What Is the Best Type of Metal Roof?

 Many property owners choose metal roofs as their preferred roofing option for their homes or commercial buildings, increasing the rate of metal installations tremendously. However, they are usually faced with the dilemma of picking the best type of metal roof for their project.

Before deciding on the type of metal roofing that best suits your building, you must thoroughly research as a homeowner or roofing contractor. Making a final choice can be tough; however, reading this article will make it easier. We will discuss the types and styles of metal roofs and help you know which one is best for you.

Types of Residential Metal Roof Systems

Standing Seam Metal Roof System

A standing seam metal roof is a string of panels sealed at the seams together. They can also be mechanically seamed and have fasteners hidden beneath the panels. Hence, it is also called a hidden fastener metal roof.

The seams are typically separated by 12-24 inches, depending on your home’s aesthetics or the length of the panels. The fasteners are fixed on the vertical section of the seam on individual panels that has two gimlet screws. It allows the following panel to latch on it and fasten it quickly. This method of installation permits the panels to go back and forth when they expand and contract as a result of thermal expansion.

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof System

Another name for an exposed fastener metal roof system is a screw-down panel metal roof. It is a string of panels that are fastened down with screws, through the metal, to the decking. The screws are exposed. Due to their state of being fastened down, they can’t glide back and forth when undergoing thermal expansion, like standing seam metal roofs. This puts pressure on the metal panels, causing the screws to roll out into the washers’ holes.

This type of residential roof system demands that you replace the screws every 5 to 10 years or thereabout. This will prevent the occurrence of irreparable damage to your roof. 

What Are the Best Metal Roofing Materials For Residential and Commercial Buildings?

Aluminum 

This roofing material has become very popular over the years among property owners for its lightweight and versatility. Aluminum roof offers several advantages, including affordability, durability, resistance to corrosion, and energy efficiency. 

Despite its numerous benefits, aluminum has its limitations, too. It is a light and delicate material with low thermal expansion resistance, increasing the chances of deformity. It is also prone to getting dents from hails and lacks variety in terms of color choices and 

Stone-Coated Steel

Stone-coated steel is a visually pleasing metal roof. It is steel coated with zinc-aluminum alloy and acrylic polymer adhesives. Stone-coated steel roofs are popular for their durability and have a reputation for being one of the sturdiest metal roofs. Although it is an affordable material, its benefits are endless. They include resistance to harsh weather conditions, aesthetic allure, energy efficiency, color variety, recyclability, and durability.

The disadvantages of this type of metal for roofing are its price, which is high compared to other options, and its weight. Additionally, installing a stone-coated steel metal roof needs concentrated skill. Hence, only a skilled roofer with experience installing stone-coated metal roofs should handle the installation business. 

Copper

Copper is a malleable metal. It is reddish-orange in color and has high electrical and heat conductivity. Copper roofs are ideal for residential, commercial, and architectural projects. Their high cost hasn’t hindered many people from getting them for their homes or projects.

This type of metal roof has some advantages, including its longevity and visual appeal as it ages. They can last for as long as 100 years without looking like they need replacement. Furthermore, they are resistant to algae, moss, and mildew growth due to copper’s antimicrobial qualities.

Zinc

Although zinc is not much of a “popular kid in class,” it often serves as a copper alternative. Zinc roofs do not have the rustic appearance of copper roofs and are better suited for modern buildings. They are also long-lasting and have a life cycle of about 100 years. Similar to copper, it also gets better in appearance over time. Although the time it takes for this change to occur varies, it could take up to two years. The roof’s appearance could change from black or gray to blue or light gray.

Tin

Tin metal roofs are a common sight in rural locations. In the 1800s, tin roofs were used first. It explains why you will rarely see them on modern buildings. Tin roofs are an affordable choice, and installing them is not complicated. You can install them using a screw-down panel system. However, they are unreliable and prone to leaking and rusting. Hence, the property owners no longer opt for them.

Tips on Choosing the Right Metal Roofing Material, Style, and Installation Method

Here comes the part where things get tasking: choosing the appropriate metal type, style, and installation method for your project.

Choosing the suitable metal for your roof is an important decision that requires deliberation. Hence, we’ve curated these tips to help you make the most favorable decision. 

Review Your Needs and Goals

• Budget: Create a budget to work with that should include the cost of materials, logistics, labor, and structural adjustments that might come up.
• Local weather conditions: Your local weather conditions and climate are vital and influence your choice of metal. Some metals thrive better in certain areas than others, so it is necessary to factor it in when deciding on the right metal for your project.
• Lifespan: The different types of metal materials have varying lifespans and compositions. So, you should consider the lifespan of the available options.
• Visual preferences: Knowing your aesthetic preferences helps you make your decision, as you will be faced with various designs and colors to choose from. Knowing what you want in terms of appearance makes the process easier.
• Energy efficiency: You can factor in the ability of the metal type to minimize your cooling and heating costs. This characteristic will help you save some money.

Improve Your Knowledge of the Variety of Metal Roofing Materials

You owe yourself thorough research on the various metal roofing types, including their pros, cons, costs, and installation process. This, coupled with preferences and needs, pushes you closer to making the best decision.

Select a Profile and Style

Metal roofing styles that match your materials include metal shingles, standing seams, and metal tiles. So, pick a style that matches your visual preferences and home design. The critical information about each of the styles below will guide you:

• Metal shingles imitate the look of classic shingles
• Standing seam roofing gives a contemporary appearance
• Metal tiles provide a more traditional look

What Is the Best Type of Metal Roof for Residential Roofing? 

“What is the best type of metal roof for residential roofing?” is a common question. For several reasons, a standing seam metal roof system is the best, and this is subjective. We highly recommend it if your property is situated in a heated location. Aside from its better aesthetic appeal, it is more durable, as it can withstand thermal expansion better than an exposed fastener metal roof.

Reasons Why Standing Seam Metal Roof Is a Worthy Investment

• Longevity: A standing seam metal roof is long-lasting and durable. When installed properly, aluminum or steel standing seam roofs can last between 30-50 years with proper maintenance. Standing seams made of stainless steel, zinc, and copper can last more than 50 years.
• Requires low maintenance: With standing seam metal roofs, you don’t have to worry about frequent maintenance, unlike exposed fastener panel systems. However, this doesn’t mean you should neglect them and not perform occasional checks and maintenance.
• Versatility: They are a versatile choice, meaning you can install them in different areas, including bay windows and side, front, and back porches to accentuate other roofing details.
• Improves curb appeal: Standing seam metal roof is stylish. Adding it to your home will elevate its curb appeal. 
• Energy efficiency: This type of metal roof system helps decrease the level of absorbing heat from the sun due to its reflective properties. The energy efficiency of a standing seam roof system influences how much you spend on electricity. This quality is also based on factors like the type and color of material, local climate, and coatings.

Conclusion

We get it; critical decisions like choosing a metal roof can be challenging. However, with pieces like this that provide relevant information and consulting a skilled roofing contractor for further guidance, you won’t have to deal with the stress.

Locate a certified and experienced contractor to examine your home design, roofing needs, and local weather conditions. Their assessment, coupled with your budget, will help you make the best decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which metal roofing sheet is the best?

An aluminum roof is lightweight, durable, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, it can survive coastal environments due to its corrosion resistance.

When should you not use a metal roof?

We do not recommend metal roofs for coastal areas because they become susceptible to rust. If you have a great aversion for the sound raindrops make on metal roofs, they might not be an ideal choice.