Metal roofs are rising in popularity for their appearance, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. Once you narrow it down to metal for the material, there are still more options to choose from.
A “metal roof” can include zinc roofing, copper roofing, aluminum, and steel.
At Western States Metal Roofing, when we refer to “metal”, we are referring to steel as that is the most popular type of metal roof and what most people mean when they refer to metal. While steel is the most common type of metal roofing material, aluminum is our second most popular choice due to its corrosion resistance.
In this article, we compare metal (steel) and aluminum roofing to help you decide which roofing material is the right fit for your next project.
Aluminum roofing is a roofing system made from lightweight, malleable, and corrosion resistant aluminum panels. Aluminum is a very unique type of material as it is the lightest roofing material available, but also has the highest strength to weight ratio of all types of metal roofing. Aluminum is available as aluminum panels and aluminum shingles.
Aluminum is used for architectural roofing and not structural roofing. Since it is corrosion resistant, an aluminum roof is great to use in coastal climates. Its exceptional durability and long lifespan of 40-60 years has made aluminum roofing increase in popularity in recent years.
A metal roofing system features metal panels, metal shingles, or metal tiles. As we mentioned earlier, metal refers to several different types of material although steel is the most popular type of metal roof and what we refer to when using the term “metal roof”. Steel roofs can also be galvalume steel, galvanized steel, or painted metal.
As you can see, there are a ton of variations available when it comes to metal roofing. But all types of metal are durable, energy efficient, and a “lifetime roof” that can last 40-60 years or more.
Metal roofs can come in two types: corrugated roof or a standing seam roof. Corrugated roofing has exposed fasteners while a standing seam metal roof has concealed fasteners, giving it extra resistance against leaks and a smoother, more polished appearance.
Aluminum does not rust which makes it the ideal material for coastal applications. The salt spray, that would cause rust on a steel roof, does not have the same effect on aluminum due to the aluminum oxide coating being highly corrosion resistant and renewing itself if any damage occurs.
The greater corrosion resistance of aluminum is one of its main advantages over steel. We recommend any projects within one mile of the ocean avoid using steel and instead use aluminum or another metal that is compatible in coastal areas.
Aluminum is the lightest roofing material and is roughly ⅓ the weight of steel. A lightweight roofing material makes for easier transport and installation, as well as putting less stress on the structure. However, the extra weight of steel also makes it more durable compared to aluminum.
Aluminum dissipates heat much faster than steel since it is a thinner material. This is especially beneficial to help keep your electric bill lower on hot days.
However, metal roofs in general are considered to be one of the most energy efficient materials- so either option will bring you considerable energy cost savings compared to other materials like shingle roofing.
Aluminum roofing can run up to 20%-30% more than steel roofing.
Steel is generally the lower cost roofing material compared to aluminum. In fact, steel is the lowest cost metal roofing material in general as it's also ¼ of the price of copper or zinc.
The price of aluminum and steel both fluctuate depending on factors like global issues and supply and demand. The cost also depends on the gauge and type of panel you choose.
The chart below gives an estimated price range for material only. For a specific estimate for your project, we suggest requesting a free quote.
|
Material |
Cost |
|
Corrugated Metal Cost |
$1.50 to $4.50 Per Sq. Ft. |
|
Standing Seam Metal Cost |
$2.50 to $5.00 Per Sq. Ft. |
|
Corrugated Aluminum Roofing Cost |
$3.50 to $5.50 Per Sq. Ft. |
|
Standing Seam Aluminum Roofing Cost |
$4.50 to $6.50 Per Sq. Ft. |
Aluminum is a softer metal when compared to steel which makes it more flexible and malleable. However, this also makes it more prone to dents. Hail, falling branches, or even walking on the roof can cause aluminum to dent from the weight compared to steel.
Using a thicker gauge aluminum will help with its strength and durability, but will also cost more.
Below is a summary of how aluminum roofing compares to metal roofing in areas in some of the most important areas.
|
Lower Cost |
Corrosion Resistant |
Durability |
More Color Choices |
Energy Efficiency |
Long Lasting |
|
|
Steel |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
|
Aluminum |
X |
X |
X |
The right material for your project largely depends on the specifications of that project as far as budget, climate, and preference. There are instances where one is the better roofing solution than the other.
Aluminum Roofing Is The Better Option:
Steel Roofing Is The Better Option:
Western States Metal Roofing offers steel panels in over 110 unique colors and finishes. Check out our color charts and free visualizer to see how our panels will look on your next project. Once you've picked out the products you're interested in, request a free quote.
We also now offer aluminum panels in both concealed fastener and exposed fastener panels. You can request a free quote for aluminum panels here.