When it comes to replacing your roof, few options match the durability, energy efficiency, and long-term value of metal. But with so many choices—steel, aluminum, copper, and more- it can be hard to know which type is right for your Indiana home.
At Hoel Roofing, we’ve installed metal roofs across Indiana in every style and configuration—from barns and lake houses to modern homes and historic properties. We’ve seen firsthand how climate, roof pitch, and material type all impact the performance of your roof over time.
In this article, we’ll break down the most common types of metal roofing, explain how they handle Indiana’s weather, and help you choose the right option for your home’s style, budget, and long-term goals.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what type of metal roof best fits your home, your lifestyle, and the Indiana climate.
Choosing the right type of metal roofing for you isn’t just about looks; it’s about how well it performs for your home, your budget, and Indiana’s weather. Before deciding, here are the key factors every homeowner should weigh:
Indiana’s climate throws just about everything at your roof: hail, snow, heavy rain, freeze–thaw cycles, and high winds. Consider how well each type of metal withstands dents, corrosion, and temperature fluctuations over time. A roof that performs beautifully in Arizona heat may not hold up the same way in an Indiana winter.
A high-quality metal roof can last anywhere from 40 to 100 years, depending on the material and finish. Think about how long you plan to stay in your home, and how much upkeep you’re willing to do. Some metals, like steel or aluminum, may need occasional cleaning or repainting to maintain their finish, while others—such as copper, zinc, or weathering steel—naturally develop a thin, protective layer (called a patina) that helps prevent rust and reduces long-term maintenance.
Metal roofs are known for their reflectivity, but not all metals or coatings perform equally. Look for high-reflectivity finishes (such as Kynar) that help lower cooling costs in the summer while maintaining sufficient insulation to handle Indiana’s cold winters efficiently.
Metal roofing prices vary by material, panel style, and thickness:
Steel: Often the most affordable metal roofing option because it’s widely produced and readily available. Coatings like galvanized or Galvalume protect against rust without adding too much to cost. Installation is straightforward, which also keeps labor costs lower.
Aluminum: Slightly more expensive than steel due to higher material cost, but still reasonable. Aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it easier to install in some situations and less likely to require structural reinforcement.
Copper and Zinc: Premium metals with higher upfront costs. Copper offers unmatched longevity and a beautiful natural patina, while zinc is self-healing and highly durable. Their scarcity, specialized installation requirements, and longer lifespan drive up the price.
Why this matters: Don’t focus only on upfront cost. Factor in long-term savings from reduced maintenance, energy efficiency, durability, and potential insurance discounts. Sometimes spending a bit more now saves thousands of dollars over the roof’s lifetime.
The right metal roof enhances your home’s curb appeal:
Steel: Available in many colors and styles, including standing seam, shingles, or corrugated panels. Works well for modern homes and traditional Indiana houses.
Aluminum: Often used on contemporary or coastal-style homes, lightweight panels make it easier to achieve sleek lines.
Copper or Zinc: Ideal for historic homes, luxury properties, or architectural accents. They develop a natural patina over time, adding character.
Why it matters: Matching your roof to your home’s style protects your investment and can increase resale value.
If sustainability matters to you, metal roofing is a great choice, but some materials go further than others.
Look for recyclable metals, responsibly sourced coatings, and reflective finishes that reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
Not every roof can handle every type of metal. Thicker panels or those made of heavy metals, such as copper, may require stronger support structures. Discuss your roof’s pitch, load capacity, and design with a qualified Indiana roofing contractor to ensure compatibility.
Finally, choose a roof built for Indiana. That means resistance to hail, snow, humidity, and high winds. Local experience matters; a roofer who understands our seasons can recommend the right gauge, finish, and underlayment for your area. Steel is excellent for hail and wind resistance, and is widely used in Indiana. It, however, requires a proper snow-shedding design to prevent ice dams.
Aluminum, on the other hand, is rust-resistant, making it ideal for humid areas. Lighter than steel but moderately dent-resistant. Copper and Zinc are extremely durable, tolerate freeze-thaw cycles, and snow loads. Minimal maintenance over decades.
Each metal type has unique strengths and trade-offs, particularly in Indiana’s challenging weather conditions. Here’s a quick comparison:
Steel is Indiana’s most popular metal roofing choice because of its balance between cost and performance. Galvanized or Galvalume steel coatings protect against rust, while factory finishes (like Kynar®) maintain color and reflectivity for decades. Steel is also recyclable, making it a sustainable long-term option.
Fit With Indiana Weather: Excellent for hail and wind resistance, but requires a good snow-shedding design (an installation that allows snow to slide off safely, rather than accumulating in heavy, potentially damaging drifts) to prevent ice damming.
