Are you looking to build a house? Are you renovating your porch and terrace area? Are you building a small alfresco in your backyard?

There are many reasons for needing a metal roof. Whatever your reasons are, finding the right type of metal roofing is hard.

Many metal roofing contractors, metal roofing materials, and metal roofing panels.

The whole process can be TRICKY and CONFUSING.

We don’t want to make a mistake. Find out below how to find the right metal roofing for your roofing project needs.

 

 

Metal Roofs: The Basics

Not everyone is familiar with metal roofs.

Some of us are used to the traditional look of shingle roofs. At the same time, some are used to the more common corrugated roofs.

Asphalt shingles are great as roofing materials. But so are other roofing materials.

Thankfully, metal roofs have been GAINING A LOT OF POPULARITY these days. These roof types have a lot of advantages that a lot of homeowners should make use of.

There are advantages and disadvantages to every type.

Know which one to pick for your roofing project.

The right decision will have a HUGE IMPACT on your budget – whether it’s a new installation, a replacement, or a full renovation.

 

 

Types of Metal Roofing For Every Need

We’re almost sure you’re here after realizing JUST HOW MANY metal roofing options there are. Choosing the right type for your situation is hard.

But, don’t fret!

In this section, we outlined every type of metal roofing. We compiled all the information you need on every type, so you don’t have to!

Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance option or a sturdy one, there’s a perfect type.

Aluminum Roofing

Aluminum is a lightweight, silvery-white metal (that we can color). It is the most abundant metal in the Earth’s crust.

The lightweight characteristic of aluminum makes it a popular material for tons of different products. You see it in everyday use.

Go to your kitchen. You’ll see it in cans, foils, kitchen utensils, etc.

This material is also used in airplane parts.

It goes to say that aluminum is a great ALL-AROUND MATERIAL. More so when used as a metal roofing material.

Aluminum is a great roofing material because it is lightweight, malleable, and corrosion-resistant.

• Lightweight: Aluminum weighs only 5 pounds per square foot.
• Malleable: Aluminum roofing is soft and pliable, making it great for personalized designs.
• Corrosion-resistant: Aluminum roofing will not suffer rust, even in heavy rain and storms.

 

While some lightweight materials can be FLIMSY, aluminum roofing is extremely durable.

Pros

• Lightest material on the market
• Higher-strength to weight ratio
• Versatile profile
• Fast installation
• Lasts long
• Energy efficient
• Fire resistant

 

Cons

• Expensive
• Fewer colors available
• Higher possibility of denting (think of how easy you can dent a soda can)
• Hard To Walk On

 

Copper Roofing

Copper is a soft, ductile, and malleable metal. It has a pinkish-orange metal with a very high thermal and electrical conductivity.

It bears similarities to aluminum roofing.

Copper roofing is LIGHTWEIGHT, LONG-LASTING, and ENERGY-EFFICIENT.

• Lightweight: Copper roofing is lighter than a tiled roof or a lead roof.

• Long-lasting: Copper roofing can last even up to 100 years.
• Energy-efficient: Copper roof is corrosion-resistant.

 

Copper roofing is used for both residential and commercial needs. Its popularity can be attributed to how ATTRACTIVE and UNIQUE it is.

You’ll know what I’m talking about once you see it.

Copper roofing has a high sheen. It changes from a golden shine to a blue-green patina. What a STAND-OUT!

Pros

• Attractive and elegant
• Increases value as time pass
• Long life expectancy
• Low maintenance cost
• Premium material
• Does not need extra coating
• Can withstand heavy snow
• Fire-resistant
• Mildew-resistant

 

Cons

• Scratches and dents easily
• Prone to robbery because of its attractiveness
• Most expensive metal roof type

 

Galvanized Steel Roofing

Galvanized steel is a product of immersing steel in molten zinc. The result is STRONG and DURABLE coated steel.

The thin zinc coating protects the steel from corrosion.

Galvanized steel is a popular material in multiple industries. You’ll see it in cars, construction supplies, agricultural equipment, etc.

Galvanized steel roofing is a great option for those with a LIMITED BUDGET.

This metal roof type is easy to maintain. Repainting or replacing metal panels is easy. A new color after some years can easily be achieved.

The metal roofing panels are interlocked. The steel panels are then screwed and sealed.

The interlocking makes this metal roof resistant to wind. However, it can be susceptible to some water leaks.

