Choosing a stone coated metal roof means choosing a brand that will protect your home for 40–70 years. But with multiple manufacturers on the market — Gerard, Metrotile, Decra, and Boral — how do you know which one is right for your home, climate, and budget?
This comprehensive 2026 buyer’s guide breaks down the top stone coated metal roofing brands, comparing their products, warranties, pricing, profiles, and real-world performance so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Why Brand Matters in Stone Coated Metal Roofing
Stone coated metal roofs may look similar at first glance — steel substrate, stone granule coating, interlocking panels — but the differences between brands run deep. They affect:
- Coating durability: How well the stone chip adhesive and base coat resist UV, hail, and thermal cycling
- Panel geometry: How the profiles interlock affects wind resistance and water-shedding efficiency
- Steel gauge and alloy: Higher-grade steel (Zincalume® vs galvanized) = longer corrosion life
- Warranty terms: 30-year vs lifetime; transferable vs non-transferable; labor included or excluded
- Installer network: Availability of certified installers in your region
Let’s meet the major players.
The Big Four: Overview
| Marque | Founded | Headquarters | Steel Substrate | Warranty (Material) | Available Profiles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gerard | 1957 | New Zealand / USA | Zincalume® steel | 50-year limited | 4 |
| Metrotile | 1960s | New Zealand | Zincalume® steel | 50-year limited | 5 |
| Decra | 1957 | ÉTATS-UNIS | ZINCALUME® / Galvalume® | 50-year limited | 5 |
| Boral | 1960s | Australia / USA | Steel + proprietary coating | Limited lifetime | 4 |
Gerard Roofing Technologies: The Pioneer
Gerard was founded in 1957 in New Zealand and is often credited as the originator of modern stone coated steel roofing. Today, their products are installed on homes in over 100 countries.
Gerard Product Lines
- Gerard Armour: The classic low-profile flat shingle look. Ideal for traditional and modern homes alike.
- Gerard Canyon Shake: Mimics the rugged texture of natural cedar shake — popular in Pacific Northwest and mountain regions.
- Gerard Fortitude: Barrel tile profile for Spanish/Mediterranean aesthetic without the weight.
- Gerard Renaissance: Rustic, mixed-size appearance with old-world charm.
Gerard’s Strengths
- ✅ Patented HydroFlow™ drainage channels direct water away from panel seams
- ✅ SoundBreak™ underlay compatibility — pairs well with acoustic insulation (see our noise guide)
- ✅ Zincalume® steel: Aluminum-zinc alloy provides 3–4× better corrosion resistance vs plain galvanized
- ✅ Garantie limitée de 50 ans transferable once to a new homeowner
- ✅ Rated for winds up to 120 mph (193 km/h)
Gerard’s Limitations
- ⚠️ Premium pricing — typically 10–15% above market average
- ⚠️ Fewer certified installers in rural/remote areas
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Homeowners who want the original brand with the longest track record, and who value engineering innovation and comprehensive warranty support.
Metrotile: The Global Workhorse
Metrotile is another New Zealand brand with deep roots in the stone coated metal roofing industry. They operate manufacturing facilities across 5 continents and supply products to over 80 countries.
Metrotile Product Lines
- Metrotile Shingle: Clean, low-profile asphalt-look shingle in multiple colors
- Metrotile Shake: Bold cedar shake texture, popular in North America
- Metrotile Roman: Classic Roman barrel tile — ideal for Mediterranean and Spanish-inspired homes
- Metrotile Bond: Elegant interlocking flat panel, contemporary aesthetic
- Metrotile Milano: Italian-style curved tile profile
Metrotile’s Strengths
- ✅ Widest profile selection in the industry — 5 distinct looks
- ✅ Class 4 hail resistance (UL 2218) on all profiles
- ✅ Strong global installer network — easy to find certified contractors
- ✅ Competitive mid-range pricing without sacrificing quality
- ✅ ISO 9001 quality management certification
Metrotile’s Limitations
- ⚠️ Warranty is 50 years material only (labor warranties vary by installer)
- ⚠️ Some color options vary by regional distributor
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Homeowners wanting maximum style choice, a reliable global brand, and good value for money. Also excellent for commercial and multi-unit residential applications due to installer availability.
