Metal roofs have increased in popularity with both homeowners and residential roofing companies over the past decade. And it’s no surprise why; With a long lifespan and range of options from a traditional silver tin to today’s modern red, metal roofs transform a home’s style. But, like any home building material, there are both pros and cons to weigh. Consider the items below before you invest in a metal roof.
Metal Roof Pros:
- Durability: Metal roofs have one of the longest life spans compared to other roofing materials – they can last up to 50 years! But, they do have to be installed correctly and well maintained. Some homeowners voice concerns about rust, but with modern metal roofs, there is a protective coating preventing this issue.
- Reflectivity: Metal roofing reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it. So, while some homeowners think of metal as a conductor, in this case, it reflects the heat. When your metal roof works with your home as a system, including the ventilated attic, it can help regulate temperatures year-round.
- Environmentally Friendly: Other roofing materials contribute to landfill waste at the end of the roof’s life. However, metal roofing can be comprised of up to 95% recycled content. It is recyclable after it is taken off of the roof as well!
- Unique Customizability: There are so many colors to choose from with modern metal roofing. You can make one section of your roof into a unique accent, or enhance your entire home’s aesthetic. Bright color options like blue and red and popular today, as are traditional looks with tin and copper.
- Fire Resistance: Other roofing materials can catch fire from wildfires or lightning strikes, but metal roofing can resist these damaging elements.
- Rain and Snow Shedding: The panels on a metal roof interlock, so the surface is slippery and hard. That means rain and snow will run down and off the roof. But, the roof has to be properly installed.
Metal Roof Cons:
- Higher Price Tag: Metal roofs can cost two or even three times more than asphalt shingles. Some homeowners find this price out of the budget, but still want a unique look, so they replace parts of the roof with metal accents in places like a window awning or over a porch.
- Noise Levels: Metal roofs have different layers than asphalt shingle roofs, which buffer sound. Some homeowners find that during heavy rain or hailstorm, the noise level is higher on a metal roof. However, this can be decreased significantly when the attic is adequately insulated.
- Installer Error: Experienced contractors find metal roofing easy to install. However, like any roof replacement, if an inexperienced installer makes a mistake, metal roofing will leak. Make sure to do your research and choose a metal roofing company with the right warranties and reviews you can trust.
- Denting: Metal roofing is an incredibly durable material. However, it is prone to dents and dings in heavy hailstorms or from falling branches. Remember, though, if a storm is intense enough to cause these issues, it will likely damage any roofing material.
- Repair Difficulty: Metal roofing is installed in large panels, so these panels are more challenging to replace than asphalt shingles. Plus, finding a matching patch to repair a unique and colorful metal roof can be tough.
- Leaks: If you choose a metal roofing system with exposed metal fasteners, they are not engineered to the same standards and a standing seam metal roof. Most experienced roofing contractors will not recommend exposed fasteners because rainwater can easily make its way through the screw holes.
Metal roofing packs a big punch in terms of durability and style. It transforms a home’s exterior and can last for decades and decades. But is it the right choice for you? Weigh the pros and cons above and meet with an experienced metal roofing consultant before you make the decision.
