Everyone needs a good roof over their heads and it's not something homeowners ever want to think about. Our Backyard Boss experts spoke with President and General Mangar, Jason Scarborough of USA Home Improvement Solutions, who specialize in metal roofs. We learned metal roofing most often is the best option and people prefer metal roofing due to its longevity; it has a lifespan of 40 years!

Scarborough explained, while metal roofing is expensive, 1.5 times the cost of a conventional roof, it is strong, long-lasting, and energy-efficient. There are several types of metal roofing to choose from, depending on the metal used and its roofing style. There aren't as many colors to choose from as compared to shingles but the installation could be right over the existing roof in order to reduce cost and waste. 

From aluminum, copper, zinc, steel, and tin, you'd be surprised to learn that some metals can last up to 80 years depending on the environmental exposure. Most people think that metal roofs are a "one-size-fits-all", but you'll learn why some areas would benefit from aluminum and others from steel. Switching to a metal roof can even increase your home value by 12%. 

If you’re building a new home or trying to update your roof, read on to learn all about the different types of metal roofs, their elements, and their advantages and disadvantages

Backyard Boss Collection - 9 Types Of Metal Roofing

1. Aluminum Roofs

types of metal collection

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Aluminum is a triple threat among all roofing metals. An aluminum roof is the lightest, has the best corrosion resistance, and has impressive strength. For maximum safety, aluminum roofing is also given additional coatings as a protective layer to prevent the risk of fire and water damage. It is ideal for preventing salt air corrosion in coastal homes. Its malleability is another benefit for homes with unique architectural roof structures. 

      Pros:

    • Most lightweight metal
    • Naturally corrosion-resistant
    • High malleability
    • Long-lasting and temperature regulating
    • 100% recyclable
      Cons:

    • Weaker fire resistance
    • High chance of denting from hail

2. Copper Roofing

types of metal collection

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Copper roofing is a favorite among luxury homes thanks to its naturally developing patina and appearance. This patina comes from copper oxidization and helps heal surface damage while changing its color, giving your home an elegant appeal. Copper is also lightweight, mold-resistant, and has a high heat threshold that helps you save up on HVAC fees.

      Pros:

    • Elegant design
    • Low-maintenance
    • Lightweight and mold-resistant
    • High heat threshold
    • Naturally preserves itself
      Cons:

    • High initial investment
    • Difficult installment

3. Corrugated Metal Roofs

types of metal collection

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Corrugated metal roofing is a style of panel commonly done in aluminum and steel alloys. Characterized by a strength-enhancing ridged design, corrugated metal panels are popular in industrial homes as roofing, accent walls, and doors. Corrugated panels can come in a variety of colors and are ideal for homes that need to quickly install a roof.

      Pros:

    • Strong structural design
    • Wide variety of colors, finishes, and metals
    • Accessible and easy to install
    • Industrial look
      Cons:

    • Exposed fasteners
    • Susceptible to leaks

4. Metal Tile Roofs

types of metal collection

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Metal tiles are another roofing style available in any metal. Compared to clay and asphalt roof tiles, metal roofing tiles are more lightweight, low-maintenance, and thermally insulating. Since metal tiles replicate the charm of classic tiles, these are great for those who want the advantages of metal roofing with the look of traditional roofs.

      Pros:

    • Replicates traditional roofing look
    • Lightweight, low-maintenance, thermal insulating
    • Does not retain water
    • Available in various metals, shapes, and colors
      Cons:

    • Difficult to install
    • Corrodes depending on metal coating

5. Metal Slate Roofs

types of metal collection

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Slate roofs are adored for their rustic appeal but are heavy and pricey. Luckily, metal slate is an alternative roofing option that’s stylish and long-lasting like slate but without the risky weight. This is fantastic for those drawn to a natural slate finish structure but cannot make that investment yet, either due to a lack of funds or because you’re waiting for your forever home.

      Pros:

    • Imitates high-end slate
    • Lightweight and thermal insulating
    • Durable and low-maintenance
    • Increases curb appeal
      Cons:

    • Difficult installment may invite additional costs
    • Lacks slate texture and patchiness

6. Standing Seam Metal Roofing

types of metal collection

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Standing seam metal roofing is designed with protruding vertical seams that conceal fasteners, which pierce through the metal’s protective coatings and make metal vulnerable. Since standing-seam roofs are installed without fasteners or nails, you minimize the risk of damage and give room for its heat expansion. Homes in scorching hot areas would benefit from this type of roofing style structure.

