Metal roofs have been popular in industrial and agricultural roofing for a long time, but what makes them a great choice for your home is their durability, low maintenance, and stand-out curb appeal. From residential homes to large commercial buildings, metal roofs offer a solution for just about any structure.
With several types of metal roofing systems available, it can be tricky to know which one best suits your needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of metal roofing systems, what makes each unique, and tips for choosing the right one for your project.
Why Choose a Metal Roofing System?
Before going into detail about these roofing systems, let’s learn why a metal roof is a fantastic choice for your home.
👉Durability
Renowned for their impressive lifespan, metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years, unlike traditional roofing materials that endure for 20 to 30 years. Due to their tough exterior, metal roofs can withstand harsh weather conditions like heavy rainfall, snow, and other natural disasters and keep your home safe.
👉Energy Efficiency
A metal roof’s reflective surface helps keep homes cooler by bouncing sunlight away, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the building. This amazing property not only helps homeowners keep their home cooler but also leads to saving money on their energy bills.
👉Curb Appeal
Metal roofs are available in many different colors, finishes, and styles. Whether you prefer the traditional clean lines of standing seam roof panels or the classic look of metal shingles, there’s a metal roof design that will complement your home beautifully and boost its curb appeal.
👉Eco-Friendliness
Metal roofs are a sustainable choice. Many metal roofs are made out of recycled materials, and they’re fully recyclable at the end of their life. Also, their longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements, which reduces construction waste and makes them an eco-conscious option.
Metal Roofing Systems Homeowner Can Choose
By opting for a metal roof, homeowners can take advantage of the benefits mentioned above. However, there are a variety of metal roof styles available to choose from. Below are some of the most common.
1. Standing Seam Metal Roof
Standing seam metal roofs are a modern and aesthetically pleasing option characterized by vertical panels with interlocking seams. This design not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to its functionality.
👉Benefits
Durability: Standing seam roofs are very durable, and can last 40 to 70 years with proper care.
Water-tightness: The interlocking seams provide superior protection against water infiltration, making these roofs ideal for regions with heavy rainfall or snow.
Low Maintenance: These roofs require minimal upkeep due to their resistance to mold, mildew, and pests.
Energy Efficiency: They reflect sunlight, helping to keep homes cooler and potentially reducing energy costs.
👉Drawbacks
Higher Initial Cost: Standing seam metal roofs usually come at a higher cost compared to other traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles.
Difficult Installation Process: Due to the difficult installation process, homeowners are required to hire professionals rather than do it by themselves.
Noise: Without proper insulation, these roofs can be noisy during rain or hail storms.
2. Metal Shingle Roof
Metal shingle roofs replicate the look of traditional roofing materials such as asphalt, slate, and wood and offer a classic curb appeal to homes.
👉Benefits
Lightweight and Durable: Metal shingles are significantly lighter than traditional roofing materials, which can reduce the load on the structure of the home. These materials also last up to 70 years and keep the home safe from difficult climatic conditions.
Variety of Styles: Available in a variety of styles and finishes, metal shingles can easily match various architectural designs, allowing homeowners to achieve their desired look without compromising on durability.
Energy Efficiency: Metal shingles reflect heat, which helps maintain a cooler home in summer and lowers energy bills.
👉Drawbacks
Limited Color Options: While there are various styles available, the color selection may not be as extensive as that for asphalt shingles, which could limit customization for some homeowners.
Denting Risk: Metal shingles are prone to dents, which can affect the aesthetics of your home following hail storms or falling branches.
3. Corrugated Metal Roof
Known for its wavy and rigged panels, corrugated roofing panels are a popular choice for agricultural and industrial properties. However, these days it’s becoming a popular choice for homeowners as well.
👉Benefits
Cost-Effective: It is a budget-friendly material that can help homeowners to save on initial costs. Corrugated metal roofs can also last for 30 to 50 years, showcasing their ability to withstand difficult weather conditions.
👉Durability: The design of corrugated panels provides excellent strength and flexibility against harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and wind. It is also resistant to cracking, warping, and corrosion.
Lightweight and Easy Installation: Being a lightweight material, it reduces the structural load on buildings, simplifies the installation process, and lowers labor costs.
👉Drawbacks
Aesthetic Limitations: Corrugated metal may not offer the same visual appeal as other roofing options, such as standing seam or metal shingles. Its industrial look may not suit all architectural styles.
Noise Concerns: Rainfall can create noticeable noise on corrugated metal roofs, which may be a consideration for some homeowners.
4. Metal Tile Roof
Designed to mimic traditional clay or concrete tiles, metal tile roofs provide a retro and regal curb appeal to your home while still maintaining the properties of a metal roofing system.
👉Benefits
Fire Resistance: Metal tiles are inherently fire-resistant, making them a safer option compared to traditional roofing materials, especially in locations prone to wildfires.
Durability: Metal tile roofs can last over 50 years with proper care and maintenance as they are resistant to problems like rots, pests, and difficult weather events.
Lightweight: Compared to clay or concrete tiles, metal tiles are significantly lighter, which simplifies installation and reduces the structural load on your home.
Energy Efficiency: Metal tiles are good reflectors of heat, helping homeowners maintain a cooler environment inside their homes.
👉Drawbacks
Higher Installation Costs: The installation cost of a metal tile roof can be higher than traditional options due to the need for skilled professionals to complete the job and less availability of materials.
