Getting the Most Out of Your Metal Roofing: Choosing Colors, Styles and Materials

A metal roof is a big investment. Not only is it an investment in your home’s beauty but also in its durability and energy efficiency. Don’t just settle for any color or style of roofing; ensure that you are choosing the best fit for your needs. Below we will discuss some factors which will help you get the most out of your metal roofing.

Choosing a Style

The first step in getting the most out of your metal roofing is to choose a style that is attractive, effective, and fits your home. Metal roofing can be made to mimic the look of many other materials, including clay tile, slate, asphalt shingles, and more. If you’re going for a rustic or country look, consider a standing seam metal roof. This type of metal roof has raised seams running down the middle of the panels, creating shadow lines that give it extra depth and dimension. Another great option with a rustic appeal is corrugated metal. Corrugated metal has ridges and grooves that run across its face rather than running up and down like conventional metal panel systems. It creates a pattern reminiscent of traditional tin roofs on barns and sheds.

Choosing a Color

When considering what color to choose for your metal roof, you’re probably thinking about the style of your home—you want to make sure the new roof complements the home’s architectural design. But there are a few more factors you should keep in mind before making a decision.

First, you’ll need to know how much sun exposure your roof gets each day. If you live in an area with lots of sunlight and heat, a lighter color may be best to help keep your home cool during the hot summer months. Conversely, if you live in an area with little to no sun exposure or high rainfall, a darker color may help absorb more warmth and moisture.

If you find yourself unable to decide between two colors, consider purchasing extra materials and coating half of your roof one color and the rest another. That way, if you decide later that you don’t like it, you can easily correct it by repainting the other half without having to buy more materials.

Keep in mind that whatever color you choose will impact the value of your home as well as its upkeep—the lighter the material, the easier it is to spot any dirt or debris that needs cleaning up.

Choosing a Metal

The main types of metals used in roofing are copper, steel, and aluminum. Each has its pros and cons. For example, copper roofs are more expensive than steel or aluminum but are more durable and require less maintenance (and according to some sources, they also have antimicrobial properties that can help improve indoor air quality). Steel is more affordable than copper but will require more maintenance over time—and it can be prone to rust unless treated properly. Aluminum is also very durable and requires little care, but it is susceptible to denting in the event of a harsh hail storm.

When it comes to style, you’ll have several options for each type of metal. Galvanized steel, for example, can be made from coatings that give it colors like black or green—which means there’s no shortage of variety when it comes to picking a metal roof for your home.

When it comes to metal roofing, you almost always get the most with a combination of options. The best combination for your home should depend on the style of home you have, the style of metal you choose, and, of course, the budget you’re working from. The best way to get things figured out is to mix and match to see what works best for you.