Metal roofs are favored for their fire-resistant qualities and perceived longevity. The material is also surprisingly lightweight and great at reflecting heat from the sun which can possibly help save energy and may even qualify for tax credits in some very limited circumstances.
Of course, metal roofing has a plenty of drawbacks too. If you think metal is far too commercial looking for your home, take a closer look below at the variety of products on the market.
It’s true that architectural standing-seam roofing panels may have an overly commercial look for some home styles. But many metal roofing materials mimic the appearance of other materials, such as tile roofing or even asphalt shingles. These may look right at home on your house. The trick is finding the right product for the job.
Next, you can take a closer look at the variety of materials used for metal roofing, including their basic characteristics so you can make an informed buying decision.
Metal Roof Materials
When it comes to roofing, the word “metal” covers a lot of territory. Metal roofs are produced from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and zinc alloys. Of course, each one of these has clear differences that affect durability, price, appearance, and more.
Steel and aluminum are by far the most commonly available metal roofing materials. Both are relatively economical, durable, and hold paint finishes well.
Steel Roofing
Most metal roofs are made from steel, which is heavier and sturdier than aluminum (though some metal roof material is called “steel roofing,” it may be made from any of several materials, including alloys). The gauge of the steel affects its performance and durability. Two common gauges of steel roofing are G-60 and thinner-gauge G-90. The latter is less expensive and typically used for low-end corrugated and ribbed metal roofing panels.
Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum is a very lightweight, relatively soft metal, so it is more prone to denting and damage than steel, and it isn’t as rigid as steel. 3 Kings definitely does not recommend aluminum on your home.
High-End Metal Roof Materials
Other metal roofing materials are also available, but can be prohibitively expensive. These materials provide stunning roofs on high-end homes. Briefly, here are three types:
Copper metal roofing, rooted in centuries of use, will not rust, has no “finish” to scratch or peel, is soft enough to easily tool, and weathers naturally to a beautiful verdigris patina. A copper roof is likely to outlive the house it covers—copper roofs can last hundreds of years. Even better, copper is easily (and valuable) recycled.
Unfortunately, copper is extremely expensive. For this reason, it tends to be used for roof details such as covering a cupola or bay window rather than to cover an entire roof.
Alloy roofing products are formulated for strength, graceful weathering, and durability. Cost depends on the specific material, but, as a group, alloys are pricey.
Stainless-steel roofing, a very expensive roofing material, won’t rust or corrode. Terne coating, a zinc-tin alloy, can give stainless steel a natural matte-gray finish.
Standing-Seam Metal Roof
The most familiar patterns of panel-style metal roofing are standing-seam roofing and batten roofing. These have raised ribs that run vertically along the panels every 6, 9 or 12 inches. The panels are applied vertically on a roof.
These types of roof don’t attempt to look like anything other than what they are: metal roofing.
Metal Roof Shingles And Tiles
Metal shingle- or tile roofing looks quite different than sheet roofing. With these, metal is formed into shapes that imitate Spanish and mission tile, wood shakes, slate, and Victorian metal tiles. Most are made from painted or coated steel or aluminum that has been pressed or formed into realistic shapes.
In addition, metal shingles are typically given multiple-layer factory finishes that complete the realistic effect of mimicking other materials. Metal shingles have fast become the most recommend material for 3 Kings customers wanting metal roofing.
Metal Roof Costs In Review
Expect standing-seam roofing to cost from $500 to $700 per square for labor and materials. In contrast, you can have asphalt shingles installed for about $250 per square. The base price for metal shingles ranges between $450 to $650 per square for materials and labor. The base price for a stone coated steel roof starts at $850 and runs to about $1,100 per square for materials and labor.
The base price to install a copper or zinc roof starts at $1,800 per square for materials and labor.
Looking for a metal roofing estimate? Look no further than the #1 rated roofing company in Central Indiana, 3 Kings Construction.