Decra Roofing Systems: The American Icon
Decra, founded in 1957 — the same year as Gerard — pioneered stone coated metal roofing in North America and remains one of the most-recognized brands in the US market. Their manufacturing facility in Corona, California, serves the entire North American distribution network.
Decra Product Lines
- Decra Shingle XD: XD = “extra dimension” — deeply textured asphalt look with bold shadowing
- Decra Shake XD: Natural wood shake simulation with dramatic depth
- Decra Tile: Classic barrel clay tile aesthetics in lightweight metal
- Decra Villa Tile: Premium Spanish/Italian tile profile, smooth finish
- Decra Stone Coated Steel: Entry-level line with core stone-coated protection
Decra’s Strengths
- ✅ Made in the USA — strong appeal for American homeowners and regional pride
- ✅ Industry-leading XD texture — deepest dimensional appearance on the market
- ✅ Classe A de résistance au feu + Class 4 hail + 120 mph wind
- ✅ Garantie limitée de 50 ans, transferable
- ✅ Strong presence in insurance claim replacement market
Decra’s Limitations
- ⚠️ Primarily North American distribution — limited availability in Asia/Pacific
- ⚠️ XD line pricing is on the higher end
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US homeowners who want American-made quality, the most realistic-looking profiles, and a brand with deep roots in the insurance replacement and re-roofing market.
Boral Roofing: The Heavyweight Contender
Boral is an Australian construction materials giant that entered the stone coated metal roofing space through acquisitions and product line development. Their metal roofing products benefit from Boral’s extensive R&D capabilities and manufacturing scale.
Boral Product Lines
- Boral Steel Shake: Wood shake aesthetic with stone chip durability
- Boral Steel Shingle: Classic three-tab shingle look in metal
- Boral Steel Barrel: Lightweight Spanish barrel tile
- Boral Entegra Stone Coated: Premium flat profile with enhanced acrylic coating
Boral’s Strengths
- ✅ Limited lifetime warranty — the strongest in the category
- ✅ Advanced acrylic topcoat resists fading, chalking, and algae growth
- ✅ Strong in the Southeastern US (Florida, Texas) where hurricane resistance matters
- ✅ Energy Star® certified on select products
Boral’s Limitations
- ⚠️ Corporate restructuring in recent years has affected some product lines
- ⚠️ Installer network less dense than Gerard or Metrotile in some regions
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Homeowners in hurricane-prone areas or climates with extreme UV, and those who want the longest possible warranty coverage.
Head-to-Head: Key Performance Comparison
| Criteria | Gerard | Metrotile | Decra | Boral |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wind Rating | 120 mph | 120 mph | 120 mph | 150 mph (select) |
| Hail Class | Class 4 (UL 2218) | Classe 4 | Classe 4 | Classe 4 |
| Classement au feu | Classe A | Classe A | Classe A | Classe A |
| Steel Gauge | 26 gauge | 26 gauge | 26 gauge | 24–26 gauge |
| Material Warranty | 50 ans | 50 ans | 50 ans | Durée de vie |
| Transferable Warranty | Once | Once | Once | Yes |
| Energy Star Certified | Select | Select | Select | Yes |
| Options de profil | 4 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
| Price Range (per sq ft installed) | $5.50–$9.50 | $4.50–$8.50 | $5.00–$9.00 | $5.00–$9.50 |
| Best Climate | All climates | All climates | N. America | Hot/humid, coastal |
Which Brand Should You Choose? Decision Framework
Use this quick decision guide to narrow down your options:
Choose Gerard if:
- You want the most proven brand with 65+ years of innovation
- Acoustic comfort is a priority (HydroFlow + SoundBreak underlay system)
- You want a transferable warranty that adds home resale value
- Your installer is Gerard-certified and recommends it
Choose Metrotile if:
- You want the widest selection of visual profiles
- You’re doing a commercial or multi-unit project
- Budget is a factor and you want premium performance at a lower price
- You need reliable installer availability in your region
Choose Decra if:
- You’re in the US and want American-made quality
- The ultra-realistic XD dimensional texture is important to your home’s aesthetics
- You’re replacing a hail-damaged or storm-damaged roof through insurance
Choose Boral if:
- You live in a hurricane or high-wind zone (Florida, Gulf Coast, coastal regions)
- You want a lifetime — not 50-year — material warranty
- Energy efficiency and Energy Star certification are important to you
What All Four Brands Have in Common
Despite the differences, all four major stone coated metal roof brands share these fundamental advantages over traditional asphalt shingles or clay tiles:
