Stone Coated Steel Roofing (Benefits, Installation & More)

Written By: First American Roofing

03/16/25

6 Mins

When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your home, durability, style, and performance are key factors to consider. Enter stone coated steel roofing, a premium roofing solution that combines the strength of steel with the timeless look of traditional roofing styles. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an aging roof, this versatile option may be just what your home needs. Here’s what you’ll discover in this article:

What is stone coated steel roofing?
A step-by-step guide to the installation process
What to know about maintenance

What is Stone Coated Steel Roofing?

Stone coated steel roofing is a high-performance roofing material that combines the resilience of steel with a protective layer of stone granules. This unique composition gives it the ability to mimic the aesthetics of traditional materials like clay tiles, wood shakes, or asphalt shingles, while offering unrivaled durability and longevity.

Typically, stone coated steel roofs come in a variety of designs, textures, and colors, making it easy to match your home’s architectural style. But it’s not all about appearances—this roofing option is engineered to stand up to extreme weather conditions, from high winds to heavy snowfalls.

The Advantages of Stone Coated Steel Roofing

Why are so many homeowners making the switch to stone coated steel roofing? Here are the key benefits that make it a standout choice.

Exceptional Durability: Stone coated steel roofs last 50+ years and resist cracking, chipping, and warping, even in severe weather conditions.
Weather Resistance: Built to handle hailstorms, heavy snow, high winds (up to 120 mph), and even wildfires.
Lightweight Material: Lighter than concrete or clay tiles, reducing stress on your home’s structure.
Energy Efficiency: Reflects sunlight to keep your home cooler and lower energy bills; some options are Energy Star certified.
Low Maintenance: Resistant to moss and algae, with no need for frequent shingle replacement.
Environmentally Friendly: Made with up to 30% recycled materials and fully recyclable, making it an eco-friendly choice.

✅ 6 Step Installation Process of Stone Coated Steel Roofing

Installing a stone coated steel roof requires precision and expertise to ensure maximum performance. Here’s what the installation process typically looks like:

1: Inspection & Planning

The first step in the process is a thorough inspection and careful planning. A professional roofing contractor will evaluate the current roof and its underlying structure to ensure it is strong enough to support the new stone coated steel material. This step is crucial to identify any potential issues that could affect the installation or the roof’s long-term durability. Once the evaluation is complete, the contractor will plan the layout of the roofing panels to ensure a seamless and uniform finish. Every detail is considered at this stage to guarantee a high-quality result.

2: Prepare the Surface

Before the installation begins, the surface of the roof must be prepared. In some cases, the existing roofing material may need to be removed to create a clean slate for the new roofing system. However, stone coated steel can often be installed directly over old shingles, provided the roof is in good condition. The decision to remove or keep the existing material will depend on the specific circumstances of the roof, such as structural integrity and previous wear and tear. Proper surface preparation ensures the new roof will perform at its best.

3: Installing an Underlayment

To protect the roof from moisture and leaks, a water-resistant underlayment is installed over the prepared surface. This layer acts as a secondary line of defense, providing an additional barrier against water infiltration. The underlayment is carefully applied to cover every part of the roof, ensuring there are no gaps or weak areas. This step is vital for maintaining the roof’s durability and preventing future water damage, especially in regions with heavy rainfall or snow.

4: Securing the Panels

Once the underlayment is in place, the stone coated steel panels are installed. These panels are secured to the roof deck using durable nails or screws designed to withstand harsh conditions. The panels are designed with an interlocking system that ensures a tight and secure fit, providing excellent resistance to wind and weather. This interlocking design not only enhances the roof’s structural integrity but also adds an extra layer of protection against the elements, making it an ideal choice for long-term durability.

5: Final Touches

After the panels are installed, the final touches are added to complete the roof. Ridge caps and other finishing pieces are carefully placed to cover vulnerable areas and create a polished, professional appearance. These finishing components provide additional protection to areas like the roof ridge, where water and debris might otherwise collect. This step ensures that the roof is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, adding to the overall value and curb appeal of the property.

6: Inspection

The final step in the process is a comprehensive inspection of the entire roof. This ensures that all panels, underlayment, and finishing touches are properly installed and securely fastened. The contractor will check for any gaps, loose components, or areas that may require additional sealing. This meticulous inspection guarantees that the roof is built to the highest standards, providing peace of mind to the homeowner and ensuring the roof’s ability to withstand years of use in all types of weather conditions.

️ Caring for Your Stone Coated Steel Roof

One of the best features of stone coated steel roofing is its low-maintenance requirements. However, following these tips can help you keep it in peak condition:

Regular Inspections

Schedule annual roof inspections to identify and address any early signs of damage or wear. A professional inspection can help spot issues like loose tiles, cracks, or potential leaks before they turn into costly repairs. Regular maintenance ensures your roof stays in top condition for years to come.

Remove Debris

Keep your roof and gutters clear of leaves, branches, and other debris to prevent clogs and drainage problems. Blocked gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof, which may cause damage over time. Regular cleaning, especially during fall or after storms, can help protect your roof and maintain proper water flow.

Avoid Pressure Washing

While stone-coated roofs are durable, they can be damaged by high-pressure sprays. Instead of pressure washing, use a soft brush or low-pressure water to clean your roof. This gentler approach will help maintain the integrity of the stone coating while ensuring your roof remains clean and free of buildup.