Are metal roofs cheaper to insure?
Short answer. Sometimes. Some insurers price metal roofs lower because they resist wind and fire and, if impact rated, hail, but many give no discount at all. The bigger question is what a claim pays: metal roof policies often carry a cosmetic damage exclusion, so hail dents that do not leak may never be covered.
Three costs to weigh, not one
- Premium. A credit, if offered, usually depends on a documented rating, such as UL 2218 Class 4 for impact, plus the product's wind rating. Some carriers rate only by roof age and material.
- Replacement cost. Metal costs more to install than asphalt shingles, which can raise the dwelling limit you need and, with it, the premium.
- Claim exposure. A cosmetic damage exclusion means dented panels that still shed water may be paid at zero. For a homeowner who cares about appearance or resale, that is a real cost.
Metal type matters
- Standing seam steel with concealed fasteners holds up best and is the style most often rated for impact.
- Exposed fastener panels cost less but rely on rubber washers that age, and insurers may treat them differently.
- Aluminum and copper are softer and dent more easily in hail.
How to find out before you buy
Ask your agent to quote the same house with both roof types, and ask in writing whether a cosmetic exclusion would be added and whether a percentage wind and hail deductible applies. In hail prone North Georgia, compare that with an impact rated asphalt shingle, which some carriers also credit. See hail size and roof damage.
For cost, lifespan and installation details, the Georgia Roof Guide covers metal roofing in Georgia.