Comparing Metal Roofing Styles for 2025: Your Best Options
You’ve seen the roofs. Now it’s time to ask: which one works best? Not just for curb appeal, but for Calgary’s intense sun, wild temperature swings, and the occasional snow dump that turns your street into a ski hill.
Let’s break down the most common styles for 2025, from cost-conscious corrugated panels to architect-grade standing seams, plus the finish trends you'll want to keep on your radar.
Corrugated Panels (WF-7/8)
WF-7/8 corrugated panels deliver dependable performance at an unbeatable price point. They shed water fast, resist impact damage, and can outlast asphalt by decades with minimal upkeep.
You’ll often see these panels on barns, sheds, and agricultural buildings, but more budget-conscious homeowners also use them on cabins and rural homes. Simple to install and even easier to maintain, this profile makes sense when function comes first.
Standing Seam
Standing seam panels use a raised seam system with concealed fasteners, locking each piece into the next for a sleek, uninterrupted look.
Beyond style, this system offers best-in-class weather protection, resisting leaks, wind uplift, and snow load. Expect a 30+ year lifespan with proper installation. The catch? It comes at a higher upfront cost and requires skilled installers to avoid common issues like oil-canning.
Ideal for upscale homes, commercial buildings, and modern architecture, standing seam roofs are an investment, but they pay off in longevity and visual impact.
WF-12-36 Profile
The WF-12-36 offers structural performance and wide coverage in one tidy package. Its 1" ribs spaced on 12" centers across a 36" panel width create a sturdy, wind-resistant roof with fast install times.
Available in SMP finishes or Galvalume, it’s a go-to for post-frame farms, warehouses, and pre-engineered buildings. This profile delivers for projects that need solid performance without breaking the bank.
Diamond Rib
Want a roof (or wall) that stands out? Diamond Rib’s ¾″ trapezoid ribs on 6″ centers add stiffness and texture. This profile holds its shape while offering a bold, geometric look for accents or full-scale applications.
Use it vertically for exterior walls, overhangs, or decorative bands that break up large facades. It’s versatile, eye-catching, and rugged enough for cladding and roofing.
Prolok Panels
Available in 12″ or 16″ widths, Prolok panels create a continuous, streamlined surface that plays beautifully with light and angle. If you’re aiming for top-tier design with high function, Prolok is your profile.
2025 Colour and Finish Trends
Your roof shouldn’t fade or chalk after a few seasons, so don’t settle for anything less than industrial-grade finishes. Here’s what’s trending in 2025:
- Matte black is dominating minimalist builds
- Deep farmhouse reds continue to add warmth and tradition to rural homes
- PVDF and SMP coatings offer next-level UV protection and long-term colour retention, even under Alberta’s intense sun
Choosing Metal Roofing in 2025? Let’s Talk
Every roof has a story, and every project has different demands. At Phoenix Metals, we help you match the right metal profile to your budget, environment, and design goals.
Visit us in Calgary or
contact our team for a custom quote, product samples, or honest advice from people who know roofing inside and out.