Best Metal Roofing in Minnesota Ranked

Choosing the right roofing material in Minnesota is a critical decision for any homeowner. The state's unique climate-with its heavy snow, ice dams, summer hail, and temperature extremes-demands a roof that is as resilient as it is long-lasting. Metal roofing has emerged as a premier choice, offering exceptional durability and performance tailored to these harsh conditions. This guide explores the benefits, types, costs, and essential considerations for installing a metal roof on a Minnesota home.

Sela Roofing & Remodeling

4521 MN-7 Suite A, Minneapolis, MN 55416

Sela Roofing & Remodeling is a roofing and home improvement contractor based in Minneapolis, MN. Since 1982, they have provided roofing installation, replacement, leak repair, and inspection services, along with siding, gutters, windows, and chimney restoration across the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. The company specializes in residential and commercial roofing, including metal roofing and storm damage restoration, and holds certifications such as GAF Master Elite and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred, reflecting their commitment to quality and professional standards. Sela Roofing & Remodeling offers year-round installations and repairs, working closely with insurance companies to assist customers after storm damage.

4.9

636 Reviews

Tonka Roofing

10505 Wayzata Blvd #400, Minnetonka, MN 55305

Tonka Roofing is a roofing contractor based in Minneapolis, MN, offering roof installation, replacement, repair, leak repair, inspection, and certification services. They specialize in metal roofing, including standing seam systems, and provide assistance with insurance claims related to storm damage. The company also fabricates custom metal components for technical roofing projects. Tonka Roofing is known for working closely with insurance companies to support clients throughout the claims process and ensuring thorough project management from inspection to completion.

5.0

95 Reviews

Above All Roofing

6889 10th Ave SW #1, Rochester, MN 55902

Above All Roofing is a locally owned and operated roofing company serving Rochester, MN, and surrounding communities. They provide a full range of roofing services for both residential and commercial properties, including roof installation, replacement, leak repair, and roof inspections. The company specializes in shingle and metal roofing, with expertise in standing seam metal roofs. With many team members having over 10 years of experience, Above All Roofing emphasizes quality craftsmanship and personalized service. They also assist customers with insurance claims to help manage roof damage repairs and replacements smoothly.

4.9

163 Reviews

Younger Exteriors

2525 Nevada Ave N STE 206, Golden Valley, MN 55427

Younger Exteriors is a roofing and exterior contractor based in Minneapolis, MN, offering services including roof installation, replacement, repair, siding, window installation, and gutters. They serve residential and commercial clients throughout the Twin Cities metro area, providing expertise in storm damage restoration and ice dam mitigation. The company works with top manufacturers and handles insurance claims directly to assist customers in restoring their homes. Younger Exteriors is known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail, with a team that includes experienced sales representatives, project managers, and craftsmen.

4.9

136 Reviews

Ronningen Roofing

608 11th Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901

Ronningen Roofing is a roofing contractor based in Rochester, MN, offering services including roof installation, replacement, repair, leak repair, metal roofing with standing seam, roof inspection, and certification. They serve both residential and commercial clients and have experience handling insurance claims related to roofing. The company is known for efficient roof replacements, metal roof installations, and thorough roof inspections. Customers have noted their professionalism and ability to manage complex roofing projects. Ronningen Roofing also provides additional repairs years after installation and collaborates with other contractors for related services.

4.9

111 Reviews

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Why Metal Roofing Excels in Minnesota's Climate

Minnesota's weather presents specific challenges that traditional asphalt shingles can struggle to withstand over time. A metal roof is uniquely suited to handle these demands, providing superior protection and long-term value.

• Extreme Cold and Snow Loads: Metal panels are incredibly strong and shed snow efficiently due to their smooth, slippery surface. This reduces the risk of structural stress from accumulated snow and helps prevent ice dams from forming at the eaves, a common issue in Minnesota winters ^{1 2}.
• Hail and Wind Resistance: Many metal roofing systems carry a Class 4 impact rating, the highest available, making them highly resistant to damage from summer hailstorms. Their interlocking panels also provide excellent wind resistance, crucial for withstanding the strong gusts common across the state ^{3 4}.
• Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs can be coated with reflective pigments that deflect solar radiant heat. This can significantly lower attic temperatures and reduce cooling costs during Minnesota's humid summers, contributing to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home ^{1 3}.

Popular Metal Roofing Types for Minnesota Homes

Not all metal roofs are the same. The style and material you choose will affect the roof's appearance, performance, and cost. The two primary systems are well-suited for residential properties.

Standing Seam Roofing

This system features vertical panels with raised seams that interlock mechanically above the roof deck. It's considered the premium option for residential homes.

