A roof is a key consideration in new construction and often a significant replacement expense in existing housing. Selecting the most desirable of the available roofing options should take into consideration cost, durability, appearance and even how long you intend to live in this same dwelling. Metal roofs may be an attractive option for many consumers.
Some individuals are resistant at first to the idea of residential metal roofing. The picture that immediately comes to their mind when they hear “metal roofs” is the corrugated tin shed of the past. This type of roofing has maintained its desirable sturdy construction while evolving into a more up-to-date, attractive look. In addition, metal roofs are durable, fire and wind resistant, heat reflecting, lightweight, and easy to install. The downsides to metal roofs are price, insulation, noisy rainstorms, and the possibility of dents or chips to your roof.
Metal roofs are very resistant to wind damage, such as from hurricanes, and so are an appealing option in areas vulnerable to wind damage. Metal types of roofing also receive the highest fire retardant rating. As such, homes with metal roofs may have a higher asset value, and enjoy lower insurance rates.
Because they are reflective of the sun’s radiation, they keep your house cool in the summer and reduce utility costs of air conditioning. Metal has virtually no inherent insulation to keep in heat, but if you add insulation materials or construct your roof so that there is a “dead space” between the metal and the underlying components, this is not a significant problem at all. If you’re concerned about noise from your metal roof during rain or hail, consider using sound deadening insulations. Note that heat can make metal contract and expand, so connectors may loosen over time.
When attempting to reduce construction costs, one option is metal roofing. This is due to the lightness, which decreases the amount of support members that are necessary. The low weight of the metal roofs also allows for them to be installed over an existing roof, erasing the need to remove the old one and saving both time and money. Metal roofing often comes in large sheets, and installation takes less time as a result. This can be a problem, however, if large sections need to be replaced, and it can be hard to match when building an addition.
Metal roofs cost more than most other roofs, which is the main obstacle to installing them. However, discount metal roofing is available at lower cost. Even if you cannot get a discount, the durability of metal may make it cheaper in the long run. Most roofs made of metal will last for 20 to 50 years, or longer than the house beneath them. Metal becomes a greater bargain if you intend to continue living in the same house for a very long time.
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