When it comes to roofing, metal seems like an obvious choice over asphalt shingles. However, not all metal roof systems are created equal. In the U.S., the most popular metal roof systems are PBR panels, snap-lock standing seams, and exposed fastener systems. These options, while affordable and widely available, fall short in performance, aesthetics, and longevity. Let’s explore the types of metal roof systems commonly used in the U.S., and why their inherent design compromises both functionality and beauty.
Types of Metal Roof Systems in the U.S.
1. PBR Panels
PBR (Panel Rib) panels are typically used for commercial and agricultural applications. While affordable, these panels rely heavily on exposed fasteners, rubber gaskets, and caulking at the seams to maintain watertightness. Over time, the fasteners can loosen, and the rubber gaskets deteriorate, leading to inevitable leaks.
2. Snap-Lock Standing Seam Systems
Snap-lock systems offer a cleaner appearance but still rely on clips and rubber boots for installation. These systems are prone to leaks at seams and cannot accommodate snow abatement accessories without creating additional vulnerabilities.
3. Exposed Fastener Systems
Exposed fastener systems are easy to install but rely on overlapping panels, screws, and caulking to prevent water infiltration. The frequent exposure to temperature changes causes screws to loosen over time, leading to leaks.
Why These Systems Fail
While these systems may be quick to install, they inherently rely on exposed fasteners, rubber seals, caulking, and overlaps — a patchwork of compromises. Without fully interlocking seam solutions, they become dependent on cheap fixes like plastic snow guards, which are glued between panels. I’ve taken photos of these guards popping off roofs after failing to withstand even mild snow loads. Worse still, some roofs are so weak that installing effective snow guards would pull the entire roof off in heavy snow.
Lack of Compatibility with Accessories
In regions with heavy snowfall, snow guards are essential. However, these U.S. systems simply aren’t engineered to support robust snow abatement solutions. As a result, it’s common practice to glue plastic snow guards directly onto metal roofs — an embarrassing and unreliable solution.
Compare those popped off plastic versions to a fully seamed roof with a snow abatement system that will last for hundreds of years and actually be effective!
Aesthetic Shortcomings
Beyond performance issues, these systems just aren’t visually appealing. Below are some photos I captured during a casual drive around town. It’s the devil you know, I guess.
Now, compare these with photos of roofs in Germany, where the craftsmanship is in a league of its own. A well-crafted roof isn’t just functional; it adds to the beauty and character of a building. The difference in aesthetic appeal is night and day.
Engineering Flaws Exposed: Drip Edge and Capillary Action
Another major design flaw lies in how U.S. standing seam systems terminate at the drip edge. Many of these roofs leave the seams open at the edges, creating vulnerability to capillary action. This phenomenon allows water to seep into the smallest gaps, leading to leaks over time. Compare this with the German approach, where seams are fully folded, finished, and watertight. The attention to detail ensures long-lasting performance without relying on caulking or rubber seals.
You can see here how the German method leaves no room for leaks. It is also more elegantly finished. Craftsmanship equates to beauty.
The Asphalt Dilemma
While metal roofs are often promoted as superior to asphalt shingles, poor engineering and installation practices in the U.S. still result in wasted investments. Asphalt remains the industry’s public enemy number one, but low-quality metal systems only add to the problem. Choosing poorly designed metal roofing solutions undermines the potential benefits of metal roofing altogether.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to roofing, the phrase “you get what you pay for” couldn’t be more accurate. Investing in metal roofing systems that aren’t engineered with long-term performance in mind ultimately costs more in repairs, leaks, and unsightly finishes. If you’re going to invest in metal, it’s worth doing it right the first time. A well-engineered roof isn’t just beautiful—it’s maintenance-free, sustainable, and built to last.
Further reading:
Capillary Action in Roofing – https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/insights/bsi-029-capillary-action
European Roofing Standards Overview – https://www.europa.eu/youreurope/business/product-requirements/construction/roofing-standards/index_en.htm
The Impact of Exposed Fasteners on Metal Roofs – https://www.metalroofing.com/learn/pros-and-cons/exposed-fasteners/
Snow Guard Guidelines for Metal Roofs – https://www.snowguarddirect.com/snow-guard-installation-guide
Advantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofs – https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/standing-seam-metal-roof-explained