Standing Seam Roofing vs. Metal Roofing: What’s the Difference?

Written by Nettie Grubb | Jan 13, 2025 6:00:00 PM

Whether you want a new metal roof for your stick-built home or are interested in building a pole barn, there are several roofing material options.

Metal
Shingle
Wood Shake

Metal roofs are a popular choice for post-frame homes, stick-frame construction homes, and agricultural pole buildings.

There are two styles of metal roofs. In this blog, we will explore what a standing seam roof is and how it compares to a standard metal roof.

What Is a Standing Seam Roof?

A standing seam roof is a metal roof where the fasteners do not show, the sheets of metal interlock, and they have a taller rib. They are often chosen for their aesthetic appearance.

Standing seam systems are used for a wide range of applications and projects. These systems feature interlocking seams that connect panels, giving the roof a distinct and attractive appearance.

Furthermore, standing seam systems are manufactured from high-end steel or aluminum, offering years of low-maintenance service life.

What is a Metal Roof?

In post-frame construction, builders typically use either 26-gauge or 29-gauge steel. The style of roof can range from a mono slope, gambrel, hip, monitor, or traditional gable style. All have different roof pitches and use metal panels for post-frame structures.

The steel panels are coated in paint. The paint systems used can either be Polyester, Silicone Modified Polyester (SMP), or Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF), commonly known as Kynar 500®. Each of these standard resins offers different advantages and performance. However, the outstanding performance of PVDF (Kynar 500®) systems makes them the preferred choice for post-frame projects

The traditional metal roofing used to re-roof an older pole barn or even your residential home is attached to the structure with fasteners. The fasteners FBi Buildings uses are different from other brands, and you’ll notice that an umbrella cap protects them and stays that way when fastened. This protects the longevity and prevention of rust streaks.

Standing Seam Roof vs. Metal Roofing

1. Design and Appearance

Standing Seam Roofing is a type of metal roof with vertical panels that have raised seams running from the roof's ridge to the eaves. The seams are raised above the flat portion of the panels and interlocked, which gives them a distinctive look. The seams are often mechanically or snap-locked into place, and no fasteners are visible.
Metal Roofing is a broader term that refers to any type of metal roof. It includes various types of panels, such as corrugated panels, ribbed panels, or flat metal sheets. The seams may not be raised, and the appearance can vary greatly depending on the specific design. Fasteners are visible.

2. Installation

Standing Seam Roofing: Typically requires specialized installation because the panels are custom-fitted, and the seams are either mechanically locked or snap-locked together. The interlocking seams create a weather-tight seal that can withstand extreme weather conditions. It usually involves more precise craftsmanship and is often installed by professionals.
Metal Roofing: This can be easier and faster to install compared to standing seam roofing. Metal roofing panels are generally pre-cut and can be fastened with screws or nails directly onto the roof deck. The installation process can be simpler, especially for DIYers, depending on the type of metal roofing chosen.

3. Weather Resistance

Standing Seam Roofing: Because the seams are raised and interlocked, standing seam roofs are highly resistant to water penetration, wind, and ice damming. The lack of exposed fasteners (screws or nails) reduces the chance of leaks.
Metal Roofing: While metal roofs can also be very durable and weather-resistant, they often rely on exposed fasteners that can potentially loosen over time, leading to leaks or corrosion. The overall performance will depend on the type of metal and the quality of the installation.

4. Durability and Longevity

Standing Seam Roofing: Generally considered more durable and longer-lasting than other metal roofing types due to its interlocking seams, lack of exposed fasteners, and solid, continuous panels. Standing seam systems can last 40 to 70 years or more with proper maintenance.
Metal Roofing: Can also be long-lasting, typically lasting 30 to 50 years depending on the material (steel, aluminum, copper, etc.) and the quality of the installation. However, exposed fasteners can wear down over time, potentially reducing the lifespan.

5. Cost

Standing Seam Roofing: Usually more expensive because of its intricate design, specialized installation, and superior long-term performance. It’s considered a premium option in metal roofing.
Metal Roofing: Can be more affordable depending on the style and material chosen. Corrugated and ribbed panels tend to be more cost-effective than standing seam options.

6. Aesthetic Appeal

Standing Seam Roofing: Offers a sleek, modern, and clean look. It is often preferred for high-end residential, commercial, or industrial buildings, especially where the aesthetic appearance is important.
Metal Roofing: Metal Roofing comes in a wider variety of styles, such as corrugated or ribbed panels, and can be used to replicate the appearance of traditional materials like shingles or tiles. The aesthetic may vary depending on the type chosen.

