Stone-coated steel roofing is the premium hybrid roofing material that Texas homeowners choose when they want metal's 50-year performance in a traditional tile or shake appearance—without the weight, cost, or HOA restrictions of concrete tile or the modern look of standing seam metal.
It's steel panels coated with crushed stone granules, combining the best of both worlds: metal's durability, hail resistance, and energy efficiency with traditional aesthetics that satisfy HOAs and complement Spanish, Mediterranean, craftsman, and traditional home styles.
In Texas, where 100°F+ summer heat, severe hailstorms, and strict HOA architectural guidelines are the norm, stone-coated steel metal roofing solves problems that other materials can't. It reflects heat like metal (cutting cooling costs 15-20%), withstands golf ball-sized hail without breaking, weighs 85% less than concrete tile, and looks so traditional that most HOAs don't even realize it's metal.
This is your complete guide: what stone-coated steel roofing is, how much it costs in Texas, how it performs in our climate, which brands to consider (Decra, Gerard, Metro Tiles, Boral), and whether the premium price is worth it.
What Is Stone-Coated Steel Metal Roofing?
Stone-coated steel metal roofing is a hybrid product that combines a steel substrate with a stone granule finish, creating a roofing material that performs like metal but looks like traditional roofing.
Construction Layers (Bottom to Top):
- Galvalume or Zincalume-coated steel core - 24-26 gauge steel panel (same thickness as quality standing seam metal)
- Aluminum-zinc protective coating - Corrosion resistance layer (prevents rust)
- Acrylic base coat - Adhesion primer for stone granules
- Stone granule layer - Crushed basalt rock chips embedded in acrylic (same material as asphalt shingles)
- Acrylic overglaze topcoat - Clear UV-resistant seal that locks in granules and adds weather protection
The Result: A roofing panel that's 95% steel structurally (for strength, lifespan, and metal performance) with a stone granule finish that looks identical to traditional tile, cedar shake, or dimensional shingles from ground level.
Weight Comparison:
- Stone-coated steel: 1.3-1.7 lbs per square foot
- Asphalt shingles: 2.0-3.5 lbs per square foot
- Standing seam metal: 0.7-1.2 lbs per square foot
- Concrete tile: 9-12 lbs per square foot
- Clay tile: 8-15 lbs per square foot
Available Profiles:
- Tile profile - Mediterranean, Spanish, Tuscan, Mission barrel tile appearance
- Shake profile - Cedar shake, wood shake rustic appearance
- Shingle profile - Dimensional asphalt shingle appearance
- Slate profile - Natural slate stone appearance
Why It Was Invented: Stone-coated steel was created in New Zealand in the 1950s to solve the aesthetic objection to bare metal roofing. Many homeowners wanted metal's longevity and performance but didn't like the industrial appearance. HOAs shared this concern and often prohibited metal roofing.
Stone-coated steel delivers metal performance in a traditional package that:
- Satisfies HOA architectural committees (looks traditional, not industrial)
- Complements traditional home styles (Spanish, Mediterranean, craftsman)
- Appeals to homeowners who want metal benefits without metal appearance
- Weighs less than tile (no structural reinforcement needed)
- Costs less than concrete tile while lasting as long
Stone-Coated Steel Roofing Costs in Texas (2025)
National Average Costs
Cost Per Square Foot Installed:
- Decra (premium): $14.00-$18.00 per square foot
- Gerard: $13.00-$17.00 per square foot
- Metro Tiles: $12.00-$16.00 per square foot
- Boral: $12.00-$16.00 per square foot
Average Texas Home (2,500 square feet):
- Decra: $35,000-$45,000 total installed
- Gerard: $32,500-$42,500 total installed
- Metro Tiles: $30,000-$40,000 total installed
- Boral: $30,000-$40,000 total installed
Texas-Specific Cost Factors
What Affects Your Texas Cost:
1. Roof Pitch (Steepness):
- 4/12 to 6/12 pitch: Standard pricing
- 7/12 to 9/12 pitch: +10-15% (steeper homes common in Texas)
- 10/12+ pitch: +20-30% (safety equipment, slower installation)
2. Roof Complexity:
- Simple gable or hip roof: Base pricing
- Multiple valleys, dormers, skylights: +15-25%
- Complex multi-level, turrets, curves: +25-40%
