Types of Metal Roofing and How to Choose

Metal roofing is durable and comes in a wide range of styles, making it a top choice for homes. The different types can be categorized by material, panel style, or the fastening method used during installation. This guide covers each type — including benefits, drawbacks, and costs — so you can select the best metal roof for your needs.

Metal Roofing Fasteners

Before choosing a metal roof, consider whether you prefer exposed or concealed fasteners. Exposed fasteners are visible — screws or nails penetrate the panels for a more industrial look. Concealed fasteners are hidden underneath the panels using clips or rails for a cleaner, seamless appearance.

While exposed fastener panels are typically less expensive, concealed fastener roofing provides better weather sealing and longevity. Weigh factors such as cost, climate, aesthetics, and lifespan when deciding.

Metal Roof Material Types

1. Aluminum — $4 to $11 per sq ft

Aluminum roofing is lightweight, rustproof, and reflects heat well. Despite weighing as little as five pounds per square foot, it is very durable against hail and wind. It cools down faster than steel and can save you up to 20% on heating and cooling. Made from approximately 95% recycled material.

Benefits: Corrosion-resistant even in coastal climates, lightweight yet durable, eco-friendly.
Drawbacks: Limited color options, softer metal prone to denting, up to 20% more expensive than steel.

2. Copper — $14 to $25 per sq ft

Copper is the most expensive metal roof option but offers distinct advantages. It has a reddish-brown color that develops a green patina over time. Copper has antimicrobial properties that kill algae and moss, and can last 100 years or more.

Benefits: Complements historic homes, does not rust or require painting, resists snow and ice.
Drawbacks: Most expensive option, develops patina that drastically changes its appearance, limited supply.

3. Zinc — $6 to $12 per sq ft

Zinc is a dense and durable alternative to copper, popular in Europe. It starts out nearly black and develops into a light blue or gray color over time.

Benefits: Eco-friendly and 100% recyclable, lasts up to 100 years, low maintenance.
Drawbacks: Can develop white rust if exposed to water and air, costs more than steel or aluminum, unpredictable patination.

4. Stone-Coated Steel — $8 to $9 per sq ft

Stone-coated steel combines the strength of steel with traditional aesthetics. These shingles are coated in paint and stone granules to mimic asphalt shingles, wood shakes, or clay tiles. Excellent impact resistance — considered hail-resistant and fireproof.

Benefits: Available in diverse colors and styles, extremely impact resistant, fireproof.
Drawbacks: Costs more than standard steel, heavier material, stone chips can crack if roof flexes.

5. Tin — $3 to $15 per sq ft

Tin roofs were popular in the 1800s but are rare today. If you love the aesthetic, galvalume or painted metal panels can achieve a similar look with better durability.

Benefits: Easy to install, lightweight, rustic aesthetic.
Drawbacks: No longer widely available, not very durable, thermal movement can loosen fasteners.

Metal Roof Styles

1. Corrugated Metal — $4 to $26 per sq ft

 

Corrugated metal roofs have a classic zigzag pattern with an old-fashioned, rural look. They can be affordable and quick to install, but the ridges can collect debris and require regular visual inspection.

2. Standing Seam Metal — $9 to $30 per sq ft

Standing seam roofing consists of long vertical panels joined at raised seams with hidden fasteners, creating clean lines and minimizing leak risk. Raised seams allow snow to slide off easily, making them ideal for snowy climates like Maine.

3. Stone-Coated Metal (Galvanized Steel) — $10 to $15 per sq ft

Can be made to look like traditional shingles, shakes, or tiles. Fire-resistant with a long lifespan. Installing stone-coated metal for a roof replacement can potentially lower your homeowners insurance.

4. Metal Shingles — $7 to $22 per sq ft

Metal shingles give the look of classic shingles with added durability. They have a three-dimensional texture that mimics wood or asphalt — but unlike asphalt, they aren’t prone to mildew and can outlast even the most well-maintained asphalt roofs.

5. Metal Tiles — $9 to $15 per sq ft

Designed to resemble ceramic or clay tiles, metal tiles feature textures and patterns that add artistic flair. Compared to flat panels, they are less prone to oil canning and the varied patterns minimize the visibility of minor imperfections.

6. Metal Slate — $3 to $5 per sq ft

Metal slate mimics the look of natural stone slate with staggered, overlapping panels. Available in gray, black, red, and green — though finding matching replacement pieces can be challenging if a section is damaged.

How To Choose the Best Metal Roof for You

Start by considering your local weather and temperatures. Then decide whether you prefer the look of traditional shingles or modern standing seams. Think about installation techniques and how important customization options are to you.

No one style works best for every home. An experienced metal roofing contractor can help you choose between available styles, stay within your budget, and keep your curb appeal in mind. Contact Maine ProRoofing today for a consultation.