Metal roofing is having a moment in Brooklyn — and for good reason. As building owners look for lower long-term maintenance costs and better durability in NYC's climate, standing seam metal and metal shingle systems are increasingly appearing on brownstones, row houses, and mixed-use buildings. But the upfront cost is significantly higher than asphalt or modified bitumen. Is it worth it?
The Case For Metal Roofing in Brooklyn
- Lifespan of 40–70 years — likely the last roof you'll ever install
- Handles NYC's freeze-thaw cycles better than any other system
- Virtually impervious to hurricane-force winds when properly installed
- Excellent hail resistance (impact-rated panels)
- Low maintenance — no granule loss, no cracking membranes, no moss growth
- Energy efficient — reflects solar radiation, reducing cooling costs
- May qualify for insurance premium discounts (ask your broker)
The Honest Drawbacks
- Upfront cost is 2–4x higher than asphalt or modified bitumen
- Expansion/contraction can cause noise in poorly installed systems
- Not all contractors have experience with metal — quality installation is critical
- May require additional structural assessment for older buildings
- Aesthetic options are more limited for flat/low-slope applications
Cost Analysis: The Real Numbers
For a typical 1,500 sq ft Brooklyn row house roof, here's a rough cost comparison:
- Modified bitumen replacement: $8,000–$14,000, replaces every 15–20 years
- TPO/EPDM flat roof: $10,000–$18,000, replaces every 15–25 years
- Standing seam metal: $18,000–$35,000, lasts 50+ years
- Over 50 years: asphalt/membrane requires 2–3 replacements = $20,000–$55,000 total
- Over 50 years: metal requires 0 replacements = $18,000–$35,000 total
Pro Tip: If you plan to own your Brooklyn property for 15+ years, metal roofing often makes financial sense when you account for the true lifecycle cost. If you're planning to sell in 5 years, it may not pencil out on its own — but it does add premium appeal to buyers.
Which Metal System is Right for Brooklyn?
Standing seam panels are the premium choice for pitched roofs — concealed fasteners prevent leak paths and the system handles thermal movement gracefully. For flat or low-slope applications on row houses, corrugated metal or metal shingles work well. Always ask your contractor about the specific metal gauge, coating type (Kynar vs. SMP), and warranty on the finish.
