How to Choose the Style and Texture of Your Metal Roof

The misconception that metal roofing usually consists of boring, flat and shiny panels is a popular one. It’s also an unfortunate one since it steers people toward missing out on the many benefits this style of roof construction can offer.

Aside from environmental benefits and more stable construction, choosing to have a metal roof installed comes with a number of different color, stylistic and textural choices. Some of these are more for aesthetics, while others do actually affect the functionality of the roof.

Matching the Style of Your Home

A metal roof doesn’t have to intrude on attractive housing design; it can often complement or match the existing style. Speaking with an experienced roofing company about which materials will work best to achieve a certain look is a first step, and it’s often a smart idea to request samples to physically compare with the aesthetic makeup of a house. Overall, the style of a metal roof doesn’t factor too much into the function of the roof—unlike traditional alternatives.

If the traditional silvery “metallic” look of most metal roofs doesn’t work with a certain style, their versatility can match almost any taste. Matte finishes, colors and textured designs are all achievable in order to best match the architecture of a home or building. Metal roofs also offer the ability to effectively mimic classic roofing styles without any of the added weight or architectural concerns from certain construction methods.

Choosing Different Textures

One of the most surprising aspects of installing a metal roof is learning about and choosing from the variety of different physical textures possible; there are even options to have the roof look just like traditional shingles if desired. Various forms of topcoats can also emulate wood, stone, bitumen and other synthetic materials.

Understanding which style is best is largely dependent on the architecture and style of the building, and it’s really up to the eye of either the homeowner or an expert. Textures don’t influence functionality as much, unless gathering rainwater is a goal—in which case flatter surfaces can help channel the water into a rain-catch.

Choosing the Right Color for a Metal Roof

Unlike the overall style or texture, color influences the function of the roof significantly. While choosing a color and finish is important to maintain a consistent form, it’s vital to take the time and understand how color can affect performance.

Darker colors tend to absorb more light while lighter shades do a better job at reflecting. Overall, a darker-colored roof will become slightly warmer from sunlight, and those with light colors will have cooler temperatures.

Despite the color, however, many commercial applications of metal roofs employ a special UV coating in the finish to reflect more infrared radiation and thus keep temperatures lower. This often has the added effect of lower energy costs. But in general, the color of the roof will affect how much effort is necessary to heat or cool a house.

Choosing to go with a lighter or darker color can also work with the climate of a certain area. If temperatures tend to be pretty cool in a certain region, going with a darker color for the roof can help offset the lack of warm air, while a lighter color will do the opposite in hotter areas. Regardless of the color, UV reflective coats are important to consider when it comes to having more control over the temperature indoors.

Choosing the Best Functionality and Aesthetics

Metal roofs offer a practical, environmentally conscious option in construction while being visually versatile at the same time. While some options do nothing more than change the look and style of a building, others can effectively alter the performance of the roof. Whether the goals are more utilitarian, aesthetic or somewhere in the middle, metal roofs can meet a variety of demands.