9 Types of Metal Roofs: The Pros & Cons

Published on Monday November 20, 2023

Metal roofing is a broad term that covers a wide variety of different colors, sizes, styles, and materials. With so many types of metal roofs to choose from, let’s break down the benefits of each, so you know which one would be best for your next roof replacement.

Advantages of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs offer a range of advantages that make them a popular choice for many homeowners and commercial properties. Here are some of the key benefits.

Weather Resistant

Metal roofs can withstand severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, hail, and high winds. They are also resistant to damage from UV rays. Additionally, metal roofing materials are non-combustible, granting them a Class A fire rating, which is the highest level of protection against fire.

Cost-Effective

Metal roofs are known for their impressive lifespan while still being low-maintenance. They typically only need regular inspections and occasional cleaning. They’re also energy efficient, which can save you money on utility bills. All of the above can result in an even greater ROI because they also boost the overall value of your home.

Environmentally Friendly

In addition to being energy efficient, metal roofs are often made from recycled materials and are 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan. This eco-friendly approach reduces the environmental impact compared to other roofing materials.

Metal Roof Types

Metal roofing is a versatile choice, offering a range of materials and styles to fit different architectural needs and aesthetic preferences. Each type of metal roof comes with its own set of characteristics and benefits. Explore the various types of metal roofs below.

1. Standing Seam

Standing seam metal roofing stands out for its streamlined appearance, durability, and weather resistance. It surpasses traditional options like asphalt shingles in longevity and energy efficiency. Highly customizable, it allows homeowners to align it with their specific preferences.

2. Shake-Inspired

Shake-inspired metal roofing panels combine the traditional look of wooden shakes with the advantages of metal roofing. While not as waterproof as a standing seam, a meticulously installed metal shake roof provides durable protection for your home over the long term.

3. Tile-Inspired

Tile roofing, often favored in warmer climates, traditionally uses natural materials like clay or concrete. Metal roofs offer a durable alternative while maintaining a tile aesthetic.

Tile-inspired metal roofing is known for its resistance, even when put up against wind, fire, rain and hail. When looking at different types of metal roofs, keep in mind that tile-inspired metal roofing is one of the most economically friendly roofing options on the market.

4. Slate-Inspired

The weight of a slate roof can cause strain on your house, necessitating reinforced rafters for longevity. Slate-inspired metal roofing emulates the look of natural slate without imposing excessive weight on your home’s structure. This provides a balance between aesthetics and practicality, ensuring both elegance and structural integrity.

5. Corrugated

Corrugated metal roofing is crafted from hot-dipped galvanized steel and undergoes cold-rolling to form its distinctive corrugated pattern. This dual process of galvanization (zinc coating) and corrugation (creating grooves and ridges) enhances the material’s strength, rust resistance, and overall aesthetic.

6. Zinc

While less common in the United States, zinc is a prized material for European residential roofs due to its exceptional durability. Despite its higher cost, zinc roofs can endure for up to a century. Beyond longevity, zinc requires minimal post-installation upkeep, is fire-resistant, and naturally inhibits mold, fungus, and mildew growth.

7. Aluminum

Aluminum stands as a remarkably durable metal roofing option. Its lightweight nature, in comparison to steel, allows for swift installation. Additionally, aluminum boasts longevity, energy efficiency, and fire resistance and is naturally resistant to pests and rust. This versatility makes it suitable for various climates, including coastal areas. Its flexibility in design also ensures seamless integration with diverse home styles and individual preferences.

8. Copper

When it comes to longevity, copper stands as the ultimate choice in metal roofing. Its lifespan can extend well beyond a century, making it an excellent investment for your home.

While copper carries a higher price tag, rivaled only by zinc, its benefits justify the cost. A copper roof boasts resistance to fire, hail, mildew, pests, and various common causes of damage. Moreover, its relatively lightweight nature minimizes structural stress on your home.

9. Galvanized Steel

A galvanized steel roof, often referred to simply as “galvanized,” involves coating a steel roof with a protective layer of zinc. This process, known as hot-dipping, offers options for thick or thin coats based on homeowner preference. The zinc layer serves a dual purpose: safeguarding the steel against rust while enhancing its overall appearance. This method ensures a durable, corrosion-resistant roofing solution.

Choose Long Roofing for Your Metal Roof Replacement

When you’re ready for a new, durable, and energy-efficient metal roof, make Long Roofing your first call. All of our roofs are professionally engineered and installed to your specifications.

When you invest in a Long Roof, you’ll enjoy peace of mind for years to come thanks to our up to 50-year warranty. We offer competitive pricing as well as budget-friendly financing options so you can secure your home with a new roof as soon as you need one.
Contact us today to learn more about our metal roofing options, the installation process, and to schedule your free estimate.