Why Aluminium Roofing Sheet Price Per Sq Ft Matters for Northwoods Homeowners
Aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft typically ranges from $2.50 to $6.00 per square foot for materials alone, depending on thickness, coating, and profile type. When you add installation labor, the total installed cost usually lands between $10.00 and $19.00 per square foot for a complete aluminum roof system.
Here's a quick breakdown of what drives that price:
| Factor | Price Impact |
|---|---|
| Sheet Thickness | 0.4mm (26 gauge): $1.50-$2.25/sq ft; 1.0mm (20 gauge): $3.50-$5.50/sq ft |
| Coating Type | Mill finish: $2.50-$3.50/sq ft; PVDF coated: $4.50-$6.00+/sq ft |
| Profile Style | Corrugated: lower cost; Standing seam: premium price |
| Installation Labor | $2.50-$6.00/sq ft depending on roof pitch and complexity |
If you're considering metal roofing for your home or cabin in the Northwoods, understanding these numbers helps you budget accurately and compare options. Aluminum offers excellent corrosion resistance, which is valuable in areas with heavy snow, ice, and moisture. But the final cost depends on more than just the material price per square foot.
I'm Tyler Blair, co-owner at Eagle River Roofing, and I've worked on thousands of roofs across the Northwoods, including many metal roof installations where understanding the aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft helped homeowners make confident decisions. In this guide, we'll walk you through exactly what affects the cost, how aluminum compares to GI steel and GAF shingles, and what you should expect to pay for a complete installation.
Factors Influencing the Price of Metal Roofing
When we talk about the aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft, we are looking at a few big pieces of the puzzle. It is not like buying a 2x4 at the local lumber yard where the price is the same for everyone. Aluminum is a premium material, and its price moves based on what is happening in the global market.
In the Northwoods, from Eagle River to Rhinelander, we see a lot of variation in what people need. A simple shed might use a basic corrugated sheet, while a beautiful lakefront home in Minocqua usually calls for a high end standing seam system. The specific alloy used also matters. Most residential roofs use the 3003 alloy, but if you want something even tougher for a commercial project, you might look at the 5052 alloy, which can cost 20 percent to 30 percent more.
Understanding the aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft by gauge
Thickness is one of the biggest cost drivers. In the roofing world, we call this the "gauge." A smaller gauge number actually means a thicker sheet. For example, a 20 gauge sheet is much thicker and heavier than a 26 gauge sheet.
- 26 Gauge (Approx. 0.4mm to 0.5mm): This is often the entry level for residential metal roofing. It costs roughly $1.50 to $2.25 per square foot for the material. It is lightweight and easy to work with, but it might dent more easily if a large branch falls on it.
- 24 Gauge (Approx. 0.55mm to 0.7mm): This is the sweet spot for many Northwoods homes. It is strong enough to handle heavy snow loads in towns like Land O’ Lakes and Boulder Junction without buckling. Expect to pay between $2.00 and $3.00 per square foot for this thickness.
- 22 Gauge and Thicker: These are heavy duty sheets often used for specialized projects. The aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft for these can climb up to $5.50.
Choosing the right gauge is a balance between your budget and how much "muscle" you want your roof to have against our harsh winters. You can find more details on these choices in this Aluminum Roofing Cost Guide.
How coatings impact the aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft
The "finish" on your aluminum sheet does more than just make it look pretty. It protects the metal from the sun and rain.
- Mill Finish: This is the raw, silver look of aluminum. It is the cheapest option, usually costing $2.50 to $3.50 per square foot. It is great for barns or industrial buildings, but it can be very shiny and might show scratches more easily.
- Polyester Paint: This adds a layer of color and protection. It is a middle of the road option that adds about $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot to the base price.
- PVDF Coatings (Kynar 500): This is the "gold standard" for metal roofing. These coatings are famous for not fading, even after decades of Northwoods sun. Because they are so durable, they can add $1.50 or more per square foot to the material cost.
If you want a specific custom color to match your siding in St. Germain, that might also bump up the price compared to standard colors like Forest Green or Charcoal Gray.
Comparing Aluminium to GI Steel and GAF Shingles
We often get asked why someone should choose aluminum over steel or shingles. Each material has its place, especially with the wild weather we get in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula.
| Material | Est. Lifespan | Price per Sq Ft (Installed) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | 40 to 60 Years | $10.00 to $19.00 | Coastal or high moisture areas; rust proofing. |
| GI Steel | 20 to 30 Years | $8.00 to $14.00 | Budget friendly metal roofing. |
| GAF Shingles | 15 to 25 Years | $4.00 to $7.00 | Traditional look; easiest to repair. |
Aluminum is the king of corrosion resistance. Unlike steel, it does not rust. This is a huge plus if your home is near water or if you have a lot of salt used on nearby roads in the winter. You can learn more about our full range of Roofing Services to see which might fit your home best.
