Choosing the right roof for your home is a big decision, and metal roofing research can turn confusing fast. Between unfamiliar terminology and a range of metal roof panels to sort through, it is easy to feel unsure of where to start, and picking the wrong option can mean paying for a panel that does not hold up to your climate or fit the look you wanted. Getting familiar with the most common metal roofing types before that first contractor conversation puts the decision back in your hands.
Metal Roofing and Why Homeowners Are Choosing It
Metal roofing is built from steel panels engineered for long-term durability, which means fewer replacement cycles than materials like asphalt shingles. Steel roofing, well steel in general, has an extremely high melting point of well above 1,480°C which is 2,696 °F making it very fire resistant in comparison to asphalt shingles melting point most likely within the ranges of 300°F and 500°F (150°C to 260°C) which is very important in the pacific northwest during wildfire season. Steel roofing is also highly recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for a long-term roofing solution. The reflective properties of metal roof panels can reduce heat absorption, contributing to energy savings, and their resistance to pests and weather means less to worry about once the panels are installed. Steel is typically not attracting pests as it is not an easy organic material to make into an animal den or pest home like exposed wood is. These qualities are something homeowners rely on, and why many have chosen Miramac’s metal roofing panels to protect their homes for the long term.
Concealed vs. Exposed Fastener: The First Choice to Make
Before comparing specific metal roofing types, it helps to understand one distinction that shapes both appearance and cost: how the panel is fastened down.
- Concealed fastener panels, such as the GR80 Snap Lock, and Pro-Fit hide the fastening hardware beneath the panel. This produces a sleek, modern design with enhanced durability, though it may come at a higher price point. Concealed fasteners are the superior panel design for roofing applications that need to be weather tight for many years.
- Exposed fastener panels have visible screws driven through the panel face. A clean screw pattern can produce a very nice look. This construction can be more economical while still offering low-maintenance performance. Miramac metals offers matching colors in exposed fasteners to concealed fasteners so a popular trend is to mix and match to create strong curb appeal and to meet budgetary needs. Miramac offers of 60 color options so you can easily create your desired look.
The Most Common Metal Roofing Panels and What Sets Each Apart
Once the fastener basics are clear, the specific metal roofing panel types are easier to compare. Below are a few of the most common. Miramac Metals is an industry innovator and they offer many panel styles beyond what is most common. For all panel styles you can visit the All Products page.
- Snap Lock Panel (GR80 Snap Lock): The concealed fastener system creates clean, continuous lines and a contemporary look. It is built for durability and requires minimal upkeep. This is the best and most cost effective concealed fastener residential roofing options with a roof pitch above a 3:12. For roof pitches below a 3:12 the Pro-Fit panel with a higher rib and clip system is a great option for residential projects. The Pro-Fit panel is a more commercial application panel that is trending to be used on single low slope modern building designs on homes, garages, and commercial projects.
- Corrugated Panels: This is the classic, wave-patterned profile many people associate with the term “tin roof,” though today’s version is manufactured steel that comes in over 60 colors not just a silver wavey look. Miramac offers this style with their Designer Panel, which can be installed vertically or horizontally and comes in a broad range of colors and textures. This is a great wainscot or accent panel to match a roof as an option to add depth and curb appeal to your project.
- Tuff Rib: A versatile, long-lasting panel that can be installed over wood, steel, or other specified and confirmed substrates. It performs well in both interior and exterior applications and is valued for its durability and low-maintenance care. Tuff Rib is economical in price, and it’s design profile is one of the industries first innovations making it very well tested and widely used. You won’t get the most modern panel style, but your buying a tried and true design profile.
- PBR panels: A more economical option when your building gets larger or has steel framing. This is an exposed fastener option that offers a practical alternative to composition or tile roofing especially when wanting to span purlins further than your average pole building spacing. It is especially well suited to areas that see heavy snow or need a light commercial panel.
Choosing the Right Panel for Your Home and Budget
The right panel comes down to a few practical factors specific to your project.
- Budget: Installation of exposed fastener panels tend to cost less upfront than concealed fastener systems however concealed fastener systems perform better in all weather conditions as specifically a roofing product. Siding concealed fasteners are for look more than anything else structural. For roofing concealed fasteners are worth the spend for functionality and performance. On the walls its about what you want the look to be more than the weather the building is exposed to. Walls don’t carry things the roof must like the snow load. Additionally, uplift is less of a factor on a wall. If you don’t have the budget for concealed fasteners on both roof and walls, the roof is the more practical decision to put a concealed fastener on vs the walls.
- Aesthetic: A sleek, modern roofline points toward standing seam, while a more textured, classic look points toward a corrugated panel profile. The buildings with concealed fasteners on both roof and walls typically look more clean and have superior performance in extreme weather conditions.
- Climate: Areas with heavy snow or strong wind benefit from panels built for that kind of performance.
- Finish: Color and texture also play a role. Miramac’s metal roofing finishes and color coatings make it easier to match your home’s style. Miramac manufactures materials in over 60 color options. Mix and match panels and paint coatings to create beautiful curb appeal.
Reach out to a local roofing professional to help weigh these factors against your specific home and climate.
Explore Miramac’s Metal Roofing Options
Now that you know the most common metal roofing types, concealed versus exposed fastener, snap lock, corrugated, and tuff rib metal roof panels, you’re in a much better position to choose with confidence. When you’re ready to talk specifics, request a custom quote for your next project and a Miramac representative can walk you through the details.
