What Most Metal Roof Tiles Are Made Of: Materials, Benefits, and Costs

Metal roof tiles are increasingly popular for their durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic versatility. This article explains what most metal roof tiles are made of, compares common alloys and coatings, outlines pros and cons, and provides practical guidance for homeowners and contractors considering metal tile roofing. A quick summary table below highlights the primary materials and their key attributes.

Material	Common Alloys/Types	Key Benefits	Typical Lifespan
Galvanized Steel	G90/G60 Zinc-Coated Steel	Affordable, strong	25–40 Years
Galvalume Steel	Aluminum-Zinc Alloy Coated	Corrosion resistant, good longevity	30–50 Years
Aluminum	Pure Alloyed Aluminum	Lightweight, rust-proof	30–50+ Years
Copper	Pure Copper	Longevity, aesthetic patina	50–100+ Years
Zinc	Pure Zinc	Self-healing, very durable	50–80+ Years
Stainless Steel	304/316 Grades	Exceptional strength/corrosion resistance	50–100+ Years

Common Metals Used For Metal Roof Tiles

Most metal roof tiles are made of a handful of metals chosen for strength, weight, cost, and corrosion resistance. Galvanized steel, galvalume, aluminum, copper, zinc, and stainless steel dominate residential and commercial applications.

Galvanized steel features a zinc coating that protects the steel substrate from rust. Galvalume replaces much of the zinc with aluminum for improved corrosion resistance. Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant and lightweight. Copper and zinc are premium materials prized for longevity and patina. Stainless steel offers high strength and resistance to harsh environments.

Why Manufacturers Use Galvanized Steel And Galvalume

Galvanized steel is one of the most common bases for metal roof tiles because it balances cost and performance. The steel core gives tensile strength, while the zinc coating provides sacrificial protection against corrosion. Galvanized steel remains affordable and widely available, making it a standard choice for many homes.

Galvalume, which combines approximately 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc, and 1.6% silicon, delivers superior corrosion resistance compared with galvanized steel. Galvalume often extends the useful life of steel roof tiles by decades in many environments. It resists rust in coastal or humid climates better than galvanized steel.

Aluminum Roof Tiles: Lightweight And Rust-Free

Aluminum is prized for its light weight and natural corrosion resistance. Because aluminum does not rust, roof tiles made from it are ideal in coastal regions or areas with heavy rainfall. Aluminum tiles can be painted and formed into many shapes, mimicking traditional roofing materials like slate or clay.

Aluminum’s lower density reduces structural load, potentially lowering installation costs for roof reinforcement. However, aluminum is softer than steel and may dent more easily under impact, and the material tends to cost more than lower-grade steel options.

Copper, Zinc, And Stainless Steel: Premium Options

Copper and zinc are premium metal choices for roof tiles valued for longevity and distinctive aesthetics. Copper develops a protective patina over time, transforming from bright metallic to deep green or brown finishes without compromising performance.

Zinc forms a protective carbonate layer that is self-healing, sealing small scratches and inhibiting corrosion. Stainless steel tiles, especially grades 304 and 316, provide exceptional durability in chemically aggressive or marine environments. These premium metals often last 50 years or more and are commonly used on high-end or historic properties.

Coatings, Paints, And Stone-Coated Metal Tiles

Many metal roof tiles include factory-applied coatings for additional protection and color retention. Common coatings include polyester, silicone-modified polyester (SMP), and PVDF (Kynar 500) finishes. PVDF coatings offer superior color retention and weather resistance, making them popular on architectural projects.

Stone-coated metal tiles use a stone granule layer over a metal substrate to mimic the look of traditional shingles or tiles. These products combine the advantages of metal—longevity and strength—with a familiar aesthetic. The stone granule and coating system increases UV protection and hides minor surface defects.

How Material Choice Affects Cost And Lifespan

Material choice directly impacts initial cost, maintenance needs, and expected lifespan. Galvanized steel tiles are typically the most economical, while copper, zinc, and stainless steel command premium prices.

