Metal roofing is having a moment in San Antonio—and for good reason. When summer temperatures hit 100°F+ for weeks straight and hailstorms pound your neighborhood, metal roofing's heat reflection and impact resistance start looking very attractive.
But metal roofing costs 2-3x more than traditional shingles. Is it worth the investment for your San Antonio home? How much will it actually save you on cooling bills? Which type of metal performs best in our climate?
This comprehensive guide answers all your metal roofing questions with real San Antonio pricing, energy savings calculations, and honest pros/cons comparisons. Compare options side-by-side with our material comparison tool.
Quick Summary:
- Cost: $26,000-$45,000 for average San Antonio home (vs. $13,000-$18,000 for shingles)
- Lifespan: 40-70 years (vs. 18-25 years for shingles)
- Energy Savings: 15-25% lower cooling costs (save $300-$600/year)
- ROI: Break-even in 15-20 years, then pure savings for decades
- Best For: Long-term homeowners, energy-conscious buyers, hail-prone areas
Metal Roofing Costs in San Antonio (2025 Pricing)
By Home Size
| Home Size | Metal Roof Cost | Shingle Cost | Premium | |-----------|----------------|--------------|---------| | 1,200-1,500 sq ft | $20,000-$28,000 | $10,500-$15,000 | +$9,500-$13,000 | | 1,500-2,000 sq ft | $24,000-$35,000 | $13,000-$19,000 | +$11,000-$16,000 | | 2,000-2,500 sq ft | $30,000-$42,000 | $16,000-$24,000 | +$14,000-$18,000 | | 2,500-3,000 sq ft | $36,000-$50,000 | $20,000-$28,000 | +$16,000-$22,000 | | 3,000-4,000 sq ft | $48,000-$70,000 | $25,000-$38,000 | +$23,000-$32,000 |
Typical 2,000 sq ft San Antonio Home:
- Standing seam metal: $35,000-$42,000
- Metal shingles/tiles: $30,000-$38,000
- Corrugated panels: $26,000-$32,000
By Metal Type
Standing Seam (Most Popular):
- Cost: $1,200-$1,600 per square installed
- Appearance: Modern, clean lines, commercial look
- Benefits: Concealed fasteners (longer lasting), best for solar panels
- 2,000 sq ft home: $35,000-$42,000
Metal Shingles/Tiles:
- Cost: $1,000-$1,400 per square installed
- Appearance: Mimics traditional shingles or Spanish tile
- Benefits: More traditional look, lighter weight
- 2,000 sq ft home: $30,000-$38,000
Corrugated/R-Panel:
- Cost: $800-$1,100 per square installed
- Appearance: Agricultural/industrial look
- Benefits: Most affordable metal option, durable
- 2,000 sq ft home: $26,000-$32,000
Stone-Coated Steel:
- Cost: $1,100-$1,500 per square installed
- Appearance: Stone granules bonded to steel (looks like shingles)
- Benefits: Quieter than bare metal, more traditional aesthetic
- 2,000 sq ft home: $32,000-$40,000
What's Included in Metal Roofing Cost
Materials:
- Metal panels/shingles
- Underlayment (high-temperature rated)
- Fasteners/clips (stainless steel recommended)
- Ridge cap and trim pieces
- Flashing (custom fabricated)
- Closures and sealants
Labor:
- Complete tear-off of existing roof
- Decking inspection and repair
- Specialized metal installation (requires training)
- Custom trim and flashing work
- Ventilation system
- Clean-up and disposal
Additional Costs:
- Permits: $150-$400
- Structural reinforcement (if needed): $1,000-$5,000
- Upgraded underlayment: $500-$1,200
- Custom colors: +5-10%
- Solar panel attachments: $800-$1,500
Types of Metal Roofing: Which Is Best for San Antonio?
1. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
What It Is: Vertical panels with raised seams, concealed fasteners that clip together.
