- Standing seam hides its fasteners under locked seams — the longest-lasting, best-looking, most expensive option.
- Corrugated/exposed-fastener panels screw straight through the metal — cheapest and fastest, but the gaskets age.
- Metal shingles and stone-coated steel mimic traditional roofing while delivering metal's longevity.
- Choose by budget, look, and how long you plan to keep the home.
The three systems at a glance
| System | Fasteners | Cost / sq ft | Lifespan | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standing seam | Concealed | $10–$16 | 50–70 yrs | Premium look, longest life |
| Metal shingle / stone-coated | Concealed | $8–$14 | 40–50 yrs | Traditional shingle/slate look |
| Corrugated / exposed-fastener | Exposed | $5–$12 | 25–40 yrs | Budget, outbuildings, modern-rustic |
Standing seam
Standing seam panels run vertically with raised, interlocking seams that conceal the fasteners. Nothing penetrates the weather surface, so there are no exposed gaskets to fail — which is why it lasts 50–70 years and carries the strongest warranties. It is the most refined look and the most expensive, and it demands a specialist installer.
Metal shingle and stone-coated steel
Metal shingles, shakes, tiles, and stone-coated steel give you metal's durability in the shape and texture of traditional roofing. Fasteners are concealed, lifespan is 40–50 years, and they suit homeowners (and HOAs) who want a conventional look without conventional maintenance.
Corrugated and exposed-fastener panels
Corrugated and other exposed-fastener panels screw directly through the metal into the deck, with rubber washers sealing each screw. They are the cheapest and fastest metal roof — great for barns, porches, and budget-minded or modern-rustic homes — but those rubber washers dry out over time and need periodic re-sealing, which caps lifespan at 25–40 years.
Which should you choose?
- Want the longest life and best looks, staying long-term? Standing seam.
- Want metal's durability with a traditional shingle or slate appearance? Metal shingle / stone-coated.
- Working to a budget, or roofing an outbuilding or modern-rustic home? Corrugated.