Metal roofing has become increasingly popular across both residential and commercial properties thanks to its durability, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetic. At Tampa Steel & Supply, we help customers throughout Florida choose the best metal roofing materials for their needs and budget.
This guide compares the most common types of metal roofing, their benefits and drawbacks, and which options perform best in Florida’s climate.
Why Choose Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing offers a long list of advantages over traditional roofing materials, including:
- Long lifespan — often 40–70 years or more
- Low maintenance
- Superior weather resistance
- Fire and pest resistance
- Energy efficiency — reflecting solar heat and reducing cooling costs
- Eco-friendliness — many roofs contain recycled materials and are fully recyclable
These benefits make metal roofing an especially strong choice for Florida’s hot, humid, and storm-prone climate.
Most Popular Metal Roofing Materials
Below are the eight most common metal roofing materials used in today’s market, along with their key characteristics.
1. Steel Roofing
One of the most popular options due to its affordability and performance.
Benefits:
- Strong and durable
- Available in many finishes and colors
- Galvanized and galvalume coatings improve corrosion resistance
- Excellent value for Florida homes and commercial buildings
Drawbacks:
- Less corrosion-resistant than aluminum in coastal settings
2. Aluminum Roofing
An excellent choice for coastal properties.
Benefits:
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Highly resistant to corrosion and salt air
- Low maintenance
Drawbacks:
- Slightly higher cost than steel
3. Copper Roofing
A premium roofing material known for its appearance and longevity.
Benefits:
- Can last over 100 years
- Develops a beautiful, natural patina
- Extremely durable and corrosion-resistant
Drawbacks:
- Very expensive
- Soft metal — may dent under debris impact
4. Zinc Roofing
A high-end roofing material prized for its self-healing properties.
Benefits:
- Natural patina protects against corrosion
- Extremely long-lasting
- Requires very little maintenance
Drawbacks:
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires professional installation
5. Tin Roofing
Traditional tin roofs are rare today.
Benefits:
- Rustic, historic appearance (mainly for restorations)
Drawbacks:
- True tin is rarely used — modern versions are typically steel or aluminum with a tin coating
6. Stainless Steel Roofing
A premium steel option with exceptional durability.
Benefits:
- Highly corrosion-resistant
- Very strong and long-lasting
Drawbacks:
- More expensive than standard steel
7. Corrugated Metal Roofing
Made from steel or aluminum with distinctive corrugation for added strength.
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Ideal for large roofs, barns, and industrial buildings
Drawbacks:
- More rustic appearance
- Exposed fasteners require periodic maintenance
8. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
A roofing style characterized by vertical panels and concealed fasteners.
Benefits:
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Superior weather-tight performance
- Works with most metal types (steel, aluminum, copper, zinc)
Drawbacks:
- Higher installation cost than corrugated panels
Comparison: Durability, Cost, Appearance, and Maintenance
Here’s a quick overview of how these metals stack up:
- Most durable: Copper, zinc, stainless steel
- Most corrosion-resistant for coastal areas: Aluminum, zinc, stainless steel
- Most budget-friendly: Corrugated steel, galvanized steel
- Most aesthetically premium: Copper, zinc, standing seam
- Lowest maintenance: Zinc, aluminum, stainless steel
Climate Considerations for Florida
Florida’s climate plays a major role in choosing the right roofing material.
Humidity & Salt Air
- Best choices: Aluminum, stainless steel, galvalume steel
- These materials resist corrosion even in coastal or high-humidity regions.
Hurricane & Wind Resistance
Metal roofs can be rated for 150 mph+ winds when properly installed, making them ideal for Florida’s storm season.
Energy Efficiency
Light-colored or reflective metal roofs significantly reduce cooling costs — a major advantage in Florida’s subtropical heat.
Best Metal Roofing Choices by Application and Budget
Budget-Friendly Options
- Corrugated steel
- Galvanized steel
Coastal or High-Humidity Properties
- Aluminum
- Stainless steel
Luxury and Architectural Projects
- Copper
- Zinc
- Standing seam
Commercial & Industrial Buildings
- Corrugated metal
- Standing seam
- Coated steel panels
Why Choose Tampa Steel & Supply for Metal Roofing?
Tampa Steel & Supply offers:
- A wide selection of metal roofing materials
- Expert guidance for Florida’s unique climate
- Custom cutting and fabrication services
- Reliable service and fast delivery
Our team helps you choose the ideal metal roofing material based on your project type, environment, and budget.
Visit Tampa Steel & Supply for Quality Metal and Metal Processing Services
Need help selecting the right metal roofing material? The experienced professionals at Tampa Steel & Supply are here to help. We provide high-quality metal products and processing services to customers throughout Florida and beyond.
Request a Quote Online or Call Tampa Steel & Supply at (813) 241-2801.