Best Metal Roof Types For Residential Homes

Are you thinking of upgrading your roof? A metal roof is a great option. You might have heard of its popularity for commercial properties. When it comes to residential properties, these are often overshadowed by asphalt shingles. But over the past few years, they have become quite popular amongst homeowners too. 

If you are looking to install a new metal roof for your home, there are several options available. In this blog post, we will cover some metal roof types that are sure to make your property more durable and aesthetically pleasing.   

Why Choose A Metal Roofing System for Your Home?

Before we dive into the specific types of metal roofs, let’s talk about why they are such a popular choice for homeowners in the first place.

Metal roofs are known for:

• Durability: Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years, depending on the material. Compare that to traditional asphalt shingles, which typically last 20 to 25 years, and you can see why people love the idea of not needing to replace their roof again in their lifetime.
• Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect solar heat, which means lower cooling costs in the summer. Some homeowners report saving up to 25% on their energy bills after switching to metal.
• Eco-Friendliness: Most metal roofs are made from recycled materials, and when it’s time to replace them, they can be recycled again. This is great if you’re looking for a green, sustainable roofing option.
• Fire Resistance: Metal is naturally fire-resistant, which can provide extra peace of mind, especially if you live in areas prone to wildfires.

Top 4 Metal Roof Types for Homes

After you decide on a metal roof for your home, the next step is to understand the different types available. Here are the top options for residential properties: 

#1 Standing Seam Metal Roof

Best For: Houses with modern, sleek aesthetics that need top-notch weather resistance.

Standing seam metal roofs are often the first thing people picture when they think of metal roofs. It has long, vertical panels with raised seams (hence the name) that run from the ridge of the roof down to the eaves.

The seams are raised above the flat surface of the roof, which keeps moisture from seeping in, making it great for weatherproofing. Another thing you should know about standing seam metal roofs is that they feature a hidden or concealed fastener system. 

The clean, sleek look of a standing seam system is popular in modern or contemporary home designs, but it can work well for more traditional homes too.         

Pros:

• Excellent water and snow shedding capabilities.
• Long lifespan (50+ years with proper maintenance). A standing seam roof has the highest life expectancy among different metal roof types. 
• These roofs are quite low maintenance and highly resistant to leaks due to the concealed fasteners.

Cons:

• It’s a more expensive metal roof option.
• Installation can be tricky, so you’ll need experienced roofers for the job.

If you’re after a modern look and need strong protection against rain or snow, a standing seam metal roof could be a great fit for your home.

#2 Metal Roof Shingles  

Best For: Homeowners who want the look of traditional shingles with the benefits of metal.

Metal shingles are an attractive option for residential roofs. Unlike standing seam metal roofs, which use vertical panels, metal shingles are individual shingles.  

If you love the appearance of traditional asphalt shingles, wood, or slate but want the longevity and durability of metal, metal shingles are a fantastic option. They can complement a wide range of home styles, from cottages to more traditional suburban homes. Their key selling point is that you get the aesthetic appeal of other roofing materials without sacrificing the durability and energy efficiency of metal.

Pros:

• Wide variety of styles and colors to choose from.
• More affordable than standing seam metal roofs.
• Energy-efficient and durable, offering the best of both worlds in terms of form and function.

Cons:

• Not as weatherproof because they are individual pieces rather than interlocking panels.
• Depending on the style, it may still be pricier than some other roofing materials (like asphalt shingles).

If you want a more traditional look with all the benefits of metal, metal shingles could be your ideal solution.

#3 Corrugated Metal Roof

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners or those who need a durable, no-nonsense roofing option.

Corrugated metal roofs are easily recognizable by their wavy, ridged pattern. It’s one of the more affordable types of metal roofing, making it a popular choice for outbuildings like sheds, barns, and garages.

However, many homeowners are now choosing corrugated metal roofs for their homes, especially if they’re looking for a rugged, industrial look. This metal roof type is also extremely durable and holds up well in harsh weather conditions.

Pros:

• Affordable compared to other types of metal roofs.
• Lightweight and easy to install, reducing labor costs.
• Can last 40-50 years if maintained properly.

Cons:

• Not as visually appealing as other metal roof types, depending on your style preference.
• The exposed fasteners can lead to leaks if not installed or maintained correctly.

If you’re on a tighter budget or love the industrial look, a corrugated metal roof could be a smart and cost-effective choice.

#4 Metal Roof Tile

Best For: Homeowners who want the look of traditional clay or concrete tiles but with the benefits of metal.

Metal roof tiles are similar to metal shingles. But unlike metal shingles, metal tiles are designed to mimic the appearance of popular clay or concrete tiles. 

Metal tiles are an excellent choice if you want the classic, timeless look of a tile roof without the weight or maintenance concerns that come with traditional materials.

Metal roof tiles are also highly versatile and can work with a wide range of architectural styles, from Mediterranean and Spanish homes to more modern designs.

Pros

• Unlike clay or concrete tiles, metal roof tiles are much lighter, reducing the stress on your home’s structure.
• Metal roof tiles resist cracking and breaking.

Cons

• Metal roof tiles can be more expensive than other metal roofing options. 
• Like other metal roofing options, metal roof tiles can be noisy in heavy rain or hail unless insulation is properly installed.

This metal roof type is a good choice if you value aesthetics and durability for your home and have a larger budget. 

Best Metal Roof Types Based On Materials 

Now that we are done with the best metal roof types for your home, let’s shift over to materials. While metal roofing types like standing seam, metal shingles, and corrugated panels describe how the roof is designed and installed, the material used plays a huge role in determining how well your roof will perform in different conditions.

Copper 

Copper is often regarded as a premium choice in metal roofing, not just for its striking appearance but for its exceptional durability. When installed, copper roofs begin with a bright, shiny finish that slowly weathers into a beautiful green patina over time. This patina acts as a protective layer, making copper one of the longest-lasting materials available—sometimes lasting over a century. In addition to its longevity, copper is also incredibly low maintenance and resistant to rust and corrosion. 

Zinc 

Zinc is a less common but highly durable option for metal roofs. Like copper, zinc develops a protective patina over time, which helps the roof repair itself from scratches or environmental damage, ensuring a long lifespan—often over 80 years. Zinc is also an environmentally friendly option, being 100% recyclable and requiring less energy to produce compared to other metals. It’s also highly resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for areas with high rainfall or humidity. However, zinc roofs can be relatively expensive, similar to copper, but its self-healing properties and unique look make it an attractive option. 

Aluminum 

Aluminum is another top choice for metal roofs. It has been the go-to choice in coastal areas where resistance to rust and corrosion is crucial. And over the years, its use has increased for all residential homes.  

Unlike steel, aluminum doesn’t rust, making it ideal for regions exposed to heavy rainfall, and high humidity, such as Oklahoma. Aluminum roofs are also lightweight, which makes them easier to install and reduces stress on the home’s structure. In terms of energy efficiency, aluminum’s reflective properties help reduce cooling costs during the summer months. While aluminum roofs can be more expensive than steel, their rust-resistant qualities and lower maintenance needs make it a smart long-term investment for your home. 

Elevate Your Home With Our Metal Roofing Services

To conclude, metal roofs have numerous qualities that make them one of the best roofing materials. All the metal roof types we discussed in this article are top-notch and can significantly improve the value and durability of your property. 
But to get the full benefit of a metal roof, you need a roofing contractor with experience and expertise. This is where the team of A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing can help. We are licensed and insured roofing contractors with decades of experience installing different types of metal roofs. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to learn more.