Top Metal Roofing in Salem, Oregon Ranked

Choosing the right roof for your Salem home is a critical decision that balances durability, aesthetics, and protection against the unique New England climate. For properties in this historic coastal city, metal roofing stands out as a premier, long-term solution. Specifically, aluminum metal roofing is highly recommended for its exceptional resistance to the corrosive effects of saltwater spray from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Beyond material, the configuration-most commonly a standing seam system-plays a vital role in providing superior defense against the heavy snow, strong Nor'easter winds, and humid summers characteristic of the area. This guide will explore why metal is an intelligent investment for Salem homeowners, detailing material choices, costs, benefits, and maintenance.

A&L ROOFING

4692 Lancaster Dr NE, Salem, OR 97305

A&L ROOFING is a roofing contractor based in Salem, OR, serving Salem, Keizer, and surrounding areas. They specialize in roof installation, replacement, repair, leak repair, metal roofing including standing seam, roof inspections, and roof certification. The company offers storm damage repairs and regular roof maintenance to extend the life of roofs. A&L ROOFING has a strong focus on quality workmanship and materials, backed by a guarantee. They provide emergency roof repairs, especially during Salem's winter storms, ensuring readiness for urgent situations.

5.0

165 Reviews

Dakota Roofing

1191 Capitol St NE, Salem, OR 97301

Dakota Roofing is a roofing contractor based in Salem, OR, serving the Willamette Valley and Oregon's Central Coast Region. They provide residential and commercial roofing services including roof installation, replacement, repair, and inspection. Their expertise includes standing seam metal roofing and shingle roofs for new construction and repairs. With over 30 years of experience, Dakota Roofing is a preferred contractor with GAF and Owens Corning, known for using high-quality materials and staying current with industry trends. They also offer financing options to support roofing projects.

5.0

147 Reviews

Valley Roofing

4910 Turner Rd SE, Salem, OR 97317

Valley Roofing is a licensed, bonded, and insured roofing contractor based in Salem, OR, serving the Willamette Valley since 2012. They specialize in residential and commercial roofing services including installation, replacement, and repair of asphalt shingles and metal roofs. Valley Roofing fabricates mechanically-fastened standing seam metal panels onsite and offers skylight installation as part of their roofing projects. Their team is trained to meet local building codes and manufacturer requirements, ensuring durable roofing solutions tailored to the Pacific Northwest climate.

4.9

218 Reviews

Onyx Roofing

Salem, OR 97302

Onyx Roofing is a full-service roofing contractor based in Salem, OR, serving the greater Willamette Valley. They provide a range of roofing services including installation, replacement, repairs, maintenance, and roof inspections for residential and commercial properties. Their expertise covers various roof styles and materials, including standing seam metal roofing and luxury asphalt shingles. Onyx Roofing also specializes in adding ventilation systems to prevent attic moisture buildup. The company works with apartment complexes, multi-family structures, and single-family homes, focusing on durable solutions that withstand the region's diverse weather conditions. They emphasize quality materials and craftsmanship to protect homes and investments for years to come.

5.0

57 Reviews

Pfeifer Roofing, Inc.

4835 Ridge Dr NE, Salem, OR 97301

Pfeifer Roofing, Inc. is a certified roofing contractor serving Salem, OR. They handle a wide range of roofing projects for both residential and commercial buildings, including installation, replacement, and repair of asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, metal roofing, low slope roofs, and commercial flat roofs. Their services also include roof inspections and certifications. Pfeifer Roofing is equipped to manage complex jobs involving gutters, downspouts, and interior drains. They offer financing options and provide detailed estimates with multiple roofing options. The company is known for using quality materials and offers a comprehensive warranty on workmanship and materials.

4.8

484 Reviews

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Why Metal Roofing Excels in Salem's Climate

Salem's weather presents a unique set of challenges for any exterior building material. Long, wet winters bring significant snowfall and repeated freeze-thaw cycles that can crack and warp less durable materials. Spring and fall often feature powerful coastal storms, known as Nor'easters, which deliver punishing winds and driving rain. Perhaps the most defining environmental factor is the constant proximity to the ocean, which blankets the area in salt spray-a known accelerator of corrosion for many metals ^{1 2 3}.

A well-chosen metal roof is engineered to meet these challenges head-on:

• Wind Resistance: Properly installed standing seam metal roofs can have wind uplift ratings exceeding 140 mph, offering peace of mind during severe storms ^{4 5 6}.
• Snow Shedding: The smooth, hard surface of metal allows snow and ice to slide off more easily than with asphalt shingles, reducing the risk of ice damming and structural stress from weight accumulation.
• Longevity: While traditional asphalt shingles may last 15-25 years in this environment, a quality metal roof can protect your home for 40 to 70 years or more, making it a true long-term investment ^{7 8 9}.

