When it comes to roofing options, you probably think of traditional materials such as asphalt shingles or clay tiles. However, metal roofs are quickly becoming a popular option for homeowners.
Flynn Roofing covers the pros and cons of metal roofs to help you decide if they’re right for your home.
What are Metal Roofs?
Metal roofs have been around for a long time. They’re known for their sleek look, extreme longevity, and outstanding durability.
Metal roofs are typically made from one of the following materials:
- Galvanized steel: This material is usually coated with zinc to provide excellent strength and durability. Steel roofs are typically a more affordable option and last 30-50 years.
- Aluminum: Aluminum roofs are lightweight, fire-resistant, and energy-efficient. Although they often last 30-50 years, they are among the more expensive metal roof options.
- Copper: Known for its incredible longevity (100+ years), copper roofs are lightweight and highly durable. Like aluminum, though, they can also be a pricier option.
- Zinc: Zinc roofs can last 80 years or more, thanks to their strong durability against nearly all weather conditions. These roofs also require less upkeep than many other metal options.
- Terne/tin: This moderately priced option is well known for its longevity and resistance to extreme weather conditions. However, it also tends to be a more high-maintenance option for homeowners.
Metal Roofs: Pros
There are many advantages to having a metal roof on your home. Let’s take a look at some of the best reasons you might choose a metal roof.
Durability:
Metal roofs are much more durable than asphalt shingles or other types of roofing materials. With proper installation by a professional roofer, metal roofs can withstand even the most extreme rain, wind (up to 140 mph), hail, and snow.
Not only is metal weather-resistant, it’s also resistant to other problems, including rotting, pests, and mildew. Finally, metal roofs are noncombustible and fireproof.
Longevity:
Roofs made with traditional materials typically last 10-20 years. Most metal roofs, on the other hand, are made to last an average of 70 years. As we’ve seen earlier, some metal roofs can last for over a century, making them a great long-term investment.
Eco-Friendly:
Metal roofs provide eco-friendly options for several reasons:
- They are 100% recyclable, unlike many other roofing materials.
- They can be installed on top of existing roofs, eliminating construction debris that would end up in landfills.
- Because they’re more durable, you don’t have shingles or tiles being torn off your roof and ending up as garbage.
Energy-Saving:
While most people think of metal as absorbing heat, the fact is that the metal used for roofs is designed and treated to reflect heat. During the summer, this can reduce your home’s cooling costs by up to 15%.
Metal roofs are also well-insulated, so that during the winter months, you’ll save money by using less heat.
Metal Roofs: Cons
While metal roofs are an excellent option for your home, they aren’t without a few drawbacks. Consider the following carefully before deciding on a metal roof.
Upfront Expense:
There’s no getting around the fact that metal roofs are a significant upfront investment. This is due to both material and installation costs. Metal roofs require specialized professional installation that can be more complex—and therefore costlier—than installing a regular roof with traditional materials.
Sound:
If you’ve ever heard someone banging on a metal pot or pan, you know that metal is not typically a quiet material. When it rains or hails, you might hear every drop that hits your roof. However, an experienced roofer should be able to help soundproof your roof with the right insulation.
Rust & Corrosion:
Especially on the coast, where homes are closer to the salty winds blowing off the ocean, metal roofs may be prone to rust and corrosion. While aluminum and copper are both rust-resistant, copper can be prone to corrosion over time. Make sure you talk to your roofer about potential rust and corrosion concerns as you weigh your metal roof options.
FAQ: Metal Roofs
Q: Is a metal roof right for my home?
A: The best way to decide if a metal roof is right for your home is by considering the following:
- Your budget
- Your personal taste and style
- Long-term benefits
- Your home’s needs
We recommend you speak with a reliable, trustworthy roofer to discuss whether a metal roof would suit your home and what your options may be.
Q: What kind of maintenance do metal roofs need?
A: Although metal roofs are incredibly durable and weather-resistant, they still require some maintenance on your part to keep them in good condition and last a long time.
Here are some tips:
- After winter storms, make sure you clear any ice or snow off your roof.
- Keep tree branches trimmed and away from your metal roof.
- Occasionally, inspect your roof for obvious signs of damage, rust, or corrosion, especially after a major weather event.
- Keep your gutters and drains clear.
- Hire a professional roofer to inspect your metal roof once a year. They have the expertise to spot minor issues before they become expensive problems.
Note, too, that different types of metal materials will require different types of cleaning products, tools, and maintenance. Be sure you understand how to take care of your metal roof before having one installed.
Q: What types of styles do metal roofs come in?
A: Metal roofs aren’t just flat pieces on top of your house! As with traditional roofing materials, metal roofs come in different styles:
- Standing seam, for clean lines and a modern look.
- Shingles, for a more traditional aesthetic.
- Corrugated, for a contemporary style that easily sheds water.
- Ribbed metal, for a stylish, pronounced texture.
Contact Flynn Roofing to Discuss Metal Roof Options
Since 1997, Flynn Roofing has provided the best customer service and the highest quality roofs to Massachusetts residents. Whether you need a new roof or simply want to discuss metal roofing options, we’re ready to help. If you live in Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, or Suffolk Counties, we offer no-obligation, free estimates on your roofing needs. Contact us today!