Residential Metal Roofing Types

Coming in all sorts of colors and designs, metal roofs are a great choice for residential roofing. By hiring a quality roofer who can install your roof for you, such as Indiana Metal, you can enjoy all of the perks of having a metal roof.

Benefits Of A Metal Roof

There are a number of benefits to choosing a metal roof over other roofing materials. Just to name a few of them, here are some key reasons why metal roofs are popular:

• Depending on the type of roofing material you choose, your roof can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years.
• Compared to asphalt or concrete shingles, metal roofs are very lightweight. 
• Some metal roofs can withstand gusts up to 180 mph.
• If you’re an environmentally-conscious homeowner who is concerned with the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, then a metal roof may fit your values better.

Why would someone prefer a metal roof over shingles?

It’s important to understand the difference between metal roofs and shingles. Shingles are small tile-like materials that are layered over your roof. Because these shingles can be a couple of inches wide each, they can take a while to install all of them on a roof to cover the whole area. They are also heavy, so a metal roof would be a better choice if you have concerns about the architecture of your home.

Choosing the best metal material for your Roof

In order to make the best choice for your home or commercial roofing project, it’s important to know a little bit about the most popular metal roofing materials available. The most commonly used materials in metal roofing are aluminum, zinc, stainless steel, and copper. Oftentimes they will be coated with a protectant that consists of zinc, aluminum, and silicon.

In terms of popularity, steel is the most commonly used roofing material, followed by aluminum, which is a longer-lasting and more durable metal than steel. Aluminum also costs less than copper, zinc or steel. Some homeowners and commercial property owners will choose copper for architectural details or accents on their roof such as for bay windows, porches, and towers. Copper’s distinct color is a reason why people choose it. 

Aluminum

95% of all aluminum roofs are made out of recycled materials. Aluminum is one of the most popular roofing materials and is the third most abundant metal on earth. It is a sustainable metal that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Zinc

Zinc is an abundant element found in the Earth’s crust. Some of the reasons why zinc is becoming very popular in the roofing industry in the United States is because it is easy to use, not prone to corroding, and is sustainable.

Copper

Copper has been used for thousands of years. The Chalcolithic or Copper Age began around mid-5th millennium BC, and its end heralded in the Bronze Age. Copper is considered one of the only materials that actually improves with age. 

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is an alloy made up of iron and chromium. Stainless steel is known for its strength and as one of the most powerful and durable metals In the world. 

Hiring A Roofer

Because there are a variety of vulnerabilities, tastes, and architectural choices, it’s best to speak with a roofer who will evaluate your home and help you to decide which roofing material satisfies your aesthetic desires and properly protects your home.