plus which standards and labels matter.
Mr. Remodel is your guide to the best-fit local pros. Tell us your scope and timeline, and we’ll connect you with screened, high-quality metal roofing companies near you so you can move your project forward with confidence.