How to Choose Best Material for Your Metal Roof
Did you know there are a wide variety of metal roofing materials available to you depending on the type of roofing you want to install?
The right choice of roofing material depends on your budget and needs, as well as the climate conditions in the area your home is located.
So, let’s go over some of your metal roof material choices to help you make the right decision for your property.
Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum is one of the most popular and versatile metals in the world. It shouldn't be a surprise that aluminum is a top choice for manufacturing the metal roofing sheets used in both commercial and residential roofing.
Pros
- Strong and Lightweight Material: Aluminum stands up well to extreme weather conditions. It's considered a durable material. It's also thin, light, and easy to work with. Aluminum roofs can last over 50 years and do not show signs of corrosion, making them excellent for humid environments.
- Sustainable: Aluminum is one of the most sustainable metals. It's easily recyclable and many aluminum roofs can be made with recycled materials as well. Aluminum Composite Panels are also an economic solution that not only provides high-quality protection but also adds beauty and elegance to the exterior of your house.
- Accessible: This material is rather common, so it’s likely that your roofing contractor will have it available.
Cons
- Aesthetics: Not everyone is a fan of the plain grey look, and the colour of the roof panels can get washed out and spotty over time.
- Susceptible to temperature: Aluminum expands and contracts in the heat, resulting in higher maintenance costs and noise levels in changing climates.
Copper Metal Roofing
Copper is known as the metal used in the Statue of Liberty. It’s also yet another durable option in the world of metal roof types.
Pros
- Lightweight and strong: Much like aluminum, copper is easy to work with, lightweight, and resistant to humid and windy environments. In fact, copper roofs can last over a hundred years if you follow required maintenance. Click to learn more about copper fabrication
- Recyclable: Copper can be recycled if it’s in good condition.
- Easy to work with: Copper can be soldered, so installing roof flashings and gutter joints is an option with copper.
Cons
- Cost: Copper roofing durability doesn’t come cheap. Copper is one of the most expensive roof types available.
- Aesthetics: While subjective, the reddish-brown colour of copper doesn’t jibe well with all designs, and it even changes slowly to bluish-green when exposed to the air.
Stainless Steel Metal Roofing
You’ll find stainless steel used in a variety of consumer goods, from kitchen cutlery to electronics. Yet it’s versatile enough to be used in the metal roofing industry as well.
Pros
- Longevity: Stainless steel, given its name, is resistant to corrosion and rust, and steel roofs can last over 50 years even in fluctuating climates.
- Customizability: Stainless steel comes with a large selection of finishes to fit into anybody’s design aesthetic.
Cons
- Expensive: Much like copper, stainless steel’s high cost is a restricting factor for many homeowners.
- Vulnerable to standing water: The Achilles Heel of stainless steel roofs is that they're easily corroded by standing water. You’ll need a robust draining system in place if you decide to go with steel roofing.
Which Supplier Can I Trust for Metal Roofing Sheets in Alberta?
Regardless of your choice, it’s essential you work with a reputable roofing company in your local area.
Phoenix Metals has you covered when it comes to quality roofing materials and craftsmanship in the Alberta area. Jumpstart your next project by getting a quote for your metal roofing project today.
