Metal roofing was once primarily used for industrial buildings but has since become a popular choice for residential homes due to its durability and modern aesthetics. Homeowners now have a variety of metal roof options, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
This article will review the top types of metal roofing, what you should know about them, and an alternative to metal roofing worth considering.
Metal Roof Options for Homes
While there are many types of metal, not all are suitable for roofing. Some of the top metal roof options available on the market include aluminum, steel, copper, and zinc. Each of these metals is different in terms of durability, cost, and maintenance, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
1. Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum is the lightest and softest metal roofing option. While it remains durable, it is more susceptible to impact damage and can dent easily from hail. Its strong corrosion resistance makes it a popular choice for coastal areas, though availability may be limited. Compared to other metal roofing materials, aluminum may require more maintenance but has a lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
One downside is its higher cost, averaging around $18 per square foot for materials and labor, making it more expensive than steel. To reduce the risk of denting, a thicker gauge is necessary, which can further increase costs. Additionally, aluminum roofing comes in fewer color options compared to other metal roofing materials.
2. Steel Roofing
Among the various metal roofing options, steel is the most common and widely used. When people think of metal roofing, they often picture steel. Its popularity stems from its affordability, availability, and numerous advantages. Steel is a durable, low-maintenance material with a Kynar 500 painted finish, offering a wide range of color choices. A steel roof can last between 30 and 50 years and is competitively priced at around $16 per square foot for materials and labor.
Despite its durability, steel is less corrosion-resistant than other metal options and is notably heavier, especially when compared to aluminum and copper.
3. Copper Roofing
Copper is a high-end metal roofing option that adds a distinctive look to a home’s exterior. Over time, its natural color develops a green patina, which some homeowners find appealing. It has the longest lifespan of any metal roofing material, lasting 50 years or more, and is also used for gutters, flashing, and chimney caps. Copper is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and can be recycled at the end of its lifespan.
While copper roofing stands out, it comes at a high cost, starting at around $30 per square foot for materials and labor. It’s also a softer metal, making it more prone to dents. The patina that develops may not be to everyone’s taste, and water runoff from copper roofs can cause staining on nearby surfaces. Additionally, copper isn’t as widely available as other metal roofing options.
4. Zinc Roofing
Zinc is another metal roofing option for residential homes, sharing some similarities with copper. It enhances curb appeal and develops a patina over time, which not only changes its appearance but also adds a protective layer that makes it highly resistant to corrosion. Zinc is known for its long lifespan of 50 years or more, and it has a unique feature that sets it apart—it’s self-healing. This means that minor scratches and imperfections naturally repair over time. Additionally, zinc is environmentally friendly, easy to work with, and requires minimal maintenance.
While zinc roofing is available in the U.S., it is more commonly used in Europe. If you can find it, it is a more affordable alternative to copper, costing around $20 per square foot for materials and labor. However, its patina may not appeal to everyone, and it can develop a chalky residue from water streaks. Zinc is also softer than other metal roofing materials, making it more prone to dents.
The Problem With Metal Roofing
Many people turn to metal roofing for its durability and longevity. Even the shortest lifespans of residential metal roof options last longer than traditional asphalt shingles. However, metal roofing, as a whole, isn’t without drawbacks. All metal roofing options for home use are noisy when it comes to rain, which can be unpleasant for some. Metal roofing is also not as durable against impacts, with many metal roofing options denting easily. Fortunately, there are alternatives.
An Alternative to Metal Roof Options for Homes
Brava Roofing Tiles synthetic tiles provide an environmentally friendly, durable, and visually appealing alternative to traditional metal roofing options. Made from recycled materials, these synthetic tiles are designed to mimic the look of hand-split cedar shakes, Spanish barrel tiles, and slate, offering homeowners a high-end aesthetic with added durability.
Brava tiles, like metal roofing, are fire-resistant, with a Class A fire rating. However, unlike metal roofing options for houses, Brava tiles offer a Class 4 impact rating, the highest rating possible, ensuring it won’t dent from hail storms. Other benefits of Brava tiles include the following:
Various color options: Each style of Brava tiles has numerous color options, ranging from natural to bold colors that offer dimension. These add to the realistic appearance of the material and give you more style and color options than the various metal roof options for homes. You can also opt for color matching for a more custom roof color.
Miami-Dade County Certified: Brava tiles are certified to withstand hurricane-force winds from 188 mph to 211 mph, depending on the installation method.
Easy to Install: Brava doesn’t require a specialized installer or special tools, making for an easier and quicker installation process.
Corrosion-resistant: You will never have to worry about corrosion, rot, mold, or mildew.
Low maintenance: Once installed, virtually no maintenance is necessary besides the occasional cleaning and roof inspection.
Choosing the Best Roofing Material for Your Home
When it comes to roofing materials, you want the best protection you can get. While there is no denying that there are many metal roof options residential homeowners can consider, there are still issues: noise, denting, and the patina of options like zinc and copper are some of them.
With Brava, you get enhanced durability and style, eliminating any concerns that come with metal roofing options. You’ll have a roof with a lifespan that rivals copper and zinc, with the beauty of traditional natural materials, and none of the drawbacks.
Contact Brava today to learn more about its advantages over metal roofing options for residential properties.
