🔍 Key Features & Benefits
✅ 1. Durability & Longevity
-
50+ year lifespan (outlasts asphalt shingles 3x).
-
Impact-resistant (withstands hail, heavy winds up to 120–180 mph).
-
Rust-proof (galvalume/aluminum-zinc coating).
✅ 2. Weather Resistance
-
Fireproof (Class A fire rating).
-
UV-resistant (stone granules prevent fading).
-
Excellent in snow/ice (sheds buildup easily).
✅ 3. Aesthetic Versatility
-
Mimics clay tiles, wood shakes, or slate without the weight.
-
Available in multiple colors & textures (e.g., terracotta, gray, black).
✅ 4. Lightweight & Eco-Friendly
-
1/4 the weight of concrete/clay tiles (no structural reinforcement needed).
-
Recyclable at end of life.
✅ 5. Energy Efficiency
-
Cool roof options reflect solar heat, reducing AC costs.
🆚 Stone-Coated Metal vs. Other Roofing
| Feature | Stone-Coated Metal | Asphalt Shingles | Clay/Concrete Tiles | Traditional Metal Roofing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 50+ years | 15–30 years | 50–100 years | 40–70 years |
| Weight | Light (1.5–2.5 lb/sqft) | Light | Heavy (9–12 lb/sqft) | Light-Medium |
| Wind Resistance | 120–180 mph | 60–110 mph | 60–80 mph | Up to 160 mph |
| Cost | $$$ (Higher upfront, but long-term savings) | $ | $$$$ | $$ |
| Maintenance | Very Low | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
🏠 Best Applications
✔ Residential homes (luxury or historic-style designs).
✔ Coastal areas (salt-resistant).
✔ Wildfire-prone regions (fireproof).
✔ Commercial buildings (durable & stylish).
🛠️ Installation Basics
-
Deck Preparation
-
Requires solid plywood/OSB sheathing.
-
Install breathable underlayment (synthetic preferred).
-
-
Starter Strip & Flashing
-
Metal drip edge + ice/water shield in cold climates.
-
-
Tile Placement
-
Interlocking design for easy installation.
-
Fasten with corrosion-resistant screws (not nails).
-
-
Ridge & Hip Caps
-
Pre-formed metal caps seal the roof peak.
-
Labor: 2–4 days for an average home (faster than clay/slate).
⚠️ Potential Drawbacks
-
Higher upfront cost than asphalt or basic metal.
-
Requires professional installation for warranty validity.
-
Granule loss (rare, but can happen in extreme hail).
💰 Cost Estimate
-
Materials: 7–7–12 per sq. ft.
-
Installation: 3–3–6 per sq. ft.
-
Total: 10–10–18 per sq. ft. (vs. 4–4–8 for asphalt).
🚀 Top Brands to Consider
-
Decra Roofing (Most popular, realistic tile look).
-
Met-Tile (Budget-friendly).
-
Boral Steel (Best for extreme weather).
💡 Is Stone-Coated Metal Right for You?
Choose it if:
-
You want longevity + aesthetics without heavy tiles.
-
You live in a harsh climate (hurricanes, wildfires, snow).
-
You prefer low-maintenance roofing.
Avoid if:
-
You need the cheapest option (asphalt is better short-term).
-
You DIY (requires specialized installers).