3. Texas Heat Considerations:
- High-temp underlayment required (250°F+ rated): Standard in pricing
- Proper attic ventilation critical: May need upgrades ($500-2,000)
- Cool roof coating upgrade: +8-12% (but saves on energy)
4. Current Roof Condition:
- 1 layer shingles: Tear-off included
- 2+ layers shingles: +$1.50-$3.00/sf for extra removal
- Damaged/rotten decking: +$3.00-$6.00/sf for plywood replacement (common in Texas humidity)
5. Profile Choice:
- Shingle profile: Base pricing (simplest installation)
- Shake profile: +5-10% (more intricate)
- Tile profile: +10-15% (most complex, requires skilled installer)
6. Color Selection:
- Standard manufacturer colors: Included
- Premium/custom colors: +5-10%
- Cool roof colors (light reflective): Recommended for Texas, minimal upcharge
Cost Comparison: Stone-Coated Steel vs Other Materials
| Material | Cost Per SF | 2,500 SF Home | Lifespan | Lifetime Cost (50 yrs) | |----------|-------------|---------------|----------|------------------------| | Stone-Coated Steel | $12-18 | $30,000-$45,000 | 40-60 years | $30,000-$45,000 | | Standing Seam Metal | $14-22 | $35,000-$55,000 | 50-70 years | $35,000-$55,000 | | Concrete Tile | $15-25 | $37,500-$62,500 | 50-100 years | $37,500-$62,500 | | Class 4 Shingles | $8-12 | $20,000-$30,000 | 25-30 years | $40,000-$60,000 (2x replacement) | | Standard Shingles | $6-9 | $15,000-$22,500 | 18-22 years | $45,000-$67,500 (3x replacement) |
Key Insight: Stone-coated steel costs 1.5-2x more than asphalt shingles upfront but becomes cheaper over 30-50 years because you never re-roof. It costs similar to or less than standing seam and tile while offering comparable performance.
What's Included in Texas Installation
✅ Tear-off and disposal of existing roofing
✅ Deck inspection and repairs (if needed)
✅ High-temp synthetic underlayment (required for Texas heat)
✅ Ice and water shield (valleys, eaves, penetrations)
✅ Stone-coated steel panels (materials)
✅ All trim, flashing, ridge/hip caps (color-matched)
✅ Specialized fasteners (corrosion-resistant)
✅ Labor and installation (by certified installer)
✅ Permits and inspections (city requirements)
✅ Material warranty (50 years typical)
✅ Coating warranty (25-30 years)
✅ Workmanship warranty (15-30 years from quality installer)
✅ Cleanup and haul-away (all debris removed)
Stone-Coated Steel Roofing Brands: Complete Comparison
1. Decra Metal Roofing ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Premium Leader)
Company: DECRA Roofing Systems (owned by Fletcher Building, NZ-based global corporation)
Heritage: 60+ years in business, invented stone-coated steel in 1950s New Zealand
Market Position: Premium quality, industry leader, highest price
Why Decra Is The Premium Choice:
Steel Substrate:
- 24-gauge steel (thickest in industry, most competitors use 26-gauge)
- Zincalume coating (aluminum-zinc alloy, superior corrosion resistance)
- Thicker steel = more dent resistant, longer lifespan
Stone Granule Technology:
- Proprietary acrylic adhesive formula
- 95%+ granule retention after 30 years (best in industry)
- Natural basalt rock chips (fade-resistant, UV stable)
- Minimal granule loss even in Texas hail
Coating System:
- Kynar 500 equivalent coating
- 30-year chalk and fade warranty (longest available)
- Excellent color retention in brutal Texas sun
Warranties:
- 50-year limited material warranty (transferable)
- 30-year coating warranty (no prorating)
- 120-mph wind resistance warranty
- Lifetime perforation warranty (against rust-through)
Decra Product Lines for Texas:
DECRA Villa Tile:
- Classic barrel tile profile
- Best for: Spanish, Mediterranean, Tuscan homes
- Most popular in Texas hill country
- 9 standard colors + custom options
DECRA Shake:
- Cedar shake wood appearance
- Best for: Craftsman, cottage, cabin styles
- Realistic wood texture
- 8 standard colors
DECRA Shingle:
- Dimensional asphalt shingle appearance
- Best for: Traditional, colonial, ranch homes
- Most HOA-friendly
- 12+ standard colors
Decra Costs in Texas:
- $14-$18 per square foot installed
- 2,500 SF home: $35,000-$45,000
- Premium pricing, but best quality and warranty
Decra Availability in Texas:
- Limited certified installers (requires factory training)