Best Features:
- ✅ No exposed fasteners (last 60-70 years)
- ✅ Sleek, modern appearance
- ✅ Best for solar panel installation
- ✅ Expandable panels accommodate heat movement
- ✅ Highest wind resistance (140+ mph)
Drawbacks:
- ❌ Most expensive option
- ❌ Modern look doesn't suit all architectural styles
- ❌ Requires skilled installers (fewer contractors qualified)
San Antonio Performance: Excellent - Concealed fasteners mean no deterioration from UV exposure. Expansion joints handle our extreme temperature swings (30°F winter nights to 105°F summer days).
Best For: Modern homes, energy-focused homeowners, solar panel plans, long-term investment
Popular in: Stone Oak newer builds, Northwest San Antonio contemporary homes
2. Metal Shingles/Tiles
What It Is: Individual metal pieces shaped to look like traditional asphalt shingles or Spanish tiles.
Best Features:
- ✅ Traditional appearance (neighborhood-friendly)
- ✅ Lighter than standing seam
- ✅ More affordable than standing seam
- ✅ Easier repairs (replace individual pieces)
Drawbacks:
- ❌ More seams = more potential leak points
- ❌ Exposed fasteners (need replacement in 20-30 years)
- ❌ Not ideal for solar panels
San Antonio Performance: Very Good - Looks like traditional shingles but performs much better in heat and hail. Good choice for historic neighborhoods with HOA restrictions.
Best For: Traditional home styles, HOA neighborhoods, moderate budgets
Popular in: Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, historic districts
3. Corrugated Metal Panels
What It Is: Ribbed metal sheets, agricultural/industrial style.
Best Features:
- ✅ Most affordable metal option
- ✅ Very durable and long-lasting
- ✅ Fast installation
- ✅ Easy to find contractors
Drawbacks:
- ❌ Industrial appearance (not for all neighborhoods)
- ❌ Exposed fasteners
- ❌ Noisier in rain/hail
- ❌ May not satisfy HOA requirements
San Antonio Performance: Good - Performs well mechanically but aesthetic limits residential use. Common on shops, barns, and modern industrial-style homes.
Best For: Workshops, garages, barndominiums, modern industrial homes, budget-conscious projects
Popular in: Rural Bexar County, commercial properties, detached structures
4. Stone-Coated Steel
What It Is: Steel panels coated with stone granules (similar to shingles).
Best Features:
- ✅ Quieter than bare metal (stone absorbs sound)
- ✅ Traditional appearance
- ✅ All metal benefits with shingle aesthetic
- ✅ Excellent hail resistance
Drawbacks:
- ❌ Stone coating can fade/wear over time
- ❌ More expensive than regular metal shingles
- ❌ Heavier than other metal options
San Antonio Performance: Excellent - Combines best of both worlds. Stone coating reduces noise and heat absorption while steel provides durability. Great for hail resistance.
Best For: Homeowners who want metal benefits without metal look, hail-prone areas, noise-sensitive locations
Popular in: Stone Oak, Helotes, suburban developments
Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: The Real Comparison
Upfront Cost
Shingles WIN:
- Standard shingles: $13,000-$18,000
- Impact-resistant shingles: $15,500-$22,000
- Metal roofing: $26,000-$45,000
- Cost difference: +$11,000-$27,000
Lifespan
Metal WINS:
- Shingles: 18-25 years (San Antonio heat shortens lifespan)
- Impact-resistant shingles: 25-30 years
- Metal roofing: 40-70 years (depending on type)
- Replacement advantage: Will outlive 2-3 shingle roofs
Lifetime Cost Analysis
Example: 2,000 sq ft San Antonio home, 50-year ownership
Shingle Roofing:
- Initial installation (2025): $16,000
- Replacement #1 (2045): $24,000 (inflated)
- Replacement #2 (2065): $35,000 (inflated)
- Total 50-year cost: $75,000
Metal Roofing:
- Initial installation (2025): $38,000
- Replacement: $0 (still going strong at 50 years)
- Total 50-year cost: $38,000
- Lifetime savings: $37,000
Energy Efficiency
Metal WINS:
- Shingles: Absorb heat, attic temps 150-160°F
- Metal roofing: Reflects 65-75% of solar heat, attic temps 130-140°F
- Cooling savings: 15-25% lower AC costs
San Antonio Calculation:
- Average cooling cost: $200/month (May-Sep = 5 months)
- Annual cooling: $1,000
- Metal savings: 20% = $200/year
- 50-year energy savings: $10,000-$15,000
Hail Resistance
Metal WINS:
- Shingles: Dented/cracked by 1.5'+ hail
- Impact-resistant shingles: Withstand up to 2' hail
- Metal roofing: Withstands 2.5'+ hail (may dent but won't fail)
- Insurance claims: Metal = fewer claims, potential discounts 10-20%
Wind Resistance
Metal WINS:
- Shingles: Rated to 110-130 mph
- Standing seam metal: Rated to 140-180 mph
- San Antonio winds: Severe thunderstorms produce 70-90 mph gusts
- Advantage: Better protection during storms
Noise
Shingles WIN:
- Shingles: Virtually silent in rain/hail
- Metal roofing: Louder during rain (especially bare metal)
- Mitigation: Proper insulation reduces noise significantly
- Stone-coated metal is quieter than bare metal
Aesthetics
TIED (Personal Preference):
- Shingles: Traditional, wide variety of colors/styles
- Metal roofing: Modern or traditional options available
- HOA considerations: Some restrict metal, others embrace it
- Resale impact: Appeals to energy-conscious buyers
Installation Time
Shingles WIN:
- Shingles: 1-3 days typical
- Metal roofing: 3-7 days (requires specialized skills)
- Contractor availability: More shingle contractors than metal specialists
Maintenance
Metal WINS:
- Shingles: Inspect annually, replace damaged shingles
- Metal roofing: Inspect every 3-5 years, minimal maintenance
- Long-term: Metal requires less attention over decades
Insurance Discounts
Metal WINS:
- Shingles: No discount (standard rating)
- Impact-resistant shingles: 20-35% discount
- Metal roofing: 10-30% discount (varies by insurer)
- Annual savings: $150-$400/year typical
Metal Roofing Energy Savings in San Antonio Heat
How Metal Roofing Saves Energy
Reflectivity: Metal roofs reflect 65-75% of solar radiation vs. shingles absorbing 80-90%.
Emissivity: Metal releases absorbed heat quickly after sunset. Shingles retain heat into the evening.
Ventilation: Metal roofs pair well with proper attic ventilation for air circulation underneath.
Cool Roof Coatings: Special coatings can boost reflectivity to 85%+, further reducing heat absorption.
Real San Antonio Energy Savings
Typical San Antonio Home (2,000 sq ft, good insulation):
- Summer cooling cost (May-Sep): $1,000-$1,200/year
- Metal roof savings: 15-25% reduction
- Annual savings: $150-$300
Poorly Insulated Home:
- Summer cooling cost: $1,500-$2,000/year
- Metal roof savings: 20-30% reduction (greater impact when insulation poor)
- Annual savings: $300-$600
Factors That Increase Savings:
- Light-colored metal (white, tan, light gray)
- Proper attic ventilation
- Adequate attic insulation (R-30+ recommended)
- West-facing roof exposure (afternoon sun)
Factors That Decrease Savings:
- Heavy tree shade (already blocking sun)
- Dark metal colors (absorb more heat)
- Poor attic insulation (heat enters house regardless)
Return on Investment (Energy Only)
Conservative Estimate:
- Metal premium: +$18,000
- Annual energy savings: $200
- Payback period: 90 years (energy alone doesn't justify)
BUT ADDING:
- Lifespan savings: +$20,000-$30,000 (avoid 1-2 replacements)
- Insurance discounts: +$150/year × 50 years = $7,500
- Total ROI becomes positive in 15-20 years
Metal Roofing Performance in San Antonio Climate
Heat Resistance ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Extreme Summer Heat (95-105°F for weeks):
- Metal reflects heat instead of absorbing
- Cools down quickly after sunset
- Reduces attic temperatures 15-30°F vs. shingles
- Prevents shingle-related failures (curling, granule loss, adhesive failure)
Verdict: Metal excels in San Antonio heat. This is metal's biggest advantage.