Best for: Most Indiana homes
Pros: Affordable, strong, available in many styles and coatings
Cons: Can rust without proper coating, and it’s slightly heavier, which puts more stress on the roof framing and supporting structure.
While Indiana isn’t coastal, aluminum’s rust resistance makes it ideal for humid or shaded areas where moisture lingers on the roof. Aluminum is also recyclable.
Fit With Indiana Weather: Handles rain and humidity well; moderate hail resistance, which is important for central and northern Indiana counties that experience frequent hailstorms.
Best for: Coastal or high-humidity areas
Pros: Rust-proof, lightweight, energy-efficient
Cons: Softer metal, can dent under hail, and it’s more expensive than steel
Copper is often used for accents (like bay windows or porches) rather than full roofs due to cost, but it performs exceptionally well in Indiana’s temperature swings.
Fit With Indiana Weather: Handles freeze-thaw cycles and snow loads with ease.
Best for: High-end or historic homes
Pros: Longest lifespan (50–100+ years), develops beautiful patina, nearly maintenance-free
Cons: Costly, and may not fit modern aesthetics
Zinc is durable and sustainable, but it’s rare in residential projects here in Indiana due to cost and limited contractor availability. Like most metal roofing options, zinc is fully recyclable at the end of its life.
Fit With Indiana Weather : Performs well in all conditions if properly installed.
Best for: Architectural or eco-focused projects
Pros: Self-healing patina resists corrosion, is recyclable, and has a long lifespan
Cons: High cost, and there are a limited number of local installers.
| Metal Type | Best For | Indiana Climate Fit | Typical Cost Range (Total Roof) | Pros | Cons |
| Steel | Most Indiana homes | Excellent hail and wind resistance; needs a good snow-shedding design | $9,000 – $15,000 | Affordable, strong, many styles and coatings, recyclable | Can rust without proper coating; heavier than others |
| Aluminum | Humid or shaded areas | Handles rain and humidity well; moderate hail resistance | $15,000 – $25,000 | Rust-proof, lightweight, energy-efficient | Softer metal—can dent; more expensive than steel |
| Copper | High-end or historic homes | Performs well through freeze–thaw cycles and snow loads | $15,000 – $28,000 | Longest lifespan (50–100+ years), develops patina, low maintenance | Very costly; may not fit all home styles |
| Zinc | Architectural or eco-focused projects | Performs well in all conditions when properly installed | $30,000 – $38,000+ | Self-healing patina, corrosion-resistant, recyclable, and long lifespan | High cost; fewer qualified installers in Indiana |
What roof warranties come with metal roofing in Indiana?
Are Metal Roofs Eco-Friendly?
Yes. Most are made from recycled material and are 100% recyclable. Many Indiana homeowners see improved resale value thanks to metal roofing’s longevity and sustainability.
How much does a metal roof cost in Indiana per square foot?
In Indiana, the cost of most metal roofs ranges from $7 to $14 per square foot installed, depending on the material and panel style.
Do metal roofs increase home value in Indiana?
Yes. A properly installed metal roof can increase your home’s resale value by 3%–6% on average in Indiana. Buyers often view it as a premium upgrade due to its durability, energy savings, and low maintenance requirements.
Does insurance cover metal roofing in Indiana?
In most cases, yes, but it depends on your policy and the cause of the damage. Home insurance typically covers storm-related issues, such as hail, wind, or falling debris. However, wear and tear over time isn’t covered. Some insurers even offer discounts for metal roofs because they’re fire-resistant, durable, and less likely to need frequent repairs.
How long do metal roofs last in Indiana weather?
A well-installed metal roof can last 40–70 years, depending on the type of metal and coating used.
Every home is different, but with Hoel Roofing, you’ll get an honest recommendation based on your climate, home style, and budget, not just what’s trendy. We do not sell and install Zinc roofs.
Still weighing your options? Before you decide, check out our guide on The Most Common Problems With Metal Roofing (and How to Avoid Them) to get a full picture of what to expect. That way, you can feel confident that whichever roof you choose will perform beautifully for decades in Indiana’s climate.
Need help deciding which metal roof is right for your home? Contact Hoel Roofing for a free inspection and free instant estimate. We’ll walk you through your options, clearly explain the costs, and help you choose a roof that’s built to last in Indiana.
Toyosi Ogunsola is the Content Manager at Hoel Roofing & Remodeling in Rushville, IN, where she oversees the creation of educational, trustworthy content about roofing, remodeling, and home improvement. With a master’s degree in Emerging Media Design and Development and a background spanning content strategy, UX research, and digital marketing, Toyosi combines data-driven insights with clear, engaging writing to help homeowners make informed decisions. Passionate about translating complex roofing topics into helpful resources, she works closely with Hoel’s team of roofing experts to ensure every piece of content is accurate, practical, and user-focused.
