5 Best Metal Roofing Types Ranked (Materials, Brands…)

Selecting the right roofing material for your home or commercial property is no small decision. Metal roofing has surged in popularity for its durability, energy efficiency, and stylish options that cater to a variety of needs. But with so many materials, styles, and brands to choose from, how do you determine what’s best for your property?

This guide breaks down the most common metal roofing types, including materials, styles, and top brands in the industry. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Common metal roofing materials
• Best metal roofing types ranked
• Top metal roofing brands

👉 Common Metal Roofing Materials

Choosing the right roofing material is essential for ensuring your roof’s durability, functionality, and visual appeal. Each metal offers unique benefits and is suited to specific needs and environments. Below are the most commonly used metals for roofing, along with their key characteristics and advantages:

• Steel: Affordable, durable, and available in various finishes. Galvanized steel resists rust, while galvalume steel offers superior corrosion protection. Ideal for residential and industrial buildings.
• Aluminum: Rust-resistant and lightweight, making it perfect for coastal homes and areas with heavy rainfall.
• Copper: Luxurious and timeless, develops a patina over time. Highly durable, lasting over 100 years, and suited for prestigious or historic properties.
• Zinc: Eco-friendly and self-healing, with scratches “healing” as its patina forms. Great for eco-conscious homeowners.
• Tin: Vintage and rustic, primarily used in specialty structures like sheds or barns for unique aesthetics.

✅ 5 Best Metal Roofing Types Ranked

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the best metal roofing types, ranked based on their functionality, popularity, and aesthetic appeal.

1. Standing Seam

Standing seam roofing takes the top spot for a reason—it delivers outstanding performance and unmatched versatility. This roofing type is designed with raised seams that make it exceptionally watertight, which is crucial for areas prone to heavy rainfall, snow, or extreme weather conditions. Unlike traditional roofing systems, standing seam panels interlock securely, preventing leaks and ensuring long-term protection for your property. It is also incredibly durable, capable of withstanding harsh elements for decades with minimal maintenance. Beyond its practical benefits, standing seam roofing is energy-efficient, often featuring reflective coatings that help reduce cooling costs during hot summers. Its sleek and modern design adds a sophisticated touch, making it a go-to option for homeowners and businesses alike looking to combine style with functionality.

2. Metal Shingles

Metal shingles come in second place because they offer the perfect blend of aesthetic charm and durability. These shingles mimic the classic appeal of traditional materials like slate, wood shakes, or clay tiles, making them a versatile choice for a variety of architectural styles. However, unlike their traditional counterparts, metal shingles are far more durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions, including strong winds, heavy snow, and hail. They are also fire-resistant, which adds another layer of safety to your home. Metal shingles are highly customizable, available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures, allowing homeowners to create a roof that truly complements their property. Additionally, they are lightweight and easy to install, reducing labor costs while still offering exceptional performance and longevity.

3. Corrugated Metal

Corrugated metal roofing ranks third due to its affordability and practicality, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners and property owners. This roofing type features a wavy design that enhances its structural strength while keeping the material lightweight. Its low weight makes it easy to install and ideal for structures that may not support the weight of heavier roofing systems. Corrugated metal is exceptionally durable, resistant to rust when treated with the proper coatings, and can last for decades with proper care. While it may lack the aesthetic appeal of other options, its affordability makes it an excellent choice for industrial properties, agricultural buildings, and outbuildings like sheds, barns, and garages. Its simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it a practical solution for functional spaces where looks are less of a priority.

4. Copper

Copper roofing stands out as a premium option, earning its place at number four for its unmatched elegance and timeless appeal. Often associated with high-end homes and iconic architectural designs, copper roofing makes a bold statement with its distinctive appearance. Over time, copper develops a natural patina, transitioning from its shiny metallic finish to a beautiful greenish-blue hue, which adds character and historic charm to any structure. Copper roofing is not just about looks—it’s also one of the most durable materials available, with a lifespan that can exceed 100 years. It is highly resistant to corrosion, fire, and harsh weather, requiring little to no maintenance during its lifetime. However, its premium quality comes at a high cost, making it less accessible for homeowners on a tight budget. Despite this, copper roofing remains a worthwhile investment for those seeking an elegant, long-lasting roofing solution that stands the test of time.

5. Aluminum

Aluminum roofing takes the fifth spot for its exceptional rust-resistant and lightweight properties, making it an excellent choice for homes in coastal or marine environments. Unlike steel, aluminum does not corrode when exposed to saltwater or high humidity, ensuring long-lasting performance in challenging climates. Its lightweight nature also makes it easy to install and suitable for structures that cannot support heavier roofing materials. Aluminum roofing is energy-efficient, as it reflects heat and keeps homes cooler in warm climates, reducing energy costs. While it is typically more expensive than steel roofing, the superior corrosion resistance and minimal maintenance requirements make aluminum a smart, long-term investment for homeowners in areas with high salt exposure or frequent rain. Its durability, combined with its ability to withstand the elements, makes aluminum roofing a reliable and practical option for coastal living.

🔎 Top Metal Roofing Brands

High-quality brands can simplify the decision-making process. Here are some of the best in the market:

McElroy Metal

McElroy Metal offers a diverse selection of metal roofing panels, catering to various needs and styles. Their product range includes both standing seam and corrugated panel styles, designed to meet the demands of different architectural and functional requirements. Known for their durability and energy efficiency, McElroy Metal provides customizable finishes, ensuring each roofing solution aligns with the aesthetic and practical goals of their clients.

ATAS International

ATAS International specializes in high-performance metal roofing solutions, offering innovative designs that combine functionality with visual appeal. Their roofing systems stand out due to the wide variety of colors and textures available, making them an excellent choice for those seeking aesthetic versatility. Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial applications, ATAS International delivers durable and visually striking roofing options.

Classic Metal Roofing Systems

Classic Metal Roofing Systems focuses on premium aluminum shingles and tiles, providing lightweight yet highly durable roofing solutions. Their aluminum products are corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for environments with harsh weather conditions or salt exposure. Customers appreciate the combination of strength, longevity, and elegance that Classic Metal Roofing Systems brings to their homes or businesses.

Fabral

Fabral is a go-to provider for agricultural and residential metal roofing needs, offering designs that balance quality and cost-effectiveness. They provide budget-friendly solutions tailored for large-scale projects, such as barns, warehouses, and expansive residential properties. Fabral’s commitment to affordability, without sacrificing performance, makes them a trusted name in the metal roofing industry.

Drexel Metals

Drexel Metals is renowned for its seamless standing seam roofing systems, which deliver both durability and modern aesthetics. They place a strong emphasis on energy efficiency by integrating solar compatibility into their designs, making them a popular choice for environmentally conscious clients. With Drexel Metals, customers can expect roofing solutions that not only protect but also contribute to sustainable energy practices.

🏡 Metal Roofing Guide

When it comes to choosing the right metal roofing for your property, the team at Kingfisher Roofing has the expertise and dedication you can rely on. With over 20 years of experience, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses find durable, stylish, and climate-ready roofing solutions. From expert guidance to professional installation with trusted brands, we ensure every step of the process is seamless and stress-free.

Ready to upgrade your home’s exterior with confidence? Contact Kingfisher Roofing today to schedule your free consultation and let us help you protect your property with quality you can trust.