Choosing the Right Metal: A Guide for Coastal Homes

Not all metal roofing is created equal, especially in a salt-air environment. The key is selecting a material that offers inherent corrosion resistance.

Top-Tier Coastal Choices:

• Aluminum: This is the top-recommended metal for Salem homes ^{10 11}. Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to the elements, making it highly resistant to rust and corrosion without requiring a painted coating. It is lightweight, strong, and performs superbly in harsh coastal conditions ^{11 2 12 13}.
• Zinc & Copper: These are premium, lifetime options. Both offer exceptional corrosion resistance and can last 60 to 100+ years, developing a beautiful patina over time. However, this longevity comes with a significantly higher upfront cost ^{11 14}.

Materials to Use with Caution:

• Steel: While galvanized or galvalume steel roofs are durable and cost-effective inland, they require extra scrutiny near the coast. Their protection comes from a sacrificial zinc or aluminum-zinc coating. If this coating is scratched or compromised by debris or installation, the underlying steel can be susceptible to rust in a salty environment ^{11 2 13}.

Popular Styles and Configurations

The profile of your metal roof affects its performance, aesthetics, and cost.

• Standing Seam: This is the most recommended residential metal roofing system for Salem ^{11 15}. Panels run vertically up the roof with raised seams that interlock mechanically. The fasteners are concealed under the seams, eliminating potential leak points. This design provides excellent weathertightness, allows for thermal expansion and contraction, and offers a clean, modern appearance that complements both historic and contemporary homes ^{4 5 6}.
• Metal Shingles or Tiles: For homeowners who desire the durability of metal but prefer the textured look of traditional shingles, slate, or even wood shakes, metal shingles are an excellent option. They offer the same protective benefits in a different aesthetic package ¹⁰.
• Corrugated/Exposed Fastener: This is a more economical, often agricultural-style panel. Fasteners are driven directly through the panel into the deck, which can be potential points for leaks over time if not meticulously maintained. It is generally less recommended for primary residences in a high-wind, wet climate like Salem's.

Understanding the Investment: Metal Roofing Costs in Salem

The cost of a metal roof in the Salem area is typically higher than national averages due to regional labor rates and the specific material recommendations for coastal zones ^{16 7 17}. The final price is influenced by the roof's complexity (steep pitch, multiple valleys, chimneys, skylights), the need for old roof tear-off, and the material chosen ¹⁸.

Below are typical installed cost ranges per square foot (100 sq. ft. = 1 "square") for a Salem home:

It's important to view this cost through the lens of lifespan. While the initial investment is higher than asphalt, a metal roof's 50+ year service life often means it is the only roof you will ever install on your home.

Debunking Common Metal Roofing Myths

Myth: "Metal roofs are noisy during rain and hail." Reality: This is a common but outdated concern. Modern residential metal roofs are installed over a solid plywood or OSB deck with a high-quality synthetic underlayment. Combined with attic insulation, this assembly dampens sound effectively. Homeowners typically find the sound of rain on a metal roof comparable to, or even quieter than, other roofing materials, and often describe it as a soothing, gentle patter ^{7 8 19 20}.

Myth: "Metal roofs attract lightning." Reality: Metal roofing does not attract lightning. In fact, if struck, it is non-combustible and can safely dissipate the electrical charge, potentially making it a safer option than other materials.

Myth: "They make the house hotter in summer." Reality: Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat, which can actually reduce cooling costs by 10-25%. Many are also available with special "cool roof" pigments that enhance this reflective property.

Maintenance and Care for Longevity

One of the key advantages of a metal roof is its low maintenance requirements. To ensure it reaches its full lifespan, a simple routine is recommended ⁹:

• Bi-Annual Inspections: In the spring and fall, visually inspect your roof from the ground or a ladder for any loose panels, fasteners, or debris accumulation.
• Keep it Clean: Gently remove leaves, pine needles, and branches that may collect in valleys or near chimneys. This prevents moisture retention and organic growth.
• Clear the Pathways: Ensure gutters and downspouts are kept clear to allow proper water drainage away from the roof and foundation.
• Washing: If needed, washing with a garden hose and a soft brush using a mild detergent is usually sufficient. Avoid pressure washers, which can damage protective coatings.

Frequently asked questions

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