Pros And Cons Of Metal Roof: Guide, Myth, And Benefits 2024

If you notice signs of deterioration in your roof or if it’s leaking too often, you may need to replace it soon. During your roof replacement research, you’ll find that metal roofing has become increasingly popular over the past decade. There are several reasons why home owners are choosing metal roofing materials. Below, we will examine the pros and cons of metal roof.

Also check: Is Metal Roofing Worth It For It’s Cost?

Pros And Cons Of Metal Roof

Pros of Metal Roofs

You might not have considered metal roofs when you realized you needed to replace your roof, but metal roofs are a practical and cost-effective option. Following are a few advantages of metal roofs:

Life Span

There are some key differences between shingles and metal roofs. Traditional asphalt roofs last 15 to 20 years before needing replacement. Replacing them is noisy, troublesome, and expensive. Metal roofs are just as noisy and disruptive, but they will last for 40–70 years before needing to be replaced again.

Durability

There are a number of strong metals available for metal roofs, including tin, aluminum, zinc, and steel. They are more durable than asphalt or slate shingles, so their life spans are longer. In addition to being able to withstand extreme weather conditions such as heavy snow and blazing summer heat, metal roofs are also able to withstand winds as strong as 140 mph. Steel roofs score higher on the hardness scale, so they are sturdy.

Aesthetics

Compared to their tin-plated iron predecessors, modern metal roofs are much more attractive today. Roofers did not always consider curb appeal, but metal roofs are much more attractive today. Besides standard metal shingles, you also have shake-inspired, tile, panel, and ribbed options. Metal roofing has a wide variety of colors and types. Because metal roofs experience minimal damage, your roof will continue to look like new for a long time.

Sustainability

Each year, more than 12 billion square feet of asphalt shingles end up in landfills. Metal roofs offer an eco-friendly alternative. Roofing professionals can install them directly over your existing roof, eliminating the debris associated with traditional roof replacements. Additionally, metal roofs are made of 35%–95% recycled materials, making them 100% recyclable if they need to be replaced. 

Energy Efficiency

It is a good idea to have a metal roof if you want to save money on energy bills. Traditional shingles trap solar heat, increasing cooling costs by up to 15%. Metal roofs reflect the heat, so you don’t have to spend as much money on cooling. As a result of insuring your home under a metal roof, you spend less on your heating bills. Metal roofs improve your energy savings by 10%-25%. In addition, metal roofs can be fitted with solar panels, making them even more energy-efficient.

Safety

Many people believe that metal roofs cause more damage and safety concerns during extreme weather. Metal roofs don’t attract lightning during a thunderstorm any more than traditional asphalt roofs do. You can safely install these roofs if you live in an area with a high wildfire risk, as they have a Class A fire rating. They are as safe as asphalt shingles.

Cons of Metal Roofs

There are a few disadvantages associated with metal roofing. Most can be overlooked, though they may turn off some homeowners, especially if you’re on a budget.

Up-Front Cost

Compared to shingles, metal roofs are more expensive. New roof installations usually cost between $5,882 and $12,732, with the average cost hovering around $10,000. It’s important to consider things like the size, type, and pitch of your roof before you make a decision. If you choose high-end materials, such as synthetic wood shakes, your roof can cost as much as $27,000. Metal roofs are priced between $8,500 and $13,300, but most homeowners pay an average of $13,200. Although metal roofs may cost less overall, they can be more expensive up front.

Dents

Even though metal roofs are sturdy, they can still get damaged. Steel roofs are strong, so they don’t get many indents, while aluminum and copper are softer metals that tend to get dented easily. When you’re reviewing your options, check your warranty to learn what your manufacturer and roofer cover in case of hailstorms or falling tree branches.

Noise

A metal roof will likely make noise during a storm. Some people find the sound of rain hitting the roof calming, but this is something to take into consideration, particularly if you are sensitive to certain sounds. Installing the proper insulation to minimize sound will be an effective way to reduce noise by an experienced roofer.

Rust (Coastal Climates)

The steel roofing industry uses galvanized steel to offset the risk of rusting, especially in coastal climates where some types of metal roofing can rust. Aluminum has a high corrosion resistance, but its aesthetics may not make it suitable for all residential roofing homes. Copper is also resistant to corrosion, but is more likely to rust with time. Zinc is corrosion-resistant as well as rust-resistant, but is quite expensive. The best solution for rusting roofs in humid climates is Galvalume steel, a steel reinforced with aluminum and zinc.

Lack of Qualified Roofing Contractors

The popularity of metal roofs is growing, but finding a roofer who is qualified to install one is still challenging. Before hiring a contractor to install a metal roof, make sure you do your research. Check your roofer’s experience, insurance, and licensing, as well as reviews. The roof can also be evaluated before and after installation by an independent roof inspector.

Metal Roof Myths

Despite metal roofs’ bad reputation, many of the myths about them are untrue, including:

• Metal roofs are ugly: There are many styles of metal roofs available to suit different tastes.
• Lightning is attracted to them: A fire-resistant metal roof is no more susceptible to lightning strikes than an asphalt shingle roof. Asphalt roofing is actually more likely to catch fire if struck by lightning.
• It’s heavy: Roofs made of metal are lighter than slate or clay tiles and don’t need to be structurally assessed.
• The metal rusts easily: Rust-resistant coatings are applied to metal roofing panels by builders.
• The price is too high: Metal roofs are more cost-effective than other roofing materials because they last longer and are more durable.

Recommendations

Despite their higher costs and difficulty finding expert contractors, metal roofs remain a practical choice for homeowners due to their durability, longevity, and style. You will save money by investing in a metal roof because you will not need to replace or repair your roof as often as you would with a traditional shingle roof. Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly and energy efficient.