Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing
When it comes time to replace your current roof, metal roofing should be a top consideration. It’s long life and durability make it a popular choice for those who want to get a long-lasting roof upgrade. Before selecting this type of roof, however, it’s important to know the pros and cons of metal roofing to decide if it’s right for you and your home.
Pros
- Long life – A metal roof will last several decades with proper installation and care. It’s resistant to insects, fire, and mildew. Most come with warranties of 20 years or more.
- Weight – Metal is a light roofing materials, especially when compared to tile roofs. It’s perfect for older homes that don’t have a strong roof support system. It’s possible to place metal over existing roofing to lower installation costs.
- Ease of installation – Metal comes in panels, so it’s easy for a roof expert to cover a large area relatively quickly. This gets the job done faster and can also lower labor costs. It should be done by a roofing service to minimize the chances of damage during installation or improper installation.
- Fire resistance – Metal is a Class A fire resistant material which is the highest rating. It’s overall rating can be lower, however, if it’s installed over a combustible material like wood shingles.
- Heat reflection – Metal tends to reflect the rays of the sun. That means the sun’s radiance doesn’t heat up the attic space below, which lowers the cost of cooling during the summer.
Cons
- Cost – When compared to asphalt roofs, a metal roof can go for up to four times more. If you are planning on moving in a few years, you won’t see a great return on investment. However, if you plan on living in the house long-term, your return will be better.
- Noise level – The tap of rain on a metal roof can either be comforting or annoying. This sound can be minimized by a metal roofing service with insulation and solid plywood sheathing.
- Potential for denting – Metal roofs can get dented in a hail storm. Steel is less prone than aluminum or copper. Some manufacturers do offer roofing they claim won’t dent.
- Need for careful installation by a roof expert – Care must be taken to prevent dents or damage during installation. That kind of damage can cause the finish to peel.
- Expansion and contraction – Metal will expand and contract with the heat of the sun and cold of the winter. To prevent problems, the roofing service will need to use special fasteners accommodate the movement.
If you want to learn more about this type of roof, call a metal roofing service today. We are happy to answer any questions you might have and give you an estimate.