How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost in Chicago?

Chicago’s high winds, heavy snow, and extreme temperatures can damage local roofs. Metal roofs offer protection against Chicago weather while providing excellent energy efficiency. A metal roof in Chicago costs an average of $65,699, with most homeowners paying between $14,112 and $117,286. The cost of a metal roof depends on roof size, the type and style of roof, labor costs, and more. We break down some of the factors that affect how much you’ll pay.

Metal Roof Cost Factors

The cost of installing a metal roof in Chicago depends on the specifics of your roof and the material you choose. Take a look at some of the factors that determine the price of a metal roof.

Size

One key determining factor in the price of a metal roof is the roof size. The larger the roof, the more it’ll cost. Here are some common roof sizes and their average costs.

Roofing Type and Style

The type of metal roof you choose will affect the total project price. Metal roofing is available in a range of metal types, from budget-friendly aluminum to the premium price of a copper roof. The type of roofing matters, too. Standing seam roofing with its hidden fasteners will cost more than corrugated or screw down metal roofing, which use exposed fasteners.

Roof Complexity 

A straightforward roofline without multiple architectural features, penetrations, or contrasting surfaces will take less time to install and cost less than a complex roof. Metal roofing must be precisely cut and installed, so the more complex your roof is, the more you’ll pay in labor costs.

Underlayment

An underlayment is necessary before installing metal roofing. This layer provides added moisture protection—a must-have when dealing with Chicago’s melting snowfall. Underlayment costs range from $1 per square foot for felt underlayment to $1.20 or more per square foot for synthetic.

Removal and Disposal

In Chicago, you may be able to install a metal roof over shingles, but in most cases, you’ll need to remove and dispose of your old roof before installing the new one. Roof removal costs depend on the type of roof being removed and how much labor is involved—check with your roofer to see if removal and disposal costs are included in the quote.

Metal Roof Pro Costs

Installing a metal roof isn’t a DIY project—you’ll want to hire a local metal roof installer to ensure the job is done right. Here are some of the costs associated with hiring a roofing pro.

Roofer Cost

Labor costs for a Chicago roofing pro will make up about half of your total project cost. Metal roof installers have specialized training and experience, so expect to pay more than you would to have an asphalt shingle roof installed. Most roofers include labor costs in the total project quote rather than charging by the hour—double-check how you’re being charged for labor so you’re clear on the final price. 

Permits and Fees

The city of Chicago requires a building permit for roofing installation. Permit fees depend on the scope and cost of the project. Confirm with your roofing contractor that any necessary permits have been obtained and all fees paid before work begins. 

Does a Metal Roof Increase Home Value?

A metal roof can increase home value more than other types of roofing materials, offering a return on investment (ROI) of 60% to 70%, on average. In Chicago, where high winds, heavy snowfall, and other extreme weather can cause significant damage to less durable roofs, metal is a desirable roofing material and can be a positive factor for prospective buyers.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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