How Long Does a Metal Roof Last? Lifespan Explained

While picking from different forms of roofing materials that are available in the market, most homeowners seek something long-lasting, energy-efficient, and that needs little maintenance. The market demands and studies have shown that one that stands out from the rest is metal roofing. If the question of how long a metal roof lasts has ever crossed your mind, then you might be taken aback after knowing the answer to that question, as it is known to outshine other roofing materials in terms of performance. 

Based on the type of metal that has been used in making the roof, it can last somewhere between 40 to 70 years. Alongside that, installation work and maintenance also play key roles in the lifespan. Premium metals such as copper and zinc will last for almost close to a century, which is why they are referred to as long-term investments. When you take asphalt shingles into consideration or even the wooden shakes, the metal roofs are significantly better in terms of longevity. 

Here, we will discuss various kinds of metal roofs and several factors that influence the lasting period of them along with what you can do to enhance their lifespan. 

Average Lifespan of a Metal Roof

Not all metal roofs can last an equal amount of time. The type of metal that is being used in the construction process plays a huge role in determining the lifespan. Let’s take a closer look at the same:

• Steel Roofs: Steel roofs undergo the process of galvanisation and will keep your home protected for almost 60 years. The strong and durable nature of steel, along with how affordable it is, makes it one of the go-to choices among homeowners. 

• Aluminium Roofs: Aluminium as a metal does not rust and is highly corrosion-resistant. So, it is great for houses located in coastal areas where moisture is high in the atmosphere. The lifespan of aluminium roofs is almost 50 years. 

• Copper Roofs: The best choice of metal roofing that you can make is this, as copper roofs can last somewhere between 70 to 100 years. Most of the historic buildings in the world have copper roofs, and they have stood the test of time, so you can count on them. 

• Zinc Roofs: Just like copper, zinc is another durable material that can last for more than 60 years easily. It is considered a great alternative due to its self-healing nature and scratch-resistant properties. 

• Tin Roofs: Nowadays, it is the least popular metal roofing among homeowners due to its lifespan of somewhere around 40 years, which is lesser compared to other metals. 

Comparing Lifespans of Different Materials 

Type of Metal Roof	Average Lifespan	Key Features
Steel (Galvanized/Galvalume)	40–60 years	Strong, affordable, protective coatings
Aluminum	50+ years	Rust-resistant, great for coastal climates
Copper	70–100+ years	Premium, ages to green patina, centuries of durability
Zinc	60–100 years	Self-healing, eco-friendly, long-lasting
Tin (older style)	~40 years	Outdated, less common today

In case you want to conduct deep research before you pick one for your home, then you can go through the detailed guide on different types of roofing materials with their upsides and downsides. 

Factors That Determine Your Roof’s Life 

Although metal roofing comes with an impressive lifespan, there are many factors that can boost or cut short the lifespan of the metal roof of your house. 

• Material in use: Homes that are located close to the sea should choose a metal roof that is corrosion-proof proof such as aluminium or copper, and should not look for steel roofs. 

• Coating over the metal: Putting a coat of paint or any other material to save the roof from the effects of corrosion is a great way to protect your roof from natural decay. Galvanization or a coat of paint on top of the metal roofing can be really beneficial. 

• Installation: If your contractor is inefficient and uses improper fasteners or does not seal the flashing properly, then leaks and rust are bound to appear, which will in turn make your metal roof more susceptible to damage.

• Surrounding climate: Harsh climatic conditions, such as heavy snowfall or hurricanes, may have an effect on the lifespan of your metal roof. Use of proper coatings and use of reinforcements from time to time can lower the risks of damage. 

• Maintaining the metal: Upkeep your roof by cleaning gutters and thorough inspections to check damage after a heavy storm can give you an additional few years with your existing metal roof. 

In case you want to go the extra mile and want to compare how Mother Nature affects metal roofing materials, you can check this out. 

Why Metal Roofs Are Better Than Other Roofing Materials

Now, if you are not sure whether to go with the metal roofs or not, then let me give you a quick comparison between metal roofs and other roofing materials that are commonly used in homes across the country, primarily based on the lifespan. 

• Asphalt shingles: They are quite pocket-friendly but come with a short lifespan of 15 to 20 years.

• Wood Shake: These wood shakes are a thing of beauty, but you need to put a lot of effort into maintaining them, and they will protect your house for somewhere between 20 to 40 years. 

• Tile Roofing: Using tin roofing guarantees you safety for a period of 50 to 100 years, and one of the biggest advantages that they possess is that they are sturdy. 

• Slate Roofing: The longest-lasting material that you can have for your roof, as it can last over a century. 

So, where does it put metal roofing amidst all the materials that have been mentioned here? Well, it lies somewhere in the mid to high lifespan grade. They might not be as durable as slate, but they can surely last longer than asphalt or wood. Moreover, it will save energy and will cost you a lot less in maintenance costs. Last but not least, they are lighter in terms of weight if you put tiles and slate in comparison with them. 

For an in-depth comparison, go through the guide on asphalt roof vs metal roof. 

Tips to Keep in Mind to Extend the Life of Your Metal Roof 

If how long does a metal roof last is not the only question in your mind and you are also curious to learn how you can extend the life of the roof and make it last as long as possible, then I have some maintenance tips to share with you. 

• Inspection from Time to Time: Every year, at least once, you should check the fasteners and flashing in the roof to spot any loose ends. If you found one, replace or tighten it then and there.

• Cleaning the Gutters: If the gutters get blocked, the waterlogging can cause some serious damage to your roof. So, clean them every now and then, and especially after heavy rains and snowfall. 

• Recoating Whenever Necessary: Protective coverings that are present on the metal at the time of installation will wear off in a few years. So, I highly recommend adding a coat of UV-protected paint, which will keep the metal underneath protected and safe from corrosion, thus extending its life by some years. 

• Trimming Branches: In case your house is surrounded by trees, then the branches of the tree brushing off against the roof can scrape up the protective covering of your metal roof. Trimming those branches can help you save the roof from this kind of damage. 

For deep insights on this, read the metal roof upkeep tips. 

Metal Roof Warranty Period 

Another clever way to get a rough idea of how long the metal roof is going to last is by looking at the warranty period that is being offered at the time of buying by the manufacturers and installers.

• Manufacturer Warranty: Any material defect will be covered by this warranty, and it is usually for 30 to 50 years. 

• Warranty on Paint and Finishing: High-end finishing that you get with premium brands offers you a warranty period of 25 to 40 years.

• Craftsmanship Warranty: The contractor that you hire will offer you a warranty and which can range somewhere between 5 to 15 years. 

Receiving a long warranty with the product does not ensure a long lifespan, but it will give you peace of mind and is usually considered a reflection of the manufacturer’s trust in the product. 

Final Thoughts 

So, after this long discussion, I hope that you have a clear idea now regarding how long a metal roof lasts. Well, you can expect it to last on average 60 years, but if you decide to go premium, as it is a long-term investment, then the alternatives like copper and zinc can last over a century. A metallic roof is superior compared to other materials in almost every category. 

Your roof can last longer based on your choice of metal, professionalism shown by the contractor during installation, and by following simple maintenance tips that I have mentioned earlier. Opting for metal roofs is one of the best investments that you can make at present. 

Also Read:

Lifespan of Your Roof: A Complete Guide