You're researching stone-coated steel metal roofing for your Texas home and the #1 question you want answered is: "How much does it actually cost?"
Most roofing websites dodge this question with vague ranges or "contact us for pricing." That's frustrating when you're trying to budget and compare options.
Here's the straight answer: Stone-coated steel metal roofing costs $12-$18 per square foot installed in Texas ($30,000-$45,000 for an average 2,500 square foot home), with significant variation based on brand, home size, roof complexity, and product selection.
This comprehensive cost guide provides transparent, real-world Texas pricing: exact costs by home size, brand-by-brand breakdowns (Decra, Metro Tiles, Boral), what factors affect your price, hidden cost surprises to avoid, financing options, lifetime cost analysis vs alternatives, and how to get the best value without overpaying.
No vague estimates. No "it depends" cop-outs. Real numbers from actual Texas installations.
Get a detailed estimate for your home: Request a free stone-coated steel roofing quote and learn about our professional installation services with transparent pricing and comprehensive warranties.
Stone-Coated Steel Cost Overview (Texas 2025)
Cost Per Square Foot by Brand
| Brand | Quality Tier | Cost Per SF | 2,500 SF Home | |-------|--------------|-------------|---------------| | Decra | Premium | $14-18/SF | $35,000-$45,000 | | Metro Tiles (Metrotile) | Best Value | $12-16/SF | $30,000-$40,000 | | Boral | Good Quality | $12-16/SF | $30,000-$40,000 | | Gerard | Premium | $13-17/SF | $32,500-$42,500 |
Average across all brands: $12-18/SF installed
Cost by Texas Home Size
1,500 Square Foot Home:
- Decra: $21,000-$27,000
- Metro Tiles: $18,000-$24,000
- Boral: $18,000-$24,000
2,000 Square Foot Home:
- Decra: $28,000-$36,000
- Metro Tiles: $24,000-$32,000
- Boral: $24,000-$32,000
2,500 Square Foot Home (Texas Average):
- Decra: $35,000-$45,000
- Metro Tiles: $30,000-$40,000
- Boral: $30,000-$40,000
3,000 Square Foot Home:
- Decra: $42,000-$54,000
- Metro Tiles: $36,000-$48,000
- Boral: $36,000-$48,000
3,500 Square Foot Home:
- Decra: $49,000-$63,000
- Metro Tiles: $42,000-$56,000
- Boral: $42,000-$56,000
What's Included in These Prices
✅ Complete tear-off and disposal of existing roof
✅ Deck inspection and minor repairs (1-2 sheets plywood replacement)
✅ High-temp synthetic underlayment (required for Texas heat, 250°F+ rated)
✅ Ice and water shield (valleys, eaves, penetrations)
✅ Stone-coated steel panels (your chosen profile and color)
✅ Ridge caps, hip caps, valley pieces (color-matched accessories)
✅ All trim, flashing, drip edge (custom-fit)
✅ Specialized corrosion-resistant fasteners
✅ Labor by certified installer (brand certification required)
✅ Permits and city inspections
✅ Material warranties (50-year typical)
✅ Coating warranties (25-30 years)
✅ Workmanship warranty (15-30 years from quality installer)
✅ Complete cleanup and debris removal
✅ Magnetic sweep for metal debris
Detailed Brand Cost Breakdown
Decra Stone-Coated Steel Costs ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Company: DECRA Roofing Systems (Fletcher Building, New Zealand)
Market Position: Premium quality, highest price, industry leader
Why Decra Costs More:
- Thickest steel substrate (24-gauge vs competitors' 26-gauge)
- Best granule adhesion (95%+ retention 30+ years)
- Longest coating warranty (30 years vs 25 years)
- Proprietary Zincalume corrosion protection
- Premium Kynar 500-class coating system
Decra Product Line Pricing:
Decra Villa Tile (Barrel Tile Profile):
- Cost: $16-20/SF installed
- Best for: Spanish, Mediterranean, Tuscan homes
- Most popular in Texas (Hill Country aesthetic)
- 1,500 SF: $24,000-$30,000
- 2,500 SF: $40,000-$50,000
- 3,500 SF: $56,000-$70,000
Decra Shake (Cedar Shake Profile):
- Cost: $15-19/SF installed
- Best for: Craftsman, cottage, rustic homes