      Pros:

    • Lacks vulnerable fasteners
    • Reinforced strength
    • Great with heat
    • Wide variety of colors, finishes, and metals
    • Low-maintenance
      Cons:

    • Difficult installation
    • Incompatible with flat roofs

7. Steel Roofs

types of metal collection

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Steel roofing is a lightweight yet extra-strength metal that’s versatile and great with insulation. Homes in cold and snowy areas would have much easier roof maintenance when using steel roofing since snow naturally slides off. Even if it gets stuck, it can still hold loads of snow without straining your home’s foundation.

Pro Tip: Scarborough told us, although aluminum and steel offer the same coverage, aluminum comes with a higher installation cost.

      Pros:

    • Works well with snow
    • Low-maintenance
    • Lightweight, long-lasting, and temperature regulating
    • Easily accessible
    • Low-maintenance
      Cons:

    • Vulnerable to corrosion in coastal areas
    • Dark-colored steel collects heat

8. Tin Roofing

types of metal collection

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Today, rarely will you find roofing made of pure tin. Tin roofing became necessary in the 19th century for inexpensive roofs, where people flattened empty tin cans for a roof-like structure. Although it’s a less common type of roofing, using tin cans as quirky shingles is still a fun project for smaller-scale roofs, such as your shed.

Pro Tip: USA Home Improvement Solutions says, in most cases, you can install metal roofs over shingles without jeopardizing the performance or longevity of the metal roof.

      Pros:

    • Lightweight
    • Good for DIY
    • Full of historical relevance
      Cons:

    • Work-intensive
    • Better on a small scale

9. Zinc Metal Roofs

types of metal collection

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Zinc roofs make an impressive sight and last a long time. It’s a lightweight and durable metal that’s fire and corrosion-resistant, thermally insulating, and recyclable! Zinc is best known for its self-repairing property, which heals scratches and ages beautifully. Like copper, zinc also changes color over time with its patina. Zinc roofing is a tasteful investment and would look striking in grand forever homes.

      Pros:

    • Metal panels change color with age
    • Self-repairing metal
    • Lightweight, long-lasting, and temperature regulating
    • Low-maintenance
    • Enhances aesthetic appeal
      Cons:

    • Difficult installation
    • High-investment

Maintenance Tips

metal roofs from USA Home Improvement Solutions

Image Credit: USA Home Improvement Solutions

When building a home, keep in mind that while most metal roofs don’t require much maintenance, regular check-ups and cleaning can extend their lifespan.

Avoid scratches

Metal roofing comes with a protective anti-corrosion coat that can scratch off and make it vulnerable. Prevent this by removing rocks stuck in your sole before walking on your roof, cut branches hanging over your home, and wash away any dirt.

Rinse it 

Rainfall is usually enough to clean your roof but spraying it with a garden hose ensures that it’s clean and damage-free. However, avoid using pressure sprays since incorrect usage can create scratches and dents on the metal.

Quality check

While cleaning your roof, watch out for any holes, rust, or lose fixtures. If you can’t repair it yourself, have a professional do it. Leaving this unchecked can cause leaks and water damage within your home.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Metal Roof

metal roofs from USA Home Improvement Solutions

Image Credit: USA Home Improvement Solutions

Before committing to metal roofing, here are some factors to think about first.

Upfront investment

Metal roofing costs will depend on its availability in your area, roof type structure, type of metal roofing panels you prefer, installation costs, and additional coatings. It also increases with professional installation by roofing contractors.

Long-term cost

Metal is long-lasting, lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, helping you save up on maintenance fees. Additionally, many metal roofing systems come with decades-long insurance.

Protective features

Metal is lightweight, fireproof, and energy-efficient but is, sadly, prone to rust. Study each type of metal roofing’s protective layer coatings closely to see if it’ll work for you.

Location

Location affects the accessibility, durability, insurance, and longevity of metal roofs. For example, harsh weather conditions can affect your metal roof's life. Before falling for a metal roof style, check first if it’s possible where you live.

Design

Curb appeal has a strong impact on a home’s value, and an unappealing roof could be a drawback. When choosing a metal, first learn about its colors and styles.

Pro Tip: The best time to go metal roof shopping is during spring and fall. During spring, people who experience harsh climatic conditions often require roof repairs, and during fall, people look for metal roofs to avoid damage when it starts snowing.

In Summary

Regardless of the type of metal roofing that stood out to you most, it’s clear that it’s a game-changer in roof styles— lightweight, long-lasting, low maintenance, and very strong and durable.

Although it’s a less traditional choice, it’s very appealing and is versatile enough to look however you prefer. Metal roofing is not the most popular option, but it’s definitely worthy of more attention!