For those looking for the best solution for the roofing needs, whether building or updating the house, one of the biggest questions is materials: metal, shingles, or tiles?
However, understanding the pros and cons of metal roofing can be the biggest challenge. There are some myths and misconceptions like metal roofing always being noisy or that you can’t install solar panels on them.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of metal roofing. You’ll be able to know whether or not this roofing material is for you pretty quickly.
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What are the Pros of Metal Roofing?
There are a lot of benefits to a metal roof besides coming in an array of colors to match your taste and style. Consider these in contrast with the negatives listed later to help have a better understanding of what could work for your home.
Metal Roofs Have Long-Life Spans
First off, a metal roof has an exceptional life expectancy for roofing materials. Typically, they have a 40-year life expectancy or longer and limited maintenance. They’re very durable and, once you install them, you’re good to go for at least a decade before there’s maintenance required.
Metal Roofs Can Have That Soothing Ping or Not – Your Choice
Most people think of metal roofs as having that “ping” sound of rain or when you place them beneath oak trees. Traditionally, the only option for installation was over open rafters. However, now companies like USA Home Improvement Solutions take a more modern approach by using a solid decking, making the “noise” no different than a shingled roof. Personally, I love the sound, it helps me sleep!
Metal Roofs are More Eco-Friendly Than Other Roofing Options
Metal roofing is an attractive choice that happens to be far more eco-friendly than other roofing options. It’s because a metal roof doesn’t have to be replaced nearly as often. It means they don’t take up all that space in landfills. They can also be installed over existing shingled roofs to avoid even more landfill issues.
Plus, steel roofing can be recycled repeatedly without loss of strength, meaning even less for the landfills, and you can do your part in using recycled materials.
Metal Roofs are Energy Efficient
For those looking for energy savings in colder climates, metal roofs are a part of that package. Not only can solar panels be installed on them to decrease your cost, but the roofing itself is more energy efficient. It reflects heat and helps to reduce cooling costs by as much as 25% annually. That’s three major energy efficiencies right there.
Metal Roofs are Safer Than Flammable Roofs
Metal roofs are more flame resistant than other types of roofing materials. They won’t ignite during a wildfire or lightning strike.
What are the Cons of Metal Roofs?
As wonderful as all the benefits are for metal roofing, there are some drawbacks as well.
The Initial Installation Cost for Metal Roofing Systems is Higher
Initial costs of installing metal roofing can be 1.5 times as much or more than non-metal roofing options. It isn’t great for folks on a tighter budget at the get-go. In the long run, though, it is worth noting that the overall cost is less.
Pro tip: Jason Scarborough, President/General Manager of USA Home Improvement Solutions tells us, galvanized steel costs less than aluminum.
Metal Roofs May Be Dented
When those tree branches fall or massive loads of snow and ice land on the metal roof, they may well be dented. Some metal roofing panels also are not strong enough to be walked. Some types of metal roofing, however, are stronger than others. Aluminum and copper roofs, for example, are more likely to dent than steel.
Modifying Metal Roof Paneling May Be Difficult
Sometimes you need to modify the paneling for your metal roofing, but this can be difficult. Specifically, if one panel has been damaged and needs replacing because matching the exact material ten years after installation is very challenging.
Firefighters Don’t Like Metal Roofs
Metal roofs help guard against fires that may approach from the outside world, but they’re not as great for dealing with fires that start from within. Firefighters may have to cut through the metal to distinguish fires, which is difficult and leads s to fires being out of control for longer.
Metal Expands and Contracts
As the temperatures rise and fall, a metal roof expands. It can cause the roof to have a wavy effect that causes fasteners to pull loose. There are remedies for this problem, but mostly only available for newer roofing systems.
Making the Decision: Metal or Not?
Ultimately, weighing these pros and cons of metal roofing is only a part of the decision. You’ll have to go with your gut when it comes down to it. The initial cost, for example, can be a deterrent, but ultimately it could be the thing that makes the metal roofing worth it now because you’ll spend less in the future.
Compare, contrast, and take your take on the decision. It is a huge thing and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Talking to some experts on the matter is also a good idea. They’ll be able to advise you based on the pitch of your roof, the overall costs, and more.