- Major metro areas well-served (Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio)
- Worth seeking out for premium projects
Best For:
- Homeowners prioritizing absolute best quality
- Premium neighborhoods with high home values
- Those who want longest warranty available
- Mediterranean/Spanish/Hill Country home styles
2. Gerard Roofing ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (Excellent Quality)
Company: Gerard Roofs (sister company to DECRA, same parent Fletcher Building)
Heritage: New Zealand-based, 60+ years
Market Position: Premium quality at slightly lower price than Decra
Gerard Advantages:
Similar to Decra:
- Same parent company, similar manufacturing standards
- 24-26 gauge steel (high quality)
- Excellent stone granule adhesion
- Proprietary acrylic coating system
Gerard Differences:
- Slightly lighter panels than Decra (easier installation)
- Focus on shake profiles (best in industry for wood shake appearance)
- More affordable than Decra while maintaining quality
- Wider installer network
Warranties:
- 50-year limited material warranty
- 30-year coating warranty
- Wind resistance up to 120 mph
- Transferable to future homeowners
Gerard Product Lines:
Gerard Canyon Shake:
- Most realistic cedar shake appearance in industry
- Best for: Craftsman, mountain, cabin, rustic homes
- Heavy texture, authentic wood grain pattern
- Texas homeowners love for Hill Country properties
Gerard Heritage Shake:
- Premium shake profile with dimensional depth
- Slightly more refined than Canyon
- Best for: Upscale craftsman, cottage styles
Gerard Stone Coated Tile:
- Barrel tile profile
- Comparable to Decra Villa Tile
- Good for Spanish/Mediterranean
Gerard Costs in Texas:
- $13-$17 per square foot installed
- 2,500 SF home: $32,500-$42,500
- Excellent value for quality
Best For:
- Homeowners wanting premium shake appearance
- Craftsman, cottage, rustic home styles
- Those seeking Decra-level quality at 10-15% lower cost
- Texas Hill Country properties
3. Metro Tiles (Metrotile) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best Value)
Company: Metrotile (Belgium-based, global manufacturer)
Heritage: 50+ years, distributed worldwide
Market Position: Quality product at most affordable premium price
Metro Advantages:
Best Value Proposition:
- 26-gauge steel (industry standard, lighter than Decra/Gerard)
- Good stone granule adhesion (not as good as Decra but acceptable)
- Widest color selection (20+ colors vs 8-12 for competitors)
- Most profiles available (6+ options)
- Lowest cost among major brands
Warranties:
- 50-year limited material warranty
- 25-year coating warranty (5 years less than Decra/Gerard)
- Wind resistance up to 120 mph
Metro Product Lines:
Metro Roman:
- Classic S-tile Mediterranean profile
- Most popular in Texas
- Best for: Spanish, Mediterranean, Mission-style homes
Metro Shake:
- Wood shake appearance
- Good quality (not as realistic as Gerard, but acceptable)
- Affordable shake option
Metro Shingle:
- Dimensional shingle appearance
- Best for: Traditional homes, HOA-restricted neighborhoods
- Most versatile profile
Metro Bond:
- Low-profile shingle appearance
- Modern look, flat appearance
- Good for contemporary homes
Metro Slate:
- Natural slate stone appearance
- Premium aesthetic at fraction of real slate cost
Metro Wood:
- Cedar wood shake alternative
- Budget-friendly wood appearance
Metro Costs in Texas:
- $12-$16 per square foot installed
- 2,500 SF home: $30,000-$40,000
- Most affordable major brand
Metro Availability:
- Widest installer network (more certified contractors)
- Easier to find installers in smaller Texas cities
- Faster installation (lighter panels, simpler profiles)
Best For:
- Budget-conscious homeowners still wanting stone-coated
- Those who need wide color palette (20+ options)
- Standard residential applications (not ultra-premium)
- Buyers prioritizing value over absolute best quality
4. Boral Steel Roofing ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Company: Boral Roofing (California-based, US manufacturing)
Heritage: Part of Boral Building Products
Market Position: American-made alternative to imports
Boral Advantages:
- Made in USA (appeals to some buyers)
- 26-gauge steel
- Good quality, comparable to Metro Tiles
- Competitive pricing
