Best Metal Roofing Types & Products For Pittsburgh Homes

Metal roofing offers Pittsburgh homeowners an ideal solution for the region’s challenging climate. From scorching summers to frigid winters, Pittsburgh’s weather demands a roofing solution that can withstand the test of time. Whether you’re looking to replace your existing roof or embark on a new home renovation project, this guide explores the metal roofing possibilities that work best for local conditions.

Understanding The Climate Of Pittsburgh 

As a Pittsburgh homeowner, understanding the climate of your region is crucial when making decisions about your home, including the choice of roofing materials. Pittsburgh experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. The city receives ample rainfall throughout the year, with Pittsburgh averaging 35-40 inches of annual precipitation and 40-45 inches of snowfall, with snow being common during winter months.

 

Why Metal Roofs Are Best For Your Pittsburgh Home

Metal roofs are the most popular roofing style after asphalt shingles. Residential metal roofing now captures 15-20% of the U.S. market and accounts for 50-60% of total metal roofing market revenues. This growing popularity stems from the wide range of benefits they offer, including the ones listed below.  

Weather Resistance

Weather resistance is an important aspect of a roof, and it’s what sets all types of metal roofs apart. Metal roofs are incredibly sturdy and are able to withstand harsh weather conditions that are common in Pittsburgh, such as heavy snowfall and high winds. So if you install a metal roof, you shouldn’t have to worry about the effects of these conditions.

Longevity

When properly installed, a metal roof can easily last for more than 50 years, reducing long-term maintenance and replacement costs. Some metal roofing options, such as copper and zinc, can even last 80 to 100 years.

Energy Efficiency

Another reason you might want to consider metal for your roofing system is that it can improve the energy efficiency of your property. Metal roofs reflect heat, which can help reduce cooling costs by up to 35%, which can be very helpful when it comes to managing your bills.

Environmentally Friendly

The majority of the metal roofs, such as aluminum or steel, are typically made from reusable materials and are 100% recyclable at the end of their life. This helps to reduce the amount of waste associated with your project.

Aesthetic Appeal

Metal roofs add a sleek, modern look to your property and are available in a variety of colors and styles to match any home design. Nowadays, there are even different textures available, such as stone-coated steel roofs, which we will cover in a later section.

Cost Effectiveness

The initial cost of metal roofs may be higher than asphalt shingles, but their durability, low maintenance needs, energy efficiency, and curb appeal make up for the cost over the years. Metal roofing systems are the most cost-effective options when compared to other premium materials like slate and clay tiles.

Best Types Of Metal Roof Materials 

Metal roofing is a fantastic choice for Pennsylvania homes, offering durability, energy efficiency, and a stunning aesthetic. However, it’s important to note that there are various styles and materials involved, each with its own unique features and benefits. In the following section, we’ll delve into these options.

Material	Cost Per Sq. Ft.	Lifespan (Years)	Key Benefits
Aluminum	$4-11	40-50	Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, ideal for high humidity
Galvanized Steel	$7-12	40-60	Zinc-coated, affordable, strong
Galvalume Steel	$5-13	40-70	Superior corrosion resistance, aluminum-zinc coating
Weathering Steel	$6-11	40-70	Protective rust-like patina, distinctive appearance
Stone-Coated Steel	$7-13	40-70	Enhanced durability, noise reduction, mimics traditional roofing
Zinc	$6-15	60-100	Self-healing, minimal maintenance, European heritage
Copper	$15-30	70-100+	Premium aesthetics, antimicrobial, develops patina

Aluminum

Cost: $4-11 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-50 years

Aluminum roofing is a popular choice for homes in Pittsburgh. Due to its minimal use of iron, it is able to offer supreme resistance to corrosion. Aluminum is particularly suitable for coastal areas or places with high humidity due to its natural corrosion resistance. Aluminum also has a lightweight nature, making it easy to install and typically not requiring reinforcement of the home’s framework. This material is also highly energy-efficient, reflecting the sun’s rays instead of absorbing heat. It’s a long-term investment that can save you money in the long run.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel roofing is another excellent option for your home. While steel roofs are prone to rusting, this is not the case for stainless steel. Known for its immense strength, durability, and resistance to rust, stainless steel can withstand Pennsylvania’s harsh winters. However, it’s on the pricier side.

Galvanized Steel

Cost: $7-12 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-60 years

Galvanized steel features a protective zinc coating that provides excellent corrosion resistance. This affordable option offers strong structural performance and is a popular choice for homeowners seeking durability without premium pricing.

Galvalume Steel

Cost: $5-13 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-70 years

Galvalume steel combines aluminum and zinc coatings to provide superior corrosion resistance compared to galvanized steel. This material offers excellent performance in most environments, though it can be reactive in highly alkaline or acidic conditions.

