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4 Most Common Metal Roofing Materials

If you have decided that you want a metal roof on your home, you now need to decide what type of metal you want on your roof. Each kind of metal offers different advantages.

Type #1: Aluminum Roofing

Aluminum is one of the most common types of metal used for residential roofs because it is reliable. With the right maintenance, you can easily get a few decades of usage out of it, and it is not prone to rust and works well even in coastal environments. Its ability to resist rusting really makes it stand out above other metal roofing materials. As a result, it is about the middle of the road when it comes to material costs.

A pure aluminum roof can be expensive, which is why you will often see other metal roofing materials that have a protective aluminum coating instead, allowing for the rust protection benefits of aluminum at a more affordable price point.

Type #2: Copper Roofing

Copper roofing has been around for hundreds of years. It works well in extreme climates. For example, it is not easily damaged by hailstorms or by windstorms, making it great for areas with more complex weather systems. It is also resistant to mildew and fires. In addition, the surface of copper is very resistant to damage. Copper also ages, with the color-changing over time, lending to excellent curb appeal for a home.

Type #3: Zinc Roofing 

If you want a roofing material that can last for a century and not just a few decades, you may want to consider a zinc roof. Zinc is a very malleable metal, so you can create unique shapes and designs if you have a custom-crafted zinc roof made for your home. Zinc is also easy to repair due to its self-healing abilities, which is a unique feature of zine roofs and helps bring down maintenance costs. It is also corrosion-resistant. Zinc tends to be less expensive than copper roofing. The one downside to zinc is over time; it develops a natural chalk look to it.

Type #4: Steel Roofing

If you are looking for an affordable metal, you may want to consider steel roofing. Steel has long been used in commercial roofing and is beginning to be used more for residential roofs.

With steel roofing, there are different types of steel used for roofing. Galvanized steel has a layer of zinc on top to protect it against corrosion. Galvalume steel alternative uses aluminum and zinc in combination with steel to create a strong roof that will not rust. Weathered steel incorporates heavy metals and provides added strength.

Steel is hard and works well in areas with extreme weather, as it can't be easily damaged.

Finally, a significant benefit to any of the above four roofing materials is that when your roof reaches the end of its life, the material is completely recyclable, which means a metal roof is a good green eco-friendly choice for your home. To learn more information, reach out to a company such as True Quality Roofing.