The Advantages of Color Aluminum Sheet Roofs Over Stone Tiled Roofs
When it comes to roofing materials, choosing between color aluminum sheets and stone tiles requires a careful evaluation of performance, cost, and sustainability. This article provides a data-driven comparison to highlight the key advantages of color aluminum sheet roofs.
Color aluminum sheets offer competitive pricing. In 2025, the average cost for color aluminum sheet roofing in China ranges from ¥100–150 per square meter (including materials and labor) . For a 100-square-meter roof, this totals ¥10,000–15,000.
Stone tiles, such as stone-coated metal tiles, have a higher initial cost. A 30-square-meter stone tile roof costs approximately ¥12,000 (including accessories) . Scaled to 100 square meters, this rises to ¥40,000, which is 2.7–4 times higher than color aluminum sheets.
Color aluminum sheets have an exceptional lifespan:
- 1.2mm thickness: 50–75 years
- 1.5mm thickness: 100–125 years
- 2.0mm thickness: 125–150 years .
Stone tiles, while durable, typically last 30–50 years . Over a 50-year period, color aluminum sheets require zero maintenance, whereas stone tiles incur significant repair costs. For example, the Mingzhongdu Drum Tower in Anhui Province spent ¥2.9 million on repairs in 2023, yet tiles fell off again within a year .
Color aluminum sheets are made from 5052-series aluminum alloy with a fluorocarbon coating, providing excellent corrosion resistance and UV stability. They can withstand 12 strong wind (120–150 km/h) and 35mm diameter hailstones .
Stone tiles, though heavy (7–10 kg/m²), are prone to cracking under extreme weather. Their structural integrity declines over time due to water absorption and freeze-thaw cycles .
Color aluminum sheets achieve a B1 fire rating (difficult to ignite), suitable for fire-prone areas . Stone-coated metal tiles, while offering better fire resistance (A1 rating), are heavier and require additional structural support .
Color aluminum sheets with nanocomposite insulation reduce indoor temperatures by 6–8°C in summer and retain heat in winter, cutting energy costs by 30–40% . Stone tiles rely on underlayment for insulation, which is less effective and increases installation complexity .
- Recyclability: Aluminum sheets are 100% recyclable, with a scrap value of ¥16,000–23,500 per ton .
- Low Carbon Footprint: Aluminum production emits 318.37 kg CO₂e per ton , while stone tile manufacturing (e.g., clay firing) is energy-intensive and contributes to higher emissions .
Stone tiles, while partially recyclable, generate more waste during installation and have a higher embodied energy .
Color aluminum sheets are lightweight (3–5 kg/m²) and easy to install. A 100-square-meter roof can be completed in 3–5 days by 2–3 workers . Stone tiles, weighing 7–10 kg/m², require 10–15 days and professional labor .
Color aluminum sheets come in customizable colors and textures, mimicking traditional tiles while offering modern aesthetics. They adapt to complex roof shapes (e.g., curved, sloped) without compromising structural integrity . Stone tiles, though visually appealing, limit design flexibility due to their weight and fragility .
Color aluminum sheets require no painting, sealing, or repairs for decades. In contrast, stone tiles need regular inspections for cracks, moss removal, and grout replacement, costing ¥500–1,000 per year for a 100-square-meter roof . Over 50 years, color aluminum sheets save 92% on maintenance costs compared to traditional tiles .
Color aluminum sheet roofs outperform stone tiled roofs in cost, durability, energy efficiency, and sustainability. With lower lifecycle costs, superior weather resistance, and minimal maintenance, they are an ideal choice for modern construction. For a 100-square-meter roof, color aluminum sheets offer 3–4 times higher ROI than stone tiles, making them the smarter long-term investment.