- 1,500 SF: $22,500-$28,500
- 2,500 SF: $37,500-$47,500
- 3,500 SF: $52,500-$66,500
Decra Shingle (Dimensional Shingle Profile):
- Cost: $14-18/SF installed (lowest Decra pricing)
- Best for: Traditional homes, HOA-conservative neighborhoods
- Most affordable Decra option
- 1,500 SF: $21,000-$27,000
- 2,500 SF: $35,000-$45,000
- 3,500 SF: $49,000-$63,000
Decra Color Premiums:
- Standard colors (9-12 per profile): Included
- Premium/custom colors: +5-8% ($1,750-3,600 on 2,500 SF home)
Decra Warranties (Included):
- 50-year limited material warranty (transferable)
- 30-year coating warranty (fade/chalk protection)
- 120-mph wind resistance
- Lifetime perforation warranty (rust protection)
When to Choose Decra:
- Want absolute best quality (premium neighborhoods $400k+ homes)
- Staying 30+ years (maximize warranty value)
- Spanish/Mediterranean/Hill Country home (Villa Tile profile)
- Budget allows premium pricing
Metro Tiles (Metrotile) Costs ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Company: Metrotile (Belgium-based, global distribution)
Market Position: Best value, good quality, most affordable major brand
Why Metro Tiles Costs Less:
- 26-gauge steel (industry standard, lighter than Decra's 24-gauge)
- Good granule adhesion (85-90% retention vs Decra's 95%)
- 25-year coating warranty (5 years less than Decra)
- Wider availability (more installers = competition = lower prices)
Metro Tiles Product Line Pricing:
Metro Roman (S-Tile Mediterranean Profile):
- Cost: $13-17/SF installed
- Most popular Metro profile in Texas
- Best for: Spanish, Mediterranean homes
- 1,500 SF: $19,500-$25,500
- 2,500 SF: $32,500-$42,500
- 3,500 SF: $45,500-$59,500
Metro Shake (Wood Shake Profile):
- Cost: $12-16/SF installed
- Affordable shake alternative
- 1,500 SF: $18,000-$24,000
- 2,500 SF: $30,000-$40,000
- 3,500 SF: $42,000-$56,000
Metro Shingle (Dimensional Shingle Profile):
- Cost: $12-16/SF installed
- Lowest Metro pricing
- Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, traditional homes
- 1,500 SF: $18,000-$24,000
- 2,500 SF: $30,000-$40,000
- 3,500 SF: $42,000-$56,000
Metro Bond (Low-Profile Shingle):
- Cost: $12-15/SF installed
- Modern flat appearance
- 2,500 SF: $30,000-$37,500
Metro Color Options:
- 20+ standard colors (widest selection in industry)
- Standard colors: Included (no premium)
- Vibrant colors available (reds, blues, greens)
Metro Warranties (Included):
- 50-year limited material warranty
- 25-year coating warranty
- 120-mph wind resistance
When to Choose Metro Tiles:
- Want best value without sacrificing quality
- Budget-conscious ($30k-40k range for 2,500 SF)
- Love wide color selection (20+ options)
- Don't need absolute premium (Decra)
- Want easier installer availability
Boral Steel Roofing Costs ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Company: Boral Building Products (US-based manufacturing)
Market Position: American-made alternative, good quality, competitive pricing
Why Boral Pricing:
- 26-gauge steel (standard)
- Made in USA (appeals to some buyers)
- Good quality, comparable to Metro Tiles
- Competitive with Metro pricing
Boral Product Pricing:
Boral Tile Profile:
- Cost: $13-17/SF installed
- 2,500 SF: $32,500-$42,500
Boral Shake Profile:
- Cost: $12-16/SF installed
- 2,500 SF: $30,000-$40,000
Boral Shingle Profile:
- Cost: $12-16/SF installed
- 2,500 SF: $30,000-$40,000
Boral Warranties (Included):
- 50-year limited material warranty
- 30-year coating warranty (same as Decra)
- Wind resistance certification
When to Choose Boral:
- Prefer American-made products
- Want Decra-length coating warranty (30 years) at Metro pricing
- Standard residential application
- Competitive quotes from Decra and Metro installers
What Affects Your Stone-Coated Steel Cost
The ranges above are broad ($12-18/SF) because many factors affect final pricing. Understanding these helps you budget accurately and avoid surprise costs.