Weathering Steel

Cost: $6-11 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-70 years

Weathering steel develops a protective rust-like patina over time that actually shields the underlying metal from further corrosion. This distinctive appearance creates a unique aesthetic that appeals to homeowners seeking an industrial or rustic look.

Stone-Coated Steel

Cost: $7-13 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-70 years

Stone-coated steel consists of steel panels coated with stone granules, creating a textured finish that can mimic asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or wood shakes. This material offers enhanced durability and increased energy efficiency through better insulation properties. The stone coating also reduces noise from rain and hail, making it an excellent choice for homeowners concerned about sound. The textured surface helps prevent snow and ice buildup, which is particularly beneficial for Pittsburgh winters. Stone-coated steel is available in shake, tile, and shingle profiles and offers excellent resistance to wind, hail, and fire.

Zinc

Cost: $6-15 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 60-100 years

Zinc roofing, though not as popular as aluminum and steel, can add immense value to your home. Zinc has been a staple in European architecture for over 200 years. It is prized for its ability to heal itself, which means that if it gets scratched, the zinc reacts with carbon dioxide and water in the atmosphere to form a protective zinc carbonate layer. This self-healing property allows minor scratches and blemishes to repair themselves naturally over time, minimizing maintenance requirements and making it cost-effective in the long run. Besides its self-healing properties, zinc roofs are also 100% recyclable, making them a sustainable choice.

Copper

Cost: $15-30 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 70-100+ years

Copper is an upscale, premium roofing material that is golden in color and offers superb aesthetic appeal. This is lightweight and has a life expectancy of over 100 years, with some historic buildings featuring copper roofs that have lasted centuries. Copper has natural antimicrobial properties that help reduce moss and algae growth on the roof. Copper can also be recycled, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Another unique quality of a copper roof is that it naturally develops a unique green patina. However, the major issue with copper metal roofs is they are more expensive than other metals and require professional installation.

There is another alternative available: faux copper roofs. You can read more about them in our recent blog post.

What Are The Different Types Of Metal Roofing Systems?

Building upon our exploration of the top materials used in metal roofing, let’s now go over the metal roofing types and styles that are quite popular amongst homeowners. The following table compares the different installation systems available:

System Type	Cost Per Sq. Ft.	Lifespan (Years)	Best For	Key Advantage
Standing Seam	$7-18	50-75	Modern homes, snow-prone areas	Concealed fasteners, superior snow shedding
Corrugated Metal	$3-12	40-70	Rustic/farmhouse styles, budget-conscious	Most affordable, quick installation
Metal Shingles	$6-14	40-70	Traditional homes, easy repairs	Wind resistance up to 120+ mph, modular design
Stone-Coated	$7-13	40-70	Noise reduction, traditional aesthetics	Quietest option, mimics asphalt/tile/wood

#1 Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Cost: $7-18 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 50-75 years

Standing seam metal roofs are among the most popular choices for Pittsburgh homeowners seeking a sleek and modern aesthetic. 60-70% of roofing professionals specify or install standing seam panels. As the name suggests, these metal roof panels are distinguished by their standing seams. These roofs consist of vertical metal panels with raised seams that securely interlock.

Standing seam metal roofs feature a concealed fastener system, which means that the panels of your metal roof do not have visible screws on the top.

Pros

• The raised seams create a tight, waterproof seal, providing excellent protection against heavy rain, snow, and high winds.
• A standing seam metal roof has one of the best-looking designs. The clean lines and contemporary look add a touch of class to any home.
• Standing seam roofs often have reflective coatings that help to reduce heat absorption.
• The smooth surface and vertical seams allow snow to slide off easier than textured materials, making them particularly ideal for Pittsburgh winters.
• Many systems can accommodate solar panel installation without penetrating the roof surface.

Cons

• While it is one of the best systems around, it is sometimes criticized for its price, which is higher than the other styles.
• The concealed fastener systems increase durability, but they make the roof difficult to install.

#2 Corrugated Metal Roof 

Cost: $3-12 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-70 years

Corrugated metal roofs are also a popular choice amongst Pittsburgh homeowners due to their remarkable strength, affordability, and versatility. These roofs consist of wavy panels with alternating ridges and valleys, creating a distinct appearance.

Unlike a standing seam metal roof, which relies on hidden fasteners, a corrugated metal roof has an exposed fastening system. The panels are attached with nails and screws, visible on the roof’s surface.

Pros

• The corrugated design adds structural strength, allowing these roofs to withstand heavy snow loads, strong winds, and impact from debris. The corrugated design strengthens the metal, allowing thinner sheets with excellent structural performance.
• Corrugated metal roofs can be used on various types of buildings, from residential homes to agricultural structures.
• A wide variety of color options are available.
• The lightweight nature of corrugated metal panels makes them relatively easy to install, potentially reducing installation time and costs.
• Modern versions feature advanced coatings for enhanced corrosion resistance.
• Works particularly well on homes with rustic, industrial, or farmhouse-inspired designs.

