Best Metal Roofing in Pennsylvania Ranked

For Pennsylvania homeowners, a roof is a critical line of defense against the state's challenging weather, from heavy snow loads in the Poconos to humid summers in Philadelphia. Metal roofing has emerged as a premier choice, offering a combination of exceptional durability, long-term value, and energy efficiency that is well-suited to the local climate. While the initial investment is higher than traditional asphalt shingles, the benefits-including a lifespan that can exceed 50 years, superior weather resistance, and potential energy savings-make it a compelling option for those planning to stay in their homes for the long term. This guide explores the specifics of metal roofs for Pennsylvania properties, covering materials, styles, costs, and key installation considerations.

Stormtrooper Roofing

40 S 5th St, Allentown, PA 18101

Stormtrooper Roofing is a roofing contractor based in Allentown, PA, serving the Lehigh Valley and surrounding Pennsylvania areas. They provide a range of roofing services including roof repairs, replacements, installations, storm damage restoration, and gutter solutions for both residential and commercial properties. The company specializes in using premium materials such as metal and architectural shingles and offers a 50-year material warranty along with a 15-year craftsmanship guarantee. Stormtrooper Roofing is fully licensed, insured, and certified, with a local reputation for reliable roofing solutions and fast project turnaround.

5.0

242 Reviews

Cousins Roofing Siding & Decks

2681 Sidney St #148, Pittsburgh, PA 15203

Cousins Roofing Siding & Decks is a family-owned contractor based in Pittsburgh, PA, specializing in roofing, siding, and decking services. They work closely with clients to design and build custom outdoor living spaces, including decks, porches, patios, and pergolas, as well as providing roof installation and replacement with materials like asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Their team also offers siding solutions using materials such as hardie board, vinyl, and metal to enhance and protect homes. The company emphasizes quality craftsmanship and offers a lifetime guarantee on workmanship. Cousins Roofing Siding & Decks is known for its in-house architectural design and has a strong focus on customer satisfaction and communication.

5.0

171 Reviews

ROOFX Roofing

3416 Hamilton Blvd, Allentown, PA 18103

ROOFX Roofing is a roofing contractor based in Allentown, PA, offering services such as roof installation, replacement, repair, leak repair, metal roofing including standing seam, roof inspection, and certification. They serve the Allentown area and nearby locations, providing specialized solutions to address the region's diverse weather conditions. Their services include detailed roof diagnostics and innovative insulation and ventilation methods to enhance roof durability and appearance. ROOFX emphasizes a comprehensive approach from consultation to project completion, ensuring clear communication and precise workmanship.

5.0

138 Reviews

A Plus Roofing & Exteriors

1373 McLaughlin Run Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15241

A Plus Roofing & Exteriors is a roofing contractor based in Pittsburgh, PA, offering services such as roof installation, replacement, repair, leak repair, inspection, and certification. They also provide metal roofing options including standing seam metal roofs. With over 30 years of experience, the company emphasizes quality craftsmanship and uses premium materials from trusted local suppliers. Their work includes comprehensive exterior projects like siding, decks, gutters, and fascia. Rooted in community values and faith, they focus on transparency and customer involvement throughout the process.

5.0

132 Reviews

Pro Home and Roofing

4290 Old William Penn Hwy, Monroeville, PA 15146

Pro Home and Roofing is a roofing contractor based in Pittsburgh, PA, specializing in roof installation, replacement, and repair services. They offer expertise in metal roofing, including standing seam systems, and provide thorough roof inspections and leak repairs. Known for their certified installers, Pro Home and Roofing provides roofs with long-term, transferable warranties, including a 50-year non-depreciating manufacturer warranty. The company also offers virtual estimates and financing options to support customer needs.

5.0

121 Reviews

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Why Choose a Metal Roof in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania's climate presents unique challenges for any roofing material. Metal roofing systems are specifically engineered to meet and exceed these demands, providing performance advantages that translate to real benefits for homeowners.

• Superior Snow and Ice Management: Metal roofs have a smooth, hard surface that encourages snow to slide off efficiently, reducing the risk of dangerous ice dams and excessive weight loads that can compromise a roof's structure ^{1 2}. They are also highly resistant to the damaging freeze-thaw cycles common in Pennsylvania winters.
• Exceptional Longevity and Durability: A properly installed metal roof is one of the longest-lasting roofing options available. With a typical lifespan ranging from 40 to over 70 years, it far outpaces asphalt shingles, which may need replacement every 15-25 years in Pennsylvania's harsh conditions ^{1 3}. This durability means fewer replacements over the life of the home.
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs are excellent at reflecting solar radiant heat. During Pennsylvania's hot and humid summers, this reflective property can significantly reduce heat absorption into the attic, lowering cooling costs by up to 25% in some cases ^{4 5 6}. This makes them a smart choice for improving home comfort and managing energy bills.
• Low Maintenance and Weather Resistance: Metal is impervious to rot, mildew, and insect damage. It won't crack or curl like shingles and offers superior resistance to high winds. With proper coatings, modern metal roofing also provides excellent corrosion resistance against humidity and precipitation ^{2 6}.

