Metal Roofing vs. Spray Foam Roofing: Which Is Right for Your Commercial Building in Minnesota?

Choosing the right roofing system for your commercial building is one of the most important decisions you can make as a business owner or property manager. Your roof must withstand everything Minnesota throws at it — from subzero winters and heavy snow loads to summer heat and severe storms.

Two of the most popular roofing options for Minnesota commercial buildings are metal roofing and spray foam roofing (SPF). Both offer durability, longevity, and strong weather performance, but they serve different needs depending on your building’s condition, budget, and long-term goals.

If you're determining which system is right for your business, this guide breaks down the benefits, costs, insulation performance, and long-term value of each — with a specific focus on Minnesota’s climate.

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Why Minnesota Businesses Need Strong Roofing Systems

Minnesota’s harsh weather makes roofing performance more critical than in many other states. Commercial roofs must withstand:

• Heavy snow and ice buildup

• Freeze–thaw cycles

• High winds and hail

• Intense summer sun

• Large temperature swings

• Moisture intrusion

Both metal and spray foam roofing systems are built for resilience — but they excel in different areas.

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Spray Foam Roofing (SPF): A Smart Choice for Energy Savings & Roof Restoration

Spray foam roofing is one of the most energy-efficient roofing systems available today. It’s especially popular for flat and low-slope commercial roofs across Minnesota.

✔ Best For:

• Aging or failing roofs

• Energy efficiency improvements

• Flat/low-slope commercial buildings

• Businesses wanting a cost-effective restoration instead of replacement

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1. Superior Insulation (High R-Value)

SPF roofing boasts some of the highest insulation performance in the industry.

• R-value of ~6.5 per inch

• Reduces heat loss during harsh MN winters

• Cuts HVAC usage in both winter & summer

• Can lower energy costs by up to 30%

This is a big advantage for older commercial buildings across Stillwater, the Twin Cities, and Central Minnesota.

2. Seamless and Waterproof

Spray foam roofing expands to create a fully seamless membrane, eliminating traditional weak points:

• No seams

• No fasteners

• No gaps

• Fewer leak risks

This makes SPF excellent for preventing ice-melt leaks and ponding water.

3. Cost-Effective Restoration Option

SPF allows many buildings to restore their existing roof rather than replace it entirely — often saving 30–50% compared to full roof replacement.

Perfect for:

• Warehouses

• Retail buildings

• Schools

• Medical facilities

• Manufacturing properties

4. Easy to Maintain & Long-Lasting

With proper re-coating every 10–15 years, SPF roofs can last 30+ years and continue saving money over time.

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Metal Roofing: Unmatched Strength & Long-Term Durability

Metal roofing is known for its exceptional lifespan and structural strength — making it ideal for industrial, agricultural, and large commercial buildings across Minnesota.

✔ Best For:

• Buildings needing maximum durability

• Sloped commercial roofs

• Businesses wanting 40–60 years of performance

• High snow load regions (like northern MN)

1. Extreme Weather Resistance

Metal roofs stand up to Minnesota’s harshest conditions:

• Heavy snow loads

• High winds

• Hail

• Ice

• Fire resistance

Metal roofing is one of the most dependable systems for long-term protection.

2. Longest Lifespan of Any Roofing Material

A properly installed metal roof can last 40–60 years or more — far exceeding many traditional systems.

For building owners planning to keep their property long-term, metal offers exceptional ROI.

3. Low Maintenance

Metal roofing requires very little upkeep. Its interlocking panels and durable finishes make it resistant to:

• Rust

• Corrosion

• Weathering

• Structural degradation

This is especially valuable for large commercial or industrial buildings where maintenance is difficult or costly.

4. Energy Efficiency + Solar Compatibility

Modern metal roofing systems include reflective coatings that help reduce cooling costs. Metal also works extremely well with solar panel installations — a major benefit for energy-conscious Minnesota businesses.

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So Which One Is Right for Your Minnesota Building?

Choose Spray Foam Roofing (SPF) if you want:

✔ A more budget-friendly roofing solution

✔ Lower energy bills

✔ To restore your existing roof

✔ Seamless waterproof protection

✔ Quick installation with minimal downtime

Choose Metal Roofing if you want:

✔ The longest lifespan possible

✔ The strongest protection in Minnesota weather

✔ A roofing system that pairs well with solar

✔ Low maintenance

✔ A premium, long-term investment

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Still Not Sure? We Can Help.

Every building is unique — and the right roofing system depends on structure, slope, budget, and long-term plans.

At Stillwater Roofing, we help Minnesota businesses compare options and make the best choice for their needs.

📞 Book your FREE commercial roof inspection today and get expert recommendations based on your building and budget.

Serving Stillwater, the Twin Cities, and commercial clients across Central Minnesota.