Hail Resistance ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
San Antonio Hail (Spring storms, 1-2.5' diameter common):
- Metal dents but doesn't crack/break
- Functional integrity maintained (cosmetic dents only)
- Class 4 impact rating typical
- Insurance companies recognize superior protection
Verdict: Metal outperforms all other materials. May dent but won't fail.
Wind Resistance ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Severe Thunderstorm Winds (60-90 mph gusts):
- Standing seam rated 140-180 mph
- Interlocking panels resist uplift
- No shingles to blow off
- Tested performance in hurricanes (coastal areas)
Verdict: Best wind resistance available for residential roofing.
Rain/Water Resistance ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heavy San Antonio Downpours:
- Non-porous surface sheds water instantly
- No absorption (shingles absorb water)
- Properly installed = leak-free for decades
- Low slope capability (4:12 and lower)
Verdict: Excellent water shedding, minimal leak risk.
Thermal Expansion ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Temperature Swings (30°F winter nights to 105°F summer days):
- Metal expands/contracts significantly
- Standing seam panels accommodate movement
- Exposed fasteners can loosen over time
- Proper installation crucial for long-term performance
Verdict: Good if installed correctly. Use standing seam or allow for expansion.
UV Resistance ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Intense Texas Sun:
- Metal doesn't degrade from UV exposure
- Paint finish may fade slightly over 30-40 years
- Shingles lose granules and curl from UV
- Metal maintains structural integrity indefinitely
Verdict: Far superior to shingles. No UV-related degradation.
Metal Roofing Colors for San Antonio
Best Colors for Energy Efficiency
Maximum Cooling (Highest Reflectivity):
-
White - Reflects 70-80% of sunlight
- Energy savings: 25-30%
- Drawback: Shows dirt, may be too bright for neighborhoods
-
Light Gray/Silver - Reflects 65-75%
- Energy savings: 20-25%
- Most popular choice (balances performance + aesthetics)
-
Tan/Beige - Reflects 55-65%
- Energy savings: 18-22%
- Traditional appearance, neighborhood-friendly
Moderate Performance: 4. Medium Gray - Reflects 45-55%
- Energy savings: 12-18%
- Light Blue/Green - Reflects 50-60%
- Energy savings: 15-20%
Lower Performance (Style Over Efficiency): 6. Dark Gray/Charcoal - Reflects 25-35%
- Energy savings: 5-10%
- Modern aesthetic
-
Bronze/Copper - Reflects 30-40%
- Energy savings: 8-12%
- Upscale appearance
-
Dark Blue/Green/Red - Reflects 20-30%
- Energy savings: 3-8%
- HOA matching requirements
San Antonio Recommendation: Light gray or tan for best balance of energy efficiency and neighborhood compatibility. Avoid dark colors unless aesthetics are more important than cooling savings.
