What Are the Different Types of Metal Roofing Materials?

Roofing a building or home structure is not a matter that should be taken lightly. A roof covers a building or home structure, protecting any belongings found within. There are a large number of materials that can be used to roof a building or home, including several types of metal roofing materials. These materials include steel, aluminum, copper and tin. Using metal roofing materials to protect a building comes with many advantages, including long-term durability and attractive appearances.

People have been roofing building and home structures with steel for more than 200 years. Most steel roofs consist partly of the product galvalume, which enables the roof to be very durable and last for a long time. One of the most advantageous aspects of using steel to roof a building is that it is very energy efficient. In fact, studies have shown that steel is the most energy-efficient material out of all the metal roofing materials on the market.

Using steel to roof a building is also beneficial because it is very wind resistant, especially when compared to using shingles as a roofing material. Steel metal roofing materials are available in an assortment of colors. This allows building owners and homeowners the ability to pick a color that best suits their preference.

Aluminum roofing materials can be used on almost any building on which steel roofing materials can be used. Many people choose aluminum to roof their building or home because it is very lightweight yet very durable and long lasting. There also are many people who use aluminum roofing materials to re-roof their home because it can lessen the amount of weight on the structure. This is one of the best types of metal roofing materials because it is very resistant to corrosion, especially over long periods of time.

Cooper roofing material is sought by many consumers because of its beauty aspects and longevity. Many times, church and religious buildings use copper roofing materials because it gives the buildings a majestic appearance. This type of material is the least expensive of all the metal roofing materials. Copper roofs also require very little maintenance and are fire resistant.

Tin roofs are not among the most popular choices when it comes to choosing between metal roofing materials. Although it is inexpensive, tin has its drawbacks. This type of roofing material is prone to corrosion and rust if not properly maintained. It also is not wind resistant, so anyone living in an area that experiences tornadoes or hurricanes should not use tin as a roofing material.