Do you know that you can choose between two options for installing a steel barn on your farmland? Either go for a vertical roofing style or a horizontal one. Since both are made with durable steel, you must be wondering, ‘What’s the difference between the two?’ Come, let’s discuss it in detail and find out whether a vertical or horizontal roof metal barns is best for you.
Vertical Roof Metal Barn
It is an A-frame style of roofing that has corrugated panels arranged so that ridges are perpendicular to the ground. The panels run from the peak of the roof towards the eaves, creating vertical ridges.
Pros
Easy To Clean: Since ridges run towards the ground and metal has a smooth surface with less friction, they enable all dust, debris, rainwater, and melting snow to slide off smoothly.
Weather Sealant: These offer greater weather-tightness. The peak joining two metal panels is secured with the ridge cap. This prohibits water leakages and insects or bugs crawling inside. Water does not get caught and runs off quickly.
Sleek look: You can design metal barns that look modern, sleek, and contemporary. When used for roofing, gable, and side walls, the vertical panel gives the illusion of a taller building.
Tip: If you are worried about leakage, ask about welding options. For extra security, you can add welded corners and brackets for regions with extreme weather conditions.
Cons
Aesthetics: If you want that traditional, old-world charm, a horizontal-roof metal barn would be a better option.
Cost: Purlins are added to give extra structural support to the roof, and a ridge cap seals the vertical panels on the roof. Since extra materials are used, the cost rises a bit, but it is worth it if you consider the long-term gain.
Ideal For
- Harsh weather conditions
- Heavy rain and snowfall in the area
- Medium to large size metal barns
- Busy people who want less cleaning
Horizontal Roof Metal Barn
It is also known as the box eave style. It is an A-frame style of roofing with corrugated panels arranged so that ridges are parallel to the ground. Roof ridges run from the front to the back gable ends, creating horizontal lines that resemble traditional barn style.
Pros
Traditional Looks: Horizontally laid ridges are considered more attractive. They appear more traditional or common roofing compared to vertical roof metal barns.
Affordable: Since fewer materials are used here, the cost is reduced comparatively.
Less Bracing: There are no purlins, so extra bracing is unnecessary.
Cons
Heavy Snow\ Storm: They can’t sustain heavy snowfall or hail storms. They are not ideal for high speed wind as they might increase draft.
Harder To Clean: Debris and dust accumulate between the panels’ valleys and ridges, so horizontal roof metal barns need cleaning more often. This can be trouble for large barns, as cleaning will consume more time and resources.
Less Weathertight: The horizontal roofing style is less resistant to water and debris due to its orientation. Any stuck twigs or leaves can lead to moisture build-up and rust development in a later phase. The horizontal plates must be sealed properly, or it can lead to mold, mildew, or insect infestation.
Ideal For
- Moderate climate area
- Smaller to medium sized metal barns
- People who want aesthetic looks for their barn
Check Out This Quick Comparison Between The Horizontal Vs. Vertical Roofing To Find Which One Suits Your Needs
| Vertical Roof Metal Barn | Features | Horizontal Roof Metal Barn |
| Common Features | ||
| Yes | ‘A’ Frame | Yes |
| Yes | Corrugated Metal Panels | Yes |
| Yes | Pest Proof | Yes |
| Yes | Fire Resistant | Yes |
| Differences | ||
| Perpendicular (to the ground) | Ridges Alignment | Parallel (to the ground) |
| Modern | Looks | Traditional |
| Necessary | Ridge Cap | Not Required |
| Yes (it adds strength) | Purlins | Not Required |
| Yes | Extreme Weather Tolerance | No |
| More | Weather Tight | Less |
| More (compared to horizontal) | Cost | Less (compared to vertical) |
| Easy & Less Frequent | Cleaning | Frequent |
Thickness Of Metal Panels
- 22-gauge (thickest but expensive)
- 24 gauge panels – Industry standard (high performance, rigid panel & affordable)
- 26 gauge panels (may have visible oil canning)
- 29-gauge (thinnest, likely to dent, & not recommended for metal barns)
Note: The thicker the panel, the more durable it is. However, it also increases the price.
You can choose metal roof panels in colors that match your existing building or give your barn a completely new look. You can even choose reflective paint that redirects sunlight, keeping the loft area cooler.
Metal roofs are sturdy and can bear more load than traditional material. Hence, they are ideal for solar panel installation.
Fastener: Exposed Vs. Concealed
Metal panels for larger metal barns come in parts that need to be aligned and joined together. Fasteners or clips are used to secure two panels together. But, these fasteners are visible and may disrupt the seamless look. That’s why many metal builders offer matching colored fasteners.
Concealed fasteners match the color of the screws with the color of the roof. This makes the roof look seamless, single piece, and more attractive. These can be used with both horizontal and vertical roof metal barns.
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Now That We’ve Reached The End
Choosing between vertical and horizontal roofing panels depends on your preferences, location, and needs. For larger steel barns, vertical A-frame panels are the best option as they are easy to clean and maintain and have long-lasting durability.
Meanwhile, the horizontal roofs are ideal for smaller metal barns in areas with moderate weather conditions. You must know which roofing style will suit you the most. So, get started with the designing part.