You may have heard of corrugated metal roofing products in recent years. And, if you have, it’s no surprise. These products are becoming increasingly popular for those looking to replace their roofs. But not all steel roofing products are the same. Not only are they often built differently from manufacturer to manufacturer, but there are also different aesthetic choices. 

Some of the most popular steel roofing styles include corrugated, standing seam, and ribbed. Each has its own look and best uses. And while each style is built to last, you may choose one style versus another, depending on your specific project.

Our intention with this article is to provide you with our perspective on the differences between each, how they can handle the weather, and why you might choose one for your needs. By the end, we’re confident you’ll know which metal roofing to use.

The Rising Popularity of Steel Roofing 

We said it above, and we’ll say it again. More and more homeowners and contractors are going for the look and long-lasting appeal of corrugated metal roofing. In fact, according to research by The Freedonia Group, traditional asphalt shingles still dominate the U.S. market. But metal roofing is expected to grow the fastest among all roofing types by 2026. Why is this? Today’s homeowners and business owners are leaning towards long-lasting options that are reliable and good for the environment, too. 

In The Freedonia Group's report, "Roofing," they predict a slight dip in overall roofing demand to 279.3 million squares by 2026, coming down from a peak in 2021. We assume that this dip is due to the normalization after the pandemic-related new construction boom that took place in 2020 and 2021. And while we agree that there will be a dip, we also know that the demand for metal roofing is rising. 

With more people wanting a high-quality product that can stand the test of time, and can meet the increasing popularity of modern aesthetics, we’re confident that metal roofing will simply grow in interest and popularity. 

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Let’s start with one of our most popular products: corrugated metal roofing. This style is known for its wavy design with modem performance. Of course, this type of roofing has been around for decades, but as more and more people adopt an interest in sustainable products that have a modern appearance, corrugated steel roofing is becoming more the norm.

One of the greatest advantages of corrugated metal roofing is its durability and protection against harsh weather conditions. Manufactured out of sheets of metal, usually steel, aluminum, or sometimes copper, that are rolled into a wave-like pattern, corrugated roofs provide both function and visual appeal.

Looks

Corrugated metal roofing is well known for its versatility in color and style. Even though it has more of an industrial origin, improvements in paint One of the standout features of corrugated metal roofing is its versatility in color and a broader color palette has made it more widely available to homeowners and builders. 

Corrugated metal can complement a wide range of architectural styles, from earth tones that blend in naturally with surrounding landscapes to exciting colors that are bound to make a statement. While corrugated metal roofing as a traditional appeal (think of barns and industrial buildings) it can totally create that rustic charm to make it stand out from the crowd.

Best Uses

Corrugated metal roofing is well-suited for structures requiring weather-resistant roofs. It's commonly used in buildings, warehouses, and homes, looking for a mix of durability and classic charm. The corrugated pattern provides added durability compared to sheets, making it a great choice for regions with inclement weather, like heavy rain, snow, and wind.

Weather Performance

Corrugated metal roofing is praised for its durability when facing adverse weather conditions. The distinct design of corrugated metal adds appeal and enhances its strength. It handles rain and snow runoff effectively, preventing water buildup and potential harm.

While it's recognized for its resilience against winds, how well it holds up against hail depends on the thickness and quality of the material. Typically, protective coatings are applied to corrugated metal roofs to combat rust and UV damage, extending their lifespan and performance across climates. At BarrierBoss, our metal roofing products offer a ⅞” wave profile and are gauge 26. This is the standard metal thickness for exposed fastener metal roofing, and it’s built to last.

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing is another popular style of metal roofing. Just as with its corrugated counterpart, standing seam roofing has a refined and modern look and offers exceptional performance against the elements. 

You can define standing seam metal roofing by its continuous panels that run from the roof's ridge down to the eaves. The seams that connect them stand above the level of the roofing panel. Many homeowners and business owners like the clean, contemporary look that it offers.

