A properly installed metal roof outlasts two asphalt roofs and pays for itself in longevity, energy efficiency, and resale value. It's not for every house — but on the right one, it's the last roof you'll ever buy.
Standing-seam vs stamped metal
Standing-seam (vertical panels, raised seams) is the gold standard — mechanically seamed in the field, concealed fasteners, no exposed screw heads to fail. Stamped metal (looks like shingles, shake, or tile) is a great choice when you want the longevity of metal without the modern aesthetic. Both go onto the same underlayment system.
When You Actually Need This
- You want a 50+ year roof and don't plan to move
- Architecturally-modern home or historic restoration
- Low-slope sections that won't accept shingles
- Solar planned now or later (metal + clamp-on solar = no penetrations)
