Although metal roofs are among the most resilient and long-lasting roofing materials available, there are various varieties of metal roofing, each with a distinct appearance and design. Though roofing terminology is sometimes used interchangeably and refers to several types of metals, it can be difficult to understand the differences between the various forms of metal roofing.
Consider metal roofing made of corrugation.
There are several names for corrugated metal roofing, including sheet metal roofing, exposed fastener roofing, 5V crimp, and screw-down panel roofing. The fact that a corrugated metal roof can be constructed from aluminum, copper, or steel among other metals makes matters even more perplexing.
2 Types of Metal Fasteners for Roofing
Let’s start with a simple question before delving into the various kinds of metal roofing: which of the two styles listed below is your favorite?
Fasteners keep metal roofs firmly fixed in place.
Metal roofing fasteners come in two varieties
- Visible fasteners
- Hidden fasteners
In the roofing industry, the roof with visible fasteners on the left is referred to as an exposed fastener metal roof. There are fasteners hidden beneath the panels on the roof to the right. Their appearances are different, even though they both offer the permanence and durability that metal roofing is renowned for. Numerous design options are possible with certain types of metal roofing, such as stone-coated metal roofing, which offers both exposed and hidden fastener designs.
3 Types of Metal Roofing Styles
Almost any style’s design and architectural requirements can be satisfied by metal roofing. The three most popular kinds of metal roofing designs are listed here.
1. Corrugated Metal Roofing
Metal sheets bent into a corrugated pattern form a corrugated metal roof. The term “corrugated” describes shaping something into wavy folds or alternating furrows and ridges.
Although steel and copper are also options, aluminum remains the most commonly used material for corrugated metal roofing. Due to its lower cost compared to copper or steel, aluminum emerges as the predominant choice for corrugated roofing.
Although copper and steel are stronger metals, the corrugated shape strengthens the aluminum sheets, creating a reasonably priced, long-lasting, and resilient roof.
Industrial features and exposed bolts characterize corrugated metal roofing.
2. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Wide, flat, vertical panels with ribs on both ends make up standing seam metal roofs. The interlocking roofing system produced by hidden fasteners under the ribs of standing seam panels has a smooth, streamlined appearance that complements modern residences and cabins.
Although steel is the most common material used to create standing seam metal roofs, copper or aluminum can also be used.
Standing seam roofs require less maintenance and have a less industrial appearance compared to corrugated metal roofing because they have no exposed fasteners and link the panels together.
3. Stone-Coated Metal Roofing
Steel sheets are first folded into panels for stone-coated metal roofing. To replicate the texture, dimension, and vibrant colors of conventional roofing materials like wood shake, clay tile, and asphalt shingles, the panels are subsequently covered in stone granules.
Stone-coated metal roofing offers all the advantages of metal roofing, including architectural shingles, Spanish clay tiles, and rustic cedar shakes, without sacrificing elegance.
In addition to offering diversity in design, stone granules also:
Boost Energy Efficiency: According to U.S. research, infrared pigments in the granules can raise steel’s inherent solar reflectance for greater energy efficiency. Office of Energy Policy.
Remove the Need for Soundproofing: Stone-coated metal roofs are remarkably silent during rainy seasons, in contrast to other types of metal roofing. The “cushion” formed by the stone granules absorbs sound, potentially removing the need for soundproofing materials.
4 Types of Metal Roofing Materials
Steel, copper, or aluminum can be used to construct corrugated and standing seam metal roofs, but stone-coated metal roofing consists of steel.
1. Aluminium
Aluminum shingles, rolled sheets, standing seam, and corrugated panels are available for use on roofs.
When compared to more conventional roofing materials like asphalt shingles, aluminum roofs, like metal roofs in general, have exceptional energy efficiency ratings, as well as exceptional resilience to wind and fire.
2. Roofs Made of Copper
One of the priciest metal roofing materials is copper. Which has many drawbacks while being readily pliable and fitting for the majority of roof forms. For example, uncoated copper roofs are susceptible to tarnish, much like the Statue of Liberty. To maintain the original patina, it is crucial to incorporate an anti-tarnish transparent protective coating into a new installation.
3. Zinc Roofs
As previously noted, zinc roofs adorn 70% of homes in Europe, despite their lack of popularity in the United States.
The fact that a zinc roof creates a beautiful surface patina that shields the metal and, with time, can even cover small scratches, is one of its greatest advantages. Unfortunately, the final patina’s color is erratic; depending on the surroundings, zinc can turn gray or even blue. Furthermore, there is a wide range in how long it takes for the protective patina to develop—anywhere from two to thirty years.
4. Stone-Coated Steel
Manufacturers use zinc and aluminum alloys to produce stone-coated metal roofing. Together with a cutting-edge acrylic formula granular bonding technique that prevents rust and corrosion. Because the stone coating contains granules that are resistant to infrared radiation. Stone-coated steel requires very little maintenance and is among the most energy-efficient roofing materials available.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best metal roofing type for your home depends on various factors such as budget, aesthetic preferences, and climate considerations. Corrugated metal roofing offers a durable and cost-effective option with an industrial charm while standing seam metal roofing provides a sleek. Modern look with hidden fasteners for added durability. Stone-coated metal roofing combines the durability of metal with the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing materials, offering energy efficiency and soundproofing benefits. Whether you opt for aluminum, copper, zinc, or stone-coated steel. Each material brings its unique advantages and considerations to ensure a long-lasting and visually appealing roof for your home.
