What’s the average metal roof cost in Ontario 2025?

Expect to pay between $10 and $20 per sq. ft., depending on metal type, complexity, and installer.

What’s the most affordable starting price for metal roofing in Ontario?

Lifetime Metal Roof offers installations starting at just $6,900 with a 55-year warranty.

Is metal roofing worth the investment?

Yes, especially for long-term homeowners. It lasts 2–3 times longer than asphalt roofing.

How long does a metal roof last?

Steel and aluminum roofs typically last 40–70 years. Copper can exceed 100 years with proper care.

How much does a 1,500 sq ft metal roof cost?

Anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on roof complexity and metal type.

Can I install a metal roof over shingles?

Often yes, which can save on tear-off costs. An inspection will confirm if your roof qualifies.

What’s the 20-ft metal roofing price for panels?

Expect $60 to $150 per panel, depending on finish and thickness.

Are metal roofs noisy in the rain?

No, when installed properly with insulation, they are no louder than other roofing types.

Do metal roofs affect insurance rates?

They sometimes lower rates due to fire and weather resistance—check with your provider.

What’s the cost for the metal roof installation labour alone?

Labour accounts for about 30–50% of the total install cost.

Are there rebates or incentives for metal roofs in Ontario?

Occasionally, through energy programs. Check with your local utility or municipality.

How To Install Metal Roofing - Lifetime Metal Roof

If you’re looking to replace or install a new roof, you can’t go wrong with metal roofing. It’s the top choice for durability, energy-efficiency, and curb appeal. The only question that remains is how to install your metal roof. Fortunately, this guide outlines the entire metal roof installation process, from initial planning to the final roof ridge. Read on to discover everything you need to know to install metal roofs.

Affordable Monterrei metal roofing installation

Tools Required

Gloves, goggles, steel-toed boots, & safety harness
Ladder
Tape measure & square
Hammer & pry bar
Aviation snips or shears
Hand seamer
Cordless drill & drill bits
Chalk line
Caulking gun
Level

Materials Required

Metal roofing panels
Roofing nails
Ice and water shield
Ridge caps
Eave & valley flashing
Gable trim
Self-tapping roofing screws, & washers
Butyl tape
Roofing sealant
Roofing vent boots
Inside & outside foam closure strips

Step-by-Step Guide to Install Metal Roof

Step 1 – Prepare the Roof for Metal Roofing

Clear the way for your metal roofing by removing the old roofing materials and preparing the roof deck. Next, unroll the underlayment while removing the bottom part of the adhesive backing, and overlap the previous layer by about six to eight inches. An ice-and-water shield is a great underlayment option for a metal roof as it provides optimal protection. Keeping the underlayment wrinkle-free is vital but can be difficult. Once completely rolled out, cut the underlayment and pull out the rest of the adhesive.

Pro Tip: Check that the roof deck is completely dry before applying underlayment. Any trapped moisture can lead to rot or mold under your new roof.

Step 2 – Install Flashing and Prepare Roofing Materials

Install the eave and valley flashing along the edge of your roof where the slopes meet to help direct water. Organize your roofing materials nearby for easy access and apply a cover when not in use to shield them from the weather. Before you cut and install your metal roof panels, double-check your measurements for guaranteed accuracy. Keep ridge caps and roof ridge materials organized and covered until they’re ready for installation

Pro Tip: Cut flashing with aviation snips instead of power tools to avoid heat buildup that can damage protective coatings.

Step 3 – Lay Out the First Row of Steel Roofing Panels

Position the first metal panel square with the eave. Then, use a chalk line to align the subsequent panels. Lightly fasten the panels until you confirm the roofing is square, then secure them firmly. When installing the first row of metal panels, precision is critical. Straight alignment makes the installation process a lot smoother as you progress upwards to the roof ridge.

Pro Tip: Measure diagonally from corner to corner of the panel layout. If both diagonals are equal, your row is square—this prevents misalignment later.

Step 4 – Attaching Panels for Installing a Metal Roof

When you’re installing a metal roof, begin placing your panels from the bottom of the eaves and work your way up. Align each panel to overlap the edge of the bottom metal panel by ½ to ¾ inches. You should install panels squarely with the previous metal roof panel using a chalk line.

Pro Tip: Overlap panels by at least one ridge for watertight seams, and always fasten screws in the flat section of the panel, never on the raised ribs.

Step 5 – Work Up the Roof

As you install each panel, be careful not to over-tighten the screws and always follow a chalk line to maintain alignment. Place fasteners carefully to guarantee there are no gaps or cracked panels. As you move upwards, check each section for tightness and uniformity as you approach the roof ridge.

Pro Tip: Do not overtighten screws. They should be snug, with the washer slightly compressed, but not squeezed flat—this ensures panels can expand and contract naturally.

Step 6 – Completing the Roof Ridge on a Metal Roof

Place closure strips along the roof peaks, then install the ridge caps with screws and a sealant tape. This strengthens the entire roofing structure, sealing the roof ridge and prevents leaks. The roof ridge is the finishing step in securing your metal roof. When performed correctly, these steps will safeguard your metal roofing from leaks and moisture intrusion.

