Standing Seam Metal Roof

Standing Seam Metal Roof - a 30+ year roof on an RV?

Continuing our series of unique Barclay RV design ideas that are not commonly found in RVs, we wanted to stay on top of the RV and discuss the standing seam metal roof.

Why We Chose a Standing Seam Metal Roof for the Barclay RV

When most people think of RV roofs, rubber membranes or fiberglass come to mind. But when we built our custom travel home, we took a different route—literally over the top. We installed a standing seam metal roof on our RV, and we’ve never looked back.

Here’s why it was one of the smartest decisions we made.

What Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?

If you’ve ever seen a modern farmhouse or commercial building with sleek, vertical lines on the roof, you’ve likely seen standing seam metal roofing. The “seams” are raised ridges that interlock metal panels together, allowing for expansion and contraction while keeping water out. These roofs are known for their durability, weather resistance, and clean look.

Why Use It on an RV?

Let’s be honest—RVs go through a lot. Extreme heat and cold, heavy rains, wind shear on the highway, UV damage, tree limbs, and the occasional surprise hailstorm. We wanted a roof that could handle it all, without annual re-coating or worrying about leaks.

1. Durability That Outlasts the RV

Steel or aluminum standing seam roofs are built to last 30–50 years on homes. On an RV? It’s overkill in the best way. No chalking, cracking, or membrane failure. No seams to tape. No worrying every time it rains.

2. Zero Maintenance (Almost)

With a standing seam roof, there’s no rubber to reseal, no Dicor, no UV deterioration. We occasionally check for debris or dents after storms, but that’s about it. The peace of mind is worth every penny.

3. Custom Look That Turns Heads

It’s not just functional—it’s beautiful. Our silver standing seam roof gives our RV a sleek, modern look. People constantly ask us about it at campgrounds. It sets our home apart and reflects our custom-built approach.

4. Solar-Ready

Standing seam panels make solar panel installation a breeze. With clamp-on mounts, there’s no need to drill into the roof at all. The result? A clean, secure, leak-free solar setup that integrates seamlessly with the roof design.

5. Weather Warrior

Whether it's desert sun or mountain hail, metal holds up. The interlocking panels are wind-resistant and shed water easily, and we add insulation beneath the panels to manage heat and sound.

The exterior component choices we made for the Barclay RV is based on function, longevity, structural integrity, and in large part aesthetics. Click here to read about the windows, the siding, and the doors.