Cons

• The biggest issue you can face with a corrugated metal roof is the presence of exposed fasteners. These tend to make your roof vulnerable to leaks.
• Exposed fastener design means rubber washers on fasteners may need periodic checking and replacement to prevent leaks.

#3 Metal Shingles

Cost: $6-14 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-70 years

From classic metal panels, let us move to more modern metal shingles. This is a type of roofing material made of metal but with the look of the popular asphalt shingles.

Metal shingles or tiles offer a unique blend of elegance and durability, replicating the appearance of traditional roofing materials like slate or wood. Metal shingles can be made from steel, aluminum, or even materials like zinc or copper. This type of roofing is ideal for areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, as it can withstand both hot and cold weather conditions.

Pros

• They are designed to mimic the appearance of traditional roofing materials while offering superior longevity.
• Metal shingles come in a variety of styles and finishes, providing homeowners the flexibility to achieve the desired look for their homes.
• These shingles are engineered to resist fading, cracking, and warping, ensuring a long-lasting roofing solution.
• Many products are rated for winds up to 120 mph or more, providing excellent wind resistance.
• The modular design allows for simpler repair of individual shingles without affecting the entire roof.
• Relatively simple installation for experienced contractors generally results in lower labor costs than standing seam roofs.

Cons

The major issue with metal roof shingles is their high price point. Metal shingles are generally more expensive than other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or wood shakes. This can be a significant factor if you are on a budget.t

#4 Stone-Coated Roofs

Cost: $7-13 per sq. ft. | Lifespan: 40-70 years

Another variation of metal shingles is a stone-coated roof. Stone-coated metal roofs are gaining popularity among homeowners in Pittsburgh for their unique combination of durability, aesthetic appeal, and longevity. These roofs consist of metal panels coated with a layer of natural stone chips, creating a visually stunning and textured appearance that mimics the look of traditional roofing materials like clay tiles or slate.

Pros

• One of the key advantages of stone-coated metal roofs is their longevity. They offer the durability of metal, with the added benefit of the stone layer protecting against fading, cracking, and warping over time.
• Stone-coated metal roofs also provide excellent energy efficiency. The metal base also reflects the sunlight, reducing heat absorption.
• The textured surface helps prevent snow and ice buildup, particularly beneficial for Pittsburgh winters.
• Stone-coated roofs actually help reduce noise from rain and hail compared to smooth metal surfaces.

Cons

• Like the other metal roofing types we have talked about, there is an issue of cost when it comes to this metal roof.
• Proper insulation is recommended to maximize noise reduction benefits.

How To Choose The Right Type Of Metal Roof For Your Property

Selecting the perfect metal roof for your Pittsburgh home involves considering several key factors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best decision for your specific needs and circumstances.

Consider Your Budget

Metal roofing options fall into three main budget categories:

• Low-Cost Options ($3-13/sq ft): Corrugated metal and galvanized steel offer excellent value for budget-conscious homeowners
• Mid-Range Options ($7-13/sq ft): Standing seam and stone-coated steel provide a balance of performance and cost
• Premium Options ($6-30/sq ft): Copper and zinc deliver exceptional longevity and aesthetics for luxury applications

Remember to consider long-term value over initial cost, as higher-quality materials often provide better return on investment through extended lifespan and reduced maintenance.

Think About Your Home’s Architectural Style

Different metal roofing systems complement various architectural styles:

• Modern/Contemporary Homes: Standing seam roofs with clean lines enhance sleek designs
• Traditional Homes: Metal shingles or stone-coated steel maintain classic aesthetics
• Rustic/Farmhouse Style: Corrugated metal provides authentic agricultural appeal
• Historic/Luxury Properties: Copper and zinc offer premium elegance and heritage charm

Consider Your Local Climate

Pittsburgh’s climate presents specific challenges that certain metal roofing systems handle better:

• Heavy Snowfall: Standing seam roofs excel at snow shedding due to their smooth surface
• Severe Storms: Look for systems with high wind ratings (120+ mph for metal shingles)
• Tree-Heavy Areas: Choose materials with natural moss and algae resistance like copper

Think About Maintenance Preferences

Different systems require varying levels of ongoing care:

• Low Maintenance: Concealed fastener systems (standing seam) and premium metals (zinc, copper) require minimal upkeep
• Moderate Maintenance: Exposed fastener systems need periodic checking of rubber washers and fasteners

Consider Energy Efficiency

Maximize your roof’s energy performance through smart material choices:

• Heat Reflection: Light-colored roofs reflect more heat, reducing cooling costs
• Insulation Properties: Stone-coated options provide enhanced insulation benefits
• Special Coatings: Reflective coatings can further improve energy efficiency

Noise Considerations

Address potential noise concerns with proper planning:

• Quietest Options: Stone-coated steel naturally reduces noise from rain and hail
• Noise Reduction: Proper underlayment and insulation significantly minimize noise transfer
• Solid Decking: Solid roof decking helps reduce noise compared to spaced sheathing

Installation Complexity

Consider how your roof’s design affects installation:

• Simple Roofs: Most metal systems work well on straightforward designs
• Complex Designs: Roofs with multiple valleys, dormers, and angles may benefit from modular systems like metal shingles
• Professional Installation: All metal roofing systems require experienced contractors for optimal performance

Top Metal Roofing Manufacturers For Your Roofing Project 

Choosing the right metal roofing manufacturer is crucial to ensure that your roof lasts for decades and withstands the harsh weather conditions of the region. Here we will discuss the top metal roofing manufacturers in Pennsylvania, their products, and what sets them apart from their competitors.

#1 McElroy Metal

This is one of the best metal roof manufacturers in America. It is a family-run company that only recently became employee-owned. With over 60 years of experience, McElroy Metal offers high-quality metal roofing products that provide superior performance and style. Their wide selection ensures that every homeowner can find something to suit their needs. Whether you want to install classic, standing-seam metal roofs, such as the Medallion-Lok line from McElroy, or want to do something different and go for metal roof tiles, this company has it all.

#2 Classic Metal Roofing Systems

This company has been in the metal roofing business for over 30 years, and they have a reputation for providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service.

If you’re after the look of traditional tiles or shingles but with the durability of metal, Classic Metal Roofing Systems has you covered. Their products are known for their impressive wind resistance, which is a key factor for Pennsylvania homes. Their Rustic Shingle line has been a popular choice among Pennsylvanians for its natural, weathered wood-shake look.

#3 Englert

Englert Inc. is a leading manufacturer of metal roofing products. They offer a wide range of products, such as architectural, structural, and curved panel roofs. Their standing seam roof is very popular and is available in 28 color choices. Englert also provides installation services for its metal roofing products. They have been in the metal roofing industry for over 50 years and have a reputation for producing durable, long-lasting metal roofing products. The company also offers gutter solutions as well.

#4 ATAS International

ATAS International Inc. is another top metal roofing manufacturer that has its headquarters in Pennsylvania. They specialize in metal roofing and metal wall panels for commercial and residential buildings. Their products are known for their durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements. ATAS International has been in the business for over 60 years and offers a variety of metal roofing systems, including standing seam, corrugated, and batten seam metal roofs. They also offer a range of colors and finishes to choose from, allowing homeowners to customize their metal roofs to their liking.

If you’re also looking for gutters to go with your metal roof, check out our blog post on the three main types of gutters for metal roofs.

Best Metal Roof Installation Services

Remember, even the best roofing material can fail if it’s not installed correctly. Hence, ensure you hire a professional installation team who understands your chosen manufacturer’s products, such as the team of McClellands Contracting and Roofing.

Our experienced roofing team is well-versed in the best practices to guarantee flawless metal roof installation services in Pittsburgh. Contact us today at (412) 353-5660 to set up a free roof inspection with us now.

Can metal roofing be installed over existing shingles in Pittsburgh?

Yes, metal roofing can often be installed over one layer of existing asphalt shingles, which saves on tear-off costs and reduces landfill waste. However, this depends on local building codes, the condition of your existing roof deck, and proper ventilation requirements. A professional inspection is essential to determine if your roof structure can support the additional weight.

How does metal roofing perform during Pittsburgh’s freeze-thaw cycles?

Metal roofing excels during freeze-thaw cycles because its smooth, non-porous surface prevents water absorption that causes cracking in traditional materials. The interlocking panel design and thermal expansion properties allow metal roofs to flex slightly without damage. Standing seam systems are particularly effective at shedding ice and preventing ice dam formation along eaves.

Will a metal roof interfere with cell phone or WiFi signals inside my home?

Metal roofing does not typically cause noticeable signal interference for modern cellular or WiFi networks. Most signal disruption comes from building materials like concrete, not metal roofing. If you experience connectivity issues, they’re usually related to distance from towers or router placement rather than your roof material.

What maintenance does a metal roof require in Pittsburgh’s climate?

Metal roofs require minimal maintenance compared to other materials. Annual inspections should check for debris accumulation in valleys, ensure fasteners remain secure on exposed-fastener systems, and verify proper drainage. Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent scratching, and occasionally rinse the surface to maintain appearance and remove organic buildup.

Are metal roofs safe during lightning storms in Pittsburgh?

Metal roofs are actually safer during lightning strikes because they’re non-combustible and disperse electrical charges across a wide surface area. If struck, metal roofing won’t ignite like wood shakes or catch fire. The metal conducts electricity safely to the ground, though a proper grounding system is still recommended for comprehensive protection.