Looks

Those who choose standing seam metal roofing often do so because of its simplicity and elegance. The look is smooth and uninterrupted and is the epitome of modern sophistication.

Standing seam panels are available in a wide variety PVDF paint colors. So, they can be painted to match whatever architectural style you are going for. And, these panels are perfect for traditional homes and contemporary commercial buildings alike. The sleek lines create visual interest and a contrasting effect, which may be what you want to stand out from the crowd.

Best Uses

Those who elect standing seam metal roofing do so because they want the modern look we mentioned above and superior durability. For this reason, it’s a great choice for residential homes, commercial buildings, and even public and institutional structures. 

The hidden fasteners not only keep it looking sleek but also help to protect against moisture and debris accumulation. This roofing type is also a popular choice for environmentally conscious projects, as its materials are often recyclable, and the roofs themselves make it easy for solar panel installation.

Weather Performance

As with most steel roofing products, standing seam metal roofing is excellent when it comes to withstanding inclement or volatile weather. The raised seams and concealed fasteners reduce the risk of leaks. So, rest assured that with few exceptions, this product is designed to withstand high winds, making it a popular selection for those who live in geographies prone to hurricanes or frequent storms. 

The smooth surface of the panels also makes it easy to shed snow and rain. This means added protection from water damage. While standing seam metal roofing can handle similar wind loads to corrugated panels, it tends to stand out as the winner in hail-prone areas.

Classic Rib Metal Roofing

Ribbed metal roofing is defined by its pronounced ridges and valleys. You can identify it by its series of high ridges, or ribs, that run vertically down the panel. The ribbed pattern adds architectural depth and boosts the roof's structural integrity. Ribbed metal roofs are a super versatile option. They look great. They have the modern appearance that many homeowners and business owners desire. And they last a long time.

Looks

The appeal of ribbed metal roofing is all about the textured appearance. The texture creates a sense of dimension and is visually appealing, especially for those looking to enhance their building’s curb appeal. Plus, classic rib metal roofing panels are available in various colors to complement contemporary and traditional building styles easily. 

The ribs create a shadowed, subtle, yet distinctive line. Its ability to mimic the look of more traditional roofing materials makes it a popular choice for those who want to or need to upgrade their roof but don’t want to sacrifice style.

Best Uses

Ribbed metal roofing is especially suited for projects requiring a combination of durability, affordability, and aesthetic flexibility. Its robust design is ideal for residential and commercial applications, including workshops, barns, and retail spaces. 

The structural strength provided by the ribbed pattern is beneficial in areas subject to heavy snowfall, as it helps to support the weight and promote efficient snow shedding. Additionally, the raised ribs facilitate better water runoff, making ribbed metal roofing a smart choice for regions experiencing heavy rain.

Weather Performance

As you’ve probably seen from our frequent mentioning of it, steel roofing is designed to withstand even some of the worst weather conditions. And the design of ribbed metal roofing really helps with its weather-resistant qualities. The pronounced ribs stand up against hail or falling debris by distributing the force more evenly across the panel.

Classic Rib Metal Roofing Panels

Choosing the Right Steel Roofing Option for Your Project

When choosing the steel roof for your structure, be sure to think about how it looks, what it can do, and how well it can withstand weather conditions. Whether you prefer a modern appearance vs. classic charm or lasting strength, a metal roofing design suits your requirements in extreme climates. 

Corrugated, standing seam, and ribbed metal roofs all have advantages, so it's super important to compare them based on factors, like looks, where they work best, and how they hold up against the elements.

Read on for the BarrierBoss take on the differences between corrugated metal roofing, standing seam metal roofing, and classic ribbed metal roofing. We’ve provided insights on the look, the types of buildings this roofing style is better suited for, and how it can withstand the weather.

Corrugated Metal Roofing

• Look: Traditional, wavy design with exposed fasteners.
• Best Suited For: Agricultural buildings, country-style homes, and industrial buildings.
• Weather Performance: Excellent at ridding the surface of rain and snow, good wind resistance, and the repeating pattern helps handle hail.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

• Look: Sleek, modern design with vertical seams; fasteners are hidden.
• Best Suited For: Residential homes, commercial buildings where a more modern look is desired, and environmentally conscious projects.
• Weather Performance: Superior resistance to wind and rain due to its seamless design; less vulnerable to leaks.