Factor 1: Roof Pitch (Steepness)
How pitch is measured: Rise over run (e.g., 6/12 = 6 inches rise per 12 inches horizontal)
Pricing by pitch:
- 4/12 to 6/12 pitch: Standard pricing (most Texas homes)
- 7/12 to 9/12 pitch: +10-15% (steeper = slower installation, safety equipment)
- 10/12+ pitch: +20-30% (very steep, specialized equipment, higher labor)
Why pitch matters:
- Steeper roofs harder to work on (slower installation)
- Safety equipment required (scaffolding, harnesses)
- More material waste (cutting angles)
- In Texas: Many newer homes have 6/12 to 8/12 pitch (moderate premium)
Example impact on 2,500 SF home:
- 5/12 pitch: $35,000 (base Decra price)
- 8/12 pitch: $38,500-$40,250 (+10-15%)
- 12/12 pitch: $42,000-$45,500 (+20-30%)
Factor 2: Roof Complexity
Simple roof (base pricing):
- Basic gable or hip design
- Few penetrations (1-2 vents, 1 chimney)
- No valleys or minimal valleys
- Straightforward rectangle/square footprint
Moderately complex (+15-25%):
- Multiple roof planes (split-level home)
- 3-5 valleys
- Multiple dormers (3-4)
- Several penetrations (skylights, multiple vents)
- L-shaped or T-shaped footprint
Highly complex (+25-40%):
- Multi-level design (3+ stories)
- 6+ valleys
- Turrets or curved sections
- Many dormers (5+)
- Complex hip-and-valley design
- Multiple roof heights/transitions
Example impact on 2,500 SF home:
- Simple gable: $35,000 (base)
- Moderate complexity: $40,250-$43,750 (+15-25%)
- High complexity: $43,750-$49,000 (+25-40%)
Texas note: Many Hill Country and custom homes have complex designs (multiple roof lines, dormers, varied heights) which push costs higher.
Factor 3: Current Roof Condition
Single layer asphalt shingles (included in base price):
- Standard tear-off
- 1-day removal typically
- Disposal fees included
Two layers of shingles (+$1.50-3/SF):
- Longer tear-off (1.5-2 days)
- Double disposal weight
- More labor intensive
- 2,500 SF home: +$3,750-$7,500
Three layers (+$3-5/SF):
- Some older Texas homes (pre-building code limits)
- Very heavy tear-off
- 2,500 SF home: +$7,500-$12,500
Damaged/rotten decking:
- Minor damage (1-3 sheets plywood): +$300-900 (often included)
- Moderate damage (10-20% of deck): +$2,000-$5,000
- Extensive rot (Texas humidity common cause): +$5,000-$12,000
- Plywood cost: $60-100 per sheet installed
Texas-specific issue: Humidity in Houston, San Antonio, coastal areas can cause deck rot. Central Texas (Austin, Round Rock) less affected but still inspect carefully.