Pros

• Lower cost
• Lasts over 50 years
• Rust-resistant
• Easier maintenance
• Wind, water, and fire-resistant
• Low-weight
• Recyclable
• Tons of custom designs, colors, and paint type
• Hassle-free installation

 

Cons

• Not a good choice for coastal areas
• Not entirely corrosion-resistant

 

Tin Roofing

Tin is a silvery-white metal that has a signature polish. It is SOFT, LIGHT, and EASY TO MELT.

Like galvanized steel, tin roofing is based on a steel roof. The rolled steel is then coated with tin to improve durability.

Tin and steel molecules are combined through vibration and heat.

The result? A metal roof that DOESN’T CRACK easily.

Tin roofing is not as popular anymore. You probably won’t find one anymore.

Aluminum roofing became the tin roof replacement.

Some people still enjoy tin roofs because of their SIGNATURE SOUND. The lightweight tin roof creates a RUSTIC sound when rain hits it.

Pros

• Rustic feel
• Lightweight
• Eco-friendly
• Lasts for up to 40 years
• Partially made from recycled materials
• Easy installation

 

Cons

• Hard to find
• Less durable than modern-day steel
• The soft metal can be too pliable

 

Zinc Roofing

Zinc is a silvery-grey metal that is slightly brittle. This abundant metal is used in several industries.

Zinc roofing is a LUSTROUS metal roofing. Like a copper roof, zinc roofing creates a unique patina after oxidation.

The patina does not only give it a distinct look. It also adds a layer of protection to this metal roofing.

However, corrosion-resistant zinc roofing COSTS A LOT.

For some people, the premium price can be very worth it. Zinc roofing lasts for over 100 years, with almost zero maintenance needed.

Zinc essentially RENEWS ITSELF.

In addition, zinc is 100% recyclable. It does not cost much energy resources or materials.

Pros

• Distinct bluish-grey hue
• Extreme lifespan (over 100 years)
• Low to no maintenance
• Rot, mold, and mildew-resistant
• Fire, wind, and lightning-resistant
• Versatile
• Unique self-healing
• 100% recyclable and eco-friendly

 

Cons

• Extremely expensive
• Much wanted patina look takes time
• Hard to install
• Prone to chalking

 

 

Type of Metal Roofing Panels

Aside from the metal roofing materials we talked about, it’s also important to know about the systems used in roof panels.

There are numerous types of metal roofing panels. Find which one suits your home the most!

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Corrugated metal is a type of exposed fastener metal roofing that many of us may be FAMILIAR with. It’s that traditional round and wavy shape we see in most roofs.

We are familiar with corrugated metal roofing because it is the MOST AFFORDABLE TYPE.

Compared to a standing seam metal roof, a corrugated metal roof is cheaper.

Corrugated metal roofing is a roofing system that has an exposed fastener panel. Exposed fastener panels mean that you can see the fastener on the surfaces.

How is the traditional shape achieved?

• The metal sheet is rolled
• The rolls of metal are then formed into panels
• The corrugated panels are attached with screws
• The roofing panels are painted

 

This roofing system is a GREAT ALTERNATIVE to asphalt shingles or tile roofing.

Corrugated metal roofing is easy to achieve and is very durable. You just have to be ready for a bit more maintenance.

Pros

• Low cost for the entire roof
• Lightweight
• Relatively long-lasting
• Easy installation
• Can be installed over an existing roof

 

Cons

• Vulnerable to leak
• Vulnerable to rust
• Not suitable for extreme weather conditions

 

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing is a system that uses vertically-oriented panels.

The panels in a standing seam metal roofing are connected SEAMLESSLY via a roof seamer. This creates a snug and solid roofing system.

Standing seam metal roofs are extremely VERSATILE and DURABLE.

The standing seam roofing system is becoming popular because of the CLEAN LOOK that concealed fastener panels give.

The modern and aesthetic standing seam metal roof gives you a WATERTIGHT SYSTEM.

This is one of the many benefits of a standing seam metal roof. Watertight metal roofing panels are not usually possible using exposed fasteners.

If you ask us, we love the contemporary look on these standing seam roofing panels.

Pros

• The signature clean look of a standing seam roof
• Wind, water, fire, and hail-resistant
• Low maintenance
• Long life expectancy
• Premium quality
• Customizable
• Eco-friendly
• Self-sealing

 

Cons

• Twice the cost of a corrugated metal roof
• Tricky installation requires skill
• Labor-intensive process
• It cannot be used in flat roof structures
• Difficult to replace
• Risk of scratching
• Can Be Loud

 

Metal Shingle Roofing

Shingle roofing is one of the many traditional metal roofing systems.

A shingle roof is seen in traditional architecture where wood is overlapped from bottom to top. Nowadays, a shingle roof is not only limited to wood.

Here are some other roofing materials used.

