Roofing Tips |9 min read

How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Agricultural Building: A Practical Guide for Farmers and Ranchers

As a farm owner, your agricultural buildings are some of your most valuable assets. Whether it's a barn protecting your livestock, a storage facility safeguarding your crops, or a machine shed housing your essential equipment, these structures need to stand up to the toughest conditions Mother Nature can throw at them. And at the heart of that protection? Your roof. The right roof can mean the difference between peace of mind and a costly repair down the road.

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But with so many materials available, how do you make the right decision? While metal roofing is widely recognized as a solid option, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of other materials. Each type has its own unique set of benefits and challenges that can affect your farm's efficiency, sustainability, and costs.

In this guide, we'll explore the different roofing materials suited for agricultural buildings, highlight their practical advantages, and offer insights to help you choose the best solution for your farm's specific needs.

What Does Your Agricultural Building Need?

Before diving into material specifics, it's crucial to ask: What exactly do you need from your roof? Here are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:

• Weather Resistance: Your building needs protection from the local climate. Whether you're facing heavy snowfall in the North, intense sunlight in the South, or unpredictable weather everywhere in between, your roof should be ready for the worst.
• Pest Resistance: Farms are prone to pests, both inside and outside the building. A roof that can resist insect damage and rodent intrusions is essential.
• Ease of Maintenance: Some roofs require annual upkeep, while others can last decades with minimal attention. Consider how much time and effort you're willing to invest in roof maintenance.
• Sustainability: Environmentally conscious farmers may want to consider roofing materials made from sustainable or recyclable resources.
• Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient roofs can help regulate the temperature inside your barn or storage facility, which is especially important for livestock housing.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Although function often takes priority, the visual appeal of your roof can add value to your property, especially if you want it to blend with surrounding buildings.
• Cost and ROI: It's not just about the upfront price. How much will repairs, replacement, and energy costs add up over time?
• Animal Health and Safety: If your building houses livestock, it's essential that the roof contributes to a safe, comfortable, and sanitary environment.

With these practicalities in mind, let's compare some of the most popular agricultural roofing options.

The Best Roofing Materials for Agricultural Buildings: What Are Your Options?

Metal Roofing: The Farmer's Workhorse

For decades, metal roofing has been the go-to option for agricultural buildings. It's the material of choice for good reason'offering a combination of durability, longevity, and low maintenance that's hard to beat.

• Why Farmers Love Metal Roofing:

Exceptional Durability: Metal roofs last up to 50 years or more, standing up to extreme weather conditions like high winds, hail, and heavy snowfall.Fire Resistance: Metal has a Class A fire rating, meaning it's non-combustible and resists the spread of flames. For farms in wildfire-prone areas, this can be a critical advantage.

Pest Protection: Unlike wood, metal can't be chewed through by rodents or damaged by termites.

Low Maintenance: Aside from occasional inspections and minor repairs, metal roofs require very little upkeep, making them ideal for busy farmers.

• Challenges with Metal Roofing:

Initial Cost: The upfront cost of metal roofing is higher than other materials, though the long lifespan makes it a worthy investment.

Noise Factor: During rain or hailstorms, metal roofs can be noisy without proper insulation.

Ammonia Corrosion: If you're housing livestock, ammonia from animal waste can corrode untreated metal over time, so ventilation and periodic cleaning are essential.

• Best For: Farms looking for a long-term, low-maintenance solution that offers excellent weather resistance and fire safety.

Asphalt Shingles: The Budget-Friendly Option

Asphalt shingles are often overlooked for agricultural buildings but remain a viable option, particularly for smaller, less weather-exposed structures. Their primary draw is their affordability and ease of installation.

• Why Consider Asphalt Shingles:

Affordability: Asphalt shingles are one of the least expensive roofing options, making them a good choice for small barns or storage buildings.

Ease of Installation: Installation is straightforward and can be done quickly, reducing labor costs.

Wide Availability: Shingles are widely available in various colors and styles, allowing for some design flexibility.

• Downsides of Asphalt Shingles:

Shorter Lifespan: Shingles typically last 15-20 years, much shorter than metal or other materials.

Less Weather-Resistant: In areas with extreme weather, asphalt shingles may not hold up as well as metal or tile roofing.

Maintenance: They can be prone to algae and moss growth, requiring regular cleaning and inspections.

• Best For: Small agricultural buildings where budget constraints are a primary concern, and the roof isn't exposed to extreme weather.

Wood Shingles and Shakes: Rustic, But Risky

Wood shingles and shakes offer a charming, rustic look that fits naturally into farm landscapes. Historically, many barns and stables were covered with wood roofs, but modern farming has moved away from this material due to its drawbacks.

• Why Some Farmers Still Choose Wood:

Natural Insulation: Wood provides a degree of insulation, keeping barns warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Aesthetic Appeal: For farmers who want to maintain a traditional or rustic aesthetic, wood shakes can add to the visual appeal of the farm.

