Metal roofing materials are available in different types. They come with several benefits for homeowners, for example, low maintenance, long lifespan, etc. Moreover, a metal roof gives you many styling and paneling options that you can even imagine. This makes your decision a bit difficult and then you realize the need to understand each type of metal roofing in more detail.
Types of Metal Roofs
When you want to choose a roofing material, there are lots of options. It is very important to understand the type of metal roof you want to install. Some of the common metal roofing materials are:
- Aluminum: It is lightweight and does not corrode easily.
- Copper: It is very expensive but longer lasting as well.
- Zinc: It is long-lasting and changes color with time.
- Steel: It is the most common type of metal roofing. It is available in different designs.
Pros & Cons of Metal Roofing
If you have made up your mind to install metal roofing at your place then you must be aware of the pros and cons of metal roofs at first.
Pros:
1. Longer Life Span
Metal roofs as compared to other roofing materials are very long-lasting and durable. A traditional asphalt roof usually has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. A metal roof has a lifespan of nearly 40 to 70 years. The hassle of installing metal roofs is more or less the same as asphalt roofs. They both are noisy and disruptive during the installation process. However, the longer lifespan of a metal roof makes it a winner in this regard.
2. Durability & Strength
Metal roofs are available in different materials like zinc, copper aluminum but they are metals. These materials are far more durable and strong as compared to other roofing materials like asphalt shingles or slate roofs. Metal roofs can easily withstand extreme weather like heavy snowfalls or strong summer heat. These roofs are made with sturdy materials and can withstand winds of even 140 miles per hour. They are checked on the scale of hardness to enhance the durability and strength of metal roofs.
3. More Designs
Modern metal roofs have come a long way from their tin-plated iron predecessors. In the past, roofers didn’t always prioritize curb appeal, but today’s metal roofs are much more attractive. There are numerous metal roofing styles available, offering a wide range of colors and types to choose from. You can opt for standard metal shingles or explore other options like shake-inspired, tile, panel, and ribbed designs. Moreover, metal roofs are also able to maintain their appearance for a longer period.
4. More Eco Friendly
Another advantage of metal roofs is that they are very eco-friendly as compared to other roofing materials. Metal roofs are mostly made of recyclable material thus reducing environmental waste. A metal roof can be easily installed by an expert roofer over the previous roof. This results in less debris and less harm to the environment. On the other hand, materials like asphalt produce lots of debris and waste during the replacement, resulting in landfills.
5. Energy Efficient Option
Traditional shingles trap solar heat thus increasing energy bills. Metal roofs, on the other hand, reflect the heat from the sun and resultantly your energy costs are reduced. Moreover, most roofing contractors provide insulation under metal roofs. This helps to reduce your heating bills in winter. Solar panels can also be easily installed on metal roofs, reducing the energy bills to a minimum and making your roof more energy efficient.
Cons:
1. Expensive
One of the major disadvantages of metal roofs is that they are very expensive compared to other roofing materials available. Metal roofs are made of different materials like aluminum and copper which are super expensive. Moreover, the upfront costs like the costs of installation and repair are also much more as compared to other roofing materials.
2. More Prone to Dents and Indentations
No doubt metal roofs are very strong and sturdy but they can still get damaged. Especially materials like aluminum and copper which are soft metals are more prone to dents and indentations. Events like a branch falling from a tree or hailstorms can cause dents in these metal roofs. The paint finish on the roof can also fade or chip away with the indentations. The tip here is that you should always check the warranty of your metal roof that is provided by your roofer or roofing company. You should ask in detail what would be covered under that warranty to avoid the damage costs.
3. Noisy
Now this is a common fact of understanding that metal roofs are very noisy. When rain falls on metal roofs it will create noise. This noise can be very disturbing for some people. An experienced roofer in Norwich can help reduce the sound by installing insulation under the metal layer but it will add up to the final cost. Therefore, if you are choosing a metal roofing option, you should not overlook this disadvantage of metal roofs.
4. Rust
Rust is very common on metal objects. The same is the case with metal roofs especially if you are living in a moist climate or coastal areas. Though aluminum and copper are rust-resistant they cannot be a suitable option if you want an aesthetic appeal in your house’s design. Copper corrodes with time. Zinc is a suitable option as it is rust-resistant but it is way too expensive and cannot be affordable for everyone.
Conclusion
The above-mentioned pros and cons of metal roofs should always be kept in mind when you are going to choose the roof material for your house. You should also contact an expert roofer to guide you through the process and help you choose the roofing material that best suits your requirements and budget.
