How much does metal roofing weigh?
Short answer. Most metal roofing weighs roughly 50 to 150 pounds per square (100 square feet), depending on the metal, gauge and profile, which is often a half or less of what an architectural shingle roof weighs. Thin aluminum panels sit at the light end, heavier-gauge steel standing seam in the middle, and stone-coated steel toward the top of that range.
Typical weights by type
- Aluminum panels. The lightest option, often around 50 pounds per square or less.
- 29-gauge steel exposed-fastener panels. Thin and light, commonly well under 100 pounds per square.
- 26 and 24-gauge steel and standing seam. Thicker metal adds weight, typically around 80 to 120 pounds per square.
- Stone-coated steel. Steel panels with a granular coating, heavier than bare metal but still lighter than most asphalt.
- Architectural asphalt shingles, for comparison. Commonly around 200 to 250 pounds per square, more for heavy lines.
The gauge number runs backward: lower gauge means thicker metal. The manufacturer's data sheet lists the actual weight per square foot for each panel.
Why weight comes up
- Installing over shingles. Metal's light weight is why some installers lay it over one layer of shingles. Codes may allow this in some cases, but tearing off lets the roofer inspect and repair the decking, which matters in humid Georgia attics.
- Older or lightly framed homes. Swapping heavy materials for metal reduces load, a plus on porches, additions and older framing.
- Solar. Panels and racking add load; light metal leaves more margin.
- Wind. Light weight does not mean poor wind resistance. Fastening patterns and clips, not mass, hold metal down, which is why installation details matter so much.
What weight does not tell you
Durability depends on gauge, coating and finish, not just weight. Thin panels dent more easily in hail, even if they keep water out. See metal roofing in Georgia and roofing over existing shingles.