This expert overview discusses and compares steel, aluminum, copper, and other metal roofing materials. 1  Blue steel roofing in a tile pattern, is sold in linear panels. Baked-on finishes carry long-term warranties. 2  Steel metal roof takes advantage of a broad color range. The word “metal” covers a lot of ground when it comes to metal roofing materials. Steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc alloys are all materials used for metal roofing. Each has different properties that affect durability, price, and appearance. Conventional Metal Roofing Materials