• asphalt shingles
• steel shingles
• metal shingles
• wood shingles
• clay shingles
• slate shingles

 

Despite the rise in other metal roofing materials, the process remains the same for wood shingle roofs or asphalt shingle roofs.

Shingle metal roofs are loved for their traditional look but modern practicality.

It is ARTISTIC because it retains the original look of wood shingles. But, it is also DURABLE and LONG-LASTING as it uses a metal roofing material.

Pros

• Artistic look
• Metal shingles are more long-lasting
• Requires little-to-no maintenance
• Energy efficient (unlike asphalt shingles)

 

Cons

• High metal roofing cost
• The traditional look is not for all

 

Metal Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is one of the most loved metal roof systems.

Slate roofing uses a UNIQUE INTERLOCKING SYSTEM to provide long-lasting home protection.

But, the traditional slate roofs are very HEAVY ON THE POCKET.

That’s why metal slate roofing is a great metal roofing option.

This metal roof type retains the traditional slate roofing system. But, it replaces the roof material with a more affordable choice.

Traditional slate roofs are also VERY HEAVY as a roofing material.

Lightweight metal roofing sheets are used instead of authentic slate. This removes the weight strain from your home.

Weight strain = Faster structural damage

Pros

• Lighter, more effective metal roofing materials
• More affordable than traditional slate roofs
• A luxurious look for your new metal roof
• Holds foot traffic more than slate

 

Cons

• Noisier than traditional slate
• Slippery when wet
• Requires a skilled roofing contractor

 

Metal Tile Roofing

It’s hard to choose a metal roof when you’ve already seen the elegant barrel-style Spanish roof tiles.

The curves of a Spanish roof tile give your house a signature look that is simply hard to replicate. It’s hard to go back once you’ve started loving this style.

But, these beautiful tiles are the MOST FRAGILE roofing material ever.

With climate change and extreme weather conditions, sticking with a beautiful roof is no longer practical.

Thankfully, metal tile roofing is now a metal roofing option.

Tile roofing is an ECONOMIC ALTERNATIVE to the timeless but expensive roofing material (concrete tiles).

A metal tile roof has an anti-capillary leak feature. You no longer have to worry about roof leaks on stormy days.

Pros

• Retain the timeless elegance of tile roofing
• Weathertight
• Lightweight (versus the load-bearing clay tile)
• More affordable than clay tiles

 

Cons

• Requires a professional roofing contractor

 

 

Metal Roofing Costs

We’ve given you a preview of which material is more expensive and affordable.

But, EXACT cost estimates are important.

Check this section to find out the exact metal roofing prices.

Metal Roofing Materials

There are numerous types of metal roofs for one simple reason. There are a lot of metal raw materials!

This is how much a total roof installation will cost you for all types of metal roofs.

Aluminum

An aluminum roof is on the expensive side.

Aluminum roofs are not as premium as copper or zinc, but they aren’t the cheapest you can find either. To get this roof type, prepare to pay $10 – $20 per square foot.

Aluminum roofing costs also depend on the roofing system you wish to apply.

• Corrugated: $4 – $6 per square foot
• Standing seam: $5 – $7 per square foot

 

Copper

We already know this. Copper is the most expensive out of all the types of metal roofing.

But, just how expensive is it?

For a premium material like copper, metal roofing costs about $25 – $40 per square foot.

• Corrugated: $20 – $30 per square foot
• Standing seam: $25 – $35 per square foot

 

Zinc

Another premium option is a zinc roof.

This beautiful roof type will set your budget by about $20 – $35 per square foot. It’s about the same price range as copper roofs.

The installation of zinc roofing is HARD and TECHNICAL.

Costs of roofing can increase with the price you have to pay roofing contractors.

 

Steel

Steel roofing is the BEST BUDGET OPTION.

You can start your steel roofing project with as low a budget as $2 – $4 per square foot. Just make sure to factor in the cost of specific add-ons you want.

 

 

Other Factors to Consider in Metal Roofing

Aside from the roofing material and panel system, other factors may help you make a more educated decision.

Check these additional factors!

Reflectivity

Reflectivity refers to how much sun rays your roof reflects off its surface.

Why is this important?

Reflectivity is important because it decides how much heat your roof can fend off. This is especially important in areas with hot weather conditions.

The HOTTER your house is, the HARDER it will be TO COOL it down.

Asphalt shingles, Spanish tiles, and other traditional roof materials are ineffective.

Metal roofing is a better option if you want a reflective roof. But, different metals still have different reflectivity ratings.

 

Emissivity

No roof is perfect. That’s why it still gets hot inside your house.