- Strong warranty backing
Warranties:
- 50-year limited material warranty
- 30-year coating warranty
- Wind resistance certification
Boral Costs in Texas:
- $12-$16 per square foot installed
- Similar to Metro Tiles pricing
Best For:
- Buyers prioritizing American-made products
- Standard residential applications
- Those wanting quality without premium Decra cost
Availability in Texas:
- Moderate installer network (not as wide as Metro, more than Decra)
Brand Comparison Summary
| Brand | Steel | Material Warranty | Coating Warranty | Cost ($/SF) | Best Profile | Texas Availability | |-------|-------|-------------------|------------------|-------------|--------------|-------------------| | Decra | 24g (thickest) | 50 years | 30 years | $14-18 | Tile | Limited | | Gerard | 24-26g | 50 years | 30 years | $13-17 | Shake | Moderate | | Metro | 26g | 50 years | 25 years | $12-16 | Most variety | Wide | | Boral | 26g | 50 years | 30 years | $12-16 | Shingle | Moderate |
Our Texas Recommendations:
- Best Overall Quality: Decra Villa Tile (if budget allows)
- Best Shake Profile: Gerard Canyon Shake
- Best Value: Metro Tiles Roman or Shingle
- Best Color Selection: Metro Tiles (20+ colors)
- Made in USA: Boral Steel
Stone-Coated Steel Performance in Texas Climate
Texas Heat Performance
Texas Summer Reality:
- 100°F+ temperatures June-September
- 105-110°F heat waves common
- Roof surface temps 160-190°F on asphalt
- Attic temps 140-160°F without proper roofing
Stone-Coated Steel Heat Performance:
Solar Reflectance:
- Reflects 30-50% of solar energy (varies by color)
- Stone granule coating absorbs some heat (like asphalt)
- Steel substrate underneath reflects radiant heat
- Better than asphalt, not as good as bare standing seam
Attic Temperature Reduction:
- 15-25°F cooler attic vs dark asphalt shingles
- 10-15°F cooler vs light-colored asphalt
- 5-10°F warmer than standing seam with cool coating
Energy Savings in Texas:
- 15-20% cooling cost reduction vs asphalt shingles
- Annual savings: $300-$600 on typical Texas home
- 30-year energy savings: $9,000-$18,000
- Helps offset premium installation cost
Best Colors for Texas Heat:
- Light tan/beige: Best reflectance (SRI 50-60)
- Light gray: Excellent (SRI 45-55)
- Terra cotta/clay: Good (SRI 35-45)
- Medium browns: Moderate (SRI 25-35)
- Dark colors: Least efficient (SRI 15-25)
Heat Performance Comparison:
- Standing seam metal (cool coating): 25-30% energy savings
- Stone-coated steel (light colors): 15-20% savings
- Light asphalt shingles: 5-10% savings
- Dark asphalt shingles: 0% (baseline)
Texas Hail Performance (Critical)
Texas leads the nation in hail damage. Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston corridors experience frequent severe hailstorms.
Stone-Coated Steel Hail Resistance:
Class 4 Impact Rating:
- UL 2218 certified (highest impact rating)
- Withstands 2" steel ball dropped from 20 feet (testing standard)
- Survives golf ball to baseball-sized hail
- Stone granules absorb impact energy
- Steel substrate doesn't crack or break
Real-World Texas Hail Performance:
- Minor cosmetic denting from 1.5"+ diameter hail
- Rarely punctures or fails structurally
- Continues protecting home after hailstorm
- Often doesn't require replacement (unlike shingles)
- Insurance claims typically cosmetic only
Hail Performance vs Other Materials:
After Severe Hailstorm:
- Asphalt shingles: 60-80% require full replacement (granule loss, cracks)
- Standing seam metal: Cosmetic denting, rarely replaced
- Stone-coated steel: Minor denting, less than 5% replacement rate
- Concrete tile: 20-30% broken/cracked tiles need replacement
Insurance Implications:
- Class 4 rating qualifies for 20-35% premium discounts (most Texas insurers)
- Potential savings: $600-$1,500/year on insurance
- 30-year insurance savings: $18,000-$45,000
- Often offsets entire premium vs shingles
Stone Granule Protection: The stone coating actually helps with hail:
- Distributes impact across larger surface area
- Absorbs some impact energy before reaching steel
- Quieter during hailstorm than bare metal
- May lose some granules on direct hits (cosmetic, doesn't affect performance)
Wind Resistance
Texas experiences severe thunderstorm winds, hurricanes (coastal), and tornadoes.
