Introduction

Metal roofing panels are becoming the material of choice for commercial, industrial, agricultural, and even residential buildings. Known for their durability, energy efficiency, and modern appearance, metal roof panels come in a variety of types, sizes, and finishes suited to a wide range of climates and applications.

1. What Are Metal Roof Panels?

Metal roof panels are manufactured sheets of steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc designed to protect structures from environmental elements. They are formed by roll forming machines into specific profiles that suit various aesthetic and structural needs.

2. Common Materials Used in Metal Roof Panels

Material	Key Features	Ideal Uses
Galvanized Steel	Zinc-coated steel; corrosion-resistant	Commercial, industrial roofs
Galvalume	Aluminum-zinc alloy coating; long lifespan	Coastal & humid regions
Aluminum	Lightweight, rust-proof	Residential, coastal buildings
Copper	High-end look, patinas over time	Luxury and historical restoration
Zinc	Self-healing surface, extremely durable	Architectural projects

Typical Material Thickness: 22 – 29 gauge (0.3 mm to 0.8 mm)
Yield Strength Range: 40 KSI to 80 KSI depending on the panel type and material

3. Metal Roofing Panel Profile Types

Profile Name	Description	Common Uses
Corrugated Panels	Wavy pattern; classic look	Agricultural buildings, sheds
Ribbed Panels	Raised ribs for strength	Commercial, barns
Standing Seam Panels	Concealed fasteners; modern appearance	Residential, commercial roofs
Snap Lock Panels	Interlocking seams for easy installation	Homes and mid-size buildings
PBR (Purlin Bearing Rib)	Extra support at lap for better installation on purlins	Steel structures, warehouses
R-Panel	Popular low-slope commercial roofing	Warehouses, steel buildings
5V Crimp	Classic look with minimal overlap	Homes, barns, smaller roofs

4. Panel Sizes and Dimensions

Standard Widths: 12", 16", 18", 24", 36"
Length: Custom cut to size, usually up to 40 feet
Rib Height: Ranges from 3/4" to 1.5"
Overlap: 1" to 2" depending on profile
Coverage Width: Varies per profile and panel design

5. Industries Using Metal Roofing Panels

Residential: Modern and energy-efficient housing
Commercial: Retail stores, office buildings, malls
Industrial: Warehouses, factories, logistics hubs
Agricultural: Barns, silos, animal shelters
Public/Government: Schools, hospitals, military buildings
Energy & Utility: Solar panel mounting structures
Hospitality: Resorts, eco-lodges, and off-grid housing

6. Benefits of Metal Roof Panels

Lifespan of 40–70 years
Fire and wind resistant
Low maintenance
Highly recyclable
Energy efficiency (especially with coatings or cool roof finishes)

7. Top Metal Roofing Panel Manufacturers in the USA

Here are some of the leading manufacturers known for quality and innovation:

McElroy Metal
Metal Sales Manufacturing Corporation
Fabral
MBCI (Metal Building Components Inc.)
American Building Components (ABC)
Englert Inc.
ATAS International
Union Corrugating Company
Central States Manufacturing
Reinke Shakes
Everlast Roofing
Berridge Manufacturing Company
Drexel Metals
Firestone Building Products
Sheffield Metals
Petersen Aluminum Corporation
ASC Building Products
AEP Span
Tamko MetalWorks
Bridger Steel

8. Top 20 Global Manufacturers of Metal Roof Panels

Tata BlueScope Steel (India/Australia)
ArcelorMittal (Luxembourg)
Kingspan Group (Ireland)
Ruukki / SSAB (Finland/Sweden)
Bluescope Steel (Australia)
NLMK (Russia)
Dongkuk Steel (South Korea)
POSCO (South Korea)
Zamil Steel (Saudi Arabia)
Metecno Group (Italy)
Ternium (Latin America)
JSW Steel (India)
Yieh Phui Enterprise Co. (Taiwan)
Baosteel (China)
Corus Group (UK - now part of Tata Steel)
Nippon Steel (Japan)
JFE Steel Corporation (Japan)
Salzgitter AG (Germany)
Severstal (Russia)
Dongbu Steel (South Korea)

9. FAQs About Metal Roofing Panels

Can You Put Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?

Yes. Standing seam panels are ideal for solar installations as mounting brackets can be clamped to the seams, avoiding roof penetration. They are long-lasting and often outlive solar systems.

How to Cut Metal Roof Panels?

Use:

Metal shears for small straight cuts
Nibblers for curves
Circular saws with metal blades for larger, straight cuts

Safety Tip: Always wear gloves, goggles, and hearing protection.

How to Install Metal Roofing Panels?

Basic steps:

Prepare roof deck (plywood or OSB)
Apply waterproof underlayment
Align starter strip
Overlap panels and fasten with screws (at ridges, not valleys)
Install ridge caps and flashing
Seal edges with butyl tape or foam closures

For standing seam systems, use clip-fastening methods to allow for thermal movement.

How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost?

Type	Installed Cost (USD/sq.ft.)
Corrugated Panels	$4 – $6
Standing Seam	$8 – $14
Copper	$15 – $30
Aluminum	$7 – $12

Total cost depends on gauge, labor, profile type, and location.

Can You Paint a Metal Roof?

Yes. Use paint systems like:

Kynar 500® (PVDF): Premium, long-lasting
Silicone-modified polyester (SMP): Budget-friendly
Acrylic or polyester paints: Shorter life span

Surface prep, priming, and proper curing are essential.

10. Final Thoughts

Metal roof panels are more than just a trend—they're a smart investment across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. With a wide range of profiles, materials, and finishes, they offer unbeatable longevity, environmental benefits, and modern aesthetics.

Whether you're an architect, contractor, or business owner, understanding the types, specs, installation methods, and suppliers will help you make the best decision for your next roofing project.