3 Common Types of Metal Used in Residential Metal Roofing

Whether you want an entire metal roof system or just want a metal roof over your screened-in porch, you’re going to have to decide on the type of metal. The truth is, there’s no wrong answer.

You have to choose the type of metal that fits your situation, the look you want, and your budget to hire a metal roof specialist. While there are plenty of options to choose from, there are 3 we see more often in residential roofing. 

1. Steel metal roofing

The most commonly used metal for residential roofing (for accent purposes and entire roof systems) is steel. Steel comes in 24” or 26” gauge for standing seam metal roof panels. 

The differences in the gauges of steel panels are in their thickness; the higher the number, the thinner it is. Because 26” gauge steel metal roof panels are thinner, they have a higher chance of oil canning. 

No matter what type of steel is used, the most important thing is that the metal roof panels have the Kynar 500 painted finish. 

2. Copper metal roofing

Copper is another popular choice for residential metal roofing. Instead of gauges like steel, copper comes in ounces (16, 20, 30, 60, 90). 

In residential roofing, 16-ounce copper is the most commonly used. You can use copper for an entire standing seam metal roof system, but it could easily cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. 

That’s why copper is used more for accent purposes on luxury shingles, slate roofs, and cedar shake roofs. It can be used for roof flashing, chimney caps, covered porches, bay windows, etc. 

While copper is a great upgrade to a roof, it’s also a lifetime roofing material. Once it’s installed on your roof, you’ll never have to worry about it again. 

3. Stainless steel metal roofing

While not as commonly used, stainless steel is another option for residential metal roofing. Just like steel, stainless steel comes in gauges. 

It’s going to give you the same look as galvanized metal, but it won’t rust (depending on your area’s climate). Because of this, it’s not going to have the Kynar 500 or any other type of painted finish on the metal roof panels. 

Stainless steel is also a lifetime roofing material like copper. But what sets stainless steel apart from copper and 24” gauge steel is that it’s a tougher material. 

It’s less likely to get damaged from hail storms or other dings that hit the metal roof panels. While you can get an entire stainless steel metal roof system, it’s going to be even more expensive than copper. 

I recommend using stainless steel for accent purposes like copper. But at the end of the day, it’s up to you and your budget.