Complex Installation Process: The installation of metal tiles requires experienced professionals and can not be done as a DYI project.
Types of Metal Roofing Materials
Along with choosing the style of metal roof, you will also need to pick the best metal for your climate and budget. Here are some top options:
1. Aluminum Roof
Aluminum is a lightweight and rust-resistant option for roofs. It is also comparatively easy to install and maintain. Aluminum is also known for its excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in coastal locations, where salty air can ruin other metal roofing systems.
👉Benefits
Rust Resistance: Aluminum roofs are highly rust and corrosion-resistant, making them an ideal choice for coastal areas.
Energy Efficiency: Aluminum reflects sunlight effectively, helping to keep homes cooler in hot weather. This energy efficiency can reduce cooling costs and the carbon footprint of your home.
Eco-Friendly: Its recyclable property makes it environment-friendly and minimizes the impact of roofing on the planet.
Lightweight: Its lightweight nature simplifies installation and reduces the structural load on your home, which can be especially helpful for older homes.
👉Drawbacks
Higher Cost: While aluminum offers many advantages, it can be more expensive than steel roofing options, making it a less affordable option.
Denting Risk: Being softer than steel, aluminum roofs can be more prone to dents from impacts such as hail or falling branches.
2. Steel Roof
Steel is one of the most commonly used materials for metal roofing, available in various forms such as galvanized and galvalume steel. While galvanized steel is coated with a layer of zinc, galvalume combines zinc and aluminum for enhanced corrosion resistance.
👉Benefits
Strength and Durability: Known for its strength, steel is resistant to severe weather conditions and can survive 30 to 50 years depending upon the material used and maintenance.
Recyclability: Steel is fully recyclable, contributing to environmental sustainability and reducing landfill waste.
Variety of Finishes: It is available in many different colors and finishes which allows you to customize the roof according to your personal preferences.
Affordability: Generally more affordable than other metal options like aluminum or copper, steel provides a cost-effective solution for both residential and commercial applications.
👉Drawbacks
Weight: Steel is heavier than some alternatives, which can be a burden on the structure of your home and might require additional structural support during installation.
Rust Risk: Although galvanized steel is coated to prevent rust, it still requires protective coatings and maintenance to ensure longevity, particularly in humid climates.
3. Copper Roof
Copper has been used as a roofing material for centuries. Famously known for its long-lasting durability and the unique green patina that grows over time, copper roofing is a sought-after material.
👉Benefits
Exceptional Durability: Copper roofing can last over 100 years with minimal maintenance, making it one of the most durable roofing materials available. Its longevity often justifies the higher initial investment.
Low Maintenance: Due to copper’s resistance to corrosion and weathering, copper roofs require little to no maintenance. It can also withstand harsh weather events without decaying.
Unique Aesthetic Appeal: The green patina that forms on copper over time helps to create a unique look for your home.
Environmentally Friendly: Copper is recyclable and has a low environmental impact compared to other roofing materials, appealing to eco-conscious homeowners.
👉Drawbacks
High Cost: Copper is one of the most expensive metal roofing materials and requires a substantial upfront investment.
Installation Complexity: Installing copper roofing requires professional help, which can add to the final cost.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Metal Roof
When choosing a metal roofing type, it’s essential to consider:
👉Climate: Some metals, like aluminum, perform better in coastal areas, while steel and copper can withstand various climates.
👉Budget: Prices vary widely, so consider how much you’re willing to invest in a metal roof.
👉Aesthetics: Choose a metal roofing style that complements your home’s architecture and neighborhood.
👉Longevity and Maintenance: Different metals have varying lifespans and upkeep needs.
👉Environmental Impact: For eco-conscious homeowners, aluminum and steel are recyclable and often made from recycled materials.
👉Professional Installation: Metal roofs are an investment, and professional installation ensures longevity and optimal performance.
👉Other Roof Components: Don’t forget the underlayment, flashing, and other materials that help protect your roof.
Maintenance Tips for Metal Roofs
While metal roofs are durable, they still need some care. The following maintenance routine will help your metal roof stay in excellent shape.
👉Regular Inspections: Check for loose panels, rust, or dents, especially after severe weather events like rainfall, snowfall, and hail storms.
👉Cleaning: Keep the roof clean of debris, as accumulated materials can trap moisture.
👉Coating Protection: If your roof has a protective coating, ensure it remains intact to prevent rust and maintain appearance.
Cost of Metal Roofing Systems
Metal roofing costs vary based on material, style, and installation. Here’s a general cost breakdown:
👉Standing Seam: $10 to $16 per square foot.
👉Metal Shingles: $5 to $12 per square foot.
👉Corrugated Metal: $4 to $6 per square foot.
👉Metal Tiles: $6 to $14 per square foot.
👉Aluminum: $6.50 to $20 per square foot.
👉Steel: $4 to 17 per square foot.
👉Copper: $15 to $30 per square foot.
While metal roofs can have a higher upfront cost, they often save money in the long run on repairs, replacements, and energy bills.
Conclusion
Metal roofing systems provide a long-lasting, durable, and energy-efficient solution for your property, and with so many options available, there’s something to suit every style and budget. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of corrugated metal or the modern look of standing seam, metal roofs are a versatile, smart choice.
Need help choosing the right metal roof? Contact Prestige Roofing LLC at (920) 791-0414 to talk with our roofing experts about your options! We’re here to guide you through the process, so you end up with a roof you love for years to come.