• Why Wood Might Not Be Practical Today:

Fire Hazard: Wood is highly flammable unless treated with fire retardants. This can pose a significant risk, especially in dry areas.

High Maintenance: Wood requires regular treatment and cleaning to prevent rot, mold, and insect damage.

Short Lifespan: Wood roofs typically last 20-30 years, which is less than most modern materials.

• Best For: Farms looking to preserve a historic or rustic look, where fire risk and heavy maintenance aren't a concern.

Clay and Concrete Tiles: Timeless and Tough

Clay and concrete tiles are more commonly associated with residential or commercial buildings, but they can be a suitable option for certain types of agricultural structures. While these materials offer incredible durability, they come with a few practical challenges that farmers need to consider.

• Why Tiles Work Well:

Longevity: These materials are incredibly durable, lasting upwards of 50 years or more. They are highly resistant to fire, rot, and pests.

Weather Resistance: Tile roofs can withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds, extreme heat, and hail.

Energy Efficiency: Clay and concrete tiles provide natural insulation, keeping the interior of the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

• Challenges with Tile Roofing:

Weight: Clay and concrete are heavy materials that may require additional structural support, making them unsuitable for older barns without reinforcement.

Cost: The initial cost of tile roofing is high, and repairs can be expensive as well.

Complex Installation: Installing tile roofs is labor-intensive and requires specialized skills.

• Best For: High-end barns, stables, or other agricultural structures where longevity and durability outweigh the high upfront costs.

Corrugated Plastic: The Light and Bright Solution

Corrugated plastic, or polycarbonate, is a lightweight roofing material often used for agricultural structures that need natural light, such as greenhouses, chicken coops, or storage sheds.

• Advantages of Corrugated Plastic:

Light Transmission: Allows natural light to filter in, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Lightweight: It's easy to install and doesn't require heavy-duty structural support.

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Affordable: For farmers on a tight budget, corrugated plastic is a low-cost option.

• Drawbacks of Corrugated Plastic:

Less Durable: Plastic roofs can crack or degrade over time, especially under heavy snowfall or hail.

UV Damage: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the material to become brittle or discolored.

Shorter Lifespan: It doesn't last nearly as long as metal or tile roofing, so replacement may be necessary after 10-15 years.

• Best For: Greenhouses or light-duty agricultural structures where natural light and ventilation are priorities.

Key Considerations for Livestock Buildings

If you're housing livestock, you need to be aware of potential issues like ammonia buildup. Ammonia, a chemical present in animal waste, can cause corrosion of metal roofs if ventilation is poor. However, regular maintenance and a proper ventilation system can prevent this problem and ensure your metal roof remains in excellent condition for decades. Fortunately, keeping your roof clean and well-ventilated doesn't require extensive expertise'simple yearly inspections and cleanings are usually enough to catch issues early and keep the roof intact.

Beyond Materials: Additional Considerations for Agricultural Roofs

Choosing the right roofing material is only part of the equation. Here are some additional tips to ensure your roof performs well over the long term:

1. Proper Ventilation: Especially important for barns and stables, proper ventilation reduces moisture buildup, preventing mold and corrosion, particularly with metal roofs.
2. Insulation: Depending on your climate and building use, adding insulation beneath your roof can improve energy efficiency and help regulate temperatures for livestock.
3. Maintenance Schedule: Regardless of the material, periodic inspections are essential to catch small issues before they turn into major problems.
4. Climate Adaptation: If your area experiences extreme weather, consider upgrades like additional roof reinforcement, snow guards, or specialized coatings to increase durability.

Final Thoughts: Which Roof is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best roof for your agricultural building depends on your unique needs, budget, and the environment in which you operate. Metal roofing offers unparalleled durability, longevity, and resistance to both weather and pests, making it the top choice for most farmers. However, asphalt shingles, wood, clay tiles, and even corrugated plastic have their place, depending on your priorities.

• Metal roofing is the best all-around choice for durability, longevity, and minimal maintenance.
• Asphalt shingles offer a more affordable solution but may require more frequent replacement.
• Wood shakes provide rustic charm but demand significant upkeep.
• Clay or concrete tiles are ideal for fire resistance and durability, though installation can be costly and complex.
• Corrugated plastic works well for specific applications like greenhouses but lacks the durability needed for most barns and stables.

Farmhouses have become one of the most popular architectural styles of today. There are several features that have become synonymous with farmhouse architecture: white paint, simple landscaping, a wraparound porch, and of course, a metal roof. 

At Western States Metal Roofing, we proudly manufacture metal roofing and siding panels in over 100 colors and finishes to maximize our customers' design options. When you are choosing a metal roof for a farmhouse design, there are certain roof profiles and colors that work best.

In this article, we go over the best panels and colors for your farmhouse metal roof to help you narrow down your design options.