| Fonctionnalité | Stone Coated Metal (All Brands) | Bardeaux d'asphalte | Clay Tile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durée de vie | 40–70 years | 15–30 years | 50 ans et plus |
| Poids | ~1.4–1.7 lbs/sq ft | ~2.5 lbs/sq ft | 9–12 lbs/sq ft |
| Classement au feu | Classe A | Class A–C | Classe A |
| Maintenance Required | Minime | Regular | Regular |
| Recyclable at End of Life | Yes (steel) | Limited | No |
How to Verify a Brand’s Quality Before You Buy
Don’t just take the brand’s word for it. Here’s how to independently verify quality:
- Check UL certifications: Ask for UL 2218 (hail) and FM 4473 (wind) test reports for the specific profile you’re buying
- Inspect the steel spec sheet: Look for Zincalume® or Galvalume® substrate designation — avoid generic “galvanized only” specs
- Read the warranty document carefully: Verify what voids the warranty (unapproved underlayment, non-certified installers, improper ventilation)
- Visit local installations: Ask the manufacturer or installer for references of 10–15 year old roofs in your area — inspect them in person
- Verify installer certification: Certified installers maintain warranty validity and have brand-specific training
Cost Breakdown: What to Expect
The total cost of a stone coated metal roof includes materials, underlayment, accessories, labor, and disposal of old materials. Here’s a rough breakdown for a 2,000 sq ft (185 m²) roof:
| Élément de coût | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Stone coated steel panels | $5,000 | $10,000 |
| Underlayment & accessories | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| Labor (installation) | $4,500 | $9,000 |
| Tear-off of existing roof | $1,000 | $2,500 |
| Total Range | $12,000 | $24,500 |
Note: Prices vary significantly by region, roof complexity, and current material costs. Always get 3 quotes from certified installers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which stone coated metal roof brand lasts the longest?
All four brands have similar expected lifespans of 40–70+ years under normal conditions. Boral offers the most extensive warranty (limited lifetime), but all brands use similar Zincalume® or Galvalume® steel substrates. Actual longevity depends more on installation quality and local climate than brand alone.
Q: Is Gerard better than Decra?
Both are excellent products founded in the same year (1957). Gerard has broader global distribution and stronger acoustic engineering. Decra has better North American market penetration, deeper dimensional textures (XD line), and is manufactured in the USA. The “better” choice depends on your specific priorities and what’s available from certified installers in your area.
Q: Can I get an insurance discount for any of these brands?
Yes! All four brands have Class 4 hail ratings and Class A fire ratings. Many US insurance companies offer premium discounts of 20–40% for Class 4 impact-resistant roofing. Decra is particularly well-known in the insurance replacement market. Ask your insurance provider about discounts before purchasing.
Q: Are stone coated metal roofs from these brands available in my country?
Gerard and Metrotile have the widest international distribution (80–100+ countries). Decra is primarily North America-focused. Boral has strong presence in USA, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Contact each brand’s regional distributor to confirm availability and pricing in your specific market.
Q: Do all these brands require certified installers?
Yes — using a non-certified installer typically voids the manufacturer’s warranty. This is a critical point. Always verify installer certification directly with the manufacturer before signing any contract. Certification also ensures the installer has been trained on that brand’s specific installation requirements, which affect long-term performance.
Final Verdict: Our Top Picks for 2026
- 🏆 Best Overall: Gerard — engineering innovation, proven global track record, exceptional acoustic and drainage performance
- 💰 Best Value: Metrotile — widest profile selection, competitive pricing, strong installer network globally
- 🇺🇸 Best for US Homeowners: Decra — American-made, deepest dimensional texture, strong in insurance replacement
- 🌪️ Best for Hurricane/Extreme Weather Zones: Boral — 150 mph wind rating (select products), lifetime warranty, Energy Star certified
No matter which brand you choose, a stone coated metal roof is one of the best long-term investments you can make in your home. When compared to the alternatives, these systems deliver unmatched durability, fire resistance, and weather performance — with aesthetics that rival traditional materials.
Have questions about stone coated metal roofing? Browse our other in-depth guides or contact us for a personalized recommendation.