5 Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing

by | Dec 1, 2020 | Design, Outdoor

Over the past few years, the popularity of metal roofing has dramatically increased. Older metal roofs were not generally attractive, and many communities even banned their use. However, today’s metal roofing systems are usually considered acceptable even in high-end residential communities that once shunned any type of metal roof. If you’re considering installing a metal roof, there are a few pros and cons to consider before making a final decision.

Pros of Metal Roofing

First, let’s explore some of the pros of installing metal roofing. It’s always important to understand the benefits of any product you’re considering, and that’s especially true when you’re talking about a home’s roof. The experts who install Erie Metal Roofs always point out the following advantages when working with clients.

·         Metal Roofs are Strong and Durable. Obviously, a roof that lasts longer is a pro that many people consider a must. Most asphalt shingle roofs will last 20 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the shingles and how well they’re installed. Metal roofing, on the other hand, will last for five to seven decades without requiring significant maintenance or repairs. That’s far longer than most people keep their homes, but property owners often find homes with metal roofs are easier to sell because buyers recognize the durability of metal roofing.

·         Insurance Companies Love Metal Roofs. Why? Because not only are metal roofs strong and durable, they are fireproof. With wildfires becoming problematic through much of the country, having a roof that’s fireproof reduces the risks an insurer is taking. In addition, metal roofing is better able to withstand strong winds and hail. While large hail can dent metal roofing, there is little chance of the hail penetrating the roof and causing catastrophic water damage.

·         Metal Roofing is Environmentally Friendly. Unlike asphalt shingles and many other roofing products, metal roofing is recyclable. In fact, much of the metal roofing being installed today is manufactured using recycled materials. That means the metal is one of the greenest roofing materials now in use. If you’re concerned about environmental issues, the metal may be the best roofing solution available.

There are other advantages as well, so take the time to discuss the various advantages of metal roofing products with your roofer.

Cons of Metal Roofing

No roofing material is perfect, so it’s also important to mention the cons of installing a metal roof on your home. Here are a few of the most-common negative considerations homeowners face when looking at metal roofing products.

·         Metal Roofs are Expensive. While the cost of lower-end metal roofing materials is somewhat comparable to high-end asphalt composition shingles, the newer styles of metal roofing can be vastly more expensive. In addition, the installation costs associated with metal roofing are higher than shingles. However, installing a metal roof must be looked at as a long-term investment that will be less expensive than shingles over the life of the roof. Remember, metal lasts longer and needs less maintenance.

·         Color Matching May Be Difficult. If parts of a metal roof are damaged, it can be difficult to color match the replacement materials. Metal roof finishes tend to fade somewhat as they age, meaning the replacement material may be brighter and more color-dense than the older materials. Again, metal roofing rarely needs repairing, so this isn’t generally a major problem

·         Metal Roofing Can be Noisy. Some property owners complain that metal roofs are noisier than asphalt composition shingles, and there is certainly some validity to that complaint. Discuss noise-reduction installation strategies with your roofer when considering a metal roof.

Again, there may be additional cons, depending on the type of metal roofing being considered, so don’t be afraid to discuss all potential issues with the contractor.

Is Metal Roofing Right For You?

That’s something you need to determine for yourself, but the majority of property owners who choose metal roofs are happy with their decision. If you’ve got questions or would like to discuss the many metal roofing options, contact a contractor for advice today.

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