Factor 4: Profile Selection
Shingle profile (base pricing):
- Simplest installation
- Fastest labor (4-5 days)
- Least intricate cutting
- Example: $14/SF (Decra Shingle)
Shake profile (+5-10%):
- More intricate panel fitting
- Realistic texture requires precision
- 5-6 days installation
- Example: $14.70-$15.40/SF (Decra Shake)
Tile profile (+10-15%):
- Most complex installation
- Skilled labor required (barrel tile interlocking)
- 5-7 days installation
- Precision cutting around valleys/penetrations
- Example: $15.40-$16.10/SF (Decra Villa Tile)
Example impact on 2,500 SF home (Decra):
- Shingle: $35,000 (base)
- Shake: $36,750-$38,500 (+5-10%)
- Villa Tile: $38,500-$40,250 (+10-15%)
Factor 5: Color Selection
Standard colors (included):
- Earth tones (browns, tans, grays)
- 9-12 colors per brand/profile
- Most popular Texas choices
- No premium
Premium colors (+5-10%):
- Custom/special order
- Less common hues
- Longer lead time
- Example: Decra special colors +$1,750-$4,500 on 2,500 SF
Cool roof colors (recommended Texas, minimal upcharge):
- Light tan, beige, light gray
- Reflect 40-50% solar energy
- Reduce cooling costs 15-20%
- Usually in standard color range (no premium)
Avoid in Texas heat (unless aesthetics critical):
- Dark charcoal, black, dark brown
- Absorb heat (higher cooling costs)
- Negate energy efficiency benefits
Factor 6: Attic Ventilation Upgrades
Required ventilation (Texas building code):
- 1 square foot ventilation per 150 SF attic space
- Combination of intake (soffit) and exhaust (ridge/roof vents)
If your home needs ventilation upgrades:
- Ridge vent installation: +$3-6/linear foot
- Additional roof vents: $150-400 each installed
- Soffit vent improvements: $500-$2,000
- Total potential addition: $1,000-$5,000
Texas note: Proper ventilation critical for:
- Preventing heat buildup (140-160°F attics without ventilation)
- Maximizing stone-coated steel energy savings
- Protecting warranty (some require adequate ventilation)
Factor 7: Location/Market (Texas Cities)
Pricing varies slightly by Texas metro area due to labor costs, competition, and demand.
Austin/Round Rock/Georgetown:
- Cost range: $13-18/SF (high end due to demand, affluent market)
- High demand for premium roofing
- Many certified installers (good availability)
Houston:
- Cost range: $12-17/SF
- Large market, lots of competition
- Slightly lower than Austin
Dallas/Fort Worth:
- Cost range: $12-17/SF
- Competitive market
- Good installer availability
San Antonio:
- Cost range: $12-16/SF
- Slightly lower labor costs than Austin
- Growing stone-coated market
Smaller Texas cities:
- Cost range: $13-18/SF (may be higher)
- Fewer certified installers
- May require travel fee ($200-500) for Austin/SA installer
Total Cost Impact Example
2,500 SF Round Rock Home, Moderate Complexity:
Base scenario (simple roof, good condition):
- Decra Shingle, 5/12 pitch, 1 layer shingles, standard color
- Cost: $35,000
Realistic scenario (typical Texas home):
- Decra Villa Tile (+12%): +$4,200
- 7/12 pitch (+12%): +$4,200
- Moderate complexity (+20%): +$7,000
- 2 layers shingles (+$2/SF): +$5,000
- Premium color (+6%): +$2,100
- Ridge vent upgrade: +$800
- Total: $58,300
This is why the range is so broad. Two 2,500 SF homes can vary by $10,000-$25,000 based on these factors.
Hidden Costs to Avoid (Surprises That Add Up)
Permit Fees
Texas cities require roofing permits:
- Austin: $150-400 (depends on home value)
- Round Rock: $100-250
- Georgetown: $100-200
- San Antonio: $150-350
Usually included in quote but verify contractor handles permits (don't pull yourself).
Chimney Reflashing
Stone-coated installation may require new chimney flashing:
- Remove old flashing
- Install new counter-flashing (copper or painted metal)
- Cost: $400-$1,200 per chimney
Should be in quote but ask specifically if chimneys exist.
Skylight Replacement/Reflashing
Skylights 15+ years old:
- Contractor may recommend replacement (old seals fail)
- Reflashing only: $200-400 per skylight
- Full skylight replacement: $800-$2,000 per skylight
Ask upfront: "Are my skylights in good condition or should they be replaced?"
