As we’re almost closing 2023, homeowners are increasingly seeking durable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective roofing materials for their homes. Among the multitude of options, metal roofing stands out for its resilience, aesthetic versatility, and energy efficiency.
On average, the cost of installing a metal roof ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the size of your home and the specific type of metal used. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 metal roofing materials available in the market.
The top three on our list include steel, aluminum, and copper, each offering unique benefits to cater to different homeowner needs. Stay tuned to find out more about these materials and the other seven contenders.
Types Of Metal Roofing Materials Common In Omaha
In this section, we delve into the diverse types of metal roofing materials that you can consider for your Omaha, NE, home.
Steel Roofing
Pros & Cons of Steel Roofing
Steel roofing is highly lauded for its strength and resistance to harsh weather conditions like hailstorms and heavy winds. It is also less susceptible to rust, which increases its lifespan considerably. On the downside, steel roofing can be quite noisy during rain and hail, and the cost is higher compared to some other roofing materials.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Steel is one of those metal roofing materials that requires professional installation due to its weight and the specific tools needed for installation. Regular maintenance involves checking for and promptly treating any signs of rust or damage to ensure the roof retains its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Costs
The cost of steel roofing can range from $7.50 to $15 per square foot, depending on the thickness and finish. This includes the cost of materials and installation.
Durability
With proper maintenance, a steel roof can last anywhere from 50 to 75 years, making it an excellent long-term investment.
Energy Efficiency
Steel roofing is highly energy-efficient due to its ability to reflect solar radiant heat, which can help reduce cooling costs in your home by 10% to 25%.
Color/Finish Options
Steel roofing is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes to match the exterior design of any home. You can choose from natural shades like copper, bronze, and silver, or opt for pre-painted options in almost any color.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Steel roofs are compatible with solar panels, making them a great choice for homeowners looking to harness solar energy. The strong and durable nature of steel can support the weight of solar panels, and its longevity ensures that you won’t need to remove the panels for roof replacement in the near future.
Tin Roof
Pros & Cons of Tin Roofing
Tin roofs, also known as terne or terneplate, are a traditional type of metal roofing that offer exceptional longevity and corrosion resistance. They are less commonly used today but remain a viable option for their unique aesthetic appeal and recyclability. However, they require regular maintenance and can be more expensive than steel or aluminum.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Tin roofs require professional installation due to their unique fabrication and installation techniques. Regular maintenance, including painting or coating every 5 years, is needed to prevent corrosion and ensure the roof’s durability.
Costs
The cost of a tin roof can range from $12 to $20 per square foot, depending on the design and installation complexity. This includes the cost of materials and professional installation.
Durability
With regular maintenance and care, a tin roof can last for up to 60 years. Its high resistance to weather elements and rust make it a long-lasting roofing material.
Energy Efficiency
Tin roofs can be coated with reflective finishes that improve their energy efficiency. These finishes help reflect solar radiation, reducing cooling costs during the summer months.
Color/Finish Options
Traditional tin roofs have a natural grayish-silver finish, but modern versions can be painted or coated in a variety of colors to match your home’s exterior. They can also be finished with a rustic, weathered look that adds character to older homes.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Tin roofs are compatible with solar panels. Their strength and durability can support the weight of solar panels, and their long lifespan aligns with the expected service life of solar panels, reducing the need for roof replacements or panel re-installation.
Galvanized Steel Roof
Pros & Cons of Galvanized Steel Roofing
Galvanized steel roofing is a popular choice due to its balance between cost-effectiveness and durability. It’s resistant to rust and corrosion, and offers great strength and longevity. However, over time, the zinc coating can wear away, leaving the steel exposed to the elements. It can also be noisier than other metal roofing materials during rain or hailstorms.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installation of galvanized steel roofing should be done by professionals to ensure proper fitting and alignment. Maintenance involves regular checks for any signs of wear and tear or zinc coating erosion. To maintain the look and longevity of the roof, painting or coating may be required every few years.
Costs
Galvanized steel roofing costs between $7 and $12 per square foot, including installation. This price can vary depending on the quality of the steel and the complexity of the roof design.
Durability
With proper installation and maintenance, galvanized steel roofs can last up to 60 years. The zinc coating provides an extra layer of defense against rust and corrosion, enhancing the overall lifespan of the roof.
