The cost of metal roof vs shingles in New Orleans ranges dramatically: metal roofing runs $8-16 per square foot installed, while asphalt shingles cost $4-8 per square foot. For a typical 1,800 square foot home in Metairie or Uptown, you’re looking at $14,400-$28,800 for metal versus $7,200-$14,400 for shingles. However, these upfront numbers only tell part of the story in our hurricane-prone climate.
Living through Katrina, Ida, and countless other storms has taught New Orleans homeowners that roof decisions are about more than initial costs. Metal roofs can withstand winds up to 140 mph and last 50+ years, while traditional shingles typically need replacement every 15-20 years and struggle in Category 2+ storms.
Detailed Cost Breakdown by Roofing Type
Understanding exactly where your money goes helps you make smarter decisions. Here’s what you’ll pay for complete roof replacement in New Orleans:
| Roofing Material | Material Cost/Sq Ft | Labor Cost/Sq Ft | Total Cost/Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $1.50-$3.50 | $2.50-$4.50 | $4.00-$8.00 |
| Metal (Steel) | $3.00-$7.00 | $4.00-$6.00 | $8.00-$16.00 |
| Metal (Aluminum) | $4.00-$8.00 | $4.00-$6.00 | $10.00-$18.00 |
| Architectural Shingles | $2.00-$4.00 | $3.00-$5.00 | $5.00-$9.00 |
Labor costs in New Orleans run higher than the state average due to our unique challenges. Roofers here earn $23.51 per hour according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, but you’ll pay contractors $35.27-$58.78 per hour. This difference covers business insurance (crucial given our weather), Louisiana licensing requirements, specialized hurricane-rated equipment, and the overhead costs of maintaining trucks and tools in our humid, salt-air environment.
Cost to Install Metal Roof - The Complete Picture
Metal roof installation involves several cost factors beyond materials and labor. Expect to budget for:
Structural Assessment: $300-$800 Many older New Orleans homes, especially in the French Quarter and Marigny, need reinforcement to handle metal roofing’s weight and wind uplift requirements.
Decking Replacement: $2-$4 per square foot Our humidity and previous storm damage often require new plywood decking before metal installation.
Underlayment Upgrade: $0.50-$1.50 per square foot Hurricane-rated synthetic underlayment is essential and costs more than basic felt.
Flashing and Trim: $8-$25 per linear foot Metal roofing requires specialized flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof edges.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost Per Square Foot - What Drives Pricing
Shingle costs vary significantly based on quality and installation complexity. Basic 3-tab shingles might seem budget-friendly, but they’re rarely worth it in New Orleans. Here’s why:
Wind Rating Impact on Cost:
- Basic shingles (90 mph rating): $4-$5 per square foot
- Architectural shingles (130 mph rating): $5-$7 per square foot
- Impact-resistant shingles (140+ mph rating): $6-$8 per square foot
Most insurance companies now require minimum 130 mph ratings for full coverage, making mid-grade shingles your practical starting point.
Hidden Shingle Costs:
- Tear-off and disposal: $1-$2 per square foot
- Permit fees: $150-$400
- Dumpster rental: $300-$600
- Potential structural repairs: $500-$3,000+
Best Timing and Seasonal Cost Considerations
Hurricane season dominates roofing decisions in New Orleans. Smart timing can save you thousands:
Peak Season (April-November): Expect 15-25% higher prices due to storm damage demand. Emergency repairs after hurricanes can cost 50-100% more than normal rates.
Off-Season (December-March): Best pricing and availability. Many contractors offer 10-15% discounts to keep crews busy during slower months.
Post-Storm Reality: After major hurricanes, material costs spike dramatically. Post-Ida, metal roofing prices increased 40-60% due to supply shortages and massive demand.
| Season | Price Modifier | Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | -10 to -15% | Excellent | Planned replacements |
| Spring | Standard | Good | Pre-hurricane prep |
| Summer/Fall | +15 to +25% | Limited | Emergency only |
| Post-Storm | +50 to +100% | Very Limited | Insurance claims |
Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your Roofer
Getting quality work in New Orleans requires asking the right questions. Many fly-by-night contractors appear after storms, so protect yourself:
Insurance and Licensing:
- “What’s your Louisiana contractor license number?” (Verify at lslbc.louisiana.gov)
- “Do you carry $1M+ liability insurance?” (Get certificate)
- “Are you bonded for residential work?”
Storm Experience:
- “How many roofs did you complete post-Katrina/Ida?”
- “Do you install to Miami-Dade hurricane standards?”
- “What’s your typical wind rating installation?”
Local Knowledge:
- “How do you handle our high water table during installation?”
- “What ventilation systems work best in our humidity?”
- “Do you use corrosion-resistant fasteners for our salt air?”
Financial Protection:
- “Do you require full payment upfront?” (Red flag if yes)
- “What’s your warranty on labor and materials?”
