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The first question that pops into any homeowner's mind when considering any home improvement is, "How much is this going to cost me?" Metal roofing installation is no different but due to the complexity of the task at hand, there's no simple answer. Every home, and thus every roof, is as unique as the next. When it comes to estimates, there are four general conditions that you need to identify before any manufacturer or contractor can give you an estimate about the cost of metal roofing installation.

The two biggest contributors to cost are the type of metal roof you would like to be installed and the shape and pitch of your roof. Believe it or not, the shape and pitch of the roof has a bigger influence on overall cost more than your choice of style. With more complex roofing jobs, it will require more work and experience on the contractor's side. If you're trying to roof something simple, like a standalone garage or barn, the complexity will obviously be very simple.

If you are the do it yourself kind, this level of simplicity is the only type that should ever be undergone without a professional crew. If you are uncomfortable in any way as well, don't feel it necessary to climb on top of your roof to give the contractor information regarding your roof's complexity. Good contractors are always willing to come out to your home and inspect it themselves to provide you with an estimate.

Also, ask your potential contractor for references and their addresses so you can go see their metal roofing installation first hand. If they cannot provide you with any, or the ones they do provide you with are outdated, let that serve as a warning to you that it may be best to cross them off the list. Inspect the homes on their reference sheet and call the owners of the homes to see how they felt about their experience with the contractor overall.

Finally, be sure to obtain a written estimate for your metal roofing installation from your potential contractors. In it, make sure that everything is outlined that you could possibly be billed for. For instance, all of the materials including your underlayment, flashing, and trim should be written out. The cost of labor should be specified as well as details regarding building permits. Any tear off, waste disposal, and removal of excess job materials and, if necessary, old roofing materials needs to be covered.

Make sure it specifies that if the contractor unearths any type of structural damage, they will notify you before moving forward. And finally, your job schedule and tentative completion date should be summarized.