7. Maintenance

Standing Seam Roofing: Requires minimal maintenance due to its lack of exposed fasteners and its seamless design, which helps prevent water infiltration and rust. However, it may still need occasional cleaning or inspection, especially in areas prone to heavy snow or debris.
Metal Roofing May require more frequent maintenance depending on the type and the exposure of fasteners. Depending on the quality, these fasteners might need to be checked.

8. Energy Efficiency

Standing Seam Roofing: Typically more energy-efficient, as it can incorporate insulation from the OSB below. The continuous surface also reflects sunlight, which can reduce cooling costs in hot climates.
Metal Roofing: Also has energy-efficient properties, particularly if it’s coated with reflective finishes, but standing seam roofing typically offers better performance due to its design flexibility.

Pros and Cons of Standing Seam & Metal Roofs

Standing Seam and Metal Roofs share many similar pros and cons. Below, we break down the key pros and cons for each.

Pros:

Standing Seam Roof	Metal Roof
Concealed Fasteners Since there are no exposed screws with washers that can shrink or crack over time, they are considered a more weather-tight system than exposed fastener systems.	Durability & Longevity Metal roofs can last 50 years or more, depending on the material (e.g., steel, aluminum, copper). This is significantly longer than traditional asphalt shingles, which generally last 15-20 years.
Expansion/Contraction Ability Standing seam systems allow expansion and contraction through either a clip or slotted flange. Conversely, exposed fastener systems are pinned, which can result in the fastener hole elongating over time and allowing water to penetrate.	Low Maintenance Metal roofs require very little maintenance compared to other roofing materials. If properly installed, they are less likely to suffer from issues like leaks, rot, or moss buildup.
On-Site Panel Production Manufacturers can produce standing seam panels on-site in lengths up to 250’. Single-piece panels are quicker to install, more weathertight, and require fewer components, making them a superior and often more economical system.	Environmentally Friendly Metal roofs are often made from recycled materials (such as aluminum and steel), and they are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. The longevity of a metal roof means fewer roofing materials end up in landfills over time.
Clean and Seamless Look Standing seam panels typically offer a distinct vertical leg. This tall vertical leg can offer a nice shadow effect and the illusion of a flat pan in between the major ribs, which many architects and building owners prefer. Plus, there is a new metal shingle option that offers the appearance of shingles while retaining the benefits of a metal roofing system. Both systems provide the long life and durability of a metal roof, but they offer homeowners options when it comes to the aesthetics of their roof. Some homeowners’ associations do not allow vertical seam panels because of aesthetics. In these cases, metal shingles may enable the homeowner to retain the metal roof benefits while complying with HOA regulations because metal shingles have a more traditional look.
Weather Tightness Warranties Standing seam systems can often offer Weather Tightness Warranties where exposed fastener panel systems cannot.	Weather Resistance Metal roofs perform exceptionally well in extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, hail, and high winds (up to 140 mph or more, depending on the system). This makes them a great choice for areas prone to storms or severe weather.
Extensive Testing To meet stringent building codes and life safety issues, standing seam panels are subjected to more testing than exposed fastened-type systems. Standard tests include uplift, air and water resistance, impact resistance, and fire resistance.	Energy Efficiency Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat, which can reduce cooling costs.The energy savings of 40% for homeowners. This is a great benefit for those in southern climates.

Cons:

Standing Seam Roof	Metal Roof
Requires OSB Due to the way the panels need to be fastened, OSB will need to be added to your roof instead of just purlins. While OSB does add a layer between the attic and your metal roofing, it adds to the overall project cost	Potential for Scratching or Paint Fading: Although metal roofs are generally durable, they can scratch if not handled carefully during installation or maintenance. Additionally, some metal roofing finishes may fade over time, particularly in regions with harsh sun exposure. That is why it is important to investigate the paint system your builder uses.
Costs More This metal material typically costs $10-$15 more than our standard exposed fastener max-rib steel roofing.	Noise When a metal roof is affixed to the purlin, and there is no OSB or insulation between the ceiling and the roof, such as a farm shop, you can expect to hear the rain pitter patter. However, in barndominiums and post-frame buildings that have some barrier from insulation or attic space, the noise is not as loud.
Cell Reception Can block cell service.	Denting Some types of metal, such as softer metals like aluminum, can be prone to denting from hail or falling branches. While thicker metals and standing seam designs offer better protection, it's still a potential downside.

Which Metal Roof Will You Pick?

If you're looking for a high-end, long-lasting, and low-maintenance roofing system, standing seam roofing might be the better choice. It's ideal for those who value aesthetics and durability and are willing to invest more upfront.

On the other hand, metal roofing in its various forms offers a broader range of price points and styles, making it a more versatile option for those on a budget or who prefer a more traditional look.

Have more questions about metal roofing options, please contact FBi Buildings at 1.800.552.2981 or click here to email us. If you are ready to get a price, click here to request a quote and a member of our sales team will call you.

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