- “Can you provide local references from the past year?”
Quality contractors will welcome these questions. Anyone who seems annoyed or evasive should be avoided.
Quality Indicators and Warning Signs
New Orleans homeowners need to spot quality work versus shortcuts that won’t survive our weather:
Green Flags:
- Uses corrosion-resistant galvanized or stainless steel fasteners
- Installs proper ventilation systems for our humidity
- Provides detailed written estimates with material specifications
- Offers 5+ year labor warranties
- Shows up in marked vehicles with proper equipment
Red Flags:
- Door-to-door solicitation after storms
- Demands full payment before starting
- Can’t provide local references
- Quotes significantly below others (likely cutting corners)
- Pressures you to sign immediately
Material Quality Indicators: High-quality metal roofing should have Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 paint systems for our UV exposure. For shingles, look for algae-resistant granules (essential in our humid climate) and Class 4 impact ratings for hail protection.
Understanding Local Permits and Hurricane Regulations
New Orleans requires permits for most roofing work, and post-Katrina codes are strict:
Permit Requirements:
- Replacement projects over 500 square feet: Always required
- Repair work over $1,000: Usually required
- Permit costs: $150-$400 depending on project scope
- Inspection requirements: 2-3 inspections typical
Hurricane Code Requirements:
- Minimum 130 mph wind rating for insurance compliance
- Enhanced attachment methods for metal roofing
- Impact-resistant materials in some flood zones
- Proper drainage systems for heavy rainfall
Your contractor should handle permits, but verify they’re pulled. Working without permits can void insurance coverage and create sale issues later.
Hidden Costs That Surprise Homeowners
Budget an additional 15-25% beyond quoted prices for unexpected issues common in New Orleans:
Structural Surprises:
- Rotten decking from humidity: $2-$4 per square foot
- Termite damage repairs: $500-$3,000+
- Rafter reinforcement: $1,000-$5,000
- Electrical updates for new ventilation: $300-$800
Drainage Issues:
- Gutter replacement: $8-$15 per linear foot
- Downspout rerouting: $200-$500 per location
- Improved attic ventilation: $500-$1,500
Long-Term Value and ROI Analysis
While metal costs more upfront, the math changes over time in New Orleans:
20-Year Cost Comparison (1,800 sq ft home):
Metal Roof:
- Initial cost: $21,600 (average)
- Maintenance: $500
- Insurance savings: -$2,000
- Total: $20,100
Asphalt Shingles:
- Initial cost: $10,800
- Replacement (year 18): $12,960
- Repairs: $1,500
- Higher insurance: $2,000
- Total: $27,260
The metal roof saves over $7,000 across 20 years, plus you avoid the hassle and risk of mid-ownership replacement during hurricane season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do roofers make in New Orleans?
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, roofers in New Orleans earn $23.51 per hour on average. However, homeowners pay contractors $35.27-$58.78 per hour because this rate includes business overhead like insurance, licensing, equipment, and trucks. Louisiana requires extensive insurance coverage for roofers due to our storm risks, plus contractors need specialized hurricane-rated tools and materials that increase operational costs. The higher rate you pay also covers company profit margins and administrative expenses.
How much does it cost to shingle a roof in New Orleans?
Complete shingle roof replacement in New Orleans costs $4-$8 per square foot, depending on shingle quality and installation complexity. For an average 1,800 square foot home, expect $7,200-$14,400 total. This includes tear-off, disposal, new underlayment, and hurricane-rated shingles with minimum 130 mph wind ratings. Additional costs include permits ($150-$400) and potential decking replacement ($2-$4 per square foot). Architectural shingles cost more but provide better wind resistance essential for our climate.
How much are roof repairs in New Orleans?
Roof repairs in New Orleans typically cost $300-$1,500 depending on damage extent and materials. Common repairs include: missing shingles ($150-$400), flashing repairs ($200-$600), leak fixes ($250-$800), and gutter repairs ($100-$500). Post-hurricane repairs cost 50-100% more due to high demand and material shortages. Emergency tarping services run $200-$800. Always get multiple quotes, as prices vary significantly between contractors, especially after major storms when demand peaks.
How much is a metal roof per square foot in New Orleans?
Metal roofing costs $8-$16 per square foot installed in New Orleans, with steel on the lower end and aluminum or premium coatings on the higher end. This includes materials, labor, and basic accessories. Additional costs include structural reinforcement if needed ($1-$3 per square foot), upgraded underlayment ($0.50-$1.50 per square foot), and specialized flashing ($8-$25 per linear foot). While expensive upfront, metal roofs last 50+ years and provide superior hurricane protection, often paying for themselves through insurance savings and avoided replacement costs.
Pricing data sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS survey. Consumer prices calculated using industry-standard multipliers. See our methodology for details.