How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost in 2026? (UK)
A metal roof typically costs £80–£180 per m² installed in 2026. Corrugated and box-profile steel sit at the lower end, standing seam and zinc or aluminium at the top. Roof size, pitch, insulation and access all move the figure. Here is the full breakdown and how to compare quotes.
Metal roof cost breakdown 2026
Installed prices in 2026 vary mostly by material and profile. Corrugated and box-profile steel runs about £80–£110 per m², standing seam steel £120–£160 per m², aluminium £130–£170 per m², and zinc £150–£200+ per m². On a typical 60–80 m² house roof that means roughly £5,000–£9,000 for box profile and £12,000–£16,000+ for zinc, before insulation and scaffolding.
Metal roof materials compared
Box-profile and corrugated steel are the budget choice — quick to fit and popular on garages, outbuildings and agricultural roofs. Standing seam gives a sleek, watertight architectural finish. Aluminium is light and rust-proof, ideal near the coast. Zinc is the premium option, lasting 60 years or more and weathering to a soft grey. The right choice balances budget, looks and how long you need it to last.
What drives the price
Roof size and pitch, the material and profile, whether a warm-roof insulation build-up is included, access and scaffolding, and the complexity of details such as valleys, verges and rooflights all change the figure. Stripping and disposing of an old covering first adds to the total.
How to budget and compare quotes
1. Measure roof area and pitch
Area in m² and the roof pitch drive both material quantity and labour — pin them down first.
2. Choose the material and profile
Decide between box profile, standing seam, aluminium or zinc so every quote prices the same specification.
3. Factor insulation and access
Confirm whether insulation and scaffolding are included — they are easy to leave out of a headline price.
4. Get three like-for-like quotes
Compare on the same material, insulation and details so you judge quality, not just the cheapest number.
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