Metal roofing has come a long way from the corrugated panels on barns and warehouses. Today’s metal roofs are sleek, energy-efficient, and built to last 50 years or more, making them an increasingly popular choice for Rockford IL homeowners who want long-term value.
Martin Exteriors installs premium metal roofing systems for residential and commercial properties throughout the Rockford and Roscoe area.
Benefits of Metal Roofing
Metal roofing isn’t the right fit for every home, but for the right situation, the advantages are hard to beat:
- Longevity: Most metal roofs last 40-70 years, compared to 20-30 for asphalt shingles.
- Durability: Metal stands up to hail, high winds (many panel systems are rated for winds up to 140 mph, depending on the panel and system), and heavy snow loads, all common in Northern Illinois.
- Energy efficiency: Reflective coatings reduce cooling costs by 10-25% in summer.
- Fire resistance: Metal panels don’t burn, which helps when sparks or embers land on the roof. The fire rating depends on the whole roof system, so we go over it for the system you pick.
- Low maintenance: No cracking, curling, or granule loss. Minimal upkeep over the roof’s life.
- Environmentally friendly: Metal roofs are 100% recyclable at end of life, and many contain recycled content.
Metal Roofing Styles We Install
Gone are the days when metal meant one look. We offer several profiles and finishes:
- Standing seam: Clean, modern lines with concealed fasteners for maximum weather resistance.
- Snap-together panels: A standing-seam style with seams that snap together, so the fasteners stay hidden under the seam.
- Metal shingles: Designed to mimic the look of traditional shingles, slate, or wood shake.
- Corrugated panels: A cost-effective option popular for commercial and agricultural buildings.
All systems are available in a wide range of colors and finishes to complement your home’s architecture.
Is Metal Roofing Worth the Investment?
Metal roofing costs more upfront than asphalt shingles, but the math changes when you factor in lifespan and maintenance. A metal roof installed today may be the last roof you ever buy for your home. When you add in energy savings and potential insurance discounts for impact-resistant materials, the lifetime cost often comes out ahead.
Not sure which option is right for you? We’re happy to walk through the numbers during your free inspection and consultation.
Metal Roofing vs Asphalt Shingles for Northern Illinois Homes
Both are good roofs. The right one depends on your home, your budget and how long you plan to stay. Here is how they compare in plain terms:
- Upfront cost: Metal costs more to install. Asphalt shingles cost less on day one, which is why most homeowners choose them.
- Look: Metal can look modern and clean, or it can look like tile or shake. Architectural shingles give a classic look that fits most neighborhoods.
- Snow and hail: Snow tends to slide off metal. Shingles hold snow longer. Hail can dent some metal panels and can bruise or crack shingles.
- Repairs: A damaged shingle is simple to replace. A damaged metal panel can be replaced too, but the panel and finish need to match.
Most of our homeowners pick GAF shingles, and as a GAF Master Elite contractor we install a lot of them. That is exactly why we can price metal and shingles side by side and give you an honest answer. If shingles make more sense for your home, we will tell you. See roof replacement for how a shingle job goes.
For the full comparison, including hail, ice dams and winter installs, read metal roof vs asphalt shingles in Northern Illinois.
Snow, Ice and Hail on a Metal Roof
Snow tends to slide off a metal roof in sheets. That is good for the roof, but it matters where the snow lands. We look at walkways, entries, decks and driveways before we plan the layout, so the snow comes down where it will not cause trouble.
Ice and water shield goes on every eave on every Martin roof, metal included. That layer helps keep water from getting in at the edge when snow melts and refreezes. If you are dealing with leaks at the eaves now, see ice dam roof leak repair.
Metal handles hail well, but some panels can dent. The profile and finish you pick affect how a roof looks after a hailstorm, so we walk through those choices with you before you decide. For storm damage on any roof, see hail damage repair.
A Real Example: Stone Coated Steel in Rockton
One of our Rockton projects shows what metal can do on a home with a specialty look. The homeowner had an aging clay tile roof, and we replaced it with Decra Villa stone coated steel tile. It keeps the look of tile and installs like modern metal. You can watch the job on our Decra Villa tile roof replacement in Rockton, IL page.
Metal on Lake Homes and Commercial Buildings
We install metal on homes and on commercial buildings. On commercial buildings we install standing-seam, exposed-fastener and snap-together panels, and we can side the building in metal panels too. Lake homes are a natural fit for the look, and you can read more about metal roofing in Lake Geneva. For shops, offices and other business buildings, see commercial roofing. For lake homes and businesses around Geneva Lake, see our Lake Geneva metal roofing page.
What to Expect From a Metal Roof Project
- Free inspection: We look at your current roof, the decking and the attic. Inspections are free for everyone.
- Measuring and options: We measure the roof and go over the metal options that fit your home, along with a shingle option for comparison.
- Written quote: You get a clear written quote so you can compare before you decide.
- Financing if you want it: Payments as low as $149/month for qualified buyers. See financing options.
- Install: We install most of the year, weather permitting.
Why Choose Martin Exteriors for Metal Roofing
Metal roofing installation requires specialized training and precision. Improper installation leads to leaks, noise issues, and voided warranties. Our crews are experienced in both residential and commercial metal applications.
As a GAF Master Elite contractor (a status GAF gives to fewer than 2% of roofers) and an Inc. 5000 company, we bring the same standards of excellence to every roof we install. We’ve been family-owned since 2006 and named What Rocks Rockford Best Roofer, 7 years running (2020 to 2026), because we do it right.
We also offer flexible financing options to make your investment more manageable.
Metal Roofing FAQ
Is a metal roof worth it in Rockford?
It depends on how long you plan to stay in the home and the look you want. Metal costs more upfront than shingles. At the free inspection we price metal and GAF shingles side by side so you can compare.
Does metal hold up to hail?
Metal handles hail well, though some panels can dent. The profile and finish you choose matter, and we go over those options with you before you decide.
Will snow slide off a metal roof?
It can. Snow tends to slide off metal, so we plan where it will land and keep walkways and entries in mind.
Is a metal roof loud in the rain?
Metal can be louder than shingles during heavy rain or hail. Attic insulation helps soften the sound. If a quiet roof is a priority, ask us about it during your free inspection and we’ll go over your options.
Do you install stone coated steel?
Yes. Our Rockton project replaced an old clay tile roof with Decra Villa stone coated steel tile.
Can I finance a metal roof?
Yes. Financing is available with payments as low as $149/month for qualified buyers.
How much wind can a metal roof take?
Many metal panel systems are rated for winds up to 140 mph. The rating depends on the panel and the system, so we show you the rating for the system we quote.
Interested in metal roofing for your home or business? Schedule a free consultation or call (815) 624-6278 to discuss your options with our team.