Stone-Coated Steel Wind Performance:
- 120-140 mph wind ratings (varies by brand/profile)
- Mechanically fastened with corrosion-resistant screws
- Interlocking panels create continuous coverage
- Stone granules add weight (prevents uplift better than bare metal)
- Excellent wind performance (superior to shingles)
Texas Storm Performance: Stone-coated roofs routinely survive severe Texas thunderstorms (60-80 mph winds) with zero damage while nearby asphalt roofs lose shingles.
Lifespan in Texas Climate
Expected Lifespan:
- Decra: 50-60 years (potentially 70+ with proper maintenance)
- Gerard: 50-60 years
- Metro/Boral: 40-50 years
What Affects Texas Lifespan:
Steel Substrate: 50+ years (Galvalume/Zincalume coating prevents rust in Texas humidity)
Stone Granules: 30-40 years before slight thinning (doesn't affect performance, just aesthetics)
Coating: 25-30 years warranty, may fade slightly after but steel remains protected
Comparison in Texas:
- Stone-coated steel: 40-60 years
- Standing seam metal: 50-70 years
- Concrete tile: 50-100 years
- Class 4 shingles: 25-30 years (Texas heat shortens vs northern climates)
- Standard shingles: 18-22 years (Texas heat degrades petroleum base)
Key Insight: Stone-coated steel will outlast 2-3 asphalt roof replacements in Texas, saving $25,000-$50,000 over its lifetime.
Stone-Coated Steel vs Other Roofing Materials
Stone-Coated Steel vs Standing Seam Metal
Similarities:
- Both steel substrate (long lifespan, rust-resistant)
- Both excellent hail resistance
- Both energy-efficient (reduce cooling costs)
- Both Class A fire rating
- Similar total installed cost
Key Differences:
| Feature | Stone-Coated Steel | Standing Seam Metal | |---------|-------------------|---------------------| | Appearance | Traditional (tile/shake/shingle) | Modern/industrial | | HOA Approval | Easy (95%+ approval) | Difficult (50-70% approval) | | Energy Efficiency | Good (15-20% savings) | Better (25-30% savings) | | Noise (rain/hail) | Quieter (stone dampens) | Louder (metal pinging) | | Weight | 1.3-1.7 lbs/SF | 0.7-1.2 lbs/SF (lighter) | | Installation Time | 4-6 days | 4-7 days | | Maintenance | Minimal | Slightly less | | Lifespan | 40-60 years | 50-70 years | | Granule Loss | Slight (30+ years) | N/A (no granules) | | Best Home Styles | Traditional, Spanish, craftsman | Modern, contemporary, farmhouse |
Choose Stone-Coated If:
- HOA requires traditional appearance
- Traditional/Mediterranean/Spanish home style
- Want quieter metal roof (rain sound dampened)
- Don't like industrial/modern metal appearance
Choose Standing Seam If:
- Modern/contemporary home style
- HOA allows bare metal
- Want maximum energy efficiency (25-30% savings)
- Want absolute longest lifespan (50-70 years)
- Don't mind rain/hail noise
Stone-Coated Steel vs Concrete Tile
Similarities:
- Similar aesthetics (tile profiles look nearly identical)
- Similar lifespan (40-60 years stone-coated vs 50-100 years tile)
- Similar or lower cost (stone-coated often cheaper)
- Excellent hail resistance
Key Differences:
| Feature | Stone-Coated Steel | Concrete Tile | |---------|-------------------|---------------| | Weight | 1.5 lbs/SF (light) | 9-12 lbs/SF (heavy) | | Structural Requirements | Standard framing OK | Often needs reinforcement | | Cost | $12-18/SF | $15-25/SF | | Installation Time | 4-6 days | 7-10 days | | Hail Damage | Dents (rarely breaks) | Cracks/shatters | | Repairs | Rarely needed | Replace broken tiles periodically | | Energy (Thermal Mass) | Good reflection | Excellent thermal mass | | Lifespan | 40-60 years | 50-100 years | | Authenticity | Mimics tile | Authentic tile |
Choose Stone-Coated If:
- Don't want to reinforce roof structure (expensive)
- Want faster installation
- Hail damage concerns (tile cracks, stone-coated dents but survives)
- Lower upfront cost desired
- Want lighter roof (future re-roofing easier)
