First-Time Standing Seam Metal Roof Buyers: Read This First
Discover the top resources every homeowner should read before buying a metal roof — including tips on warranties, colors, materials, contractors, and more.
Thinking about buying a metal roof?
Investing in a new roof is a serious decision, and you want all the necessary information you need to make the right choice. In this article, we’ve compiled the best resources for first-time metal roof buyers, including:
- An overview of standing seam metal roofing
- Common metal roofing myths
- Metal roofing materials and paint systems
- Warranties
- How to find a contractor
- Maintenance best practices
- And more
The Basics of Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Check out the links below to get an overview of standing seam metal roofing — what it is, the different types, and best uses. A basic overview will let you get a bird’s eye view before diving into the details.
And be sure to look at our article on standing seam vs. exposed fastener — while both are types of metal roofs, they are very different in terms of installation, maintenance, and long-term durability.
We also included an article addressing the common myths associated with metal roofing, such as whether it’s noisy when it rains or if metal roofs attract lightning.
Materials, Metal Thickness, and Paint Systems
You can choose from a variety of different materials for your metal roof. Certain materials may provide better options based on where your project is located. Homeowners living on the coast will want to opt for aluminum, for example, as this material has a natural defense against saltwater corrosion.
In this section you’ll also find links to information on metal thicknesses. 24 and 26-gauge are the most commonly used on residential projects. 26-gauge is the more affordable option, while 24-gauge offers premium durability and protection from severe weather.
Similarly, when it comes to paint systems, SMP is the more cost-effective choice, while PVDF provides enhanced color retention, defense against chalking, and impressive aesthetics.
Materials
Metal Thickness
Paint Systems
Warranties
Metal roofs are known to last multiple decades without issue. But part of the longevity of a roof depends on how it’s installed and the quality of the materials used. To ensure your investment is protected, you want to get warranties you can trust — and know how to read the fine print so you know what’s covered.
The content below dives into warranties for metal roof and wall systems. Note that paint warranties cover only the paint coating on the metal, while substrate warranties cover the actual metal underneath. Workmanship warranties come from the contractor and promise that the quality of their work will meet a certain standard.
Colors, Styles, and Design
Appearance is part of the reason many people choose metal roofs for their homes. With sleek, modern aesthetics, metal roofs are also stylistically flexible and can fit in with a variety of designs.
But how do you get the look you’re envisioning?
Browse the links below to find actionable strategies for designing your metal roof, including how to choose the right color and common problems with metal roofing designs.
Finding a Contractor
The best way to get the metal roof you’re looking for on your home is to find the right contractor. A metal roofing contractor can guide you through the process of choosing materials, paint system, and design, so that you can gain all the advantages of modern metal roofing. The wrong contractor, on the other hand, may rush installation and make mistakes, which can lead to long-term structural issues for your metal roof.
These resources will help you narrow your search and find a contractor you can trust.
Installation, Maintenance, and Long-Term Value
While metal roofing is known to require little maintenance, it’s still important to know proper maintenance techniques and how to spot any installation errors before they cause serious issues. These resources will help you prepare your home for a metal roof installation and give you strategies for how to protect its value in the future.
Click these links to learn how to keep your roof performing as it should.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Ready to talk to an expert about buying a metal roof?
Sheffield Metals International (SMI) is a leading provider of metal coils, sheets, and accessories. We serve contractors and distributors all over the country with quality materials and expert support.
Sheffield Metals also has a Homeowner Hub, tailored specifically for people looking to buy a metal roof. In the Homeowner Hub you can find answers to frequently asked questions, seek out free, helpful resources, and submit a contractor referral request to our residential team. From there, Sheffield Metals can help connect you with a trusted contractor in our network. Feel free to reach out today.
