Metal roofing is a popular choice for many homeowners. It offers durability, low maintenance costs, and great energy efficiency.
But did you know there are 3 Common Types of Metal Used in Metal Roofing? We go over each of them in detail in this blog post!
This blog post will help you to learn about the three different metals that can be found on roofs, what properties they have that make them unique, and which type might be right for your home!
What is a Metal Roofing?
The three types for residential metal roofing are steel, copper, and stainless. These metals all have unique properties that make them stand out from other materials such as asphalt shingle roofs or clay tile roofs.
3 Common Types of Metal Used in Metal Roofing
Steel Metal Roofing
Steel is the most common type of residential roofing metal. It has a very long lifespan, due to its resistance to rust and corrosion; it can last up to 50 years on average (although this varies depending on weather conditions).
Steel’s durability makes it our top choice for commercial roofing projects as well!
Steel is a metal that can be used for residential roofs, typically in the form of standing seam panels. Steel is the most common metal used for residential roof systems, usually in 24 as well as 26 gauge.
Steel roof panels are graded by their thickness. 26 gauge steel metal are thinner and more likely to oil can. The widely used standing seam metal roof is 24 gauge steel using a Kynar 500 finish paint.
Without a Kynar 500 painted finish, you won’t get the expected longevity from a standing seam roof of metal.
There are two gauges of roofing made with steel metal, and the more durable 26-gauge has some issues with oil canning.
Copper Metal Roofing
Another common type of metal used in residential roofs is copper, which can last up to 100 years with the proper installation and care.
Copper roofs are most often seen on historic buildings or homes built long before because it was popular for this style of roofing at that time.
Copper is very expensive but has many unique properties when compared to other roofing materials.
It is naturally fireproof, an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, it has a very long lifespan (100 years), and can be recycled at the end of its life cycle!
Copper is a less common metal for residential roofs than steel, but copper has more gauges. It is possible to utilize copper for a whole standing seam roof system made of metal, but it can cost you a lot.
Copper can be used on roofs as accents, for flashing, and other purposes. Once copper is installed on the roof, you won’t have to be worried about it ever.
Stainless Steel Metal Roofing
Steel isn’t your only option for metal roofing; stainless steel roofs are becoming more popular as well due to their durability, energy efficiency, and many other benefits.
Stainless steel roofing has a life expectancy of 50 years on average with proper care to avoid corrosion or rusting.
Stainless is more expensive than copper or steel roofs but can be recycled at the end of its lifespan so you won’t have to worry about it ending up in landfills.
Stainless steel roof panels can be used as a complete standing seam system, and stainless steel actually is the metal of choice for certain types of flashing or accents on your roof.
Stainless has more properties than copper such as better energy efficiency (almost double) and about 50% lighter weight.
The most important thing to know about stainless steel actually is that stainless steel is a lot tougher material than copper or 24 gauge steel.
A metal roof is a solid sheet of steel that can be protected from dings, and will not have the problems copper roofs have. I recommend making use of stainless steel accents for copper.
How Long Can Your Metal Roof Last?
Standing seam metal roofs are paneled structures that can expand and contract freely due to the joints locking the panels together.
A standing seam metal roof is a long-lasting type of roofing material, as it can last from 30 to 50 years.
Choosing a metal roof can be daunting, but now you have some information to make an informed decision.
The most important part about stainless steel is that stainless steel roofs are more resistant than copper or 26 gauge steel panels.
Stainless has many unique properties which make it stand out from other metals like its energy efficiency and recyclability.
The most important part is your budget, and metal roofs are one of the best values in residential roofing if you compare costs with benefits.
A steel metal roof can last 50 years or more depending on its thickness (26 gauge), but it has oil-canning problems like 26 gage steel panels that cannot be ignored!
Copper is very durable, but it is expensive. Stainless steel offers the durability of copper with even more benefits like better energy efficiency and less weight.
A stainless steel roof can last 50 years or more if installed correctly with proper care to avoid corrosion or rusting after that time!
Hiring a Metal Roofing Expert is a Must
Hiring a metal roofing expert can save you time, money, and effort.
Not only do they know the tricks of the trade to install your new roof correctly but they are also experienced with which material will work best for your home.
Your local metal roof specialist is trained in all types of standing seam metal roofs so if one doesn’t work for you, they can help find one that does.
Your local metal roofing specialist is trained in all types of standing seam roofs so if one doesn’t work for your home or budget, they will be able to recommend another type of metal roof.
The most important thing about hiring a professional is the warranty and labor guarantee – without this, you are taking a risk. Hiring the right metal roofing company is worth it in the long run!
A metal roof can last for 50 years or more if installed correctly with proper care to avoid corrosion and rusting after that time, but stainless steel roofs offer even more benefits like better energy efficiency and less weight.
In addition, hiring a metal roofing expert will save you time, money and effort.
The most important thing to remember is that stainless steel roofs are more resistant than copper or 26 gauge standing seam panels.
A metal roof can last 50 years if installed correctly with proper care to avoid corrosion after that time!
Metal Roofing Warranties
Your local metal roofing company is trained in all types of standing seam roofs so if one doesn’t work for your home or budget, they will be able to help you find the right type.
The most important thing about hiring a professional is their warranty and labor guarantee – without this, you’re taking a risk! Hiring the right metal roofing company is worth it in the long run.
A metal roof can last 50 years or more if installed correctly with proper care to avoid corrosion and rusting after that time, but stainless steel roofs offer even more benefits like better energy efficiency and less weight.
In addition, hiring a metal roofing expert will save you time, money and effort.
The most important thing to remember is that stainless steel roofs are more resistant than copper or 26 gauge standing seam panels.
A metal roof can last 50 years if installed correctly with proper care to avoid corrosion after that time!