Choose Concrete Tile If:
- Want longest possible lifespan (100 years possible)
- Authentic tile appearance critical
- House already built/reinforced for tile weight
- Budget allows premium ($15-25/SF)
- Coastal salt air concerns (tile immune, steel can corrode)
Stone-Coated Steel vs Class 4 Impact Shingles
Similarities:
- Both Class 4 impact rated (qualify for insurance discounts)
- Both hail-resistant
- Both available in many colors
- Both HOA-friendly
Key Differences:
| Feature | Stone-Coated Steel | Class 4 Shingles | |---------|-------------------|------------------| | Upfront Cost | $12-18/SF | $8-12/SF | | Lifespan (Texas) | 40-60 years | 25-30 years | | Lifetime Cost (50 yrs) | $30k-45k (one roof) | $40k-60k (2 roofs) | | Energy Savings | 15-20% | 5-10% | | Maintenance | Minimal | Moderate (moss, repairs) | | Wind Rating | 120-140 mph | 110-130 mph | | Warranty | 50 years | 30-50 years (prorated) |
Choose Stone-Coated If:
- Staying in home 15+ years (ROI pays off)
- Want lowest lifetime cost
- Maximum performance desired
- Energy savings important ($300-600/year)
- Minimal maintenance appeals
Choose Class 4 Shingles If:
- Budget tight (limited to $20k-30k)
- Selling within 10 years (won't recoup premium)
- Just need hail protection (Class 4 qualifies for discounts)
- Prefer familiar shingle appearance
- Don't need premium aesthetics
Installation Process & Finding Qualified Contractors
Stone-Coated Steel Installation Timeline
Average Texas Home (2,500 SF):
- Day 1: Tear-off, deck inspection, repairs
- Day 2: Underlayment, ice & water shield
- Day 3-4: Panel installation
- Day 5: Ridge/hip caps, trim, flashing
- Day 6: Final inspection, cleanup
Total: 4-6 days (weather permitting)
Texas-Specific Considerations:
- Summer heat: Start early (7 AM), breaks during peak heat
- Afternoon thunderstorms: May delay 1-2 days in spring/summer
- High-temp underlayment curing time: Factor into schedule
Critical: Finding Certified Installers
Stone-coated steel requires brand-specific certification. A shingle crew or even standing seam installer cannot properly install stone-coated without training.
Why Certification Matters:
Stone-Coated Unique Requirements:
- Different cutting techniques (avoid granule loss)
- Specific fastener placement (varies by brand)
- Proper panel overlap (different than shingles or standing seam)
- Specialized trim and flashing details
- Must handle panels carefully (stone coating can chip if mishandled)
What to Verify:
✅ Brand-Specific Certification
- Decra-certified (if choosing Decra)
- Gerard-certified (if choosing Gerard)
- Metro-certified (if choosing Metro)
- Ask to see certification documents
✅ Minimum 10-15 Stone-Coated Installations
- Portfolio of completed stone-coated projects
- References from Texas homeowners
- Photos showing before/after
✅ Understands Texas Requirements
- High-temp underlayment (250°F+ rated)
- Proper attic ventilation for Texas heat
- Local building codes and permits
- Hail-prone area installation best practices
✅ Insurance & Licensing
- Texas licensed roofing contractor (verify with TDLR)
- $1M+ general liability insurance
- Workers' compensation coverage
- Manufacturer warranty registration (protects your warranty)
✅ Workmanship Warranty
- Minimum 15 years (decent)
- Better: 20-25 years
- Best: 30 years (premium installers)
- Get in writing before signing contract
Questions to Ask Contractors:
- "Are you [brand]-certified for stone-coated steel installation?"
- "How many stone-coated roofs have you installed in the last 12 months?"
- "Can I see photos of 5+ stone-coated projects in Texas?"
- "What's different about stone-coated vs standing seam installation?"
- "What workmanship warranty do you provide in writing?"
- "Do you handle permits and city inspections?"
- "What happens if granules are damaged during installation?"
- "How do you protect against granule loss when cutting panels?"