Why we recommend GAF shingles over other brands
While we love a good metal roof, many homeowners in the Northwoods prefer the look of traditional shingles. When we do a shingle roof replacement, we only use GAF architectural shingles because of their Timberline series.
GAF shingles are built to handle the "ice dam" capital of the world. They have excellent wind resistance and a legendary warranty. For a residential shingle roof, GAF provides the best value and protection for your investment. They are designed to stay put during those heavy summer storms in Tomahawk and Merrill.
The difference between aluminium and GI sheets
GI stands for Galvanized Iron (or more commonly, galvanized steel). These sheets are coated in a layer of zinc to prevent rust.
- Price Gap: GI sheets are generally cheaper than aluminum. You might save $2.00 to $4.00 per square foot by going with steel.
- Rust Risk: If a GI sheet gets scratched deep enough to reach the steel, it can start to rust. Aluminum does not have this problem. Even if it gets scratched, the metal underneath creates its own protective layer.
- Weight: Aluminum is much lighter than steel. This can be a benefit if you are roofing an older structure that cannot handle a lot of extra weight.
Current Market Trends for Aluminium Roofing Sheet Price Per Sq Ft
The market for aluminum has been a bit of a roller coaster lately. Global demand for "green" building materials has pushed the aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft up because aluminum is 100 percent recyclable.
According to recent data, the total installed cost for an aluminum roof on a 2,000 square foot house typically falls between $36,000 and $55,000. This might seem high compared to shingles, but many buyers see it as a "forever roof."
One big trend we are seeing in the Northwoods is the move toward energy efficiency. Aluminum is naturally reflective. In the summer, it bounces the sun's heat away from your home. This can lower your cooling bills in July and August. Many homeowners are also looking at "cool roof" coatings that make the aluminum even more efficient. For more on these trends, check out How Much Does Aluminum Roofing Cost? to see how prices have shifted over the last year.
Total Installed Cost: Beyond the Material Price
The aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft for the metal itself is just the beginning. To get a roof that actually keeps the water out, you have to factor in labor and accessories.
Labor in our area generally runs between $2.50 and $6.00 per square foot. If your roof is very steep or has a lot of "valleys" (where two roof sections meet), the labor will be on the higher end. We take pride in our tidy job sites and clear communication, which means we spend extra time making sure the underlayment and flashing are perfect.
If your old roof needs to be removed, that is called a "tear-off." This can add $1.00 to $4.00 per square foot to your project. We also have to look at your roof's "pitch." A flat roof is easier to walk on than a steep one, so steep roofs cost more to install. If you have a leak right now, you might want to look at our Roof Repairs page to see if a full replacement is actually necessary yet.
Additional expenses to keep in mind
A new roof usually means you need to look at your gutters too. We offer seamless gutters and gutter guards that work perfectly with metal roofs. Metal roofs shed snow very quickly, so you need a gutter system that can handle that "snow slide."
Other costs include:
- Chimney Flashing: This is the metal that seals the gap where your chimney meets the roof. It is a common spot for leaks if not done right.
- Permits: Depending on if you live in Antigo, Crandon, or Ironwood, permit fees can range from $150 to $500.
- Ventilation: Proper airflow in your attic prevents ice dams. We often install new ridge vents during a roof replacement.
- Commercial Needs: If you own a business in Rhinelander, you might need a flat membrane system. You can find more about that on our Commercial Roofing page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average lifespan of an aluminium roof in the Northwoods?
A high quality aluminum roof can easily last 40 to 60 years. In fact, many aluminum roofs outlast the people who install them! Because they don't rust and can handle the heavy snow in places like Mercer and Hurley, they are a very durable choice for our climate.
Is aluminium or steel better for heavy snow loads?
Both can handle snow, but it comes down to the gauge and the roof's structure. Steel is naturally stiffer, but a 24 gauge aluminum roof is plenty strong for Northwoods winters. Aluminum’s big advantage is that snow tends to slide off it much easier than it does off shingles, which reduces the weight on your house.
Does the color of the roof affect the price per square foot?
Yes, it can. Standard colors like black, gray, or brown are usually the most affordable. If you want a bright "Maroon" or a custom "Bush Green" to match your cabin in Three Lakes, the manufacturer might charge a premium. Also, high end PVDF coatings that resist fading cost more than basic polyester paints.
Conclusion
Choosing a new roof is a big deal. Whether you are looking at the aluminium roofing sheet price per sq ft for a modern metal look or deciding on the reliability of GAF architectural shingles, we are here to help.
At Eagle River Roofing, we are Northwoods experts. We know how to build roofs that stand up to the "Big Snow" and the ice dams that come with it. We serve homeowners from Eagle River and Minocqua all the way up to Ironwood and Ontonagon in Michigan. We promise clear communication, a tidy job site, and a roof that will protect your family for years to come.
Ready to get a real number for your project? Check out More info about our roofing services or give us a call. We would love to help you decode your roofing costs and find the perfect fit for your home.
