Are you wondering how a metal roof will look on your home? Many homeowners are now turning towards metal roofing systems to enhance their homes’ curb appeal and energy efficiency. Metal roofs have an incredible lifespan and require less upkeep, making them easy to fit in any home!
This article will explain different types of metal roofs based on two categories: metals and panels. It will give you a vast understanding of metal roofs so you can pick the best one for your home.
👉 What Types of Metal Roofs Are There?
When thinking about metal roofs, it’s natural to imagine colors and shapes first. However, you should first decide which metal would be best for your home. Generally, residential metal roofs are made of steel, aluminum, and copper due to their weather-resistance, beauty, and durability.
#1 Steel
Steel is an essential material in commercial products and buildings. Due to its affordable and malleable nature, it is now among the most popular residential metal roof types.
Pros
- Affordable: Steel is the most affordable metal to make roofs. Roofing contractors always coat steel panels with zinc or aluminum to make them rust-free and increase their lifespan.
- Flexible And Appealing: Steel panels are very flexible, so molding them into different shapes and patterns is much easier. Steel can also mimic other metal roofing types, such as copper and zinc, as you can paint steel panels in any shade.
- Sturdy And Durable: Steel is a sturdy, fireproof metal that can withstand severe weather conditions for years. A steel roof can typically last up to 40 years.
- Eco-friendly: Steel is typically a green roofing option because most of it is the recycled version. In fact, steel is one of the most recycled materials on Earth today.
Cons
- Rust: Generally, this is not a common issue, as steel roofs generally come with rust-free coatings, as we mentioned above.
- Weight: Steel roofs can be heavy, so you need strong sheathing to support a steel roof. But a steel roof can be a good choice if you want to install multiple roof fixtures.
#2 Aluminum
Among different metal roof types, aluminum roofs are the most convenient option for coastal regions. This is because aluminum is relatively more resistant to salt corrosion than other metals.
Pros
- Lightweight: It is one of the lightest materials on a roof. But if you live in a location that experiences frequent severe weather conditions, you can increase the thickness of the aluminum panels to make them more sturdy and durable.
- Durable: Aluminum roofs can last about 50 years with little upkeep. Like steel, aluminum is also fireproof but more robust and durable than steel.
- Rust-free: Aluminum is naturally rust-free, which is an attractive benefit for many homeowners.
- Pest-resistance: Aluminum is good at preventing pests and rodents. You may have seen people using aluminum sheets and foils around their trees and plants. That’s precisely the reason for it.
Cons
- Heat Resistance: Among other metal roof materials, an aluminum roof may not be the best solution if you live in a region that has a hot climate where temperatures often cross 98.6°F during summers.
- Cost: Aluminum costs more than steel, but since aluminum is highly energy-efficient and durable, aluminum roofs come with excellent value for money.
#3 Copper
Copper is a luxurious metal that is very flexible and comes with different levels of thickness for roofs. A copper roof looks very attractive and gives your home a royal look! As copper ages, it forms a natural protective layer against corrosion and withering, making it even more durable and sturdy.
Pros
- Durable: Copper roofs come with an incredible lifespan of over 70 years! If you maintain it regularly, your copper roof can last up to 100 years, significantly increasing your home’s resale value. People love the look of a clean, copper roof and enjoy the fact that they don’t have to replace it anytime soon.
- Eco-friendly: Copper is one of those metals that are 100% recyclable. Generally, copper roofs are a one-time investment. They are eco-friendly, long-lasting, and can stand strong during harsh weather conditions while looking great.
- Appealing: Copper roofs have a beautiful appearance. Even as the material ages, it develops an iconic blue-green color known as patina.
- Low-maintenance: Copper roofs are easygoing, so you don’t have to worry about them often. Indeed, copper roofs require the least maintenance.
Cons
- Cost: Copper roofs fall among the most expensive roofs in the US. But as a homeowner, it can be an efficient investment.
A copper roof can be viable if you look at the perks. You won’t have to spend much on maintenance and repairs. On top of that, you will never have to replace it, and people may prefer a copper roof over aluminum and zinc. Zinc tends to be more expensive, and aluminum is less durable than copper.
These were the most common types of metal roofs when we talk about the choice of metal. Other than that, metal roofs are distinguished by the type of panel. So now we will explain different metal panels and their pros and cons.
👉 Types Of Metal Roofing Panels/Styles
Metal roofing panels come in various shapes and sizes, but on a primary level, there are three categories- standing seam, corrugated, and designer panels.
#4 Standing Seam Panels
Standing seam panels have a fastener system that is not visible as the fasteners don’t need to be nailed or screwed on the surface of the panels. These panels require a snap-lock system or mechanical installation method.
Pros
- Sturdy: Standing seam roofs are more sturdy and durable than other metal roof styles. The mechanical installation makes them more flexible, offering room for expansion and contraction during extreme temperatures.
- Leakproof: With no gaps and holes during the installation of panels, standing seam metal roofs are not likely to leak even during heavy rain and snowfall.
- Less maintenance: A metal roof with screws and nails usually needs more maintenance as they can corrode and wear out over time due to weather conditions. This isn’t the case with a standing seam roof where the fastening system isn’t exposed.
Cons
- Cost: Standing seam metal roofs may cost more due to their advanced technology and enhanced durability. They also require expert installation, pushing the installation costs higher than corrugated panels.
If you want to make a strong statement with a stylish pattern, there are more types of metal roofs with hidden fasteners that come in appealing looks of wood shake, slate, and tile.
#5 Corrugated Panels
Corrugated metal roofing panels are not straight. They have different patterns, such as an S-shape, U-shape, rectangular, or box-shape. These grooves and ridges on the panels provide added strength and durability, suitable for areas that experience high winds.
Pros
- Easy to Install: Corrugated panels require nailing or screwed-down installation, which is less complicated than standing seam panels.
- Affordable: A corrugated metal roof costs less than a standing seam roof. As a matter of fact, it compares to the costs of some good-quality shingles on the market.
Cons
- More maintenance: Corrugated roofs require more maintenance because of the exposed fasteners and no stable structure. They need professional inspection and cleaning at least once a year.
- Roof slope: You need a minimum roof slope of 3:12 to install corrugated panels. And if you live in a town that receives heavy snow, a corrugated roof may not be your best option.
Expert Advice
A standing seam metal roof would be better for a cold, snowy region like Buffalo, NY. They have a smooth surface and no leaking points. You only need snow guards on the slopes to melt the snow, which will then slide directly into the gutters.
As a homeowner, we believe you want a safe roof that gives you no trouble. That’s why you must ensure proper installation and regular maintenance to get the best roof for your home.
We Can Help You
Are you looking for an honest and reliable roofing contractor near Buffalo, NY? Then we are proud to share that many homeowners trust OConnor Contracting. We have been installing metal roofs for years and know exactly how the weather works in our town. Our team can also explain the whole metal roofing system and installation process.
We hope this article gives you a better understanding of different metal roofing types. You can also learn about the different components of a metal roof in our previous blog. We are dedicated to helping the community through detailed information so they can make informed decisions about their next roofing project.
If you need more help, we can also offer you free estimates and roof inspections. Safety and financial planning are critical to every home and business. Call us at (716) 600-7663, and we will help you pick the right metal roof within your budget.
