Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof Worth It? Pros, Cons, and More Information.

Looking at newer homes or commercial buildings, you may notice standing seam metal roofing systems growing in popularity. These durable roofs with clean lines and polished looks are versatile roofing options for many types of buildings and homes. And if you’re interested in a metal roof for your property, you’re likely wondering if a standing seam metal roof is worth it.

In this post, we’ll go over the main pros and cons of standing seam metal roofs and how they can benefit both residential and commercial properties. We’ll also explain why you might choose a standing seam metal roof. Keep reading to find out if a standing seam metal roof is right for you!

What is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?

A standing seam metal roof is a roof system comprised of metal panels that are locked together at the seams or vertical legs. This creates raised lines along the roof. The panels are designed to lock together, and they are mounted to the roof using hidden clips that keep the roof secure.

This design is also used to create walls on metal buildings. The main idea is that the fasteners on the metal are hidden, creating a sleek appearance that is still durable.

Pros of Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam metal roofing has a lot of benefits for homeowners and business owners alike. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles or more specialty roofing materials like slate or tile, metal has a few key traits that make it stand apart from the rest.

1. Durability: Metal roofs in general are far more durable than most other roofing materials. When it comes to standing up to storms, hail, high winds, and debris, metal reigns supreme.
2. Longevity: Metal roofs can last decades with minimal issues. With proper maintenance, your metal roof will last you a very long time.
3. Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs tend to have better efficiency stats compared to other materials. Metal is more reflective than other materials, meaning it reflects solar heat. This can help you save on energy costs.
4. Low Maintenance: Unlike other roofing systems, metal requires minimal upkeep and repairs over time. All you need to do is get inspections, keep an eye out for damage, and keep the roof clean.
5. Fire Resistance: Metal is a non-combustible material, meaning in the event of a fire, your roof will be less prone to significant damage compared to other materials.

Cons of Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Any roofing material will have cons to go along with its pros! Here are a few potential drawbacks to metal roofing to consider.

1. Potential Noise: During rain or hail, metal tends to be louder than other materials from the impact of weather. The key to avoiding this is good insulation and roof decking that can absorb the noise.
2. Warping/Oil Canning: Warping or oil canning can happen to any metal roof, especially if not properly installed. The metal expands and contracts with temperature changes. If the panels are fastened incorrectly, this natural contraction and expansion can cause warping or rippling in the panels.
3. Cost: Standing seam metal roofing is an investment, and the initial cost of one is higher than many other roofing materials. In turn, though, you get what you pay for in terms of longevity and minimal maintenance.

Benefits of Standing Seam Metal Roofs for Homes and Residences

For homeowners, standing seam metal roofs offer a few key benefits that you may be looking for.

Metal roofing in general is extremely durable and will last you quite a bit longer than other roofing systems. Because it requires very minimal maintenance, you don’t have to worry about damage from storms or debris. So long as you are getting regular inspections, your roof won’t be a major concern.

Alongside this, they are also energy efficient and aesthetically pleasing. Their sleek lines complement a variety of home styles and there are a lot of options when it comes to color and finish. They can be used in both traditional and more contemporary styles of homes. 

Benefits of Standing Seam Metal Roofs for Commercial Applications

Commercial buildings, from offices to garages and beyond, can benefit from standing seam metal roofs as well.

They are a great long-term investment for their durability and minimal maintenance requirements, which means they can save you money in the long run and protect your building as a whole. They also can help ease energy costs in warmer and cooler months, potentially lowering energy bills from heating and cooling your building.

Standing seam metal is also very visually appealing and is a great match for businesses that want curb appeal and durability. They look professional, sleek, and polished, which is why they are growing in popularity for businesses.

Why Choose a Standing Seam Metal Roof?

Here are a few reasons why you might choose a standing seam metal roof over other materials or systems:

1. Long-Term Investment: If you want a roof that you don’t have to worry about and will last you decades, standing seam metal is the way to go. All you need to worry about is regular inspections.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: Standing seam metal complements a variety of building styles, from residential to commercial. They can also increase the value of a property.
3. Energy Efficiency: If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option or a roofing system that will help you save on heating and cooling costs, metal is a great option. Its reflective surface gives it great energy efficiency properties.
4. Durability and Safety: Metal is much less prone to damage and much more fire-resistant than other roofing systems. With metal, you don’t need to worry about hail, high winds, or snow causing significant damage to your roof.

Final Thoughts

Standing seam metal roofing is definitely a higher upfront investment in terms of roofing options, but it makes up for its superior durability, longevity, and efficiency. For many home and business owners, this roofing system offers many key benefits that other materials may not.

If you’re looking for standing seam metal roofing or other roofing systems for your property, reach out to us at Statewide Roofing. We offer a variety of commercial and residential roofing systems and work of roofs all over the state of Oklahoma. Call us or reach out on our contact page for a free estimate, and learn more about us and our services by reading our blog.