Metal Roofing Installation: What to Expect
Finding Qualified Metal Roofing Contractors
Metal Roofing Requires Specialized Skills:
- NOT all roofing contractors install metal properly
- Shingle installers may claim metal experience (verify)
- Poor installation = leaks, noise, premature failure
What to Verify:
- ✅ Metal roofing certification (manufacturer-specific)
- ✅ 20+ metal roof installations (get references)
- ✅ Photos of local metal projects
- ✅ Understands thermal expansion requirements
- ✅ Uses proper fasteners (stainless steel for coastal, galvanized inland)
Installation Process
Day 1-2: Tear-Off & Prep
- Remove existing shingles
- Inspect and repair decking
- Install high-temperature underlayment
- Install drip edge and flashing
Day 3-5: Panel Installation
- Measure and cut panels (custom fabricated)
- Install panels from eave to ridge
- Interlock seams (standing seam) or fasten panels
- Install ridge cap and trim
Day 6: Flashing & Detail Work
- Custom fabricate chimney/vent flashing
- Install closures and sealants
- Ensure proper ventilation
- Final inspection
Day 7: Cleanup
- Remove debris
- Magnet sweep for metal shavings
- Final walkthrough with homeowner
Total Time: 5-7 days for standard 2,000 sq ft home
Common Installation Mistakes
❌ Over-Tightening Fasteners:
- Metal needs room to expand/contract
- Over-tight = buckling, oil-canning (wavy appearance)
❌ Inadequate Underlayment:
- Must use high-temperature rated (250°F+)
- Regular felt fails in attic heat
❌ Poor Flashing:
- Metal requires custom fabricated flashing
- Using generic flashing = leaks
❌ Incorrect Fasteners:
- Must be compatible with metal type
- Steel panels + aluminum fasteners = galvanic corrosion
❌ No Expansion Allowance:
- Panels locked too rigidly = buckling
- Standing seam clips must allow movement
Metal Roofing Warranties
Manufacturer Warranties
Paint Finish:
- Standard: 25-30 years (fade/chalk resistance)
- Premium: 40-50 years
- What's covered: Excessive fading, chalking, peeling
- Typical: Prorated after 10-15 years
Substrate/Perforation:
- Standard: 30-40 years
- Premium: 40-50 years (some lifetime warranties)
- What's covered: Rust-through, structural failure
- Typical: Prorated or non-prorated (depends on product)
Hail/Impact:
- Some manufacturers offer hail warranties
- Coverage: Replacement if perforated by hail
- Limitations: Cosmetic dents not covered
Contractor Workmanship Warranty
Minimum Acceptable: 10 years Better: 15-20 years Best: 25-30 years
Should Cover:
- Leaks from installation defects
- Flashing failures
- Fastener issues
- Structural problems
Red Flags:
- Only 1-2 year warranty
- Warranty not in writing
- 'Lifetime' warranty from new company (will they exist?)
What Voids Warranties
Common Warranty Killers:
- ❌ Using different contractor for repairs
- ❌ Walking on roof improperly (denting)
- ❌ Adding satellite dishes without proper mounting
- ❌ Pressure washing (removes protective coating)
- ❌ Not registering warranty with manufacturer
- ❌ Installing solar panels incorrectly
Protect Your Warranty:
- ✅ Register with manufacturer within 30-60 days
- ✅ Keep all installation documentation
- ✅ Use certified contractors for any repairs
- ✅ Follow maintenance guidelines
Metal Roofing Maintenance in San Antonio
Annual Inspection Checklist
Every 1-2 Years:
- □ Check for loose fasteners (exposed fastener systems)
- □ Inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights
- □ Clear debris from valleys and gutters
- □ Look for scratches/damage to paint finish
- □ Check sealants/caulking (reapply if cracking)
- □ Inspect attic for leaks after heavy rains
Cleaning
When to Clean:
- Visible dirt, pollen, or algae buildup
- Every 3-5 years in tree-heavy areas
- Before applying protective coatings
How to Clean:
- Use soft brush or car wash mitt (no abrasives)
- Mild detergent + water solution
- Rinse thoroughly from top down
- Never use pressure washer (damages coating)
Professional Cleaning: $300-$600 for average home
Tree Management
Prevent Damage:
- Trim overhanging branches (prevent scratches)
- Keep trees 8-10 ft from roof
- Clear fallen branches immediately
San Antonio Note: Oak trees are beautiful but drop branches during storms. Metal roofs handle impact better than shingles, but scratches can lead to rust over decades.
Long-Term Maintenance
20-30 Years:
- Repaint if fade is significant (optional, cosmetic)
- Cost: $3,000-$8,000 depending on home size
- Extends life another 20-30 years
40-50 Years:
- Inspect for substrate corrosion
- Replace fasteners if exposed fastener system
- Cost: $1,500-$3,000
Is Metal Roofing Worth It for Your San Antonio Home?
