Metal Roofs

Types of Metal

Several metals are used for roofing materials: steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper and zinc alloys. Each has different properties that affect durability, price and appearance.

Steel, used for most metal roofing, is heavier and sturdier than aluminum. Manufacturers have settled on a number of durable coatings and finishes that protect steel from rust and corrosion. It's usually zinc-coated or aluminum-coated for corrosion protection, then sealed. A coating of epoxy primer offers adhesion and a baked-on acrylic top coating adds color and protection. Because sheet systems are designed for commercial applications, they generally are given highly durable paint finishes. The most durable paint coating commonly available is Kynar® and comes with extended warranties against fade and chalk degradation.

Stainless steel-- a very expensive material-- won't rust or corrode. Terne coating (see below) can give it a natural, matt-gray finish.

Aluminum is extremely lightweight and won't rust, but must be painted or coated for appearance. Coatings are similar to those used on steel.

Copper, 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. Unfortunately, it's very expensive.

Alloys are formulated for strength, graceful weathering and durability. Cost depends on the specific material but, as a group, they are pricey.

Two Main Types

Here's a closer look at the two main categories of metal roofing used on houses: shingle-type systems and larger sheet systems.

Shingle systems. Metal shingles are manufactured to resemble wood shakes, Spanish and mission tile, slate, and Victorian metal tiles. Most are made from painted or coated steel or aluminum that has been pressed or formed into realistic shapes.

Some are amazingly convincing in appearance. Producers of painted metal products reduce telltale sheen by texturing the metal and layering the finish.

Metal shingle systems are made up in large panels designed for quick installation (they're typically about 4 feet long) or as single shingles meant to be applied individually.

Standing seam roofing systems. Standing seam roofing begins as pre-painted coil stock that is roll-formed into roofing panels. Standing seam roofing is typically 24 gauge (although some manufacturers use lighter 26 gauge product). This steel is heavier than the steel used in shingle products.

Standing seam systems are named after the method of joining panels together: "standing seam" has a self-sealing, raised seam. Special matching metal parts are made for ridges, hips, edges, and connections.

Who Installs Metal Roofing?

Residential roofing contractors are the trades people who install metal shingle systems, though many who install wood, tile, asphalt and other more conventional products don't install metal. Because metal roofing requires slightly different techniques, some manufacturers or distributors require contractors to be accredited by taking a few factory-taught classes before they will allow the contractors to install their products.

Your average roofer cannot install this roofing system. You have to be sure that the roofers you hire are fully qualified. Dan Perkins Construction is certified to install most systems on the market.

Be sure to check out our 'Why Metal?' page to answer any further questions.

To learn more about the construction of metal roofs, browse our nationally published articles below:

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Dan Perkins Construction
200 East Hematite
Ishpeming, MI49849
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