Energy Efficiency
Galvanized steel panels are energy efficient metal roofing materials due to their light-reflecting properties. They can keep homes cooler in the summer by reflecting solar heat, subsequently reducing cooling costs.
Color/Finish Options
Galvanized steel roofing is available in a variety of colors, from natural metallic gray to reds, blues, and greens. They can be painted or coated to suit the homeowner’s aesthetic preferences.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Galvanized steel roofing is compatible with solar panels. Its strength and durability can support the weight of solar panels, and its long lifespan aligns with the expected service life of solar panels, reducing the need for roof replacements or panel re-installation.
Metal Tile Roof
Pros & Cons of Metal Tile Roofing
Metal tile roofing combines the aesthetic appeal of traditional tile roofing with the durability and lightness of metal. It is highly resistant to weather elements and requires minimal maintenance. However, its installation can be complex and more costly than other metal roofing options.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installation of metal tile roofs requires professional handling due to their particular design. They require minimal maintenance, but regular checks for any damage or wear are recommended to ensure longevity.
Costs
The cost of metal tile roofing ranges between $7 and $10 per square foot. This cost includes both the material and the installation, and it can vary depending on the quality of the tiles and the complexity of the roof design.
Durability
Metal tile roofs are incredibly durable, with a lifespan of up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Their resistance to harsh weather conditions and fire makes them a secure roofing option.
Energy Efficiency
Metal tile roofs are energy efficient, reflecting solar heat to keep homes cooler in the summer. This energy efficiency can significantly reduce cooling costs.
Color/Finish Options
Metal tile roofs offer a wide range of color and finish options. They can be designed to mimic traditional clay tiles, wood shake, slate, or even asphalt shingles, offering a versatile aesthetic appeal.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Metal tile roofs are compatible with solar panels. Their durability and strength can support the weight of solar panels, and their long lifespan makes them ideal for solar panel installation without the need for frequent replacements.
Standing Seam Metal Roof
Pros & Cons of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing is highly sought after for its sleek, modern appearance and superior durability. Its design includes large, broad panels with raised seams, which help prevent water penetration, making it an excellent choice for areas with heavy rain or snowfall. However, it tends to be more expensive than other metal roofing materials, and the installation process is more complex, requiring professional expertise.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Professional installation is crucial for standing seam metal roofs to ensure that the seams are properly aligned and sealed. Regular maintenance should include inspections for any damage after severe weather events and the removal of debris to prevent it from accumulating on the surface and seams of the roof.
Costs
The cost of standing seam metal roofing varies widely, from $10 to $20 per square foot, depending on factors such as the thickness and finish of the metal and the complexity of the roof design. This price includes both materials and installation.
Durability
Standing seam metal roofs are known for their exceptional durability, with a lifespan of up to 50 to 75 years with proper maintenance. Their raised seam design significantly reduces the risk of leaks, enhancing this roofing’s longevity.
Energy Efficiency
Standing seam metal roofs can be highly energy efficient, especially when coated with a reflective finish. This coating can help to reflect solar heat away from the home, reducing cooling costs during the summer months.
Color/Finish Options
Standing seam roofs offer extensive color and finish options. They can be coated or painted in nearly any color, making it easy to match the roof with the home’s exterior design. Options range from natural metallic finishes to bold, vibrant colors.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Standing seam metal roofs are ideal for solar panel installations. Their flat surface and durability provide an excellent base for panels, while their long lifespan aligns well with the typical service life of solar panels, minimizing the need for roof replacements or panel re-installation.
Zinc Roofs
Pros & Cons of Zinc Roofing
Zinc roofs are renowned for their sustainability, longevity, and malleability. They are fully recyclable and have a lower melting point than other metals, making them more energy-efficient to produce. Moreover, they are self-healing, meaning scratches or imperfections can resolve over time due to the formation of a protective zinc carbonate layer. However, the initial cost of a zinc roof can be high, and professional installation is necessary due to the material’s malleability.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Zinc roofs should be installed by professionals experienced in working with this material to prevent any potential damage. Maintenance is relatively low; regular cleaning to remove debris and inspecting the roof for scratch marks or dents will help maintain its appearance and longevity.