Metal Roofing Makes Sense If:
✅ You plan to stay 15+ years
- Need time to recoup higher upfront cost
✅ You prioritize energy efficiency
- Metal's cooling savings compound over time
✅ You're in hail-prone area
- Stone Oak, Helotes, Northwest SA get frequent hail
✅ You want minimal maintenance
- Set it and forget it for decades
✅ You're building or doing major renovation
- Easier to justify premium when overall project budget is large
✅ HOA allows metal roofing
- Check restrictions before investing
✅ You value sustainability
- Metal is 100% recyclable, lasts 2-3x longer
✅ You're adding solar panels
- Standing seam is ideal for solar mounting
Shingles Make More Sense If:
✅ You're selling within 5-10 years
- Won't recoup metal roof premium in resale
✅ Budget is tight
- $15,000 vs. $38,000 is significant difference
✅ You prefer traditional look
- Neighborhood aesthetic concerns
✅ You need quick installation
- Metal takes longer, requires specialized contractors
✅ You don't mind future replacement
- 20-25 years seems sufficient for your plans
Metal Roofing Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a metal roof cost in San Antonio? A: $26,000-$45,000 for average San Antonio home (2,000 sq ft). Standing seam metal: $35,000-$42,000. Metal shingles: $30,000-$38,000. Corrugated panels: $26,000-$32,000. This is 2-3x more than asphalt shingles but lasts 40-70 years vs. 18-25 years.
Q: Does metal roofing really save money on cooling in San Antonio? A: Yes, 15-25% reduction in summer cooling costs typical. Metal reflects 65-75% of solar heat vs. shingles absorbing heat. Average savings: $150-$300/year depending on home insulation, roof color, and AC usage. Light colors save more than dark.
Q: How long does a metal roof last in San Antonio? A: 40-70 years depending on type. Standing seam metal: 50-70 years. Metal shingles: 40-50 years. San Antonio's heat doesn't degrade metal like it does shingles. You'll outlive 2-3 asphalt shingle roofs with one metal roof.
Q: Is metal roofing loud during rain and hail? A: Can be louder than shingles, but proper insulation and underlayment significantly reduce noise. Stone-coated metal is quieter than bare metal. Most homeowners report noise is not an issue with proper installation. Inside attic space, metal is noticeably louder; inside living areas, difference is minimal.
Q: Does metal roofing increase home value in San Antonio? A: Metal roofing can increase resale value 1-6% ($3,000-$18,000 for median San Antonio home). Appeals to energy-conscious buyers and those tired of frequent roof replacements. ROI varies—best return if neighborhood already has metal roofs. May not recoup full premium if selling quickly.
Q: What color metal roof is best for San Antonio heat? A: Light gray, white, or tan for maximum energy efficiency (reflects 65-80% of sunlight). These save 20-30% on cooling costs. Dark colors (charcoal, bronze) save only 5-10% but may be required for aesthetics or HOA rules. Light colors stay cooler and perform better.
Q: Can you install solar panels on a metal roof? A: Yes, standing seam metal roofing is ideal for solar panels. Clamps attach to raised seams without penetrating roof (no leak risk). Metal roofs last 50+ years—perfect match for 25-30 year solar panel lifespan. Easier and cheaper to install solar on metal than shingles.
Q: Does insurance cost less with a metal roof in San Antonio? A: Most San Antonio insurance companies offer 10-30% discounts for metal roofing due to superior hail, wind, and fire resistance. Discounts vary by insurer. Average savings: $150-$400/year. Call your insurance agent for specific discount rates before deciding.
Q: What are the disadvantages of metal roofing? A: Higher upfront cost (2-3x shingles), can be louder during rain/hail, limited qualified installers in some areas, denting from large hail (cosmetic, not functional), potential for oil-canning (wavy appearance) if installed incorrectly, and some HOAs restrict metal roofing.
Q: Can I install metal roofing over existing shingles? A: Technically possible but not recommended. Better to tear off for proper inspection of decking, ensure adequate ventilation, and avoid adding excessive weight. Most manufacturers void warranties if installed over shingles. Cost savings ($1,500-$2,500) not worth long-term risks.
Get Your FREE Metal Roofing Estimate
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- ✅ 10-year workmanship warranty
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