07/19/2025
Buying a new roof can be an expensive project, no matter what material you end up choosing. That’s why you should always know the considerations, pros, cons, and differences of all your buying options before you make a decision.
Two common roofing materials are stamped metal shingle roofing and standing seam metal roofing. We often get questions about the distinct differences between these two materials, especially because both are metal products, and if one is better than the other.
Well, it depends.
While our main product category here at BeleCraft Sheet Metal is engineered standing seam metal roofing, we 100% understand that this roofing material isn’t suitable for every property owner. That’s why we do our best to educate buyers with unbiased facts about the various metal roofing choices.
In this article expect to learn:
What stamped metal shingle roofing is, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of stamped metal shingle roofing.
What standing seam metal roofing is, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of standing seam metal roofing.
The different factors you should consider before you buy.
Stamped Metal Shingle Roofing – Characteristics, Advantages, & Disadvantages
Stamped metal shingles are smaller modular panels stamped/pressed to resemble the look of shingles, shake, tile, and slate roofing. Stamped metal roofing often utilizes a four-way interlocking system at all sides of the panel, which is then installed in staggered courses. Most stamped roofing is made from pre-painted PVDF-coated steel and aluminum, making it a premium roofing material for residential and small commercial applications.
●Advantages of Stamped Metal Shingle Roofing - ☆☆☆
Traditional Aesthetic
One significant benefit to metal shingles is that it offers a more traditional look similar to that of asphalt shingle or cedar shake Many continue to purchase asphalt shingle roofs because property owners often don’t want to deviate from the look of other properties in their area. With stamped metal shingles, you get that similar traditional look along with the other added benefits of metal roofing, including longevity, eco-friendliness, strength, and low maintenance.
●Disadvantages of Stamped Metal Shingle Roofing
High Initial Cost
Like standing seam metal roofing, metal shingles come at a premium price. But realistically, most metal shingle roofs will be more expensive than standing seam roofs. Keep in mind that the cost is dependent on a lot of factors that will fluctuate the price, including the coating type, thickness, labor, customizations, and more.
Believe it or not, stamped metal shingles use thinner metal than most standing seam systems. During the stamping process, there’s a great deal of strength needed to put in the folds and texturing into the metal shingles, which works better when the metal is thinner.
For aluminum stamped shingles, you can typically expect either .019 or .024 aluminum.
For steel stamped shingles, you can typically expect 29-gauge steel.
Also, the thinner metal may make it difficult for installers or property owners to walk on or do a repair without denting or bending the metal shingles. That’s why it’s recommended that you install a foam insert to take up space behind the shingle to make it more rigid and walkable.
Not For Use on Low-Slope Applications
One of the most significant drawbacks of stamped metal roofing is that it shouldn’t be used on low-slope roofs. Most stamped shingles are not suited for roofs with a pitch below 3/12. This lower slope can cause the roof to hold water and make it difficult for adequate draining, which could be more of a problem in areas with high rainfall, snow, or extreme weather.
Warranty & Engineering Limitations
Compared to concealed fastener standing seam metal roofing, stamped metal roofing isn’t typically tested to the same strict industry standards. That’s why most stamped roofs come with a paint or substrate warranty, which is standard for most PVDF-coated metal products. There might be a few manufacturing companies that do uplift testing and impact resistance, but that’s about it. There’s often not the required testing done to offer any kind of weathertight warranty, which is usually an option for commercial standing seam metal roof projects.
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Standing Seam Metal Roofing –☆☆☆☆☆ Characteristics, Advantages, & Disadvantages
Standing seam metal roofing is defined as a concealed fastener metal panel system that features vertical legs and a broad, flat area between the two legs. It also has raised seams, or vertical legs, that rise above the level of the panel’s flat area. Standing seam systems have hidden/concealed fasteners; the panel may be attached to the roof deck using a clip or directly fastened to the deck under the vertical leg (fastener fl**ge). This type of metal roof is considered a high-quality system frequently installed on architectural and commercial buildings.
●Advantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Longevity & Lifecycle
Standing seam metal roofing is a system built to last for decades longer than many other roofing styles and types. Depending on the manufacturer, some say standing seam roofs could last 50+ years in some instances, especially if the metal is coated in a PVDF paint system. It also requires less maintenance, especially when compared to different roofing types, such as asphalt shingles or concrete tiles. Since fasteners don’t pe*****te the surface of the metal on a standing seam system, regular maintenance to check for withdrawing, loose, or damaged fasteners is less frequent. However, keeping up with the maintenance on a standing seam roof is still essential and typically needs to be performed by a professional contractor.
Engineered Systems & Industry Standard Testing
Engineered standing seam metal roof systems are tested to the high standards set forth by industry leaders
reflective paint systems. This prevents the roof from absorbing too much heat and transferring it indoors, which can overwhelm the indoor cooling units and use energy.
●Disadvantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Mid to High Initial Cost
One of the most significant drawbacks to standing seam metal roofing is the fact that it can be more expensive when compared to other roofing types. However, it’s not always the highest price, as metal shingles and other stamped metal materials tend to come in at a higher price.