Costs
The cost of zinc roofing ranges from $10 to $15 per square foot, including both material and installation. This cost may vary depending on the quality of the zinc and the complexity of the roof’s design.
Durability
Zinc roofs are one of the most durable roofing options, with a lifespan of up to 100 years with proper maintenance. Their self-healing properties contribute to their longevity, as any scratches or imperfections can heal over time.
Energy Efficiency
Zinc roofs are an energy-efficient option. Their light color reflects heat away from the building, reducing the need for cooling in the summer. Additionally, their lower melting point means less energy is used in their production, adding to their overall environmental credentials.
Color/Finish Options
Zinc roofs are generally available in shades of gray. However, over time, a protective zinc carbonate layer forms on the surface, creating a beautiful, natural patina that adds character to the building.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Zinc roofs are compatible with solar panels. Their durability and strength can support the weight of solar panels, and their long lifespan aligns with the lifespan of solar panels, reducing the need for roof replacements or panel re-installations.
Corrugated Metal Roof
Pros & Cons of Corrugated Metal Roofing
Corrugated metal roofing materials are known for their strength, durability, and affordability. Their wave-like pattern increases their rigidity, making them highly resistant to wind and impact damage.
They are lightweight, making them easy to install and reducing the load on the building’s structure. However, the aesthetic appeal of corrugated metal roofs may not suit all architectural styles, and they may be prone to noise during rainfall.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Corrugated metal roofs should be installed by professionals to ensure proper alignment and sealing of the corrugated panels. Maintenance generally involves regular cleaning to remove debris and prevent rust, as well as periodic inspection for any signs of damage or wear.
Costs
The cost of corrugated metal roofing ranges from $4 to $8 per square foot, making it one of the more affordable metal roofing options. This cost includes both the materials and installation.
Durability
With proper maintenance, corrugated metal roofs can last up to 60 years. Their corrugated design adds structural strength, making them highly resistant to harsh weather conditions.
Energy Efficiency
Corrugated metal roofs can be highly energy efficient, as they can be coated with a reflective finish to reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs.
Color/Finish Options
Corrugated metal roofs are available in a variety of colors and finishes to fit different architectural styles. They can be coated or painted, offering flexibility in terms of aesthetic appeal.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Corrugated metal roofs are compatible with solar panel installations. Their durability and strength make them a suitable base for solar panels, and their long lifespan reduces the need for frequent roof replacements or panel re-installations.
Stone Coated Metal Roofing
Pros & Cons of Stone Coated Metal Roofing
Stone coated metal metal roofing materials combine the strength and durability of metal with the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing materials. These roofs are lightweight, resistant to weather extremes, and have excellent fire-resistant properties.
The stone coating reduces noise typically associated with metal roofs. However, they can be costly, and the granules in the coating may shed over time, requiring periodic maintenance to retain the roof’s appearance.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installation of stone coated metal roofs should be done by professionals with experience handling this material to ensure proper fitting and sealing. In terms of maintenance, these roofs require periodic checking for shedding granules and general cleaning to prevent the buildup of debris.
Costs
The cost of stone coated metal roofing varies from $8 to $12 per square foot, including both materials and installation. The cost may fluctuate depending on the quality of the material and the complexity of the installation.
Durability
Stone coated metal roofs are incredibly durable, with a lifespan of up to 70 years with proper maintenance. The stone coating adds an extra layer of protection against weather damage, contributing to its longevity.
Energy Efficiency
Stone coated metal roofs are energy efficient as they can reflect solar heat, reducing cooling costs in summer. The stone coating also adds insulation, helping to keep heat within the building during colder months.
Color/Finish Options
These roofs come in a wide range of colors and finishes, imitating the look of clay, slate, or wooden shingles. This gives homeowners the flexibility to choose a style that best suits their home’s architectural design.
