For decades, metal roofs meant corrugated panels resembling barn roofing or standing seam construction. Now there are choices to match virtually any architectural style of home. Many homeowners who choose metal report low maintenance and energy savings as benefits. The upfront cost may be higher than asphalt shingles, but well-maintained metal roofs can last twice as long as shingle varieties.
Many factors must be considered when choosing a roof for your home or business. You’ll need to consider the type of roof, color, style, material, durability, energy efficiency, sustainability/recyclability, and longevity. One of the most durable types of roofs is Metal Roofing. It offers many advantages over traditional shingle roofs.
Most importantly, metal roofs can withstand the elements and last much longer than shingle or tile roofs. They can also help save you money on heating and cooling costs. A metal roof’s coating reflects sunlight and heat instead of absorbing them, which can significantly reduce your cooling costs in the summer.
Additionally, a metal roof will not crack or peel and won’t be subject to the same rot or mold that can affect shingles. It can also withstand strong winds, which is important for areas that experience hurricanes or other tropical storms. It’s not uncommon for a high-end, properly installed metal roof to be able to withstand up to 140 miles per hour.
A metal roof is also fire-resistant and will not spread flames in the event of a fire. It can also reduce insurance rates and protect your home from hail, wind-driven debris, and lightning strikes.
Because they are made from recycled materials, metal roofs are a more sustainable option than asphalt shingles, which are comprised of fossil fuels and end up in landfills. Furthermore, they are also recyclable once they’ve reached the end of their lifespan. A metal roof will not warp or rust, and it can be installed on any structure, including homes, buildings, warehouses, and other commercial structures. Residential metal roofing is typically constructed of steel, aluminum, or copper in rolls. Steel and aluminum sheets are coated with a protective layer and a baked-on paint finish, while copper is left natural. Some systems use a standing seam, which locks the panels together by locking them under a clip or using sealant. Other systems are installed with exposed fasteners, which is more common for agricultural or barn roofs.
Weather Resistant
One of the most important factors in deciding on a roofing material is how well it can withstand inclement weather. Metal roofs are naturally durable and can withstand high winds (up to 140 miles per hour), heavy snow, hail storms, and wildfires.
In fact, a well-installed metal roof could last the owner’s lifetime and can even withstand the ravages of natural disasters like earthquakes. Because of its strength and durability, many insurers offer discounts for homes with a metal roof.
A metal roof can be made of a variety of materials, including galvanized steel, galvalume, and stainless steel. All are highly resistant to corrosion and can withstand extreme temperatures, including freezing and thawing cycles. A metal roof can also be designed to be fire-resistant.
Another advantage of a metal roof is that it is impervious to moisture and will not crack or peel from the effects of rain, frost, or ice. Because of this, it is ideal for areas that experience a lot of precipitation.
In addition, a metal roof can be painted to resist sunlight and UV damage, making it perfect for warm climates. However, it is a good idea to choose a paint system that can be easily repainted if the color fades due to excessive UV exposure.
Lastly, metal roofs are softer than traditional roofing materials and will not cause the loud noises associated with heavy rain or hailstorms.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofing has an excellent rating for energy efficiency, which means it can reduce your home’s or business’s energy costs. Its ability to reflect the sun’s rays and keep temperatures cooler inside prevents you from having to increase your air conditioning usage. In the long run, this translates to significant savings on your utility bills.
Additionally, unlike shingle roofs, which often require costly repairs, metal roofing will last for 50 years or more. This durability also contributes to a reduced environmental impact, as you will not have to replace your roof frequently.
The atomic structure of metals gives them high thermal emittance, meaning that when they absorb heat, it quickly passes through and radiates into the atmosphere. This is why many homeowners choose to invest in a metal roof with a special coating. These cool roof coatings have solar reflectance and thermal emittance properties that help your building comply with local, state, and federal energy codes. They also help you earn points in LEED and green building programs if your project qualifies.
Another benefit of a cool metal roof is that it sheds absorbed heat at night, which keeps the rest of your home cooler. This is important in Florida, where the temperature can drop significantly at night. In addition, the way a metal roof is installed can affect its effectiveness as well. If you install a metal roof using a batten or counter-batten system, it will create an air gap under the roof that decreases the flow of heat and increases the cooling efficiency of your home.
While there are a variety of energy-efficient roofing options on the market, metal roofs stand out as a great option for many reasons. They are durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making them a great choice for any residential or commercial property. In addition, they are available in a range of colors and styles to suit any design aesthetic.
Low Maintenance
Because of their durability and longevity, metal roofs require far less maintenance than other roofing materials, like asphalt shingles. They are also easy to clean and will not fade or chip over time. They also do not sag or leak due to their structure, which makes them an ideal choice for any home. While it is a good idea to have a professional inspect your metal roof annually, there are some things that you can do on your own to ensure your metal roof stays in tip-top shape.
General upkeep for a metal roof includes checking for leaves, branches, and other debris that might have accumulated on the roof. It is also a good idea to inspect for damage such as dents or scratches on the surface of the roof, especially after a strong storm. If you notice any signs of damage, it is a good idea to repair them immediately to prevent larger problems down the road.
In addition to a regular inspection of the roof, you can help extend the life of your metal roof by cleaning the surface regularly. There are many metal roof cleaners available that can be sprayed on the surface of your roof to remove dirt, grease, and other stains. Additionally, there are products available to protect the metal against corrosion.
Finally, a metal roof is a great energy-efficient option. It can reduce energy costs by reflecting radiant heat from the sun, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. With a little extra insulation, a metal roof can be even more effective. In fact, a metal roof can save you money on energy costs in just one year, making it well worth the upfront investment!
Insurance Discounts
While the rain on a metal roof proves soothing enough to warrant its inclusion on white noise machines and meditation apps, it’s not the only reason homeowners opt for this roofing material. Depending on the type of roof and coating, it can also provide energy efficiency. Light-colored roofs reflect harsh sunlight away from the home, which reduces cooling costs in the summer and heating costs in the winter.
The durability and longevity of metal roofs also make them a good investment. They can withstand heavy snowfall and high winds and help prevent leaks and ice dams. They are also less likely to suffer hail damage, as they have an impact-resistance rating of Class 4. This is a huge benefit for those in areas that experience frequent hailstorms.
Insurance companies often offer discounts on homeowner’s policies for homes with metal roofs. The amount of the discount will vary, but it is typically between 1% and 6% of the home’s value.
If you want to find out if your homeowner’s policy offers a discount for having a metal roof, contact an insurance agent or call a local roofing contractor. They will be able to advise you on the specific requirements and recommend reputable roofers.
