13 Types of Metal Roofing | Ultimate Guide

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Your roofing and siding are the first lines of defense for your home. You can’t afford the exterior covering only to do its job half the time. What you need is something strong and durable that will keep your house weather-tight and dry, even in the harshest weather conditions. Metal roofing does this with incredible efficiency. Metal roofing is one of the most common roofing and siding options available, and there are many reasons why. 

Although many types of metal roofing exist, we will take a look at 13 metal roofing materials as well as some of the pros and cons. Later on, we will discuss some of the metal roofing panel styles that you should consider to complete your project.

13 Types of Metal Roofing Material

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1.) Corrosion Resistant Steel Roofing

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Steel is the most popular metal roofing material because it combines durability and versatility, which makes it a good option no matter the scenario. It is cheaper than copper or zinc, making it a cost-effective roofing material. Steel roofing is often better to install than some types of metal roofing because it is lightweight and easy to fasten. 

Along with these benefits, steel roofing comes in various profiles, including corrugated, board and batt, and snap-lock metal panels. We will look at each of these panels and their optimal applications in the second half of this article.

2.) Aluminum Roofing

Aluminum is known for its lightweight construction and corrosive resistance. One of the lightest roofing materials available, aluminum roofing reduces the structural load of a building while also withstanding heavy weather conditions. If you live near the ocean where saltwater exposure may be a concern, its anti-corrosive characteristic makes it an excellent choice. 

Although it is more expensive than other types of roofs, this type of metal roofing is an excellent choice for many applications. Its many advantages can outweigh the cost, depending on your situation.

3.) Copper Roofing

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Copper roofing is one of the most attractive-looking metal roofing types. Its elegant appearance gives a timeless charm to your building and promotes the style of your property. Not only is copper roofing visually appealing, but it is also durable and long-lasting. This allows you to install it without worrying about replacing or fixing it. 

Copper roofing is basically maintenance-free, allowing you to spend time on other things. However, it tends to be one of the more expensive metal roofing types. If price is not an issue for you, copper roofing is a stylish and durable option.

4.) Zinc Roofing

Zinc roofing is known for its durability. This makes it very weather-resistant, handling snow, hail, and rain with ease. Extreme temperatures will not crack or warp zinc roofing, making it an optimal choice in cold or hot climates. 

Zinc is a low-maintenance type of metal roofing, giving you peace of mind through the years. Over time, zinc roofing develops a bluish-gray tint, which can enhance the look of your building.

5.) Tin Roofing

Tin roofing refers to metal panels made of tin-coated steel. Because of this, it is similar to steel roofing. This lightweight type of metal roofing is anti-corrosive, courtesy of the tin coating, preventing rust from forming. This option is not entirely maintenance-free but makes a cost-effective metal roof.

6.) Galvanized Steel Roofing

Galvanized steel is coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. This makes it a durable choice for most applications. Galvanized steel makes a good barrier against rain and snow and will last long in even the most extreme weather. It has a shiny, silvery appearance because of the zinc coating that some people may prefer.

7.) Stone-Coated Steel Roofing

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Stone-coated steel roofing combines the strength of steel with the appearance of traditional roofing materials like clay tiles or wood shingles. This will allow you to maintain a strong and durable roof while giving you the desired stone look. This type of metal roofing has most of the advantages of steel roofing but comes at a higher cost.

8.) Metal Shingle Roofing

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Metal shingles are another type of metal roofing that is a metal replica of a different roofing type. These are made of steel but look like asphalt shingles, wood shakes, or slate roofing. With durability that will last for decades, metal shingles can easily replace normal shingle roofing.

9.) Corten Steel Roofing

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Corten steel, or weathering steel, is a type of metal roofing material developed to eliminate the need for painting.  Over time, this type of metal roofing develops a rusted surface that forms a protective layer. This gives a weathered, rusty appearance,  making it a trendy choice for modern architecture.

10.) Tern-coated Stainless Steel Roofing

Stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance, even for steel products. There are several different finishes that you can have as well, such as tern-coated stainless steel. Tern coating adds a layer of protection, giving it even more durability. This is an expensive type of metal roofing, but it performs well in harsh weather conditions.

11.) Bronze Roofing

Bronze is a copper-based alloy that gives your project a very specific yet eye catching look. Bronze roofing has a warm and rich appearance, and it is often installed on historical buildings. Though expensive, bronze is a low-maintenance option for your project. After some time, it will develop a natural green tint, which gives a unique look.

12.) Titanium Zinc Roofing

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Titanium zinc roofing combines titanium and zinc to make a roofing alloy that looks good and lasts for a long time. Initially, it has a bright silver color, but over time, it develops a soft, bluish-gray appearance. You can get this in various forms, including sheets, shingles, or tiles.  This lightweight material makes a cost-effective, durable roofing option.

13.) Galvalume Roofing

Galvalume roofing is coated steel roofing similar to galvanized metal. Using a mix of zinc and aluminum over steel makes a tough and corrosion-resistant coating that is long-lasting and easily maintained. Because of these qualities, Galvalume has become a go-to choice for many contractors to make their projects long-lasting, eye catching, and strong. If you are thinking about a metal project, we here at Legacy Metal Center specialize in creating Galvalume panels in multiple form rolls and colors.

6 Types of Metal Roofing Panels

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We have looked at 13 different types of metal roofing materials. Many of them are formed into different metal panels, including shingles, sheets, and tiles. At Legacy Metal Center, we focus on 6 types of metal panels that we design specifically for roofing and siding. We will discuss each of the main metal roofing panel profiles that you will run into and what scenario each is used.