Gutter Replacement
Stone-coated steel is heavier than shingles (though still light at 1.5 lbs/SF):
- Old gutters may be damaged during roof removal
- Contractor may recommend upgrade to 6" gutters (from 5")
- Cost: $8-15/linear foot ($1,600-$3,000 for 200 ft)
Clarify: Is gutter removal/reinstallation included? Will gutters need replacement?
Fascia Board Replacement
Damaged fascia (board behind gutter):
- Rot common in Texas humidity
- Discovered during tear-off
- Cost: $8-15/linear foot ($1,600-$3,000 for average home)
Insist: Final price includes fascia inspection and quote for repairs before starting.
Waste Disposal Fees
Dumpster rental usually included but verify:
- 1-2 layers shingles: Included
- 3 layers or heavy tile: May be extra charge
- Overweight fees if exceeding dumpster limit
Confirm: Is unlimited disposal included or per-ton pricing?
Financing Options (Making It Affordable)
At $30,000-$45,000, stone-coated steel is a significant investment. Financing can make it manageable.
Contractor Financing
$0 Down, 0% APR (Short-Term):
- Terms: 12-24 months
- Qualification: Good credit required (700+ typically)
- Best for: Those who can pay off quickly (avoid interest)
- Example: $37,500 ÷ 24 months = $1,563/month (no interest)
Low-Rate Loans (Longer-Term):
- Terms: 60-120 months (5-10 years)
- APR: 6-9% (easier approval, 650+ credit)
- Best for: Lower monthly payments
- Example: $37,500 at 7% for 10 years = $435/month
How contractor financing works:
- Application during estimate (soft credit pull)
- Approval within minutes to 24 hours
- Funded at project completion
- Payment starts 30-45 days after installation
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
Pros:
- Lowest interest rates (5-8% typical)
- Interest may be tax-deductible (consult tax advisor)
- Flexible repayment
- Can use for other home improvements
Cons:
- Requires home equity (20%+ recommended)
- Separate application process (2-4 weeks)
- Closing costs ($500-$2,000)
Best for: Homeowners with equity who want lowest total cost
Example: $37,500 at 6% HELOC for 10 years = $416/month
Cash-Out Refinance
Pros:
- Lowest monthly payment (30-year amortization)
- Single payment (consolidate roof + mortgage)
- May get better mortgage rate if refinancing anyway
Cons:
- Only makes sense if already refinancing
- Closing costs high ($3,000-$8,000)
- Extends roof cost over 30 years (pay more total interest)
Best for: Those refinancing for other reasons (can add roof cost)
Example: $37,500 added to mortgage at 7% for 30 years = $250/month (but pay $90,000 total with interest)
Credit Card (0% Intro APR)
Pros:
- 0% APR for 15-21 months (some cards)
- Immediate funding
- Rewards/points
Cons:
- Requires high credit limit ($40,000+)
- High APR after intro period (20%+)
- Risk if can't pay off during 0% window
Best for: Excellent credit (750+), confident in payoff timeline
Personal Loan
Pros:
- No home equity required
- Fixed rate and term
- Fast approval
Cons:
- Higher rates (8-15%)
- Shorter terms (3-7 years typical)
- Higher monthly payment
Example: $37,500 at 10% for 7 years = $616/month
Financing Comparison Table
| Option | APR | Term | Monthly Payment ($37,500) | Total Interest Paid | |--------|-----|------|---------------------------|---------------------| | 0% Contractor | 0% | 24 mo | $1,563 | $0 | | Contractor Loan | 7% | 10 yr | $435 | $14,700 | | HELOC | 6% | 10 yr | $416 | $12,420 | | Cash-Out Refi | 7% | 30 yr | $250 | $52,500 | | Personal Loan | 10% | 7 yr | $616 | $14,256 |
Best overall: HELOC if you have equity (lowest total cost)
Best for low payment: Contractor loan 10-year
Best for no interest: 0% contractor financing if can pay in 12-24 months
Cost Comparison: Stone-Coated vs Alternatives
To understand if stone-coated steel is worth it, compare to other premium roofing materials.
