Comparing the Different Types of Metal Roof Styles in Akron

Many Akron homeowners are surprised to learn that different types of metal roofing shingles exist. Looking for the best metal shingle for your roof material is not always a one-step process. There are many choices, such as classic aluminum, galvanized steel, galvalume steel, and copper. All these materials make great metal roofing but have different strengths and weaknesses. One material may play to the needs of your style, budget, and geographical location better than another. Here are a few advantages and disadvantages of each type of metal roof shingle:

Pros of Traditional Aluminum

Classic aluminum is one of the most popular choices for roofing material. Sources of aluminum are plentiful, and it makes a versatile, easy to install, and mostly durable roof. Benefits of aluminum roofing include:

• Lightweight
• Typically made from 90% – 95% recycled materials
• Does not rust
• Comes pre-painted
• Many diverse styles

Cons of Traditional Aluminum

• Not the most hail-resistant material of the options available
• More expensive than steel in most cases

Pros of Galvalume Steel

Galvalume steel is carbon or iron steel coated with an aluminum and zinc compound. It combines some of the best traits of aluminum and steel roofing, including that it is:

• Very corrosion resistant
• One of the strongest roofing materials
• More hail-resistant than aluminum alone
• Inexpensive compared to aluminum

Cons of Galvalume Steel

• It is more expensive than galvanized steel.
• It has the negative attributes of aluminum.
• It can exhibit staining from tension bending.
• It cannot go on all roof architectures, due to the way it must be cut with shearing.

Pros of Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is base carbon or iron steel with a coating of metallic zinc, which protects it from the elements. Its benefits include:

• It is very strong.
• It is one of the most affordable roofing options.
• It comes in almost any style or color.

Cons of Galvanized Steel

• Can rust if not installed properly
• Harder to install, due to needing to be cut with shears
• Has a shorter lifespan than other metal options have

Pros of Copper

Copper is one of the most luxurious and attractive types of roofing. You commonly see it on stately homes, churches, and historic buildings. Copper shingles are:

• Beautiful
• Easy to install
• Easy to solder for intricate installations

Cons of Copper

• It is expensive.
• Water runoff from a copper roof will stain certain other materials on the building.
• Natural patina takes a long time to achieve, unless it is treated beforehand.

If you are looking to compare types of metal shingles in Ohio, speak to the experts at Erie Metal Roofs today!