From commercial to residential roofing, metal roofs have been making a full circle in the industry and around the neighborhood. Known to last three to four times longer than the once popular asphalt shingles, metal roofs outshine its competitors with exceptional longevity and durability. The versatile styles of a metal roof also enables it to perfectly complement all kinds of architectural styles that range from historic to contemporary.

While metal roofs are definitely the ultimate roofing solution when compared against other materials, the way a metal roof is designed can also make a difference in its performance. You may have heard of a curved metal roof. But when it comes to corrugated metal roofing versus standing seam metal roofing, homeowners are scratching their heads and trying to figure things out. Although you can’t go too wrong with either one, standing seam metal roofing is definitely the superior of the two in material, design, and performance.



1) Design and Appearance



If the term “corrugated metal roofing†sounds a bit confusing, chances are you probably don’t know what “corrugated†means. Corrugated describes anything with a surface that is shaped into alternate ridges and grooves. Put simply, a corrugated metal roof is one with interlocking rippled metal sheets. A standing seam metal roof, on the other hand, is constructed of interlocking metal panels that run from the ridge of the roof to the eave. Its design and texture makes it not only a better system for shedding water and snow, but also an ideal solution for low-pitched roofs.



2) Fastening System 



Besides the aesthetic difference of the two roofs, the fastening system of standing seam metal roofs is better and more reliable. Whereas the interlocking rippled metal sheets of a corrugated metal roof are fastened directly to the roof sheathing, the seams of a standing seam metal roof are raised above the surface. The screws are completely concealed and safely protected by the roof surface, giving standing seam metal roofs a streamlined look that can never be created by its counterpart. As for durability and material quality, RoofingCalc.com explains that “standing seam roofs are generally made from thicker grades of steel than corrugated steel roofs. While many corrugated steel roofs are made using a very thin 29 gauge steel, a minimum of 26 gauge galvalume steel is used for manufacturing of standing seam panels.



3) Performance and Durability



Homeowners might be disappointed by corrugated metal roof’s inability to accommodate flashed brackets. What is more troubling is that the exposed fasteners on this roofing style often become loose after 10 to 15 years. So even if your corrugated metal roof can live as long as a standing seam metal roof, the maintenance it requires is rather inconvenient. With standing seam metal roof, however, the concealed fasteners are well-protected. As DIY.com points out, “having the seams of the panels raised above the surface allows the water to run off rather than seep between the panels.†Consequently, standing seam metal roofs are more durable and less prone to leak, rusting, and lifting than corrugated metal roofs.