Stone-Coated Steel vs Asphalt Shingles
| Feature | Stone-Coated Steel | Standard Shingles | Class 4 Shingles | |---------|-------------------|-------------------|------------------| | Cost (2,500 SF) | $30k-45k | $15k-22k | $20k-28k | | Lifespan (Texas) | 40-60 years | 18-25 years | 25-30 years | | 50-Year Total | $30k-45k (1 roof) | $45k-75k (3 roofs) | $40k-56k (2 roofs) | | Energy Savings | $300-600/year | $75-200/year | $100-240/year | | Insurance Discount | $240-630/year | $0 | $240-540/year |
Lifetime winner: Stone-coated (saves $10k-30k over 50 years)
Stone-Coated Steel vs Standing Seam Metal
| Feature | Stone-Coated Steel | Standing Seam Metal | |---------|-------------------|---------------------| | Cost (2,500 SF) | $30k-45k | $35k-55k | | Appearance | Traditional (tile/shake) | Modern/industrial | | Energy Savings | 15-20% | 25-30% (better) | | Lifespan | 40-60 years | 50-70 years (longer) | | HOA Approval | 95%+ (traditional look) | 50-70% (modern look) | | Noise | Moderate (stone dampens) | Louder (rain audible) |
Cost winner: Stone-coated ($5k-10k less upfront)
Performance winner: Standing seam (longer life, better energy)
Aesthetic winner: Depends (traditional vs modern)
Stone-Coated Steel vs Concrete Tile
| Feature | Stone-Coated Steel | Concrete Tile | |---------|-------------------|---------------| | Cost (2,500 SF) | $30k-45k | $37.5k-62.5k | | Weight | 1.5 lbs/SF (light) | 9-12 lbs/SF (heavy) | | Reinforcement | Not needed | Often needed (+$6k-15k) | | True Cost | $30k-45k | $43.5k-77.5k | | Hail Damage | Dents (survives) | Cracks (needs replacement) | | Lifespan | 40-60 years | 50-100 years (longer) |
Cost winner: Stone-coated (especially if tile needs reinforcement)
Hail winner: Stone-coated (flexes vs cracks)
Longevity winner: Tile (can last 100 years)
How to Get the Best Value
Tips for Getting Competitive Quotes
1. Get 3-5 quotes from certified installers:
- Decra-certified (if choosing Decra)
- Metro-certified (if choosing Metro)
- At least 15+ stone-coated installations
- Compare apples-to-apples (same brand, profile, color)
2. Request itemized estimates:
- Labor separated from materials
- Tear-off cost broken out
- Permits/disposal fees listed
- Underlayment type specified
- Workmanship warranty terms
3. Verify what's included:
- Full tear-off and disposal
- Deck repairs (how much included?)
- High-temp underlayment (required Texas)
- All trim/flashing
- Permits
- Cleanup
4. Ask about financing:
- Do they offer 0% APR options?
- What's the rate for longer terms?
- Pre-qualify before estimate visit
5. Check installer qualifications:
- Brand certification (verify with manufacturer)
- Insurance (min $1M liability)
- Workers' comp coverage
- Texas license (TDLR.texas.gov)
- References (3+ recent stone-coated projects)
Red Flags That Mean "Too Good To Be True"
Pricing 20%+ below market:
- Decra for $10/SF (market is $14-18) = likely unlicensed or using cheap knockoff
- "Same quality as Decra" at Metro prices from unknown brand = scam
Pressure tactics:
- "Price expires today"
- "We're in your neighborhood, special discount"
- Won't provide written estimate
Unlicensed/uninsured:
- Can't provide proof of certification
- No insurance certificates
- Cash-only payment
Vague contracts:
- No brand specified ("stone-coated metal roofing")
- No profile/color specified
- "Subject to change" clauses
- No workmanship warranty
Questions to Ask Every Contractor
- "Are you [brand]-certified? Can I verify with the manufacturer?"
