Types of Metal Roofing Materials

The variety of metal roofing materials makes metal roofing an attractive alternative to asphalt shingles

Metal roofing has come a long way from the days of the rusted tin roof. Metal roof materials are manufactured in long sheets for sheet metal roofing, in short panels as a metal roofing panel and in strips that look like tiles or cedar shingles for residential metal roofing.

Corrugated metal roofing is popular in some commercial buildings. Corrugated metal roofing is also used on some outbuildings, garages and storage sheds.

Connectors for metal roofing can be exposed or hidden on the metal roofing panel, depending on your roof pitch.

Custom metal roofing is pre-painted for residential metal roofing. The paint is a baked on enamel type of paint and the paint not only saves you time, it helps preserve the metal roofing system much longer than unpainted metal roofs.

Metal roofing can be installed right over existing asphalt tile roofs and most other roof systems. This saves you time and labor costs because the old roof doesn’t have to be removed to install metal roofs, unless required by local ordinances.

Most experienced do-it-yourself homeowners can install metal roofing themselves with the right tools and metal roofing materials. An old saying in metal roofing states "if you can correctly measure your roof, you can install a metal roof" and most commercial metal roofing sellers agree with it.

1. Metal roofing comes pre painted with a baked on enamel paint for durability.
2. Install metal roofing right over existing asphalt tile roofs to save time and money.
3. Homeowners experienced in do-it-yourself projects can install most metal roofing materials on their own.

 

Compare metal roofing materials and specs

Take the time to compare the different types of metal roofing available. Check the warranties and spec sheets for information on applications for your situation. Make sure you understand the connector system based on the pitch of your roof, because the price could be higher for special metal roofing materials.
Try: Comparing various manufacturers and specs of metal roofing material at the Sweets Network. View the drawings and specs to retrofit a metal roof.

Go crazy--buy metal roofing that looks like wood or stone

Metal roofing materials come in all types of look alikes. You can buy custom metal roofing and metal roofing products that look like cedar shakes, tile, wood grained and slate. If you're already going to roof with metal roofing, check the features and prices of lookalike metal roofing. Copper is great for high-end homes -- not only does it look great but it's durable too.
Try: See Tamko metal roofing materials for a great selection of metal roof materials and custom metal roofing. Find beautiful copper roofing materials, CAD drawings and spec sheets at Coppercraft.

Find professional installers of metal roofing in your area

Most local roofing companies are experienced in installation of metal roofing, if you can't do it yourself. Local companies will also supply the metal roofing materials in their bid. Always ask for references from the roofer and make sure they not only carry the type of sheet metal roof you want, but are experienced in the installation.
Try: BetterRoofers, a nationwide network of qualified roofers. Submit one form to get four estimates to install your metal roofing. Watch a video about installing a metal roof if you want to do it yourself.

 

• If using an installer, have several companies come out and bid the work before you make a decision.

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