Is a metal roof worth the cost in Marin? Standing seam vs. stone-coated steel

What's the difference between standing seam and stone-coated steel?

Standing seam is long steel or aluminum panels joined by raised seams, with fasteners hidden under the seam. It has a clean, modern look and suits simple roof shapes. Stone-coated steel is steel formed into shingle, shake or tile profiles and coated with granules, so it reads as a traditional roof from the street.

How does metal compare with asphalt on price?

In national cost surveys such as Cost vs. Value, the metal reroof costs substantially more than asphalt shingles for the same roof. Within metal, standing seam is usually the pricier option. Exact figures depend on the roof, so this page sticks to what moves the number.

What changes the price of a metal roof?

• Material choices: steel vs. aluminum, panel gauge, coating
• How cut-up the roof is: valleys, hips, dormers, chimneys
• Tear-off: number of old layers and decking condition
• Minimum slope for the chosen system
• Staging: long panels and tight lots don't mix

How long does it last, and is it fire-rated?

InterNACHI estimates metal roofing at 40 to 80 years, versus about 20 to 30 for asphalt shingles (InterNACHI). The state's Safer from Wildfires program lists metal shingles or sheets among the roofs that qualify as Class A.

Does a metal roof in Marin have to be a cool roof?

Marin towns are in climate zones 2 and 3, neither of which prescriptively requires a cool roof on a home reroof. See the CEC compliance manual.

What matters locally?

Marin is where metal makes the most sense on paper: a lot of the county is in or near wildland areas, and metal shingles or sheets are among the materials the state lists as Class A in its Safer from Wildfires program. Smooth panels also shed redwood needles and oak leaves better than textured shingles, which helps under heavy tree cover. Near the bay and ocean in Sausalito, Tiburon, Belvedere and West Marin, coastal coatings and warranty terms matter. Hillside access in Mill Valley and the Ross Valley adds labor for long panels.

What should be on a metal-roof bid?

Get the product line, metal and gauge, coating, underlayment, Class A assembly listing and both warranties named on every bid, so you're comparing the same roof. Our quote checker covers the rest. For your actual price, request a free written estimate: a licensed roofer measures the roof and prices your exact scope.

Related: what drives roof replacement cost, roof size estimator, Class A roofs.