Red Flags to Avoid:
🚩 "We install all types of metal" but no stone-coated portfolio
🚩 Can't explain installation differences
🚩 Significantly cheaper than other quotes (cutting corners)
🚩 No brand certification
🚩 Pressure to decide immediately
🚩 Vague about warranty details
🚩 No references available
🚩 Out-of-state company (storm chasers)
Is Stone-Coated Steel Worth It? ROI Analysis
50-Year Lifetime Cost Comparison (Texas Home)
Scenario: 2,500 SF Texas Home, 50-Year Ownership
Stone-Coated Steel (Metro Tiles):
- Initial installation: $35,000
- Energy savings (15% × $2,000/yr × 50 yrs): $15,000
- Insurance savings (25% × $1,500/yr × 50 yrs): $18,750
- Maintenance over 50 years: $1,000
- Replacement needed: $0 (lasts 50+ years)
- Total 50-year cost: $2,250 (net savings after energy/insurance)
Class 4 Impact Shingles:
- Initial installation: $22,000
- Replacement #1 (year 27): $28,000 (inflation)
- Energy savings (8% × $2,000/yr × 50 yrs): $8,000
- Insurance savings (25% × $1,500/yr × 50 yrs): $18,750
- Maintenance over 50 years: $3,500
- Total 50-year cost: $26,750
Standard Asphalt Shingles:
- Initial installation: $17,000
- Replacement #1 (year 20): $22,000 (inflation)
- Replacement #2 (year 40): $30,000 (inflation)
- Energy savings (0%): $0
- Insurance savings (0%): $0
- Maintenance over 50 years: $5,000
- Total 50-year cost: $74,000
Winner: Stone-Coated Steel saves $24,500 vs Class 4 shingles and $71,750 vs standard shingles over 50 years
Break-Even Analysis
Stone-Coated vs Class 4 Shingles:
- Premium cost: $13,000 more upfront
- Energy savings: $200-400/year
- Insurance savings: $0 (both qualify for Class 4 discounts)
- Break-even: 32-65 years (after Class 4 replacement at year 27)
Key Insight: If you stay 27+ years, stone-coated becomes cheaper because you avoid Class 4 shingle replacement cost.
Stone-Coated vs Standard Shingles:
- Premium cost: $18,000 more upfront
- Energy savings: $300-600/year
- Insurance savings: $375-900/year (Class 4 discount)
- Break-even: 18-27 years
If you stay 20+ years, stone-coated is financially superior to standard shingles.
When Stone-Coated Makes Sense
✅ Staying in home 15+ years (long enough to realize ROI)
✅ HOA restricts standing seam but allows traditional appearance
✅ Traditional home style (Spanish, Mediterranean, craftsman, traditional)
✅ Want lowest lifetime cost (willing to invest upfront)
✅ Hail-prone area (Texas = frequent hail, Class 4 protection valuable)
✅ Energy efficiency important (15-20% cooling savings)
✅ Minimal maintenance desired (virtually no upkeep)
✅ Premium aesthetics (tile/shake appearance)
✅ Don't want to reinforce structure (lighter than concrete tile)
When Standard Shingles Make More Sense
✅ Selling within 10 years (won't recoup premium)
✅ Budget very tight (limited to $20k or less)
✅ Don't care about energy savings
✅ Don't mind re-roofing every 20-25 years
✅ Standard aesthetics acceptable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does stone-coated steel roofing really look like tile/shingles, or is it obviously metal?
A: From ground level (8-10 feet away), stone-coated steel is virtually indistinguishable from traditional materials. The stone granule coating creates authentic texture and matte finish. Up close, you can identify interlocking panels, but 95% of visitors never notice. HOAs frequently approve it because it looks traditional, not like bare metal. The key is choosing the right profile for your home style.
Q: Will stone granules fall off over time like asphalt shingle granules?
A: High-quality brands (Decra, Gerard) retain 95%+ of granules for 30+ years due to superior acrylic adhesion. You'll see some granule loss in the first year (manufacturing excess), similar to new asphalt shingles. After that, granule loss is minimal. Even if granules thin after 30-40 years, the steel substrate remains fully protected. Cheaper brands may shed more granules—stick with major manufacturers.
Q: Is stone-coated metal roofing noisy during rain and hail?
