The lifespan of metal roofing is why most people invest, but there is more to consider before purchasing a metal roof such as prices, different materials, and the benefits of metal roofing.
Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular all across the world for its durability and long lifespan. If you’re considering roof replacement from shingles to metal roofing, it’s best to know what you’re really getting into.
For instance, how long does a metal roof last? What are the benefits of metal roofs and the drawbacks? Don’t forget that there are many different types of roofing to consider! This article breaks down the things you need to know before deciding to pull out your checkbook and call your roofing contractor.
Metal roofs can last up to or around 60 years! Don’t forget the warranties for maintenance on top of that, despite the fact that metal roofing systems hardly need any upkeep. Standing seam metal roofs are a popular option when you’re looking for durability and a long average lifespan.
As opposed to the life expectancy of asphalt shingles or wood shingles, which last for about 25 years if it is installed correctly – and with a little bit of luck! Shingles also require a regular check up and it’s something that people don’t know until it’s too late. You really have to be mindful of your shingles because you might end up with a citation from your town hall about the poor quality of your roof.
There will always be unforeseen incidents, such as extreme weather conditions in the area that you live, that can shorten the expected lifespan of any roofing. Whether it be an exterior problem like weather conditions, an interior issue like rotting roof supports, or even an issue with installation, it is important to understand that the lifespan of your metal roof will vary depending on things that you can’t control!
Even knowing this, there is no reason to write off the installation of your new roof. Even with unexpected damages, the durability of metal roofing will always outlast that of shingles or wood shakes.
What Is The Process Of Installation For Metal Roofing?
First and foremost, you have to contact a roofing contractor, which you can actually find here, at thumbtack.com. Thumbtack finds the top 10 general contractors near you based on your needs – with free estimates included!
After discussing what you’re looking for with metal roofing, the type of material and color, the roofing experts get to work stripping down the old shingle roof to prepare for the replacement. Some people say that the new roof can be installed over your old shingle roof for insulation but you should discuss this with your contractor to make sure the work is done properly!
Individual roofing sheets will be stitched together over insulation. Insulation is an important step due to the fact that metal is a heat conductor and will affect the wooden supports underneath. After the roofing process is complete, gutters and drain pipes will be reattached to the sides of your home.
The final step: stand back and admire your brand new metal roof!
Pros And Cons of A Metal Roof
Like with anything else, metal roofs have both a positive and negative side. Some of them have been mentioned but let’s go into detail!
Pros
Other than the long life expectancy and unlike other roofing materials, metal roofs require virtually no maintenance. They are durable and will hold up through extreme weather conditions, providing insulation to make your home more energy efficient!
Windows On Washington states that you can lower the high cost of cooling and heating with a metal roof system.
Metal roofing is rust resistant, and is a much better choice than asphalt shingles if you’re looking for something fire resistant.
Some of you may have heard that hail will damage your metal roof. Well, don’t worry about that too much – it’s a myth! Metal roofs are thick and extremely durable, so hail denting your roof is very unlikely due to the size the hail would have to be to make a mark that would punch a hole in the metal or affect your roofing in a way that would require repairs.
Cons
The #1 deal-breaker for those considering metal roofing systems is the price. Prices differ depending on the type of metal and the amount of material needed.
Other things to consider would be expansions to your home. If you plan on adding an expansion or you end up expanding in the future, because of the fact that these roofing systems are installed with various metal sheets cut to fit your home, expanding the existing roof can be difficult.
There is also a chance of a slight or noticeable difference in color depending on how the manufacturing of metal roofing has changed since you had the original roof installed. The color or type you chose might go up in price or be taken out completely.
How Much Does A Metal Roof Cost?
Pricing is listed as the first negative aspect people mention when talking about a metal roof. So, let’s break it down and find out if that price is worth it in the end.
You can expect metal roofs to cost as little as $5 to almost $20 per square foot. For the average roof, around 3,000 square feet, that means pricing can amount to $15,000 to $60,000 in total. The reason the cost can vary so much is because of your home’s location, the material you prefer, the cost of labor, and of course the actual size of your roof.
Metal Roof Nation promises affordable metal roof system installation for homeowners across the US. Find out how much it will cost for you by answering a few questions about your home and the estimates are emailed directly to you.
Now, the real question is this: Is the price worth it?
Well, considering all of the benefits listed before, metal roofs are worth the cost. Especially because of its long life and low maintenance needs. A metal roofing system doesn’t have to be replaced as often as shingle roofs, and that already saves you a big chunk of money for years to come.
Having a metal roof also increases the value of your home, which is a great quality if you’re thinking about selling. It is definitely an investment but it is an investment that pays you back in the end.
Do Metal Roofs Attract Lightning?
Now, if the hail dents are a myth, is the lightning a myth, too?
Well, Bridger Steel has confirmed that this is, in fact, just a myth. In their article, Does Metal Roofing Attract Lightning Strikes?, they state that a metal roof is no more likely to attract lightning than any other roofing materials.
That doesn’t mean that it won’t happen but if it does you’re really one in a million!
If your roof happens to be struck by lightning, you not only are an amazing statistic but you are less likely to deal with your home catching fire. The impact of lightning hitting a metal roof is far less of a burden than on a shingle roof, thanks to the fact that metal roofs reduce the effects.
What Kind Of Metal Roofs Are There?
There are 5 other types of roofs to consider when you’re preparing to install a new metal roof. Copper, steel, zinc, tin, and aluminum. But what is the difference, and which one should you choose?
Steel Roofing
Steel roofing is basically your default metal roof. All of the perks that you’ve already read apply to this choice of material!
Copper Roofing
Copper roofing is one of the most fire resistant choices you can make. If you live somewhere where fires are a genuine worry, choosing copper adds an extra layer of protection for your home.
Zinc Roofing
Having a zinc roof is the best option for those of you searching for something that will really last a lifetime. Other than copper, zinc is the roofing material with the longest lifespan.
Tin Roofing
Tin roofing is one of the cheapest options for metal roofs. Many people assume that tin, or other metal roofing systems, make your home hotter but I assure you that is not the case!
Aluminum Roofing
If you’re really in need of something affordable, aluminum roofing is the way to go! This is the cheapest choice of roofing material and although you may overlook it because it isn’t as thick as copper or zinc, aluminum roofing does its job just as well as the other forms of roofing systems!