Residential Metal Roofing

Upgrade Your Roof and Improve Your Home’s Efficiency with Arapahoe's Customizable Residential Metal Roofing Solutions

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.

Metal Roofing

Construction & Features

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.

The Advantages & Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

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!

Steel

Advantages

• Affordable
• Low-Maintenance
• Many Color & Style Options

Disadvantages

• Less Corrosion Resistance
• Relatively Shorter Lifespan
• Weight

Aluminum

Advantages

• Corrosion Resistant
• Lightweight
• Malleable

Disadvantages

• Fewer Color Options
• Higher Cost (relative to steel)
• Prone to Dents & Damage
• Not well suited for our dry climate

Copper

Advantages

• Corrosion Resistant
• Easy to Install
• Lightweight & Long-Lasting

Disadvantages

• Expensive
• Prone to Dents & Damage
• Limited Availability

Zinc

Advantages

• Corrosion Resistant
• Long Lifespan
• Unique Patina

Disadvantages

• Chalking (white streaks on high-moisture areas of a roof)
• Expensive
• Limited Availability

Residential Metal Roofing

Standing Seam vs. Exposed Fastener 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…

Architectural Sheet Metal

In-House Custom Metal Fabrication

Once you’ve selected fits and finishes for your metal roof, our team can help design custom metalwork that’s both functional and beautiful.

We’re one of only a handful of roofing companies to offer custom, in-house metal fabrication. Our experienced technicians can craft just about every architectural element imaginable…

Turrets and Dormers - Our roofing experts can shape your roll-formed metal roofing to fit turrets and dormers.

Chimney Shrouds - Shrouds are used to protect the top of your chimney(s). Shrouds offer a blank canvas for customizations—and if you have a creative vision for your chimney shroud, our team can bring it to life.

Scuppers & Catchheads - Catchheads provide overflow protection at the roofline, channeling water through scuppers. While they’re a vital part of your gutter system, scuppers, and catch heads can also be customized to give your roofline some extra flair.

Snow Guards - Snow guards prevent snow and ice from falling on areas that could be hazardous (e.g., walkways, balconies, etc.).
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The Pros & Cons of Metal Roofing

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.

The Pros of Metal Roofing

The Cons of Metal Roofing

Key Points

Metal Roofing

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.

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