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TOPIC: Estimate Questions

What is a reasonable cost to install a metal shake

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I have a 20 year, 2500 sq/ft, cedar shake roof that needs replacement. I would like to use metal shakes. I have gotten, so far, two estimates of approximately $29,000. I could not believe that could be the cost so I checked the cost of the roofing material plus accessories with the metal roofing distributer. That cost is approximately $130 per sq. or about $3300 for my roof. The two companies are charging me $1160 per sq. How is this a reasonable cost for doing business when they expect $27,000 for labour and overhead? If the metal industry expects to grow in the average homeowner market there had better be a more affordable way to get a metal roof installed. I have looked at the product and its specifications and would love to have it on my house, but I can tell you there is no way I can afford $30,000 for a new roof. ANY help would be appreciated.
Guest User

7/22/2002
OINK, OINK JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT POSSIBLE TO.......... $$$$$$$$$$$$$$ I WANT A METAL ROOF BUT I WILL HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL ALL THE THIEVES ARE IN JAIL! THEY ARE ALL THIEFS! HOW MUCH PROFIT IS ENOUGH?
Guest User

8/1/2002
We manufacture a couple of wood shake metal shingles and I can tell you that typically the price installed averages around $400-425/100sf depending on whether they are tearing off the old or installing over it.This is about the same as a new wood shake roof but with a longer lifespan. There are then a number of factors such as access, height,pitch and roof layout that can affect this number. As well many citys in California as example now require that the roof be upgraded for fire and earthquake that could add costs. As well old wood roofs are notorious for having wood rot that requires some structural work. As to the cost makeup, you will find metal shake roofs on the market with contractor pricing set at $130-$180 per 100sf. You need to add 15-20% for accessories, then labour, permits, disposal costs and don't forget the workers compensation rates that run over 40%. I would suggest you contact our member manufacturers that list wood shake or go to our request a contractor and get more estimates and possibly more acurate measurements on the quantities.
Allan Reid
Dura-Loc Roofing Systems, Inc.

8/2/2002