• Benefits: The concealed fasteners and raised seams eliminate leak paths, making it exceptionally watertight. The smooth surface is optimal for shedding snow and ice. Its clean, modern lines offer a distinctive look with unmatched durability ^{1 5}.
• Best For: Homeowners seeking maximum longevity, minimal maintenance, and superior performance in heavy snow country.

Metal Shingles or Tiles (Stamped Metal)

These are individual panels stamped to mimic the appearance of traditional asphalt shingles, wood shakes, slate, or clay tiles.

• Benefits: Offers the durability of metal with a more traditional or rustic aesthetic. They provide excellent impact resistance and come in a wide variety of colors and styles to complement any home's architecture ^{6 7}.
• Best For: Homeowners who desire the benefits of metal but prefer a classic residential look, especially for historic-style homes or neighborhoods with specific aesthetic guidelines.

Common Metal Materials

• Galvanized Steel: The most common and cost-effective option. It is coated with a layer of zinc (G90 coating is often specified by code) for corrosion resistance and is typically finished with a durable paint system ^{6 7}.
• Aluminum: A lighter-weight option that offers natural corrosion resistance, making it a good choice for homes near bodies of water. It is generally more expensive than steel.
• Copper & Zinc: Premium, natural metals that develop a distinctive patina over time. They offer a centuries-long lifespan but come at a significantly higher material cost.

Understanding Minnesota Codes and Installation Standards

A proper installation is just as important as the material itself. In Minnesota, roofing work must adhere to the state's building codes, which are designed to ensure safety and durability.

• State Building Code: Installations must follow the 2020 Minnesota State Building Code, which incorporates International Residential Code (IRC) standards for roofing ^{6 8}.
• Material Standards: The code mandates minimum material thicknesses and corrosion resistance. For example, steel sheet must meet specific galvanized coating standards to withstand Minnesota's moisture ⁶.
• Design for Climate: Proper design addresses critical local factors. This includes engineering for regional snow loads, installing ice and water shield barriers at the eaves and valleys to prevent ice dam water intrusion, and ensuring the roof assembly meets required fire classification ratings ⁸.

Cost Analysis: Investment vs. Long-Term Value

The upfront cost of a metal roof is higher than that of an asphalt shingle roof. However, evaluating it as a long-term investment reveals its true value.

• Typical Cost Range: For an average Minnesota home (1,500 to 3,000 square feet), a professionally installed metal roof can range from roughly $10,000 for a smaller, simpler job to over $70,000 for a large, complex roof with premium materials. In the Minneapolis area, costs often average around $11 per square foot for materials and installation ^{1 9 10}.
• Cost Factors: The final price is influenced by the roof's complexity (steep pitch, many valleys, skylights), the type of metal (steel vs. copper), the profile (standing seam vs. shingle), and the cost to remove and dispose of the old roof.
• Labor Intensity: Installation labor for metal roofing is more specialized and time-consuming than for asphalt shingles, which contributes to the higher cost. For example, labor on a 3,000 sq ft roof can be $8,000-$24,000 for metal versus $6,000-$10,500 for shingles ^{11 10}.

The Long-Term Benefits and Savings

When viewed over the lifespan of the roof, metal roofing often proves to be a more economical choice.

• Exceptional Longevity: A quality metal roof can last 40 to 70 years or more, compared to the 15- to 20-year typical lifespan of asphalt shingles in Minnesota's climate ^{1 3}. This means you may never need to replace your roof again.
• Life-Cycle Savings: While the initial investment is higher, the decades of service without replacement costs often make metal roofing cheaper over time. You avoid the recurring material and labor costs of multiple shingle replacements.
• Insurance and Energy Discounts: Many insurance companies offer policy discounts of 5% to 15% for homes with impact-resistant metal roofs due to their superior hail resistance ^{3 4}. The energy savings from reduced summer cooling costs also add up year after year.
• Durability and Peace of Mind: The strongest benefit is the robust protection against Minnesota's worst weather, potentially reducing repair costs from storm damage and providing greater security for your home.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Given the complexity and importance of the installation, selecting an experienced contractor is paramount.

• Look for Specialization: Seek out roofers who specifically list metal roofing as a core service and can show examples of completed projects.
• Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the contractor is properly licensed to work in Minnesota and carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation.
• Check References and Reviews: Ask for local references and read online reviews to gauge the contractor's reputation for quality and professionalism.
• Review the Warranty: Understand the warranties offered-both on the manufacturer's materials and the contractor's workmanship. A strong warranty is a sign of confidence in the product and installation.

Frequently asked questions

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