Metal Roofs made from aluminum, copper, steel and zinc are known for their longevity, fire resistance, and energy efficiency.
Easy to install, maintain, and replace, residential metal roofs provide excellent protection against the elements.
It’s in our name—Arapahoe Roofing and Sheet Metal is an expert in roll-formed metal. We roll-form our metal panels on-site to provide a precise, leak-free fit that will stand up to 4-season, Colorado weather.
Our team provides expert installation of both standing seam and flat seam metal roofs (and fabricates the accompanying gutter/downspout systems) to leave you with a long-lasting, weather-proof roof.
Not all metal roofs are created equal—and there are four main metal roofing materials you’ll need to know about before making a decision.
While our team can procure and install specialized materials such as stone-coated steel or metal shingles, we’ll stick with the basics. The big four are aluminum, copper, steel and zinc.
Steel
Steel roofing is by far the most popular metal roofing material in use today. Steel is affordable, fire-resistant, and can last 40-70 years with minimal maintenance. Steel is the most impact and damage-resistant option available, though it’s not quite as corrosion-resistant as copper, zinc, or aluminum. Still, the availability and affordability of steel give it the top spot on our list.
Aluminum
Corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and easy to install, aluminum is a versatile option regarding metal roofing. Due to its malleability, aluminum roof panels can be shaped to fit almost any architectural feature, including turrets and dormers. Aluminum roofing can last 50+ years, is easy to maintain, and comes in a variety of formats. Aluminum roofing, however, is not a popular choice in Colorado due to our dry climate. It is better suited to high- humidity climates.
Copper
From a bright, metallic orange to deep blue-green oxidation, you’ll know a copper roof when you see one. Copper is prized for its ever-changing beauty, but that’s not the best part about it—copper roofs are known as “lifetime roofs” meaning they can last for 80-100 years!
Zinc
Like copper, zinc is considered a “lifetime roof.” Due to its high cost, zinc isn’t widely used—but if you’re willing to make the investment, you’ll have a robust roof unlike any other. When exposed to oxygen and moisture, zinc roofing forms a beautiful blue-gray patina that will help prevent corrosion.
Looking for a quick and easy answer on which material is right for your roof? We’ve got you covered. See the advantages and disadvantages of each roofing material below, and don’t forget to check out our detailed list of pros/cons further down the page!
• Affordable
• Low-Maintenance
• Many Color & Style Options
• Less Corrosion Resistance
• Relatively Shorter Lifespan
• Weight
• Corrosion Resistant
• Lightweight
• Malleable
• Fewer Color Options
• Higher Cost (relative to steel)
• Prone to Dents & Damage
• Not well suited for our dry climate
• Corrosion Resistant
• Easy to Install
• Lightweight & Long-Lasting
• Expensive
• Prone to Dents & Damage
• Limited Availability
• Corrosion Resistant
• Long Lifespan
• Unique Patina
• Chalking (white streaks on high-moisture areas of a roof)
• Expensive
• Limited Availability
Residential Metal Roofing
So, you’ve got the details on material options for your metal roof…
But the type of metal roof you choose is just as important (if not more important) than the material.
Regarding choosing a metal roofing type, you’ll have two main options: standing seam, and exposed fastener (flat seam).
Standing Seams (a.k.a. Concealed Fastener Roofing – These roofs have a flat metal area in the middle and vertical seams, or legs, on both ends. Those seams or “legs” are locked together, and secured with fasteners hidden beneath. Standing seam roofing is high-end, low maintenance, and provides exceptional weather resistance.
Flat Seams (a.k.a Exposed Fastener Roofing) – Generally considered the more economical option, exposed fastener roofing consists of overlapping sheets of metal secured with exposed fasteners. The fasteners are driven through both panels (where they overlap) to provide a secure fit.
We’ll be the first to tell you that standing seam roofs are the industry standard, especially for residential roofs. Standing seam roofs tend to provide a cleaner, more attractive look.
Having installed metal roofs across Colorado for the past 50 years, we’ve found that they simply hold up better. Exposed fastener roofing has its benefits, but those fasteners can compromise your roof after years of wear and tear.
When it comes to standing seam applications, Arapahoe Roofing is an expert in rolled-formed metal. The process consists of shaping the metal panels for a precise fit to ensure your roof system will last a lifetime.
Keep all this in mind as we dive deeper into the pros and cons of each metal roofing type below…
Here in Colorado, metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their durability, affordability, and longevity. Still, every roof type has its pros and cons—and metal roofing is no exception.
We recognize the importance of having the right roof over your head, and we’re here to help you make the right choice.
Metal roofing is relatively low maintenance and environmentally friendly.
Metal roofs made from steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc are known for their longevity, fire resistance, and energy efficiency.
Metal roofs can be of standing seam or exposed fastener construction.
Metal roofs have a Class A fire rating.
Our roofing experts will help you find the perfect solution for your home
