Metal roofs are an attractive and growing trend in the home remodeling market. They once were used primarily for commercial projects, but now are becoming increasingly popular for residential properties. They have even begun to cut into the market share of asphalt roofs. If you are considering remodeling your home and installing a metal roof, there a number of pros and cons to weigh before making a decision.
Pros
In terms of the positive elements of a metal roof, there are several. For instance, metal roofs are very lightweight when compared to other materials such as asphalt shingles. This takes a lot of strain off of your roof’s frame and allows for fast and easy installation. Despite their lightweight, metal roofs are extremely durable and should last as long as the house. This means that you will likely never need to worry about re-roofing again. In addition to their lightweight and superior durability, metal roofs are fire resistant and reflect the heat from the sun, which lowers the cost of temperature control in the house. They are also exceptionally good at shedding snow and rain as their surfaces are smooth and they can be installed at a steep angle. Finally, they are less susceptible to moss and fungus than other materials like cedar shake.
Cons
Although there are a number of positives associated with metal roofs, there are also some negatives to consider. A premium metal roof can cost up to $600 dollars per 100 ft2 which is a significantly higher price than other materials that are available. This high upfront cost means that it is only sensible if you intend to stay long enough to enjoy the benefits of it. Additionally, they must be installed correctly to avoid rusting, holes from fasteners, and the expanding and contracting that occurs in extreme temperatures. This makes these roofs hard to repair as the roofers must be careful not to affect any sections besides the one that is being replaced. Metal roofs are also hard to repair because, due to their longevity, it can be hard to find a color match if repairs are needed 30 years after the roof is installed. Finally, while the roofs are durable and long-lasting, they are prone to denting, especially when dealing with low-quality materials. They can also be very noisy when rain or hail hits them. This sound can be soothing to some but obnoxious to others. However, the noise can be minimized by strategic roof design and by adding insulation or other noise-blocking materials.
Is a Metal Roof Right for Me?
The many pros and cons of a metal roof should all be considered when thinking about remodeling your roof. For a free inspection and for a price estimate, click here and one of our experts from Elysian construction will come and evaluate your home.
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