Standing Seam Metal Panels
The gold standard of metal roofing. Hidden fastener system means no exposed screws to leak. Clean, modern lines that look incredible on contemporary and traditional homes alike.
- Hidden fastener system - no exposed screws
- 40–70 year lifespan
- Superior wind resistance (140+ MPH)
- Thermal expansion accommodation built in
- Available in 24 and 26 gauge steel or aluminum
Corrugated Metal Panels
The cheapest metal roofing option. Corrugated panels are the classic agricultural/industrial look, but modern color options and profiles have brought them into residential use.
- Lowest cost metal roofing option
- Easy DIY-friendly installation
- 30–45 year lifespan
- Exposed fastener system (requires maintenance)
- Wide availability at big box stores
Metal Shingles / Shake Panels
Metal shingles give you the durability of metal with the look of traditional shingles, slate, or wood shake. Most homeowners can't tell the difference from the ground.
- Mimics appearance of shingles, slate, or shake
- Interlocking panel design for wind resistance
- 40–60 year lifespan
- Lightweight - can install over existing roof
- Class 4 impact resistance available
Stone-Coated Steel Tiles
Stone-coated steel tiles (like DECRA and Boral) combine a galvalume steel base with stone granule coating. They look like tile, shake, or shingle - but with metal durability.
- Authentic tile or shake appearance
- Stone granule surface for noise reduction
- 50-year warranty (typical)
- Excellent hail and fire resistance
- Heavier than other metal options
Metal Roofing Buying Guide
Gauge Thickness Matters
Metal roofing panels come in different gauges (thicknesses). For residential standing seam, 24 gauge is the professional standard. 26 gauge is thinner and cheaper but more prone to denting and oil-canning. For corrugated panels on outbuildings, 29 gauge is adequate, but 26 gauge is better for homes.
Steel vs. Aluminum
Steel (Galvalume-coated) is the most common and affordable choice. It's strong, durable, and handles impacts well. Aluminum is lighter, naturally corrosion-resistant, and ideal for coastal areas with salt air - but it costs more and dents more easily. For 95% of homes, steel is the right choice.
Exposed vs. Hidden Fasteners
This is the biggest quality divide in metal roofing. Hidden fastener (standing seam) systems cost more but eliminate the #1 failure point in metal roofs: exposed screw seals deteriorating over time. If your budget allows, always go hidden fastener for a residential roof.
Cheapest Metal Roofing Options
If budget is your primary concern, here's how to get metal roofing at the lowest cost:
- Corrugated panels from a big box store - $1.50–2.50/sq ft for materials
- R-panel/PBR panels - slightly more refined than corrugated, similar price
- Metal shingle panels - mid-range option that still undercuts standing seam
- DIY installation - corrugated panels are the most DIY-friendly metal option
Metal Roofing Types at a Glance
| Type | Cost/sq ft | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standing Seam | $4.50 – $14 | 40 – 70 yrs | Premium residential |
| Corrugated | $1.50 – $3.50 | 30 – 45 yrs | Budget / outbuildings |
| Metal Shingles | $3.50 – $8 | 40 – 60 yrs | Traditional look + metal durability |
| Stone-Coated Steel | $4 – $9 | 40 – 60 yrs | Premium aesthetic |
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Roofing
How long does a metal roof last?
A quality metal roof lasts 40-70 years depending on the material. Standing seam steel panels last 40-60 years, aluminum lasts 50-70 years, and copper can last 100+ years. Corrugated metal panels with exposed fasteners have a shorter 25-40 year lifespan because the rubber washers on the screws degrade over time. Compare this to asphalt shingles which last 15-30 years.
How much does a metal roof cost compared to shingles?
Metal roofing costs $4.50-$14.00 per square foot installed, compared to $3.50-$7.00 for asphalt shingles. A metal roof on an average 2,000 sq ft home costs $18,000-$30,000 versus $9,000-$14,000 for shingles. However, metal roofs last 2-3 times longer, making the lifetime cost comparable or lower. See our full metal vs shingles cost breakdown.
Does a metal roof increase home value?
Yes. Studies show a metal roof increases home resale value by 1-6%, with an average ROI of 60-85% of the installation cost. Metal roofs are especially valuable in areas prone to severe weather, wildfires, or high insurance costs, where the durability and fire resistance command a premium from buyers.
Is a metal roof noisy when it rains?
Not with proper installation. A metal roof installed over solid sheathing (plywood or OSB) with proper underlayment is only about 5 decibels louder than asphalt shingles during heavy rain. Adding attic insulation further dampens sound. The old stereotype of noisy metal roofs comes from barns and sheds with no decking underneath.
Can you put a metal roof over existing shingles?
In many cases, yes. Installing metal over one layer of existing shingles is allowed by most building codes and can save $1,000-$3,000 in tear-off costs. However, you cannot install over two layers, damaged decking, or if moisture is trapped. A qualified contractor should inspect the existing roof first - use our guide to finding a good roofer.