- "How many stone-coated roofs have you installed in the last 12 months?"
- "Can I see photos of 5+ completed stone-coated projects?"
- "What workmanship warranty do you provide in writing?"
- "Is the quote all-inclusive or will there be additional charges?"
- "Do you handle permits and inspections?"
- "What's your payment schedule?" (Never pay more than 10% down, 50% at materials delivery, 40% at completion)
- "What happens if we discover deck rot during tear-off?" (Get price per sheet for repairs)
- "How long is this quote valid?" (30 days minimum acceptable)
- "Will you register my warranty with the manufacturer?" (Should be included)
Regional Cost Variations (Texas Cities)
Austin Metro Area
Average cost: $13-18/SF ($32,500-$45,000 for 2,500 SF)
Why higher:
- High demand (affluent market)
- Premium neighborhoods common
- Competitive installer market (some charge premium)
Cities included: Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander
Installer availability: Excellent (15+ certified installers)
Houston
Average cost: $12-17/SF ($30,000-$42,500 for 2,500 SF)
Why moderate:
- Large market with competition
- More installers = competitive pricing
- Coastal humidity requires special attention (may add cost)
Installer availability: Excellent (20+ certified installers)
Dallas/Fort Worth
Average cost: $12-17/SF ($30,000-$42,500 for 2,500 SF)
Why moderate:
- Very competitive market
- Many installers
- Similar to Houston pricing
Installer availability: Excellent (25+ certified installers)
San Antonio
Average cost: $12-16/SF ($30,000-$40,000 for 2,500 SF)
Why lower:
- Slightly lower labor costs than Austin
- Growing but less mature stone-coated market
Installer availability: Good (10-15 certified installers)
Smaller Texas Cities
Average cost: $13-18/SF ($32,500-$45,000 for 2,500 SF)
Why potentially higher:
- Fewer local certified installers
- May require installer travel from major city (+$200-500 trip fee)
- Less competition
Cities: Waco, College Station, Wichita Falls, Midland, Odessa, Lubbock, etc.
Installer availability: Limited (may need Austin/SA/Dallas installer)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does stone-coated steel cost so much more than asphalt shingles?
A: Four reasons: (1) Premium materials - steel substrate + stone coating vs petroleum-based shingles, (2) Brand certification required - installers must be factory-trained (higher labor cost), (3) Longer warranty - 50-year material + 25-30 year coating vs shingles' prorated warranty, (4) Lifespan - lasts 40-60 years (2-3x longer than shingles in Texas). You're paying for 2-3 roofs upfront but only installing once.
Q: Is Decra worth $5,000-$10,000 more than Metro Tiles?
A: Depends on priorities. Decra uses thicker 24-gauge steel (vs Metro's 26-gauge), superior granule adhesion (95% vs 85-90% retention), and longer coating warranty (30 years vs 25 years). If staying 30+ years and want absolute best: Yes, Decra worth premium. If budget-conscious and staying 20-30 years: Metro Tiles excellent value, still lasts 40-50 years. For most homeowners, Metro delivers 90% of Decra's performance at 75-85% of cost.
Q: Can I negotiate stone-coated steel roofing prices?
A: Limited negotiation room (5-10% max) because: (1) Material costs are fixed (manufacturers set prices), (2) Certified installer requirements limit competition, (3) Premium product attracts less price shopping. Better approach: Get 3-5 quotes, choose best value (not lowest price). Negotiate on workmanship warranty length, payment terms, or added services (gutter cleaning, annual inspection) rather than price.
Q: Should I choose the lowest quote?
A: No. Lowest quote often means: unlicensed installer, fake brand ("same as Decra"), will cut corners (cheap underlayment, skip permits), or bait-and-switch (low quote, add charges later). Choose middle quote from certified installer with proven track record. Exception: If two certified installers quote within 5%, choose lower price—but verify same brand, profile, color, warranty.
Q: How much should I pay upfront?
