Metal roofing has become an increasingly popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings, prized for its durability, longevity, and modern aesthetic. But what exactly is metal roofing made of? This article explores the core materials used, their unique properties, and the manufacturing processes that transform raw metal into high-performance roofing systems.
Core Materials Used in Metal Roofing
The term “metal roofing” encompasses a variety of metal alloys and pure metals, each offering distinct advantages and characteristics. The most common materials include:
- Steel (Galvanized, Galvalume, Stainless)
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Zinc
Let’s examine each in detail.
1. Steel: The Workhorse of Metal Roofing
Steel is by far the most widely used metal roofing material, thanks to its strength, affordability, and versatility. However, steel used for roofing is rarely bare; it is almost always coated to enhance its resistance to corrosion and weathering.
Types of Steel Roofing
- Galvanized Steel: This is steel coated with a layer of zinc, applied through a process called hot-dip galvanization. The zinc acts as a sacrificial barrier, protecting the underlying steel from rust and corrosion. Galvanized steel is commonly formed into corrugated panels, making it a cost-effective option widely used in agricultural and industrial metal roofing projects.
- Galvalume Steel: An advancement over galvanized steel, Galvalume is coated with a mixture of 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc, and 1.6% silicon. This combination offers superior corrosion resistance, especially in harsh environments, making Galvalume a preferred choice for modern metal roofs.
- Stainless Steel: Composed of at least 10.5% chromium, stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and staining. While extremely durable, its high cost limits its use to specialty or architectural metal roofing applications.
Steel Roofing Characteristics
- Exceptional strength and impact resistance
- Available in various profiles: standing seam, corrugated, shingles, and tiles
- Can be coated with paint or specialized finishes for added protection and aesthetics
- Lifespan: 40–60 years or more.
2. Aluminum: Lightweight and Corrosion-Resistant
Aluminum is another popular metal roofing material, especially in coastal regions where salt air accelerates corrosion in other metals. Aluminum’s natural oxide layer makes it inherently resistant to rust, even without additional coatings.
Key Features of Aluminum Roofing
- Lightweight—easier to transport and install, less stress on the building structure
- Highly resistant to corrosion and salt damage, making it reliable for metal roofing in coastal areas
- Reflective, contributing to energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption
- Malleable and easy to form into various shapes and styles
- Lifespan: 30–50 years.
Drawbacks
- Softer than steel, making it more prone to denting from hail or debris
- Typically more expensive than steel
- Fewer color options available compared to other metal roofing materials
3. Copper: The Premium, Timeless Choice
Copper is one of the most premium metal roofing materials, admired for its beauty, longevity, and the unique patina it develops over time. While copper is a soft metal, it is highly durable and can last for centuries with minimal maintenance.
Copper Roofing Highlights
- Distinctive appearance that evolves from shiny reddish-brown to a greenish-blue patina
- Extremely long lifespan—often 100 years or more, making copper a valuable metal roofing investment
- Naturally corrosion-resistant
- Lightweight, reducing structural load
- High cost, making it a luxury or specialty option.
4. Zinc: Low-Maintenance and Self-Healing
Zinc is less common in North America but is valued in Europe as a long-lasting metal roofing material known for its self-healing properties. Zinc forms a protective patina that can “heal” scratches and minor damage, maintaining its appearance and integrity over decades.
Zinc Roofing Advantages
- Can last 80–100 years or more, making it one of the most durable metal roofing options
- Patina provides natural protection and self-repair
- Low maintenance and highly resistant to corrosion
- High initial cost and limited availability in some regions.
Manufacturing and Finishing Processes
The performance and appearance of metal roofing are not determined solely by the base metal. Coatings, finishes, and forming processes all play critical roles.
Protective Coatings
- Zinc (Galvanized): Protects steel from rust.
- Aluminum-Zinc (Galvalume): Offers even greater corrosion resistance.
- Painted Finishes (PVDF, Polyester): Provide color, UV resistance, and additional protection. Premium coatings like Kynar 500 or Hylar 5000 are valued for durability and long-term color retention in metal roofing.
Textured and Stone-Coated Finishes
Some manufacturers offer textured matte finishes or stone-coated options that mimic the look of traditional shingles or tiles while delivering the durability and low maintenance of metal roofing.
Panel Styles and Profiles
Metal roofing is available in several styles, including:
- Standing Seam: Vertical panels with raised seams that interlock, offering a sleek, modern look and excellent weather resistance.
- Corrugated Panels: Wavy or ribbed patterns, traditional and cost-effective, often used in agricultural or industrial settings.
- Metal Shingles/Tiles: Designed to replicate the look of asphalt shingles, wood shakes, or clay tiles, but with superior durability and lower weight.
Environmental and Performance Benefits
Metal roofing materials are not just about durability—they also offer significant environmental and performance advantages:
- Longevity: Most metal roofing systems last 40–100 years, far outlasting traditional asphalt shingles.
- Energy Efficiency: Metal reflects solar radiant heat, reducing cooling costs in hot climates.
- Fire Resistance: Metal is non-combustible, providing added protection against fire.
- Low Maintenance: Resistant to mold, mildew, and pests; requires minimal upkeep.
- Sustainability: Many metal roofs contain recycled content and are themselves fully recyclable at the end of their life.
Choosing the Right Metal Roofing Material
Selecting the best metal roofing material depends on several factors:
- Climate: Aluminum is ideal for coastal areas, while steel is suitable for most environments.
- Budget: Steel is the most cost-effective, while copper and zinc are premium metal roofing options.
- Aesthetics: Copper and zinc offer unique, evolving appearances; painted steel and aluminum provide a wide range of colors and styles.
- Longevity: Copper and zinc lead in lifespan, but all quality metal roofs offer decades of service.
Conclusion: The Lasting Value of Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is made from a range of high-performance metals—primarily steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc—each engineered for specific environments and aesthetic preferences. These metals are further enhanced with protective coatings, finishes, and innovative manufacturing techniques, resulting in roofing systems that are not only durable and long-lasting but also energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Whether you are seeking a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution or a premium, architectural statement, there is a metal roofing material to suit every need. Understanding the composition and properties of these materials is the first step toward making an informed, lasting investment in your property
Trust TEO Roofing for Your Metal Roofing Needs
At TEO Roofing, we specialize in delivering top-quality metal roofing solutions tailored to both residential and commercial properties. With years of industry experience, our team is committed to superior craftsmanship, honest service, and customer satisfaction from start to finish. We use only the best materials and the latest installation techniques to ensure your roof is built to last—resisting weather, enhancing energy efficiency, and elevating your property’s appearance.
Proudly serving Frederick County and the surrounding areas, we take the time to understand your needs and offer roofing systems that combine function, style, and long-term value.
Ready to get started? Contact TEO Roofing today for a free consultation. Visit www.teoroofing.com or call (301) 466-3630 to speak with our team and take the first step toward a stronger, smarter roof.
