Your home is a significant long-term investment, in which you intend to reside and make memories for many years. Installing a metal roof can help extend the longevity of your house. Regardless of your roof style, metal roofs look appealing due to their durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance.
These options come in many materials like aluminum (galvanized, weathering, or galvalume), copper, steel, tin, and zinc and are available in pre-formed panels and vertical seams with granular coats. They also have multiple styles that you can use to achieve slate, tile, shingles, vertical panels, or shakes looks. Here are the pros and cons of metal roofs to help you determine if it’s a worthwhile investment.
Pros of Metal Roofs
Here are a few advantages of installing metal roofs for your house.
- Aesthetics
Metal roofs are offered in various styles and paint finishes, enhancing the curb appeal of any home. A standing seam metal roof is ideal for a contemporary and sleek appearance, while corrugated metal panels are perfect for a country-chic aesthetic. Additionally, metal shingles are the top choice if you want to replicate the look of a traditional asphalt roof.
- Save Money
While the initial cost of metal roofing may be higher than other roofing materials, it offers a substantial return on investment. The durability of metal roofs surpasses that of different materials. Maintenance and repair costs for metal roofs are lower over time due to their resistance to weathering. This durability translates to minimal maintenance needs, protecting buildings, and saving on repair expenses.
Metal roofs can reduce your home’s energy costs by reflecting solar energy, which helps keep the house cool. Roofers can further install a batten system on your metal roof to enhance airflow. In contrast, traditional shingle roofs often retain heat, leading to increased reliance on air conditioning and higher energy expenses. You can now easily buy metal roofs online from Butler Building Parts.
- Longevity
One of the benefits of metal roofing is its longevity, lasting for decades, longer than an asphalt shingle roof. Metal roofs are durable, requiring minimal maintenance. They are unaffected by various elements such as strong winds, intense heat, rain, snow, and rot.
The smooth surface of metal roofs allows for efficient shedding of rain and snow, protecting the structure from damage. Additionally, metal roofs have a Class-A fire rating; they can hinder the spread of fire by being non-combustible, safeguarding assets from a fire that may spread from adjacent areas.
- Low Weight
Opting for a metal roof is a lightweight alternative compared to other roofing options. Most metal roofs weigh lower than tile roofs or concrete tile roofs, significantly reducing the strain on the underlying structures compared to other roofs. The wide panels of metal roofing and their lightweight nature contribute to a quicker and smoother installation.
Cons of Metal Roofs
Even though metal roofs have many advantages, they do have a few drawbacks.
- Up-front Cost
Metal roofs usually cost three or two times more than other material roofs. While metal roofs’ lifespan is longer than others, invest only if you want to remain in your house for long periods to reap the benefits.
- Fasteners, Expansion, and Contraction
Metal roof assemblies are attached as large panels which contract and expand with temperature changes. However, both concealed and exposed concealed fasteners have different lifespans. Installed screws and neoprene washers may erode and loosen over time.
- Noisy
Metal roofs can be noisier during hail storms or heavy rain, depending on the decking types used during installation (solid or spaced). Consider adding more attic insulation to mitigate this issue, but it may also increase costs.
- Performance
Repair or low-quality installation can lead to water accumulation, potentially causing significant damage over time. Low-grade types of metals can also be less durable and thinner, while some metals are prone to rust in specific weather or dent during installation or hailstorms.
Endnote
Metal roofs are durable, energy-efficient, and aesthetically appealing for homeowners looking to invest in their property’s longevity. They come in various materials and styles, offering options for different preferences. While they can be more expensive upfront, their longevity and low maintenance costs make them a worthwhile investment. However, metal roofs can be noisy during storms, and poor installation or repair can lead to performance issues.
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