Ag Panels

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Ag panels are a common metal profile and can be used for roofing or siding. Coming in 36” wide panels, we offer custom lengths for your convenience. The picture above shows the cross-section of this type of metal roofing. The distance between the center of the ribs is 9”.These panels are used in many applications, including ag, industrial, and commercial. We offer a variety of Ag Panel colors so that you can match any existing color you may have. These panels are made of corrosion-resistant steel with options for 26 or 29-gauge metal. To get exact prices, request a quote for our popular Ag Panels.

Snap Lock Panels

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Snap Lock panels offer a combination of versatility and durability. Snap Lock metal panels come in 16” widths and are made of 26 gauge corrosion-resistant steel. Often, they are used for light commercial applications or long runs. They are a good option if you need more flexibility for a long wall. 

Snap Lock panels are installed with clips rather than exposed fasteners, creating a clean look. Additionally, they lock into the previous panel to make sure they are securely attached. This type of metal roofing is easier to handle, whether that is moving it around or installing it. Contact us if you have questions on Snap Lock Panels.

Board And Batt Panels

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Metal Board and Batt panels are designed to imitate the traditional wooden board and batt siding that gives charm to your building. Besides aesthetic appeal, metal Board and Batt panels are long-lasting and weather-resistant, making it a good option for commercial, residential, or ag buildings. Our Board and Batt metal panels are made of anti-corrosive steel in 26 or 29-gauge. You can choose varying panel widths, from 8” to 24” wide. Additionally, Legacy Metal Center provides a comprehensive selection of colors to give you the choices you want. Check out the selection of panel colors or request a quote for our quality Board and Batt panels.

Corrugated Metal Panels

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Our corrosion-resistant steel corrugated panels are an excellent choice for roofing or siding applications. This is a popular type of metal roofing and comes in 26-gauge or 29-gauge metal. With multiple colors to choose from, corrugated metal panels are the perfect fit for most sheds or barns. With panels 32” wide, each panel can cover much area. Compare our corrugated metal panels to the other ones that we offer.

PBR Panels

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Our PBR metal panels stand for Purlin Bearing Rib. We add an extra rib in the center of each section to give extra strength and stability to the panel. This type of metal roofing is probably what most people would recognize. PBR panels are very durable and sturdy, making them an ideal solution for both roofs and walls. They can withstand a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.We roll our PBR metal panels out of 26 gauge corrosion-resistant steel. Each panel is 36” wide, but has ribs every 12”. They can be used for a wide range of applications, including commercial, agricultural, residential, and industrial buildings. No matter what situation you are dealing with, we have a PBR panel that will work well for you. Learn more about our versatile PBR metal panels.

Hi-Rib Metal Panels

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Our last type of metal roofing panel is the Hi-Rib metal panel. It is similar in concept to the PBR panel, with extra ribs in the middle to create stability and strength. The Hi-Rib panel, however, has tall ribs that measure slightly over 1 ½”, while the PBR has 1 ¼” ribs. Additionally, the Hi-Rib has ribs every 18” instead of 12” like the PBR. Each panel is made to be 36” wide. The higher ribs help direct rain and snow, making them ideal for a roof. We manufacture them out of 26” gauge galvanized steel, ensuring that they will serve you well for a long time. They are extremely weather-resistant, with a lifespan lasting for decades. For more information, see our Hi-Rib metal panel page.

Where Can I Use Metal Panels?

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Metal panels are one the most versatile building materials available and can be used in almost every situation. They are mostly used on exteriors such as roofs and siding, making this material ideal for your next roofing or siding project. But in commercial buildings, often, they are used as interior paneling as a durable wall covering. 

Additionally, all of our metal panels can be used on residential projects. This includes roofs for houses, sheds, barns, and lean-tos. In the residential world, metal panels make excellent exterior wall covering for building projects like sheds, barns, and pole barns. If you are looking at building a pole barn, metal panels

Commercially, our durable metal panels are the optimal building material, and contractors use them for every scenario, from warehouses to offices to machine shops. The toughness of the steel provides the structure and protection that is needed. 

Ag buildings like chicken houses or pig barns exclusively use metal panels for both roofing and walls on the exterior and interior. Because our steel panels do well with moisture and are easy to clean, our panels are the go-to option for walls in close proximity to animals.

What Is The Most Affordable Type Of Metal Roofing?

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The most affordable type of metal roofing is corrugated panels. They are a simple design and are easy to install, lowering manufacturing and installation costs. However, sometimes, a more affordable price can come with a short life span, and this material will not last as long as some of the other materials that are available on the market. It will not last as long as some other options, but it is a popular, cost-effective roofing solution, especially for a budget-conscious project.

What Is The Most Used Type of Metal Roofing?

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Corrosion-resistant steel is the most used type of metal roofing, such as the Galvalume panels we have to offer. Because it is durable, steel will last for a long time. Additionally, corrosion-resistant steel is cheaper than options like copper or zinc, making it a cost-effective roofing solution. With all of these factors in mind, it has become one of the most available metal roofing materials. Because it is widely used, it is easy to find at companies such as Legacy Metal Center or Wagler Steel.  

At Legacy Metal Center, we are dedicated to providing our customer base with top-tier metal panel solutions. We take pride in our work, knowing our products will stand the test of time. Learn more about us as a company in Colorado, or contact us with any questions you may have. Check out all our products, including our roofing panels, metal siding, or shed siding. We are happy to help and look forward to seeing you soon!