Pro Tip: Install foam closure strips before ridge caps to block insects, debris, and wind-driven rain from entering beneath the ridge.

Step 7 – Final Inspection of Your Metal Roofing Installation

A final inspection will check that your metal roofing is secure and built to withstand rain, wind, falling debris, and UV rays for decades. Check that all your screws are tight, remove any remaining materials or debris, and apply touch-up paint where needed.

Pro Tip: Walk the roof carefully with a magnet roller to collect any stray metal shavings or screws—leftover metal can rust and stain panels over time.

Step 8 – (Optional) Contact Lifetime Metal Roof for Support

Even with a detailed guide, installing a metal roof can feel overwhelming—especially if your roof is large or complex. That’s where we come in. If you’d like expert help with installation, advice on materials, or a professional inspection after your DIY project, reach out to the team at Lifetime Metal Roof. We’re here to make sure your roof is built to last.

Planning Your Installation of a Metal Roofing System

Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s involved in the planning stages when you install metal roofs:

That price reflects not just materials, but labour, preparation, and complexity. And while the metal roof installation cost is typically higher than asphalt, its lifespan often offsets that initial spend. In cities like Toronto or Ottawa, urban demand can push prices slightly higher, while smaller towns might benefit from lower labour costs.

Before you can start the installation of a metal roofing system, you need to assess your existing roof. This involves evaluating the roof’s structure, pitch, and complexity. Metal roofing is most suitable for structures with slopes of 3:12 or higher; however, some systems can accommodate lower pitches. Make sure that your roof deck is solid and inspected for rot, mold, and damage.

Always check your local building codes, zoning by-laws, and permit requirements before you install metal roofs. Your municipality may allow you to install metal roof panels directly on top of an existing layer of shingles, or you may be required to remove the roofing down to the decking.

Installing metal roofing over top of shingles can save you time and disposal costs, but it can also add additional weight and strain on the overall structure. There’s also the possibility of trapping moisture between the layers, which can lead to mold and rot.

Accurate measurements are critical for successfully installing a roof. You’ll need a tape measure and chalk line to calculate roof area. Remember to include measurements of overhangs. It’s recommended that you add 10% to 15% of extra material to account for waste and trimming. Include overhangs and allow extra material for cuts around valleys and the roof ridge

Roofer using nail gun for shingle installation on residential roof.

Tools and Roofing Materials Checklist

One of the key steps during the preparation stage of your roof installation is to make a tools and materials checklist. Additionally, this list should include the appropriate safety gear, which is goggles, steel-toed shoes, leather or synthetic gloves, and a full body harness.

Selecting high-quality tools and roofing materials will also make your project much more efficient. This can include sharp snips and shears, thick gauges, and high-grade protective finishes. Professional-grade and properly sized tools and materials can extend the lifespan of your roof and improve its overall durability.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro for Metal Roofing Installation

DIY metal roofing installations will save you in labour expenses, but materials can cost $5,000 to $8,000+ depending on your roof’s size and the type of metal roofing. In contrast, professional installations can cost $8,000 to $12,000+. Additional considerations include your skill set and potential safety risks. Consult a professional roofer if you have safety concerns or are planning to install a metal roof with a complex installation process.

Conclusion

Choose the best for your home with a DIY or professionally installed metal roof. The above information is a great tool, providing all the information you need for a smooth installation from the first metal panel to applying the roof ridge finishing touch for style and protection. For roofing supply or installation assistance, contact the pros at LIFETIME Metal Roof today!

Got a roof in mind? Let’s get you a proper metal roof quote and map out what’s next for your home.

FAQs About Metal Roofing

Yes, metal roofing can often be installed directly over shingles, saving time and disposal costs. However, you’ll need to check local building codes and ensure the roof structure can handle the added weight.

Modern metal roofs are installed with underlayment and insulation, which greatly reduce noise. Most homeowners find them no louder than asphalt shingles.

A properly installed metal roof can last 40 to 70 years, far longer than traditional roofing materials. Its longevity is one of its biggest advantages.

Yes, installing metal roofing requires specific fasteners, flashing, sealants, and closure strips designed for metal panels to ensure durability and weather resistance.

Yes, but you must step carefully on the flat parts of the panels, close to the roof decking. Avoid walking on ribs or unsupported edges to prevent denting.

An ice-and-water shield or high-temperature synthetic underlayment works best. Both provide strong moisture protection and hold up well under metal panels.

No, gutters can usually stay in place. However, check for debris and ensure flashing and drip edges fit securely over the gutter system.

It’s possible, but cold weather makes underlayment and sealants harder to work with. If you must install in winter, plan for slower progress and store materials in a warm area before use.

Yes, always use self-tapping roofing screws with washers. They create a tight seal and prevent leaks—standard nails or drywall screws are not suitable.

How To Install Metal Roofing