vs Steel system · Comparison

Stone-Coated Steel vs. Aluminum Interlock

Stone-coated steel and Interlock aluminum are both long-life metal roofs, but differ in base metal and finish. Stone-coated steel uses a steel core with bonded stone granules; Interlock uses aluminum that never rusts with a baked finish. In coastal, humid New England, aluminum avoids the edge-corrosion risk inherent to steel. Both far outlast asphalt.

Stone-coated steel (the category many national lead-gen installers sell) and Interlock's aluminum interlocking system are both premium metal roofs. Here's how they differ.

FactorInterlock AluminumStone-Coated Steel
Base metalAluminum (rust-proof)Steel (coating-dependent)
FinishBaked multi-coatBonded stone granules
Corrosion in salt airExcellentRisk at cut edges over time
WeightLightweightHeavier
Granule lossNone (no granules)Possible over decades
Warranty50-yr transferableVaries by brand

Which holds up better in New England?

For coastal and high-humidity exposure, aluminum's rust-proof base is the conservative long-term choice. Stone-coated steel performs well too, but its longevity hinges on the steel's coating and on the stone layer staying bonded.

FAQs

Common questions

Is stone-coated steel better than aluminum?

Both are durable metal roofs. Aluminum never rusts and is lighter, which favors it in coastal and humid climates; stone-coated steel offers a granular texture some homeowners prefer. The base metal is the key long-term difference.

Does stone-coated steel lose its granules or fade?

Over many years some granule loss and fading can occur, similar to other granular finishes. Aluminum systems use a baked finish with no granules to shed.

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