Our Experts’ Guide to Tuf Rib Metal Roofing

Great Northern Metal Co Tuf Rib Metal Roofing product

Tuf Rib Metal Roofing Systems

Ah, Tuf Rib metal roofing panels—they’re just great, all-around panels! These exposed fastener panels are well-known for their light gauge look that’s traditionally been used for agricultural buildings. More recently, they’ve been used more and more in residential and commercial metal roofing projects, and we couldn’t be happier about that. We’re seeing Tuf Rib being used in a wide range of applications, including siding, roofing, patios, porches, and more!

Overall, Tuf Rib roofing and siding is a reliable, economical choice, especially if you are just getting started with metal roofing. We’re going to dive into the specs of Tuf Rib panels and give you our experts’ insights into the panel. Read on below!

Tuf Rib Metal Roofing Specs

Fastener: Exposed
Length: 3ft to 40 ft
Coverage: 36”
Panel Width: 36”
Gauge: 29, 26
Rib Height: .75”
Hot Melt Applicable: No
Tuf Rib Metal Roofing Colors: See your options here.

Panel Aesthetic

Because it has been traditionally used for agricultural purposes, we wouldn’t recommend Tuf Rib for a very upscale, fancy project. But its look is excellent for general residential, commercial, and, of course, agricultural use. The light gauge ribbing makes it extremely versatile and classic in its look, so it fits a wide range of projects. From statement pieces to roofing to siding, it’s just great for the average building. Plus, you get to choose from a diverse range of colors, so you can customize to your heart’s content.

Panel Difficulty

Like we said, these are great for novices to metal roofing. Tuf Rib metal roofing is pretty simple! On a scale from one to five (five being the hardest to install), Tuf Rib metal roofing installation is a one. It’s far easier to install than standing seam, and you don’t need to rent a seamer to install it.

If you have installation questions, check out our Exposed Fastener Plywood Installation Guide to learn how to install tuf rib metal roofing.

TufRib Pros

It’s versatile and great for all types of metal roofing and siding projects.
Stands up against intense weather conditions.
Looks good on a wide range of building types, from residential to commercial to agricultural.
Excellent panel for your first experience with metal roofing.
Installation is much easier than standing seam panels.
Tuf Rib metal roofing prices are great; it’s inexpensive compared to other panels.
Lots of color options available.

Tuf Rib Cons

Not a good design fit for more upscale, “fancy” buildings, typically.
Like any exposed fastener panel, it underperforms below 3/12 and is not good past lengths of 20-30 feet due to thermal expansion and contraction.

Our Experts’ Insights on Tuf Rib

Tuf Rib fits a wide variety of projects, whether you are doing commercial or residential metal roofing and siding. From traditional to agricultural use, these ribbed steel panels have a classic look that lend to the architecture and design of a building, not take away from it. Bonus, they come in a great range of colors, so you can pick one that complements the project the best.

Thain, one of Great Northern Metal Company’s owners and metal roofing experts, thinks highly of Tuf Rib panels and is baffled why it isn’t used more often in metal roofing projects. “Honestly, I think Tuf Rib gets a bad rap,” Thain said. “Most people think of them as agricultural panels, only used for barns and horse shelters. These panels may not have a place in “high-end” residential projects, but they look great on the average home and business as accent pieces. This panel could be great for accent roofs, shed roofs, porch wraps, house entryways—you name it! Plus, they perform well too and are more cost-effective than other panels.”

Consult with Our Bozeman Metal Roofing Experts

If you are considering using Tuf Rib panels on your next Bozeman roofing project, reach out to our team today for an expert’s advice. Our team has decades of combined experience in a wide range of metal roofing systems so we can provide you with the best options for your metal roofing and siding needs. To speak to a professional or get a quote, drop us a line or give us a call at (406) 624-0435.

Additional Resources

Guides and How-tos
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Are Metal Roofs Good for Snow & More Cold Weather FAQs

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