Common Metal Roofing Types and Materials

Not all metal roofs are the same. The style and material you choose will impact the roof's appearance, performance, and cost.

Popular Styles for PA Homes

1. Standing Seam: This is a top choice for Pennsylvania due to its exceptional weathertightness. It features vertical panels with raised seams that interlock mechanically. The concealed fasteners and clean lines make it excellent for shedding snow and resisting wind-driven rain ^{1 7}. Its modern profile is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
2. Metal Shingles or Tiles: For homeowners who desire the benefits of metal but prefer a more traditional look, metal shingles are an ideal solution. They are designed to convincingly mimic the appearance of asphalt shingles, wood shakes, slate, or even clay tiles, but with the durability and longevity of metal ^{2 8}. They offer great design flexibility.

Metal Material Options

• Steel (Galvanized or Galvalume®): The most common and cost-effective metal roofing material. It's coated with zinc (galvanized) or a combination of aluminum and zinc (Galvalume) for rust protection. It's strong, readily available, and a versatile choice for most homes ^{1 9}.
• Aluminum: An excellent choice for homes in coastal or high-humidity areas, as it is naturally rust-resistant. Aluminum is lighter than steel and is often used for metal shingle systems. Pennsylvania building codes specify minimum thickness standards for aluminum roofing to ensure durability ¹⁰.
• Copper and Zinc: These are premium, high-end metals. They develop a distinctive patina over time and can last for a century or more. While the material cost is significantly higher, they offer unmatched longevity and a unique, elegant appearance ¹.

Understanding Costs and Investment Value

The cost of a metal roof in Pennsylvania is higher upfront than an asphalt shingle roof, but it's crucial to evaluate it as a long-term investment.

Average Cost Range: Installed costs typically range from $9 to $29 per square foot, with a common average for a standard installation falling between $10 and $14+ per square foot ^{1 10 11}. For a typical 2,000-square-foot home, this translates to a total project cost often starting around $20,000 or more ^{12 13}.

Key Factors Influencing Price:

• Material Type: Steel is generally the most economical, followed by aluminum, with copper and zinc at the premium end.
• Roof Complexity: Steep pitches, multiple dormers, skylights, chimneys, and intricate roof lines increase labor time and material waste, raising the cost ^{7 14}.
• Profile and Finish: Standing seam systems often cost more than metal shingles due to panel size and installation technique. Special paint finishes or coatings can also add to the price.
• Labor and Installation: A metal roof requires specialized skills for proper installation. Labor typically constitutes 30-40% of the total project cost ¹⁴. Hiring an experienced, licensed installer is non-negotiable for ensuring performance and warranty validity.
• Site Preparation: The cost to remove and dispose of one or more layers of old roofing material (tear-off) and any necessary decking repairs will be added to the project total ¹².

Installation and Pennsylvania Building Codes

Proper installation is paramount to achieving the promised lifespan and performance of a metal roof. Pennsylvania has specific building codes that govern roofing installations to ensure safety and durability.

• Code Compliance: Installations must adhere to Pennsylvania's building codes, which often reference international standards. These codes dictate critical details like minimum material thickness (e.g., aluminum sheets must be at least 0.024 inches thick), fastener type and placement, and underlayment requirements ¹⁰. A reputable contractor will be fully versed in these local codes.
• The Importance of Underlayment and Ventilation: Beneath the metal panels, a high-quality synthetic underlayment provides a secondary water barrier. Equally important is proper attic ventilation, which allows heat and moisture to escape, protecting the roof deck and improving energy efficiency year-round ¹⁴.
• Hiring the Right Contractor: Always choose a contractor who specializes in metal roofing systems. Ask for proof of insurance, references from past metal roof projects, and details about workmanship warranties. They should provide a detailed, written estimate that breaks down material costs, labor, and all preparatory work.

Long-Term Benefits and Considerations

When evaluating metal roofing, look beyond the initial price tag. The long-term value proposition is significant.

• Lifecycle Cost: Although you may pay two to three times more initially than for asphalt shingles, a metal roof's 40-70+ year lifespan means you likely won't need to replace it again. This avoids the cost and hassle of future reroofing projects, offering excellent value over time ^{1 6}.
• Insurance and Home Value: Some insurance companies offer discounts for homes with impact-resistant metal roofs. Furthermore, a metal roof is a recognized home improvement that can increase resale value and appeal to prospective buyers looking for a durable, low-maintenance home ⁶.
• Environmental Impact: Metal roofing is often made from recycled materials and is itself 100% recyclable at the end of its extremely long life. Its energy-saving properties also contribute to a lower carbon footprint for your home.

Frequently asked questions

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