A: Quieter than standing seam metal but slightly louder than asphalt shingles. The stone granule layer significantly dampens sound. With R-38 attic insulation (standard in Texas new construction), rain sounds are noticeable but not bothersome. Most homeowners report enjoying the gentle rain sound. Hail is more audible than on shingles but much quieter than bare metal. If absolute silence is critical, asphalt shingles are quieter.
Q: How does stone-coated steel perform in Texas hailstorms?
A: Excellent. Class 4 impact rating means it withstands 2" steel ball dropped from 20 feet. Real-world: survives golf ball to baseball-sized hail with minimal cosmetic denting. After severe Texas hailstorms, stone-coated roofs have less than 5% replacement rate vs 60-80% for asphalt shingles. The stone coating absorbs impact energy, protecting the steel beneath. You may see small dents but panels rarely fail or leak.
Q: Can stone-coated metal be installed over existing shingles?
A: Technically yes if only one layer exists and deck is sound, but we strongly recommend against it. Stone-coated panels need flat, smooth substrate for proper installation and panel seating. Removing old shingles allows deck inspection, ensures warranty compliance, and adds minimal cost ($1.50-3/SF). The small savings isn't worth potential problems. Always tear off first for stone-coated installations.
Q: What's the best stone-coated brand for Texas?
A: Best overall quality: Decra (thickest steel, best granule adhesion, longest coating warranty). Best value: Metro Tiles (good quality, most affordable, widest color selection). Best shake profile: Gerard Canyon Shake (most realistic wood appearance). Made in USA: Boral. For most Texas homeowners, we recommend Decra for premium projects or Metro for best value. Both perform excellently in our climate.
Q: Will insurance rates drop with stone-coated steel?
A: Most Texas insurers offer 20-35% discounts for Class 4 impact-rated roofing (stone-coated qualifies). Typical savings: $600-$1,500/year on average Texas home. Over 30 years, this saves $18,000-$45,000. Not all insurers offer the discount—contact your agent before installing to verify savings and get it in writing. State Farm, Allstate, USAA, and most major carriers participate.
Q: Does stone-coated steel increase home value?
A: Yes, typically 1-3% for mid-range homes, up to 5% for premium homes. Stone-coated roofing appeals to buyers seeking low-maintenance, long-lasting roofing. The "never re-roof again" selling point is powerful. Premium neighborhoods especially value it. Expect to recoup 65-85% of cost at resale, higher if roof is newer. Best ROI is long-term ownership (15+ years), not quick flips.
Q: How long does stone-coated steel last in Texas heat?
A: 40-60 years depending on brand (Decra/Gerard: 50-60 years, Metro/Boral: 40-50 years). Texas heat and UV are tough on roofing, but stone-coated handles it well. The Galvalume steel substrate resists corrosion in Texas humidity. Stone granules may thin slightly after 30-40 years (cosmetic only), but steel remains protected. Compare to asphalt shingles: 18-22 years in Texas heat.
Q: Can I walk on stone-coated metal roofing?
A: Yes, but carefully. Walk on flat areas between ribs, wear soft-soled shoes, avoid walking when panels are hot. Stone-coated is more dent-resistant than bare metal but can still be damaged. For maintenance, most work can be done from gutters or ladders—full roof walking rarely needed. If required, hire professional who knows proper techniques to avoid damaging stone coating or denting panels.
Get Your Free Stone-Coated Steel Roofing Estimate
Ready to explore stone-coated steel metal roofing for your Texas home?
What You'll Receive:
- Free on-site inspection and measurements
- Brand recommendations (Decra, Gerard, Metro, Boral) for your home
- Detailed cost breakdown with transparent pricing
- Color and profile selection guidance
- Energy savings projections specific to your home
- Insurance discount verification with your carrier
- Financing options ($0 down, 0% APR available)
- Lifetime cost comparison (stone-coated vs shingles vs tile)
- HOA approval guidance and documentation support
- Answers to all your questions
Why Choose Ripple Roofing:
- Decra, Gerard, and Metro Tiles certified installers
- 25+ stone-coated installations in Central Texas
- CertainTeed Shingle Master™ certified
- 15-year workmanship warranty
- Local company (Round Rock-based, not storm chasers)
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
- $0 down financing with approved credit
Get Free Estimate or call (512) 366-0880
Serving all of Central Texas: Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Lakeway, Bee Cave, San Antonio, and surrounding areas.
Stone-coated steel: The smart investment for Texas homeowners who want traditional beauty with 50-year performance.