Metal roofing services is a high-performance alternative to traditional asphalt shingles, offering exceptional durability, weather resistance, anGN Exteriorsd long-term savings. It comes in various forms, including standing-seam panels, corrugated steel, and stone-coated designs. With homes exposed to heavy snow, freezing rain, and high winds, metal roofing is increasingly chosen for its performance under pressure.
Metal roofing has become one of the fastest-growing segments in residential construction, accounting for over 14% of U.S. reroofing projects in 2025, according to the Metal Construction Association.
A metal roof is a roofing system using metal panels, tiles, or pieces. It's a durable, long-lasting option often chosen for its fire, wind, and hail resistance. Metal roofs are also known for their energy efficiency and can be made from recycled materials, contributing to sustainability.
Metal roofing has several types, each suited to different architectural needs and climates. Standard systems include standing seam panels, corrugated metal sheets, stone-coated steel shingles, and architectural metals like copper and zinc, each offering unique durability, aesthetic, and weather performance advantages.
Standing seam roofing is characterized by vertical metal panels connected by raised seams, or interlocking ribs, that run from the roof's ridge to its eaves. These seams, which are typically raised above the roofing surface, conceal the fasteners, creating a clean, modern aesthetic.
Standing‑seam metal roofing delivers superior durability, energy efficiency, and winter resilience. Some major benefits of standing seam metal roofing are:
Corrugated steel is a type of metal roofing made by shaping flat steel sheets into a series of ridges and grooves, creating a strong and durable material. Galvalume is a specific type of steel coated with aluminum, zinc, and silicon alloy, offering superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional galvanized steel.
Corrugated steel roofing offers cost-effective durability and ease of installation. These are the advantages of Corrugated roofing:
Stone-coated metal shingles are a roofing material that combines the durability of metal with the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or wood shakes.
They consist of steel sheets coated with stone granules, offering a variety of colors and textures. This combination provides a long-lasting and visually appealing roofing option.
Stone‑coated steel roofing combines metal strength with classic appeal. These are the key benefits of installing stone-coated metal shingles:
A metal roof in Massachusetts typically costs between $9,000 and $24,000 for an average-sized home, depending on the material, roof size, and labor. On a per-square-foot basis, you can expect to pay $9 to $16 installed.
Massachusetts is a region with a high demand for metal roof installations. The cost of a complete installation depends on various factors, such as the type of metal roofing, Labor share, and more.
The data-oriented table below gives an overview of the cost of a complete metal roof installation in the New England regions of the Northeastern United States. This table has the following parameters:
Cost per ft²: Installed price per square foot.
Wind resistance: Ability to resist wind.
Labor Share: Labor’s percentage of total cost.
Lifespan: Expected service life in years.
| Feature | Corrugated Galvalume | Standing-Seam Steel | Stone-Coated Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per ft² | $9 to $11 | $12 to $14 | $14 to $16 |
| Labor Share | 55% to 60% | 50% to 55% | 50% to 55% |
| Wind Resistance | 90 mph | 120 mph | 120 mph |
| Lifespan | 40 to 50 Years | 50 to 70 Years | 40 to 50 Years |
The installation cost depends on the material type, complexity, and labor. Metal roofing costs more upfront than asphalt but offers better value over time.
Major factors that affect the cost of metal roofing are:
A properly installed metal roof can last 50 to 70 years, more than twice the lifespan of asphalt shingles. Beyond longevity, metal roofing also helps regulate indoor temperatures year-round, potentially reducing cooling costs by up to 40% during summer.
Aluminum & Galvanized Steel: Typically 40 to 60 years.
Galvalume Steel: Offers higher corrosion resistance; lifespan of 50-plus years.
Copper & Zinc: Patina-forming alloys last 80 to 100 years.
Standing-seam roofs last longer than exposed-fastener types. Hidden clips prevent fastener corrosion and allow expansion movement.
According to the Metal Construction Association, metal roofs retain full structural capacity across hot, cold, and coastal climates. Freeze-thaw cycles, UV, and wind uplift affect other materials faster. Metal resists all three, especially with reflective finishes.
Asphalt shingles last 18 to 22 years. This means one metal roof needs two full replacements within its life cycle.
Yes. Standing-seam metal roofs directly accommodate solar installations without additional rails. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (2022), rib-clamp attachments reduce installation labor by 12% and eliminate 80% of roof penetrations compared to asphalt systems. This minimizes leak risk and preserves warranty eligibility.
Metal’s 50-year service life aligns with the 25-year lifespan of solar modules, eliminating the need for reroofing mid-array and preserving panel investment.
A reliable metal roofing installer meets licensing, product training, and technical execution standards for your region and project needs. In Massachusetts, installers must comply with state building codes for heavy snow loads, wind uplift, and energy efficiency.
Key Qualifications to Look For:
There are some myths in the market related to metal roofing and its use. I will discuss some of them and will tell you the facts with proper reasoning.
| Myth | Fact and reasoning |
|---|---|
| Metal roofing is only for commercial buildings. | Fact: Metal roofing is widely used in homes. Reason: Homeowners install metal for energy savings, durability, and modern designs. Residential demand has grown by over 30% in New England. |
| Metal roofs are loud during rain. | Fact: Metal roofs are quiet if installed correctly. Reason: Metal roofing significantly reduces external noise when installed over solid roof decking and with standard attic insulation. |
| Metal roofs rust quickly | Fact: Metal roofs are highly resistant to rust. Reason: Galvalume and PVDF coatings shield panels from corrosion. In tested climates, these systems remain rust-free for 40 to 70 years. |
| Metal roofs attract lightning. | Fact: Metal roofs do not attract lightning. Reason: Roofing materials do not influence the likelihood of a lightning strike. Metal simply conducts electricity safely and, when grounded, offers less fire risk than flammable roofing systems. |
Yes. Metal roofing reduces summer HVAC loads by up to 35%, outperforming asphalt in thermal reflectance. Cool metal surfaces reflect solar radiation. Studies by Oak Ridge National Laboratory show metal roofs outperform dark asphalt shingles in reducing attic temperatures and peak cooling demands.
No. Standard residential framing with 50 psf snow-load compliance supports most metal systems. Standing seam panels shed snow efficiently, reducing retained load. However, snow guards and high-temp eave protection are required in towns like Quincy or Randolph.
Yes. Metal roofs can be installed over one layer of asphalt shingles if the decking is structurally sound. Installers must verify local load allowances, especially in high snow-load zones. Clip fasteners and spacer systems create thermal breaks and ensure ventilation.
A qualified contractor in Massachusetts should have a CSL license, HIC registration, and manufacturer certifications.