A: Standard payment schedule: 10% down (book project), 40-50% at material delivery, 40-50% at completion. Never pay more than 50% before work starts. Red flag: Contractor wants 50%+ upfront or full payment before completion. Reputable installers don't need large upfront payments (they have credit with suppliers).
Q: Does stone-coated steel qualify for insurance discounts in Texas?
A: Yes, all stone-coated brands are Class 4 impact-rated and qualify for 20-35% insurance premium discounts with most Texas insurers (State Farm, Allstate, USAA, Farmers). Average savings: $240-630/year = $7,200-$18,900 over 30 years. Contact your insurance agent before installing to verify discount and get commitment in writing. After installation, provide product spec sheet proving Class 4 rating.
Q: What's the best time of year to install stone-coated steel in Texas?
A: Fall (September-November) and Spring (March-May) for best weather. Avoid: July-August (extreme heat slows crews, afternoon thunderstorms delay projects). Winter (December-February) is fine in Central/South Texas (rarely freezes), often has good availability and potential discounts. Peak season: April-June (everyone wants roofs before summer), expect 4-8 week wait and higher prices.
Q: How long does stone-coated steel installation take?
A: 4-6 days for average 2,500 SF Texas home. Day 1: Tear-off and deck inspection. Day 2: Underlayment and ice/water shield. Day 3-4: Panel installation. Day 5: Ridge caps, trim, flashing. Day 6: Final inspection and cleanup. Add 1-2 days for: Complex roofs, tile profile (vs shingle), deck repairs, weather delays.
Q: Can I install stone-coated steel myself and save money?
A: Highly discouraged. (1) Voids manufacturer warranty - Decra, Metro, Boral require certified installer or warranty invalid, (2) Complex installation - not DIY-friendly (interlocking panels, precise cutting to avoid granule damage, specialized flashing), (3) Insurance issues - homeowner's insurance may not cover DIY installation problems, (4) Permitting - cities require licensed contractor. Savings aren't worth it - you'd save $8,000-$15,000 labor but risk $30,000-$45,000 in materials + voided warranty.
Q: Is financing stone-coated steel a good idea?
A: Yes, if staying 20+ years. Monthly payment ($350-450 for 10-year loan) minus energy savings ($30-50/month) and insurance savings ($20-50/month) = net cost of $250-400/month. After loan paid off (year 10), savings continue for 30-50 more years ($900-$1,500/year). Total lifetime savings ($15,000-$40,000) far exceed financing interest cost ($8,000-$15,000). Bad idea if: Selling in 10-15 years (won't recoup premium), or financing at high rate (12%+).
Get Transparent Pricing For Your Texas Home
Ready to get real pricing for stone-coated steel roofing on your specific home? No games, no "must schedule in-person to see price"—we'll provide detailed estimates.
What You'll Receive (Free Estimate):
- On-site inspection and measurements
- Brand-by-brand quotes (Decra, Metro Tiles, Boral)
- Itemized cost breakdown (materials, labor, permits, disposal)
- Profile and color recommendations for your home style
- Roof complexity assessment (simple, moderate, complex)
- Deck condition evaluation (repair costs if needed)
- Financing options ($0 down, 0% APR available)
- Workmanship warranty details (15-30 years)
- Comparison to alternatives (shingles, standing seam, tile)
Why Choose Ripple Roofing:
- ✅ Transparent pricing (detailed estimates, no hidden fees)
- ✅ Multi-brand certified (Decra, Metro Tiles, Boral - we'll help you choose)
- ✅ 25+ stone-coated installations in Central Texas
- ✅ CertainTeed Shingle Master™ (can compare to shingle costs honestly)
- ✅ Written workmanship warranty (15-30 years)
- ✅ Local Round Rock company (not storm chasers—here for warranty support)
- ✅ Financing available ($0 down, 0% APR options)
Get Free Detailed Estimate or call (512) 366-0880
Serving all of Central Texas: Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Lakeway, Bee Cave, San Antonio, and surrounding areas.
No pressure. No games. Just honest pricing and expert guidance to help you make the best decision for your home and budget.
