Metal roofs are all the rage among today’s homeowners. Touted for their durability and energy efficiency, it’s no wonder that metal roofing will experience rapid growth over the next several years. 

With so many metal roofing types to choose from, how do you know which one is right for your home? Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing a metal roofing system. From materials and styles to environmental and budgetary considerations, we’ll also show you how to find a top metal roofing contractor in your area.

What is Metal Roofing?

A metal roof is a long-lasting, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly roofing system. These roofs come in different types of metals (steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc), each offering a unique shape, panel style, and profile.

4 Common Metal Roofing Types & Their Benefits

1. Steel

When you think of “metal roofing,” you’re likely imagining a steel roof. That’s because it’s the most common metal roofing material, with painted steel roofing in high demand in recent years.

Benefits of Steel Roofing

• High-quality
• Comes in several varieties (e.g., galvanized, weathering, stainless, cold-rolled, etc.)
• Aesthetically diverse and available in a range of color and style options
• Durable, lasting up to 50 years
• Resistant to fire and rotting 

2. Aluminum

As the lightest of all metal roofing systems, aluminum is one of the most eco-friendly, energy-saving options available. Live in an area prone to storms and heavy rainfall? It’s coastal/seafront friendly, too!

Benefits of Aluminum Roofing

• Lightweight and malleable
• Eco-friendly
• Rust and corrosion-proof
• It comes in several styles, including shingles, corrugated panels, and more.
• Long-lasting, up to 80 years

3. Copper

Copper roofing may be the best choice if you want your home to stand out in the neighborhood. The patina that will develop through the years will change, giving your roof a unique color. Copper also comes with a higher price tag, making it one of the most expensive metal roofing types.

Benefits of Copper Roofing

• Easy installation
• Unique patina
• Corrosion resistant
• High longevity, lasting anywhere from 60 years to a century or more

4. Zinc

Often known as a “lifetime roof,” zinc roofing is a long-lasting and stylish option. While on the pricier side, its list of benefits is long, including being long-lasting, fire-resistant, and more.

Benefits of Zinc Roofing

• Develops a patina that evolves from a dark black into a grey or light blue
• Corrosion-resistant
• Recyclable and eco-friendly
• You can choose from sheets, shingles, panels, and more
• It can last up to 100 years

Why is Choosing the Right Metal Roofing Type Important?

Choosing the best type of metal roofing for your home isn’t just about achieving the exterior design you’ve been dreaming of. You also want it to perform well and last as long as possible. 

Several factors — such as your budget and local climate — will affect your decision. For example, if you live in a coastal area or a hurricane hotspot and your budget is tight, opt for a corrosion-resistant aluminum roof in an affordable style, like a standing seam. 

There will always be pros and cons to metal roofing, no matter which metal material and style you choose. The goal is to balance aesthetics, functionality, and longevity.

5 Popular Metal Roofing Types 

The particular metal you choose for your roof is only one consideration. Depending on your aesthetic, structural, and environmental requirements, you’ll want to decide on one of the following metal roofing types.

1. Corrugated Roofing

If you’re looking for a roofing system that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is strong, then a corrugated metal roof may be what you need. Its panels are folded into a wavy (corrugated) pattern, creating a series of consecutive round grooves.

Benefits

• Available for all metal materials
• Durable with high strength-to-weight ratios
• Easy to install
• Ideal for extreme weather conditions
• Affordable

Disadvantages

• Requires frequent maintenance to check for loose fasteners and more
• Exposed fasteners give corrugated roofing a more rural and industrial look

Cost

Corrugated roofing is the most budget-friendly of all the styles. Depending on the type of metal, its gauge, the size of your roof, and more, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2.50 to $6.00 per square foot (based on gauge), not including labor costs.

2. Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Crowned the most popular type of metal roofing, homeowners choose standing seam for their contemporary look and low maintenance. Its fasteners are hidden, giving it a smooth, streamlined look that appeals to modern homeowners.

Benefits

• Modern aesthetic
• Low maintenance
• Less susceptible to leaks

Disadvantages

• Installation and (potential) future repairs will take longer and cost more than other styles.
• The most expensive of all the metal roofing styles

Cost

Going with a standing seam metal roof comes with a higher price tag for materials and installation. Cost per square foot (based on gauge alone) will run you somewhere between $3 and $6.

3. Metal Tile Roofing

If you want the look of clay tile roofing without the sky-high price tag, then metal tile roofing might be right for your home. Its panel-based materials are versatile, coming in various colors and styles. 

Benefits

• Lightweight (compared to traditional clay tiles)
• Durable in extreme climates
• Low maintenance
• Energy efficient
• Lifespan of over 50 years

Disadvantages

• Dent-prone
• More expensive than other styles of metal roofing

Cost

While more affordable than traditional tiles, metal tile roofing is one of the most expensive metal roofing types. It can cost between $4.50 and $7.00 per square foot, not counting installation.

4. Metal Shingles

Do you prefer the look of classic shingles but with more durability? Metal shingles come in several colors and materials, including steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper. 

Benefits

• Offers a clean and classic aesthetic
• It can accommodate any roofing structure, including those with a low pitch
• Recyclable
• Durable
• High return on investment (ROI) because of its energy efficiency and long lifespan (40+ years)

Disadvantages

• It has a higher price point (compared to asphalt shingle roofing). But metal singles are more durable and will last longer.

Cost

Metal shingles are comparable to the price point of a standing seam roof. Shingled roofing will cost you $3 to $6 per square foot, not including labor.

5. Metal Slates

Unlike classic slate roofing, which is heavy and expensive, metal slates are lightweight and boast a similar aesthetic at a fraction of the price. 

Benefits

• Rustic aesthetic
• Available in a variety of colors
• Lightweight
• Easy to install
• Great for homes in areas with extreme weather conditions

Disadvantages

• Color-match replacement may be difficult in the event of a future repair.

Cost

Metal slates for your roof will run about $4 to $7 per square foot, not including installation costs.

3 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Metal Roofing Style

1. Design Aesthetic

The shape and unique architectural features of your roof can influence the style it can accommodate.

For instance, if you’re on a budget and live on the coast, and your roof has a low pitch, then metal shingles made of steel may work best for you. They would be corrosion-resistant and durable through inclement weather, and the shingles can accommodate your low pitch (unlike other metal roofing types).

Also, consider the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for. A zinc or copper slate roof may fit the bill if you want an elegant and unique style and are working with a higher budget.

2. Climate and Weather Conditions

Metal roofing works in all climate conditions. But when it comes to style, is there one that’s more advantageous than another? 

Let’s say you live in a snow-prone area with frequent blizzards and ice accumulation. Steel corrugated roofing or metal slates can bear the weight of frequent snow and ice. They’ll also last longer and make your roof less susceptible to leaks.

3. Budget

Your budget (low or unlimited) will influence the metal material and style you choose for your roof. The most affordable material is steel. In contrast, the most expensive is copper. 

As for metal roofing types by cost, a standing seam style is the most affordable, whereas a metal slate or corrugated roof will be pricier.

The cost of local labor will also make up a large part of your budget. Finding a roofing contractor you can trust will save you time and money in the long run.

Find a Contractor For All Metal Roofing Types With Directorii

Of all the metal roofing types and materials available to you, hiring a vetted roofing contractor who can install it properly is a vital part of the roofing process.

With Directorii, you can search through reputable roofing contractors in your area. Get a free quote for your roofing project, and let Directorii connect you with a reliable professional who will make your roofing dreams a reality.