Lifespan ranges widely: galvanized steel may last 25–40 years depending on environment and coating, galvalume and aluminum often last 30–50 years, and premium metals can exceed 50–100 years. Warranty terms and local climate strongly influence the realized lifespan of any metal roof tile product.

Performance Considerations: Durability, Corrosion, And Impact Resistance

Durability depends on alloy composition, coating quality, gauge (thickness), and installation. Gauge numbers are inversely related to thickness; lower gauge means thicker metal and greater durability.

Corrosion resistance is critical for coastal areas or locations with high acidity or salt. Galvalume, aluminum, and stainless steel generally outperform standard galvanized steel in corrosive environments. Impact resistance varies—steel tends to resist impact better, while aluminum may dent more easily.

Energy Efficiency And Environmental Impact

Metal roof tiles reflect more solar radiation than asphalt shingles, reducing attic temperatures and cooling loads. Light-colored or reflective coatings further improve energy performance, potentially lowering cooling costs.

Many metal roofing materials are highly recyclable. Aluminum and steel roofs often contain recycled content and can be recycled again at end of life. Premium metals like copper also have high recyclability. Choosing metal tiles with recycled content reduces the environmental footprint of a roof replacement.

Design And Aesthetic Options

Metal roof tiles come in many profiles and finishes, including shake, slate, tile, and standing seam looks. Manufacturers can replicate traditional roofing materials while offering the benefits of metal. Painted, stone-coated, and embossed finishes allow homeowners to match architectural styles with minimal compromise on performance.

Color selection and finish type influence heat absorption and visible appearance over time. PVDF-coated tiles maintain color longest, while lower-cost paints may chalk or fade sooner.

Installation, Maintenance, And Warranties

Proper installation is essential to realize the expected lifespan of metal roof tiles. Fastener choice, underlayment, flashing, and ventilation all affect performance. Hiring experienced metal roof contractors and following manufacturer guidelines reduces leak risk and ensures warranty compliance.

Maintenance needs are generally low: periodic inspections, clearing debris, and checking fasteners and flashings typically suffice. Warranties range from 20 years to lifetime for premium metals; understanding coverage for paint, substrate, and perforation is crucial.

Choosing The Right Metal Tile For A Home

Selecting the best metal roof tile involves balancing budget, climate, design goals, and long-term ownership plans. For budget-conscious projects, coated galvanized or galvalume steel offers strong value. For coastal or low-maintenance preferences, aluminum or stainless steel may be preferable.

Homeowners seeking long-term investment and distinctive appearance often choose copper or zinc despite higher upfront costs, thanks to minimal maintenance and exceptional longevity.

Common Misconceptions About Metal Roof Tiles

One common myth is that metal roofs increase lightning risk; research shows metal roofing does not attract lightning more than other materials and can even disperse lightning safely. Another misconception is that metal roofs are noisy; with proper underlayment and insulation, noise levels are comparable to other materials.

Concerns about denting from hail are valid for some materials and gauges, but many metal tiles are engineered and tested for hail resistance. Choosing a higher gauge or reinforced profile improves impact performance.

Practical Tips For Buyers And Homeowners

Request product data sheets specifying substrate type, gauge, coating, and warranty terms. Ask contractors about experience with the chosen tile profile and for references of nearby installations.

Compare life-cycle costs, not just upfront price. Factor in expected lifespan, maintenance, energy savings, and potential resale value. Inquire about local building code requirements, fire ratings, and hail or wind certifications to ensure compliance and insurance considerations.

Key Takeaways About What Most Metal Roof Tiles Are Made Of

Most metal roof tiles are made from galvanized or galvalume steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, or stainless steel, often with protective coatings for longevity and appearance. Material selection influences cost, lifespan, maintenance, and performance in different climates.

Understanding the trade-offs among price, durability, aesthetics, and environmental impact helps homeowners and contractors choose the most suitable metal tile for their needs. Proper installation and high-quality coatings are critical to maximizing the long-term value of a metal roof tile system.