Why Metal Roofing Is Popular For Farmhouse Style 

The reason metal roofing is so commonly used with this architectural design style is found within the history of farmhouses. These types of residences initially became popular in the US in the 19th century and were set in rural areas so that farmers could increase productivity and arrive to work earlier by living in close proximity to the farm. 

The homes during this time were built solely for survival and function and so the farmhouse exterior was simple in order to make construction fast. Tin was the metal commonly used for roofing at the time because it had a low cost and was lightweight, making it an easy material to work with.

Fast forward to today and steel has replaced tin as being the most common metal used for roofing. The style of metal roofing has also evolved into different panel profiles, such as standing seam, and the color choices have massively increased.

Though metal roofing styles have become more updated, the idea behind a farmhouse metal roof is still the same: a simple look that is low maintenance and durable.

Metal roofs on contemporary farmhouse style homes pay homage to the style's humble beginnings and represent the simplicity of the time period that it originated from. However, modern farmhouses now have a metal roof's aesthetics as more of a top priority which is why they now come in many different design options. 

While asphalt shingle roofing is also used with farmhouses, metal roofs are often preferred to give the style a more authentic look. 

Best Metal Panels For Farmhouse Design

• ' Corrugated
• Standing Seam
• R Panel
• 7.2 Panel

Farmhouses With ' Corrugated Metal Roofing

The rounded, wavy appearance of '' corrugated has a rustic look that originally was only used in agricultural or commercial settings. Corrugated roofs are now used in residential applications as well and have a country look that is best used with farmhouse style.

Besides it's rustic appearance, '' corrugated is a great roofing choice for a farmhouse as it's a lower cost, exposed fastener panel that has a more simple installation than standing seam roofing. 

Standing Seam Metal Roof Farmhouse

The clean lines and streamlined look of standing seam metal roofing is a blend of simple and sophisticated that has made them popular with modern farmhouse style, an updated and contemporary take on classic farmhouse style. Though they are the most expensive option in this article, standing seam panels are often preferred for their superior quality and appearance

Ranch and farmhouse style homes often have open purlin systems and require long runs, making them an excellent fit with standing seam panels.

R Panel Metal Roof Farmhouse

R Panel has a traditional farmhouse look because it's used most often in agricultural settings. When looking for a classic rustic style that even more affordable than '' corrugated, R Panel is an excellent choice.

7.2 Panel Metal Roof Farmhouse

The symmetrical trapezoidal design of 7.2 Panel makes it both aesthetically pleasing and durable for farmhouse designs, as it's the strongest exposed fastener panel with superior load and span capacities.

What Are The Best Farmhouse Metal Roof Colors?

• White
• Black
• Gray
• Green
• Red
• Galvalume/ Galvanized

White Farmhouse With Metal Roof

White is the most popular siding color for farmhouses. The reason dates back to the origin of farmhouse style: the homes were actually whitewashed with a mixture of lime, water and salt as it was cheaper than paint and helped prevent mildew from growing. The tradition of white farmhouses has carried on today and is preferred for it's classic, clean aesthetic.

A metal roof in a darker color visually pops on a white farmhouse and creates a nice contrast without being overwhelming. However, white on white (white siding with a white metal roof) is a completely different approach that looks just as stunning. The overall white aesthetic is clean, modern, and simple. 

Farmhouse Black Metal Roof

Black metal roofs are very popular in contemporary architecture. When looking to achieve a modern farmhouse look, which is an updated take on the farmhouse style, black is an excellent metal roof color choice.

Farmhouse With Gray Metal Roof 

If black is too extreme for you, a gray metal roof offers a similar contrast with a lighter colored farmhouse but is less intense.

Farmhouse With Green Metal Roof 

If you are looking for a bolder color choice, green roofs look great on farmhouses and often become the focal point of the property.

Farmhouse With Red Metal Roof 

For a traditional farmhouse look with a pop of color, a red metal roof on a white farmhouse has a classic barn inspired style.

Farmhouses With Galvalume/ Galvanized Metal Roofing

While galvalume and galvanized metals finishes are important to mention as their looks are synonymous with classic farmhouse style. Their shiny surfaces look similar to the tin roofing that was used on original farmhouses. While the surface might be too shiny for some, they are a great finish choice when you want a truly rustic looking farmhouse. 

For residential applications, galvalume is more common than galvanized metal. It is slightly less shiny and more durable. Galvalume features a coating of zinc, aluminum, and steel which gives superior corrosion resistance. 

Another advantage to using galvalume is that it is more affordable than a painted panel. Galvalume panels run anywhere from 25-50% less than a painted panel depending on gauge and paint system.

Choosing The Right Metal Roof For Your Farmhouse Style

When looking for the right metal roof panel or color for your farmhouse property, you may want to see what your choices will look like on your roof before you buy it. Luckily with our free roof visualizer, now you can. 

Upload a photo of your home and virtually try out different roof colors and profiles to see how they will look. 

Once you have found colors you like, request a free color chip to see the color in person.

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