Is Metal Roofing Good for Minnesota Homes?

by Regan | Jul 12, 2025 | Blog, Metal Roofing

If you’re a Minnesota homeowner thinking about replacing your roof, you may have come across metal roofing as an option. Maybe you’ve seen advertisements for it. Maybe you’ve seen it on a home in your neighborhood. While this roofing material was once primarily used on barns and commercial buildings, metal roofing is gaining popularity for residential homes for good reason. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and can be a valuable long-term investment for your home. It’s an especially smart choice for homes in Minnesota.

Is metal roofing right for your home? Is it worth the higher upfront cost? The short answer is not always. At Legacy Construction, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across the Twin Cities weigh the pros and cons of metal roofs, and we’re here to help you do the same.

Isn’t Metal Roofing Just for Commercial Buildings?

Absolutely not.

While it’s true that metal roofs have been used in commercial and agricultural buildings for decades, modern materials and installation techniques have made metal roofing an increasingly attractive choice for residential homeowners.

Today’s metal roofing systems come in a variety of colors, finishes, and styles that can complement just about any type of home. Whether you’re in Minneapolis or any of its surrounding areas, metal roofing will look great on your home.

What Is Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing refers to roofing systems made from metal panels or shingles. Unlike asphalt shingles, which are made from a petroleum-based composite, metal roofs are formed from durable materials like steel, aluminum, zinc, or copper.

There are a few common types of metal roofing used in residential construction:

Steel Roofing

Steel is one of the most popular choices for residential metal roofing because it’s affordable, extremely durable, and can be coated to resist rust and corrosion. This is a major plus in Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles throughout the year. Most steel roofs are galvanized or Galvalume-coated for added weather resistance.

Standing-Seam Metal Roofing

Standing-seam systems are known for their clean, modern appearance. They feature raised seams that interlock vertically, providing better leak protection than many other types of roofing. This style is often seen on cabins, farmhouses, and newer suburban home builds.

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Recognizable by its wave-like pattern, corrugated metal roofing is a cost-effective option often seen on barns and sheds, but it’s also finding its way onto modern homes, too. It offers strong protection; many people use it on their garages and workshops, or as an accent roofing material.

Copper Roofing

Copper roofing is one of the most luxurious roofing materials for homes. It develops a natural patina over time, giving it a unique and unmatched beauty. It’s also one of the most expensive options and is typically used for accent areas like bay windows or cupolas.

Is Metal Roofing a Good Option for Minnesota Homes?

As a Minnesotan, you can attest to the fact that we have some of the most severe weather conditions in the country. It’s hot and stormy in the summer, and it’s cold and snowy in the winter. There’s very little in between. And from heavy snow to summer hail, ice dams to wind-driven rain, your roof takes a beating all year round. What many people don’t realize is that metal roofing outperforms most other materials in harsh climates like ours, offering benefits such as:

Exceptional Snow and Ice Performance

Metal roofing naturally sheds snow and ice thanks to its smooth surface. That means fewer ice dams, reduced snow load, and less risk of leaks. With proper insulation and ventilation, metal roofs are one of the best defenses against winter damage. On steeper roofs, snow guards may also be recommended to prevent large snow slides from dumping onto walkways or driveways below.

Superior Wind and Hail Resistance

Metal roofs can withstand high winds and heavy hail better than traditional asphalt shingles. In fact, many systems are rated to handle winds up to 140 mph. That’s peace of mind during storm season, especially when the tornado sirens start sounding.

Fire Resistance

Metal roofs are non-combustible and carry a Class A fire rating, making them an ideal choice for areas prone to wildfires or homes with wood-burning stoves or fireplaces.

Long-Term Durability

While an asphalt shingle roof may need to be replaced after 15–20 years, a properly installed metal roof can last 40–70 years or longer. That’s a big advantage for homeowners looking to invest in something long-lasting and low-maintenance.

Energy Efficiency

Contrary to what some might think, metal roofs can actually keep your home cooler in the summer. Many metal systems are coated with reflective pigments that reduce heat absorption, helping you lower your air conditioning bills even during those humid July days.

Yes, It Costs More

There’s no sugar-coating it: metal roofing typically costs more upfront than asphalt shingles.

However, when you factor in the long lifespan, lower maintenance costs, energy savings, and increased resale value, metal roofing starts to look like a smart investment. Over time, many Minnesota homeowners find that the cost balances out and can even save them money in the long run. You may pay more today, but you could be avoiding one or even two roof replacements over the lifetime of your home.

What About Noise?

One of the most common concerns we hear from homeowners is, “Aren’t metal roofs noisy?”

The truth is, modern metal roofs are typically installed over solid sheathing and insulation, which dampens noise. In most homes, a metal roof is no louder than any other roof.

Not Sure If Metal Roofing is Right for You?

At Legacy Construction, we don’t believe in pushy sales tactics or one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in honest advice, transparent pricing, and treating your home like it’s our own. If you’re considering a metal roof, we’ll walk you through all your options—including material types, colors, and pros and cons—so you can make an informed decision. We’ll give you a clear, upfront quote and let you know if a metal roof truly makes sense for your home and budget. And if it doesn’t? We’ll tell you that, too.

We’re proud to be a local, family-owned company based in Burnsville, and we’ve earned our reputation by putting people first. Whether you end up choosing metal, asphalt, or something else entirely, we’ll be here to make sure you feel confident in your choice.