Are you in need of a new roof? Consider these pros and cons of metal roofing before you start your purchase.
Pro: Durability
Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting, which is the top reason why most homeowners choose to make the switch when they’re re-roofing or making a new construction.
A properly installed metal roof can last you for decades, with an expected lifespan of 40 to 70 years, which means your roof can last about as long as your house.
The best part is most metal roofing often comes with a 30 to 50-year warranty.
Metal roofing can withstand even the harshest weather. You can expect it to go against 140-mile-per-hour winds and stay strong. They also don’t corrode or crack because of rust-proof coatings.
Con: Noisy
One downside of metal roofing is the noise levels. Unlike other types of roofing, metal roofing doesn’t absorb as much shock and vibrations so you can expect to hear every little rain drop or wind gust hitting your roof.
However, some do find these sounds to be soothing. Audio clips of rain hitting metal roofing can be found in almost all music apps.
If you’re not a fan, you may want to consider if you can live with the sounds or try to find some other way to make your roof less noisy.
Pro: Lightweight
Another advantage of metal roofing is the lightweight material. Being made of metal, you may expect them to be heavy, but they’re actually pretty easy to carry.
You can also save on the structural cost of building your supporting structure.
Con: High Initial Cost
One of the reasons why many people may turn away metal roofing is the high initial cost. One square of material can go from $120 to $900, so it may be a bit over budget for some.
However, higher-end materials such as asphalt shingles cost about ten times as much.
Pro: Fast Installation
Metal roofing can easily be installed as they often come in large sheets or multiple-shingle sections. An accomplished contractor can set these up pretty quickly, so if you’re in a rush to get a new home, metal roofing is a good choice.
Con: Dents
While metal roofing is durable and can withstand heavy snow and ice, it can still be dented. For example, if you have a tree in your yard and the branches are broken off by a huge storm, landing on your roof, your metal roof may sustain dents.
Some metal roofs are also impossible to walk on as they can’t sustain the weight of a person. However, you can prevent these inconveniences if you pick the right material.
Pro: Environmentally-Friendly
Metal roofing is considered a more sustainable material because they do not rely on fossil fuels. Other materials like asphalt shingles are petroleum products and increase the reliance on fossil fuels, making them less eco-friendly in comparison.
Metal roofing is also energy-efficient and can reduce cooling costs because they minimize heat gain, meaning your house remains relatively cool even on a hot day.
More Resources
Metal roofing is one of the best options for roofing, but you still need to check the pros and cons before you invest. If you need more construction resources, the following articles may help:
