Zinc Roofing

When it comes to roofing options, homeowners have a wide range of materials to choose from. Zinc roofing, a type of metal roofing, is one of the popular options that many homeowners choose thanks to its durability, long lifespan, low maintenance, weather resistance, and curb appeal. While zinc roofing has been a common material used in Europe since the 19th century – and many of those roofs are still standing and in use today – zinc is now becoming popular for homes in the U.S. On this page, learn about the benefits and cost of zinc roofing, so you can decide if it is the right roofing choice for your home.

What is Zinc Roofing?

Zinc roofing is a type of roofing material often made from galvanized steel, which is steel coated with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion. This type of roofing is known for its durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to various weather conditions.

The installation process typically involves securing zinc strips or sheets to the roof structure using nails or screws. Overlapping of the sheets is done to create a watertight seal and to prevent water from seeping through the gaps. Additionally, flashings and sealants are used at the edges and joints to provide further protection against water penetration.

Benefits of Zinc Roofing

Homeowners prefer zinc roofing for many reasons, primarily because of its ability to last. Let’s take a look at some of the main benefits of a zinc roof:

Longevity

Zinc roofing can last 80 to 100 years or longer, making it one of the longest-lasting roofing materials available. Only copper roofs can provide a comparable level of longevity to zinc roofs, but copper is typically a more expensive option — making zinc roofing a good middle ground for durability and cost. 

The durability of zinc roofing is largely thanks to its patina quality — a naturally occurring, protective outer layer that forms over time as the metal oxidizes.

Durability

Speaking of durability, zinc is fire-resistant, insect-proof, and prohibits the growth of mold, mildew, and fungus. Zinc roofing is also resistant to corrosion, which means it won’t rust or deteriorate over time. This makes it an ideal choice for homes located in areas with high humidity or coastal regions.

The weather resistance of zinc roofing is also a result of the metal’s patina qualities that protects it naturally from rust and long-term moisture damage. 

Low Maintenance

After the installation of a zinc roof, there isn’t much maintenance required — making it a great option for homeowners looking to minimize regular home repair and upkeep projects. The patina constantly renews itself with new layers of patina after damage, meaning there is little to no need for aesthetic repairs.

Environmentally Friendly

Zinc roofing is also energy-efficient. It reflects heat from the sun, which means it can help keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce your energy bills. Additionally, zinc roofing is eco-friendly since it can be recycled at the end of its lifespan.

Curb Appeal

Finally, zinc roofs are considered a highly attractive roofing finish thanks again to their patina quality that sees the roof change over time from a dark gray to a light gray or blue color.

How Much Does Zinc Roofing Cost?

The average cost to install a zinc roof ranges from $6 to $11 per square foot as of 2024. For a standard 3,000 square foot roof, the average installation cost would be $18,000 to $33,000. This cost is higher than traditional asphalt shingles but is comparable to other types of metal roofing, such as copper and steel.

The higher-than-average cost of zinc roofing is mainly due to its strong weather resistance and longevity. Like any roof installation project, the cost to install zinc roofing varies depending on several factors, such as the size and structure of your roof, the type of zinc you choose, and the cost of labor in your area. Setting up an appointment with a local roofing company will allow you to better understand the size and type of roof you have, and how much it should cost to install zinc roofing.

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Zinc Roof Styles

Homeowners opting for a zinc roof have a few options to choose from. Different zinc roof styles will impact not only how the new roof looks, but also the strength of the roof. It is always a good idea to ask a local roof contractor which style is best suited to your home and location.

Corrugated Zinc Roofing

First, there are corrugated panels which are made up of sheets of zinc with ridges and valleys in a corrugated pattern that provide strength and support. Corrugated zinc roofing is known for being lightweight, durable, and very weather resistant, due to its corrugated style that is great for water drainage during storms.

Standing Seam Zinc Roofing

Then there are standing seam panels which are a modern and popular option for homeowners. These panels are installed vertically, and the seams are raised to create a distinctive look. They provide a sleek, clean look to your home’s exterior. The raised standing seam panels also help create a watertight and wind-resistant barrier that helps prevent leaks and the structural integrity of the home during storms. For this reason, standing seam roofing is usually a better choice for homeowners who live in areas prone to harsh weather conditions.

Homeowners can also purchase pre-patinated zinc roofing, allowing for the customization and selection of unique colors such as warm reds and oranges, or rich purple and blue tones.

What are Zinc Roof Strips?

Zinc roof strips are thin strips of zinc that are installed on the surface of the roof, usually at the peak or ridge line. The main purpose is to provide an affordable and effective way to prevent algae and moss growth by releasing zinc particles over time. When rainwater hits the zinc roof strips, the antimicrobial zinc carries the water away from the roof and inhibits algae growth.

Zinc strips can be added to almost any roofing material, including asphalt, wood, metal, and concrete shingles. Your local roofing contractor will be able to advise on whether zinc strips are a good solution to prevent algae and moss growth on your roof in your location. Zinc roof strips are easy to install and cost around $1 to $3 per linear foot.

Zinc Roof Coatings

Roofs made of zinc do not necessarily require coatings for protection, but coatings can be applied to improve their appearance and increase their lifespan. Zinc roof coatings can be clear or colored and can be applied to the surface of your zinc roof to provide an additional layer of protection against the elements. The cost of zinc roof coatings varies, depending on the type and quality of the coating, as well as the size and condition of your roof, but averages around $2 to $5 per square foot.

Alternative Options to Zinc Roofing

Still deciding if a zinc roof is right for you? Let’s take a look at how this type of roof stacks up against other common and comparable roofing materials.

Cost Comparison (per square foot)

When it comes to cost, zinc roofing is considered mid-range compared to other types of weather resistant metal roofing. A new zinc roof costs $6 to $11 per square foot to install on average. Aluminum roofing is usually more affordable at $2 to $7 per square foot on average, whereas steel roofing generally costs more at as much as $12 or more per square foot.

• Zinc: $6 to $11 per square foot
• Copper: $14 to $26 per square foot
• Aluminum: $2 to $12 per square foot
• Steel: $6 to $12 per square foot
• Asphalt shingles: $2 to $6 per square foot

Longevity

Despite its mid-range cost, zinc roofing tends to have a longer lifespan compared to many other metal roofs. Zinc roofs typically last 80 to 100 years with little maintenance required, while copper roofs last 60 or more years, aluminum roofs last 40 or more years, and steel roofs last 15 or more years. Asphalt shingle roofs, by comparison, tend to last 15 to 30 years on average. When choosing to install a zinc roof, you can rest assured that it will most likely last the entirety of your homeownership – and even longer.

• Zinc: 80-100 years or more 
• Copper: 60-100 years or more
• Aluminum: 40+ years
• Steel: 50+ years
• Asphalt shingles: 15-30 years, but some premium asphalt shingles can have a 50-year lifespan

Durability

Like most types of metal roofing, zinc roofing is very weather-resistant and durable. With a new zinc roof, you can be sure it will be fire-resistant, insect-proof, and prohibit the growth of mold, mildew, and fungus. It will also be resistant to corrosion and cracking, which means it won’t rust or deteriorate over time.

Zinc roofs often outperform other types of metal roofing in terms of durability. The extra layer of self-protecting zinc forms a protective patina over time that safeguards it against the elements. This is why zinc roofing is considered more durable than steel roofing and aluminum roofing, as well as asphalt roofing.

Copper roofing, on the other hand, is comparable in durability to zinc. However, you can expect a much higher price tag for a new copper roof.

Eco-friendliness

Zinc is considered an eco-friendly roofing material. It reflects heat from the sun, which means it can help keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce your energy bills. It is also often sustainably sourced, and can also be recycled at the end of its lifespan.

Compared to both copper and aluminum roofing, zinc tends to have more reflective qualities that help keep energy bills at a minimum. In hot climates, zinc is usually the best roofing choice for these reasons.

Keep in mind that aluminum is also recyclable. About 95% of all aluminum roof panels are made from previously recycled aluminum materials. It can help reduce utility costs by as much as 40% and reduce interior air temperatures by an average of 12 degrees in warmer months.

Complete Guide to Metal Roofing

Is zinc roofing the right choice for your home? Compare and contrast all types of metal roofing here.

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Finding a Local Roofing Contractor

Zinc roofing is a popular roofing material that is known for its durability, longevity, and energy efficiency. While it may be more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles, it is comparable in cost to other metal roofing options.

While these factors can make zinc roofing an appealing option to homeowners, ultimately, it comes down to your budget, your home’s location, and what meets your personal style and needs. Connect with local contractors and request a personalized quote to see if a new aluminum metal roof is the right fit for your home and budget.

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