Key Takeaways
- Painted steel is the most commonly used metal roofing material today for its cost-effectiveness and durability. Galvanized steel is a close second, while aluminum and other metal roof types follow.
- You’ve got lots of options when it comes to metal materials for roofing, but often the bigger decision is whether to go with corrugated metal and an exposed fastening system, or standing seam panels. Both are great, but standing seam metal roofs can last longer and with less maintenance.
- At the end of the day, get the metal roofing system you love and can afford! We can help!
The Most Common Metal Roofing Materials (And Which To Choose)
You’ve seen metal roofing on new homes or renovated properties. You know that it looks great: elegant, durable, classy, and even modern! You recognize metal roofing is a premium roofing material . . . but that’s about where your knowledge ends.
“What’s it made of” is a common question we get when it comes to new metal roofing, and it’s a question we’re happy to answer. And while there are some clear choices among metal roofing material for most homeowners, you do have options.
But First: Standing Seam Versus Corrugated . . .
Let’s get one thing straight before we begin talking about the types of metal roofing materials. Most products come in two profiles:
- Standing seam, with hidden fasteners. This is the modern, elegant look you’re probably familiar with. The fasteners are hidden completely beneath the panel, which is held in place by robust clips, meaning that there are no holes through the panel where water can find its way through.
- Corrugated metal roofs, often called a farm panel or ag panel, with exposed fasteners. Corrugated metal roofing is a cost-effective and lasting solution, but it does require a little monitoring to ensure that the fasteners (screws with rubber washers) don’t allow water in during the later part of its life. The screws, or some of them, may need to be inspected and replaced every 5-10 years.
Read more about standing seam vs corrugated in our recent blog post.
Painted Steel Metal Roof Panels
Painted steel metal roofing panels are the most common metal roofing system in the U.S. These are available as both a standing seam metal roof and in a more traditional corrugated metal roof panel. Both can last decades, though your standing seam metal roof with hidden fasteners will likely last generations with a little care.
Painted steel roofing comes in a wide range of colors and from a range of manufacturers, but the commonality is that most metal roof companies provide a pretty killer warranty from the paint manufacturer. At Rockland Builders, all of our painted steel roofing comes with a guaranteed 35 years from the manufacturer, Kynar® (Arkema’s Kynar paints).
Galvanized Steel Metal Roof Panels
Galvanized steel metal roof panels are coated with a layer of zinc to protect the steel from rust and corrosion. This process extends the life of the roof while maintaining its strength and durability.
Galvanized steel is an excellent choice for farms or manufacturing settings where corrosion may be a greater risk, like in livestock containment facilities. It’s particularly popular in industrial or coastal environments where protection against harsh weather or environmental conditions is crucial. They’re less common for residential metal roofing simply because painted steel is more cost effective, as durable in that setting, and more customizable.
Aluminum Roof Panels
Aluminum roofing panels are lightweight, rust-resistant, and highly durable, making them an ideal choice for homes in coastal areas where salt spray is prevalent. Aluminum reflects heat effectively, which can help reduce cooling costs in warmer climates. It’s also fully recyclable, offering an eco-friendly roofing option.
Because of its cost, aluminum metal panels are not common in our area.
Tin Roofing
Though less common today, tin roofing once enjoyed widespread popularity due to its affordability and fair protective qualities.
The modern tin roof is actually made of rolled steel that is coated with tin, and these roofs are appreciated by some for their quaint, traditional appearance as well as their durability. Tin roofing is a great choice for historic homes or buildings where maintaining a period aesthetic is important (or even required!).
At Rockland Builders, we generally suggest steel panels as a more cost-effective alternative that combines the classic look with modern corrosion resistance and longevity.
Copper Roofs
Copper roofing stands out for its exceptional beauty, which evolves over time, transitioning from its original sheen to a distinctive green patina.
This type of roofing is extremely durable, often lasting over a century with minimal maintenance. Copper is naturally resistant to fire, hail, and mildew.
While it is one of the more expensive metal roofing options, copper roofs’ longevity and aesthetic appeal make it a great investment for some people – just know that the pricetag will be high! Again, we generally suggest a steel roof for most folks interested in these traditional roofing materials.
Zinc Roofing
Pretty uncommon today, zinc is an incredibly durable material that can last between 60 to 100 years when properly installed and maintained. It is naturally resistant to corrosion, rust, and water damage, which allows it to perform exceptionally well in various climates, especially in coastal areas. Unlike some metals, zinc has a self-healing property and is a softer metal – scratches and minor damages can gradually blend into the material’s patina, maintaining a consistent appearance over time!
Again, zinc will be fairly expensive compared to steel roofing.
What’s The Best Metal Roofing Material?
That really comes down to your perspective, preference, and budget!
Unless you have a strong reason (and the wallet) to accommodate the more unique metals like copper or tin, painted steel is an incredibly durable solution. It will last for decades with zero work, and even then it can be repainted to last another 10+ years. For standing seam metal roofs, with no holes for screw fasteners, this can mean a roof that quite literally outlasts your time in the home.
Other Roof Materials
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material of our generation. They are made from a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules that protect the roof from UV rays and weathering. Asphalt shingles are fire resistant and come in a variety of colors and styles, including options that mimic the look of wood shakes or slate tiles. They typically last between 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality and climate.
Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install and repair, making them a popular choice for both new construction and roofing replacements.
Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is recognized for its natural beauty and durability, often lasting over 100 years.
Slate is a natural stone that is split into thin sheets and installed as shingles. It is one of the most durable roofing materials available, resistant to fire, rot, and pests, and can withstand severe weather conditions. Slate roofs are heavier than other types of roofing, which may require additional structural support.
Despite its higher initial cost, slate’s longevity and minimal maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective option over its lifespan.
Clay Tile Roofing
Clay tile roofing is favored for its traditional and timeless appeal, especially in Mediterranean, Spanish, and Southwestern architecture.
Clay tiles are known for their exceptional longevity, with a lifespan that can exceed 100 years if properly maintained. They also excel in hot climates due to their ability to reflect sunlight, helping to keep buildings cooler. However, like slate, clay tiles are heavy and may require reinforced roof framing. Additionally, they are more brittle than some other roofing materials and can be susceptible to breakage under heavy impact.
Rubber Roofing
Rubber roofing, commonly made from recycled tires, is a durable option primarily used on flat or low-slope roofs.
Installation is generally straightforward, involving the laying of large sheets that reduce the number of seams where water could infiltrate. Rubber roofing is also lightweight, requires minimal maintenance, and can last 30 to 50 years with proper care. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a durable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly roofing solution on low-slope or even flat roofs.
Curious About a New Metal Roof But Not Sure Where to Begin?
Choosing the right roofing material can feel a little daunting.
Whether you’re looking for durability, aesthetic appeal, or environmental friendliness we can guide you to the perfect roofing solution for your home and budget.
Don’t wait to give your home the protection and style it deserves. Contact us today for a free consultation and see how our expertise can enhance the beauty and durability of your roof. Let Rockland Builders be your trusted Lehigh Valley roofing contractor in crafting a roof that’s built to last.