While roofs reflect some sun rays, they cannot do so perfectly. Some of the unreflected sun rays are absorbed as heat.

Emissivity then comes into the picture.

Emissivity is how much heat your roofing material absorbs. A good rating is close to 1.00.

Metal roofing does well in this aspect as well. But, as always, different metals will have different scores. Check well to get a better idea.

The best roof sheds most of the heat to keep your house cool.

You never know just how important it is to keep the heat off of your house until you see your electric bill skyrocket.

 

Paint Finish

Most people think that roofing finishes are just for aesthetics.

While it can be, BEAUTY IS NOT THE ONLY ROLE of paint finishes in your roofing project. Paint finishes make a lot of effect in these aspects as well:

• longevity
• energy efficiency
• reflectivity
• durability
• resistance

 

It will be too long to talk about every effect. But, here is a shortcut guide for you.

Lighter paint finishes will reflect light while darker colors will absorb it. The same goes for heat. Glossier options are more durable and long-lasting.

If you have an older metal roof, there are instances where you can paint the roof.

 

Maintenance Requirements

Many people are skeptical about choosing more expensive roofing types for a good reason.

After all, it is hard to make a HUGE INITIAL PAYMENT when there are cheaper options we can consider. But, remember that we want a long-lasting roof.

Some roofing materials may be more expensive, but they will also last longer and require little care.

It can be EXTREMELY STRESSFUL to replace and repair your roof every once in a while. No one wants that!

It will get more expensive in the long run as well.

 

Warranties

We want our roofs to last a lifetime. That’s the goal, right?

We did our best to research the most long-lasting options for our needs. But, we should also make the most use of the roofing products we buy.

Most manufacturers and contractors will provide some form of warranty.

Consider one with a long warranty to get the most out of your money. If possible, spend the extra money to get a lifetime warranty.

It can be expensive now, but it’s a GREAT INVESTMENT.

 

Installation Requirements

Some roof types require little skills to install. As such, labor costs will not be as high.

Getting an easy-to-install roof is smart if you are eager to fit into a tight budget.

It can be surprising how much roof installation can add to the total costs.

Some people even install their roofs. This is a great idea for easy-to-install roof types.

But, we urge you NOT TO TRY this on other roof options. Without the required skill, installing your roof can result in many mistakes.

Errors in roof building will cost you more TIME AND MONEY in the long run.

Balance this with your preferences in roof types and materials. This is the best way you can save money without sacrificing important features.

 

 

The Metal Roof Type For Your Home

There are many considerations in choosing a type of metal roofing for your home.

Our homes are expensive investments that are important to us. We don’t want to risk losing it over the wrong choices of metal roofs.

Here’s a summary guide to the right metal roofing for your home.

Roofing System: Standing Seam Metal Roofing

What you want in a roof is the mechanical seam employed in a standing seam metal rood’s panels.

Nothing beats the watertight lock of this metal roofing type for residential metal roofing. In addition, a standing seam metal roof also allows for thermal expansion.

What does this mean?

The THERMAL EXPANSION allows metal roofs to periodically expand and contract.

Screws, nuts, and bolts in metal roofs will loosen through time. Periodic replacement can be a pain in the head.

This is the more expensive option out of the types of metal roofing, but it is worth it.

 

Budget-Friendly Material: Steel Roofing

Steel is the perfect material for residential builds, especially on a limited budget.

You may not get the attractive look of copper roofs. You may not get the distinct patina color of a zinc roof.

But, a steel roof is HIGHLY FLEXIBLE and DURABLE.

A steel roof is a great choice because it is flexible but not as soft and pliable as tin roofing. The softer metal tin can dent under extreme pressures.

Steel roofing offers a lot more variability and customization than painted aluminum roofs.

 

Best Overall: Copper Roofing

If budget is not an issue, copper or zinc roofing would be the best choice.

But, if and only if you don’t mind spending a lot.

Copper roofing COSTS A LOT, but it is also extremely LONG-LASTING. Once installed, you won’t have to do anything to last you a hundred years.

You won’t have to worry about hails, storms, fire, or lightning.

Copper roofing is also the MOST ATTRACTIVE option.

If you compare it to a steel roof or an aluminum roof, you’ll quickly realize that copper roofs are different.

 

 

Final Words

There are a ton of options for metal roof materials.

Options are good when we want to personalize the product to our needs. But, it can also be a huge headache.

We hope this article helped you choose the best types of metal roofs. Just remember these three important aspects.

• Know your budget
• Check your location
• Experiment with style preferences

 

That’s it! Enjoy your roof project!