Compatibility with Solar Panels
Stone coated metal roofs are compatible with solar panel installations. Their durability and strength provide a solid base for solar panels, and their extended lifespan aligns well with the typical service life of solar panels, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
| Type of Metal Roof | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Roofing | - Highly durable, resistant to harsh weather conditions, and eco-friendly. - Energy-efficient with light-reflecting properties. - Aesthetic versatility with various styles and colors. | - May be prone to rust if not properly maintained or may require periodic painting. - Initial cost can be higher than some other materials. |
| Aluminum Roofing | - Lightweight and sturdy. - Resistant to rust and corrosion. - Reflects heat for energy efficiency. - Aesthetic flexibility. | - Can be more expensive than steel or tin roofing. - Vulnerable to denting from hail or heavy objects. - Limited color options compared to steel. |
| Copper Roofing | - Exceptional longevity and minimal maintenance required. - Unique patina aging adds charm. - Recyclable and eco-friendly. | - High initial cost. - Patina development may not suit all architectural styles. - Heavy and may require additional structural support. |
| Tin Roof | - Resistant to corrosion and weather damage. - Durable and long-lasting. - Lightweight and cost-effective. - Reflects heat for energy efficiency. | - May not have the same aesthetic appeal as other materials. - Vulnerable to denting and noise in heavy rain. |
| Galvanized Steel Roof | - Resistant to rust and corrosion. - Robust, durable, and cost-effective. - Boosts curb appeal. - Recyclable and eco-friendly. | - Potential for chipping or peeling of zinc coating. - May require periodic maintenance for coating integrity. |
| Metal Slate Roof | - Mimics the look of traditional slate with added strength. - Durable and long-lasting. - Recyclable and eco-friendly. | - Higher cost compared to some other metal roofing options. - May not suit all architectural styles. |
| Standing Seam Metal Roof | - Excellent weather-tight seal. - Can withstand extreme weather conditions. - Sleek and modern aesthetics. - Recyclable and eco-friendly. | - Initial cost can be higher than other metal roofs. - Limited style options. - Vulnerable to denting from hail or heavy objects. |
| Zinc Roofs | - Highly flexible and adaptable. - Self-healing properties. - Resistant to corrosion and weather damage. - Recyclable and eco-friendly. | - Higher initial cost compared to some other options. - Scratches may not self-heal completely. - Limited color options. |
| Corrugated Metal Roof | - Unique wave-like pattern adds extra strength. - Resistant to weather and minimizes the risk of leaks. - Fully recyclable. | - May not suit all architectural styles. - Noise in heavy rain. |
| Stone Coated Metal Roofing | - Durable and aesthetically appealing. - Resistant to diverse weather conditions. - Extra layer of protection from the stone coating. - Recyclable and eco-friendly. | - Higher initial cost compared to standard metal roofs. - Limited color options. - May require periodic maintenance for coating integrity. |
Top Metal Roofing Brands For Your Omaha Home
In Omaha, Nebraska, several brands have established themselves as leaders in the metal roofing industry. Here’s a look at the most popular options:
- Metal Sales Manufacturing Corporation: With over 50 years of experience, Metal Sales stands as one of the most trusted brands in the metal roofing industry. They offer a wide range of products, including steel and aluminum roofing.
- McElroy Metal: McElroy Metal is renowned for its high-quality metal roofing materials. Their product line includes durable and aesthetically pleasing options like the Medallion-Lok, offering homeowners both functionality and style.
- Bridger Steel: Bridger Steel is another top player in the realm of metal roofing. It offers a diverse range of metal roofing products, from corrugated panels to metal shingles, providing homeowners with a variety of choices to suit their specific needs.
- Central States Manufacturing: Central States Manufacturing offers a wide array of metal roofing products. Their Horizon-Loc allows you to have a beautiful, durable, standing seam roof without the cost of clips and seaming equipment.
- ATAS International: ATAS International is recognized for its innovative metal roofing solutions. Their products range from traditional shingles to modern standing seam designs, offering something for everyone.
- Beacon: Beacon is a leading supplier of commercial and residential roofing products. Their extensive range of metal roofing materials, from traditional to contemporary designs, ensures that every homeowner can find an option that matches their aesthetic and functional requirements.
Partner With Omaha's Top Home Builder, With An Expertise In Roofing
At Built By Davis, we understand the importance of a strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing roof for your home. That’s why we include roofing as a crucial part of our home building package.
With a wide range of metal roofing materials to choose from, we can help you select the best option that aligns with your style, budget, and energy efficiency needs. To discuss your roofing needs or learn more about our services, give us a call at (402) 804-9321. We look forward to helping you build your dream home.