If you’re installing a new roof on your home, you have many different materials to choose from, including metal, asphalt shingles, and natural slate. Many homeowners select metal for its durability and easy maintenance. However, there are several different types of metal frequently used for residential roofing, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Learn about some of the most common metals below so you can make the best decision for your home.

3 Common Metals Used for Residential Roofing

1. Aluminum

Because it will never rust, aluminum is an ideal material for roofing. It comes in many styles, including shake, shingle, tile, and sheet options. It’s also easy to recycle, and most new aluminum roofing is composed primarily of recycled material, making it an environmentally friendly option. However, it’s more expensive than other metal options, and its lightweight nature makes it more susceptible to damage from hail.

2. Steel

There are several varieties of steel used in roofing, including galvanized steel, Galvalume®, and weathering steel. The first is coated with zinc to protect the steel from corroding. The second uses a mixture of aluminum and zinc to accomplish the same result. Weathering steel contains an outer layer that rusts, thereby protecting its inner layer. The first two are better suited for residential roofing, as they’ll be durable for years to come without the worry of rust. Weathering steel isn’t typically used for structural purposes. Galvanized steel is one of the more affordable types of metal, but it may have a lower lifespan if installed incorrectly.

3. Zinc

Zinc is used in galvanized steel, but it can also be used as a roofing material on its own. It’s a self-healing metal, which means that scratches in the surface will be gradually filled in. Like aluminum, most zinc roofing is made from recycled material. However, this metal is susceptible to chalking, leaving a residue as the metal forms a patina that some may find unattractive.

When you’ve found the right material for your residential roofing, have the contractors at Columbia Roofing Inc. in Elkridge, MD, install it. For over three decades, their team of experts has offered roofing and gutter repairs and installations, new siding, and window and door replacement for homeowners and businesses throughout Maryland. To learn about their areas of expertise, visit them online. Call them at (410) 479-6100 to discuss your project.