Classic Ribbed Metal Roofing

• Look: Features pronounced ridges or ribs for added texture and depth.
• Best Suited For: Both residential and commercial properties, including workshops, barns, and retail spaces.
• Weather Performance: Can handle physical impacts like hail; has excellent snow and rain deflection; is good in high wind areas.

Choosing the right steel roofing option is all about balancing the look you want to achieve with practical considerations such as climate and building use. Ready to make your decision? Here’s a simple chart to help you compare your metal roofing options.

Ready to make your decision? Here’s a simple chart to visually compare these aspects.

Whatever You Choose, Choose BarrierBoss Metal Roofing

Whatever style of steel roofing that you are going for, we’re confident that you’ll see that BarrierBoss products stand above the competition. Whether you want rustic charm, a sleek modern, appearance, or anything in between, you’ll love the look metal roofing provides.

But when selecting the right roof, you also want to ensure it will last, can withstand the harsh elements from inclement weather conditions, and is low-maintenance. And this is truly where BarrierBoss products are changing the game. We’re proud of our product quality and we’re confident you will be, too. Plus, while we don’t want to toot our own horn, buying from BarrierBoss is a simple and straightforward process. We take great pride in our customer service experience with our buyers and dealers. 

Know that the best roofing choice is one that not only complements the architectural style of your property but also provides lasting protection against the elements. We’re confident that you’re now better equipped to make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and needs.

If you're ready to explore the best steel roofing options for your project or need expert advice to guide your choice, BarrierBoss is here to help. We offer superior metal roofing solutions tailored to withstand various weather conditions while creating a stunning look that meets your wants and needs. 

Contact BarrierBoss today to find the perfect roofing solution. Let us help you elevate your property with the strength and elegance of steel roofing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between corrugated, standing seam, and ribbed metal roofing?

All three of these steel roofing products are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. The biggest difference between each of the three lies in the look of the panels. Corrugated metal panels have a wavy look to them. Standing seam panels are smoother, with a very sleek appearance. And ribbed roofing panels are more textured, appearing to have more depth.

How do I decide which type of metal roofing is best for my home or building?

Deciding on the best type of metal roofing for your home or building is all about personal preference. While some styles can withstand certain weather conditions better than their counterparts, steel roofing is robust and durable, designed to stand the test of time. Be sure to take a look at the comparison we provided earlier in this article. We believe this grid will help you decide on the right product for your roofing project needs.

Can metal roofing withstand severe weather conditions like hail and high winds?

Yes, one of the best things about metal roofing is its ability to stand up against harsh weather, especially hail and high winds. In fact, this is one of the primary reasons it is so popular. Specifically, corrugated and ribbed metal roofs offer excellent resistance to hail. Standing seam metal roofing is most effective against high winds. 

Are there color limitations with any of the metal roofing options discussed?

No color limitations regarding corrugated, standing seam, or ribbed metal roofing options exist. Panels are purchased in either black or galvalume but can then be painted to match your desired look. At BarrierBoss, we’re proud to use high-quality PVDF paint, which offers a broad palette of colors that are less likely to fade, chalk, or fall victim to environmental wear. This advanced paint technology ensures that all metal roofing types can be customized to fit any preference. And even better, it means no sacrificing how long the roof will last or perform.

How do the costs of corrugated, standing seam, and ribbed metal roofing compare?

Costs of corrugated, standing seam, and ribbed metal roofing can definitely vary. Standing seam is often viewed as the most expensive. Corrugated metal roofing is generally the most cost-effective option. To that end, ribbed metal roofing falls in between. It provides a cost-efficient solution with great looks and reliable structural integrity. However, while the prices vary, be sure to consider the look you are going for and make the best decision for your needs.