Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Roofs

Are you spending more time and money on repairing your roof? If yes, now might be the best time to consider getting it replaced or possibly eavestrough repair in Toronto first. Choosing the right roofing material is, however, not that easy. You have to make so many considerations – most homeowners, when comparing roofing materials, mainly focus on the pros and cons. This post tries to answer the question of, is a metal roof a good investment?

Whether you are installing a roof on a new home or planning a total makeover on your house, there are many options available. No matter what roof style you select, metal roofs offer an attractive option due to their longevity, energy efficiency and minimal maintenance. The material options include steel, copper, aluminum, tin and zinc. There are also many types to pick from, including the vertical seam, granular coated panels and pre-formed panels. The endless selection of styles allows you to end up with a look that matches your lifestyle.

What are the Advantages of a Metal Roof?

• Long-lasting

The main advantage of installing a metal roof is its long lifespan. This is why many homeowners choose metal roofs for new construction and when replacing their roofs. It is an investment that keeps the roof looking amazing while offering protection for decades. That said, what is the lifespan of a steel roof? The answer is between 40 and 70 years, which is impressive, especially when considering that asphalt roofing life expectancy is between 12 and 20 years. Manufacturers offer up to a 50-year warranty on metal roofs.

• Durability

When installed correctly, metal roofs are able to hold up against strong winds with speeds of up to 140 miles per hour. They don’t crack or corrode, and some products are impact-resistant. It is also good to note that metal roofs do not require periodic maintenance like other roofing materials. You should, however, inspect them periodically to ensure there are no damages.

• Environmentally friendly

Traditional shingles are dependent on fossil fuels. This is because they are manufactured using petroleum. These roofing systems also need to be replaced at least after 20 to 30 years. This results in 20 billion pounds of shingles being sent to landfills each year. The benefits of a tin roof include its sustainability. 25% or even more of metal roofs are made from recycled materials. At the end of their lifespan, metal roofs are still recyclable.

• More energy efficient

Do metal roofs make your house hotter? This is a common question homeowners ask when considering metal roofs. The truth is the reflective properties of the metal roofs help lower the heating and cooling costs. Reflecting solar heat means less heat is absorbed. During summer, you will be able to reduce energy costs by a whopping 25%. Metal roofs thus help you save money.

• They are stylish

Advancements in the manufacture of metal roofs mean you are no longer confined to corrugated tin. There are many materials to pick from, including galvanized steel, aluminum, tin, zinc and copper. Moreover, metal roofs come in many colours, finishes and shapes. There is also the possibility of buying metal roofs that look like any other material. You can find options that look like wood, slate or tiles.

• Safety

Another remarkable benefit of installing metal roofs is they will not spark and ignite during lightning strikes or wildfire.

These are just some of the main advantages of a metal roof. Now that you know what are the advantages of having a steel roof, it is time to look at the disadvantages.

What are the Problems with Metal Roofs?

• They can be noisy

While some people love the noise of rain hitting a metal roof, the noise could be a disadvantage if you don’t like the noise. If you don’t want the noise, you can spend a little more to have more insulation layers and sheathing. Doing so will reduce the noise.

• They can be dented easily

Compared to traditional asphalt shingles, metal roofs are much easier to dent. This does not, however, mean that they are not high quality. The good thing is the dents can be repaired by a professional. Inspect your roof regularly for dents.

• More expensive

The cost of buying and installing a metal roof is a major drawback. While the price of metal roofs is similar to that of buying similar premium roofing products, high-end metal roofs can cost up to 10 times the cost of asphalt shingles. The installation has to be done by an experienced installer with special equipment and is thus not cheap. The silver lining is you will recoup your investment over time because metal roofs require minimal maintenance and are very durable.

• Damaged fasteners

Metal roofing materials are attached as large panels using both concealed and exposed fasteners. The fasteners have varying lifespans. Depending on the climate, some screws and washers may degrade fast and become dislodged.

• Inconsistency of colour match  

If a panel replacement is needed years later, finding the exact match to your existing metal roof can be difficult.

Now that you understand the metal roof’s good and bad sides, if you are still interested in going with the option, there are a couple more things you have to do. First, you need to ensure the metal roof you select is tested, labelled as well as listed with a recognized testing organization. That way, you will be guaranteed that the product you are installing meets rigorous fire, wind and impact resistance rating requirements. Secondly, you need to make sure you understand the manufacturer’s guidelines. The metal roof should meet the local building code requirements and also be an ideal option for your geographic location.

Do you want to learn the difference between a metal roof versus a traditional roof, or do you have any burning questions? At D’Angelo and Sons, we are happy to answer any question you may have, help with choosing the best roofing material, and help you understand if you can have a house with shingles and a metal roof. Get in touch with us to find out more.