Metal roofing is one of the most common roofing materials that are currently on the rise. There are a few different types of metal roofing products on the market that you can find. Depending on where you’ll be using it, what your budget is, and how long you want it to last, each material serves its own purpose.
Today we’ll be walking through each of these materials and common uses for each, plus the pros and cons of using the different types of metal roofing.
5 Types of Metal Roofing
In total, there are 5 main types of metal roofing. Each of these types is made up of a different material. Some materials are better suited for different uses or locations based on their ability to resist corrosion or withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Aluminum Roofing
- Copper Roofing
- Tin Roofing
- Zinc Roofing
- Metal or Steel Roofing
Each of these materials offers great benefits. Here’s what to expect from each one and how to know if it’s right for you.
Aluminum Roofing
A lightweight material that doesn’t corrode, aluminum roofing is one of the best coastal areas. One of the number one problems with coastal living is the corrosion that can often damage different parts of the home. There are few materials as safe and resistant to corrosion as aluminum roofing when it comes to roofing.
Some of the disadvantages associated with aluminum roofing include that it’s more prone to denting, fewer color options, a higher cost, and it can be hard to find when you are ready to purchase. Even with this material being such a great option for homeowners and businesses worried about corrosion, it’s not an extremely common material to use because of the cost associated with aluminum and the lack of durability.
Copper Roofing
Copper roofing has a beautiful and stunning appearance. You can see a copper roof and recognize it from a long way off because of the color and change in color that occurs over time. When the roofing is installed, it will shine like cold, and over time, it will begin to form a blue-green or brown patina (varying depending on the climate).
Copper is one of the most expensive roofing materials you can buy, but for a good reason. A copper roof offers a long lifespan of up to 100 years or more. It’s very attractive because of the gold and the patina that it develops. And, it’s patina works as a protective layer that keeps it from corroding or rusting when exposed to moisture. The downside with copper is that it can dent fairly easily, and it’s costly.
Tin Roofing
Tin was once the latest and greatest in roofing materials. Rolled-out steel would be chemical bonded with tin to protect it and was easily installed on roofs because of its lightweight nature. But today, tin is no longer used because it is very similar to aluminum. The main difference between the two is that tin can corrode and aluminum can’t. This made aluminum the obvious choice for almost all homeowners.
Zinc Roofing
Zinc roofing is a lot like copper in its appearance and ability to generate a patina. Unlike copper, most zinc roofing panels come pre-patinated, thus helping them last long after they are exposed to different climates and weather. Because of the high cost associated with Zinc, they’re most commonly used in Europe and less commonly used in the United States. The average lifespan of these roofs is 100+ years as long as you take care of them and nothing happens to them.
Most of the disadvantages of these roofs revolve around the cost of the roof and its more limited availability. There are a handful of places where you can buy this roof in the United States, but it’s generally more common in Europe because it’s manufactured there.
Metal or Steel Roofing
In the United States, metal roofing is currently the latest and greatest. With new manufacturing methods, many of the complaints that came with residential metal roofing have been solved. Today metal or steel roofs can look like slate tiles or even similar to asphalt shingles. More popularly, metal roofing has been used for commercial buildings, but today it’s becoming one of the best roofing options for homeowners that want a long-lasting and cost-effective roof.
The advantages of metal roofing include that it’s low maintenance, resistant to fires, long-lasting, and incredibly durable. Those advantages alone make it a great option for anyone that’s looking to install a new roof on their home or business.
Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles
There are a few different reasons why you might consider Asphalt shingles instead of metal roofing. One of the biggest reasons is the cost difference. Asphalt shingles are significantly cheaper and faster to install than metal roofing.
If you’re looking for a high-quality roof that is going to last for 25 or more years and looks great, asphalt shingles are a great option. They’re also generally fire-resistant and do well when faced with severe weather.
If you want to learn more about asphalt shingles vs. metal roofing for your home, reach out to Red Canyon Roofing today! We’d love to help you get a new roof installed or inspect your current roof to help you estimate its lifespan. And be sure to check out our blog for more helpful tips in the future!
