When choosing a material for your home’s roof, consider factors like longevity, anticipated maintenance, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. If you’re seeking a roofing material that excels in all these areas – metal may be the right choice.
From 2019 to 2021, the share of homeowners installing metal roofs increased from 12% to 17% . But why are so many more homeowners choosing metal over other materials?
Metal Roofs Are Durable
While metal roofs are gaining popularity, the most common roofing material in the U.S. remains asphalt shingles. Many homeowners choose asphalt because of the low cost. But the tradeoff for the lower upfront expense is a shorter lifespan. Asphalt shingles only last between 15 and 30 years while metal roofs can last 50 years or more. If you’ve found your “forever home,” a durable material – like metal – can offer peace of mind for decades.
Metal Roofs are Wind and Fire Resistant
In hurricane-prone areas, metal roofs can be particularly beneficial. Common types of asphalt shingles are rated to withstand winds of 60 mph. That means that they are not expected to withstand even a Category 1 hurricane which has winds of 74 – 95 mph. On the other hand, metal roofs can withstand gusts up to 140 mph – the equivalent of at least a Category 3 hurricane which has winds between 111 and 129 mph.
Metal roofing is also considered Class A for fire resistance – the highest possible rating in this category. With resistance to both wind and fire, metal roofing provides superior safety compared to other roofing options – especially in coastal areas prone to high winds.
Metal Roofs Are Energy Efficient and Environmentally Friendly
Metal roofs are some of the most energy efficient options available. They reflect more solar radiation than asphalt roofs and can reduce energy costs by up to 40%. Metal can also be painted or coated to further increase efficiency. In fact, a highly reflective metal roof can re-emit up to 90% of absorbed solar radiation, thereby offering enhanced cooling in the summer months. These are sometimes called “cool-metal roofs” and may qualify for tax incentives.
In addition to energy savings, metal roofs are an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. About 28% of the steel in a metal roof is recycled. Also, at the end of a metal roof’s useful life, the materials are fully recyclable.
Metal Roofs Are Easy to Install and Maintain
Often, a metal roof can be fitted over existing shingles, reducing the effort required to install a new roof. In addition, most metal roofs are light enough that they don’t require additional framing or support before installation.
After a metal roof is installed, the work is essentially done. Metal roofs require very little maintenance. All you need to do is have your roof inspected annually by a licensed, bonded, and insured roofing contractor.
Metal Roofs Come in a Variety of Attractive Options
With modern technology, metal roofs are available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes to match any home style. Stamped metal roofs can even provide the benefits of metal roofing while having the appearance of asphalt shingles, slate, wood shakes, or clay tiles.
Homeowners can choose between a variety of materials for their metal roof. Some of the most common include:
- Aluminum: A lightweight option that doesn’t corrode, making it an appealing choice for coastal environments.
- Copper: As the most expensive metal option, copper offers a unique look. Over time, it will oxidize and turn green.
- Zinc: A popular option in Europe but not as common in the U.S., zinc roofs start as a dark gray and age to a light gray or blue color.
- Steel: The most common material for metal roofs and can be found in many different finishes.
Considerations When Choosing Metal Roofing
The main drawback of metal roofing is the expense. Metal roofs are not the priciest material available, but they have a higher upfront cost than asphalt shingles. However, with the variety of metal roofing options, there is likely one that fits within your budget.
Metal roofs can be an excellent choice for homeowners in coastal areas due to their long lifespan, wind resistance, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. To learn more about how a metal roof could fit your home, contact an experienced roofing company that offers a variety of materials. When your roofer can install all types of residential roofing, they can help you decide which is the best choice without steering you toward a particular product.
Complete Roofing Can Install, Repair, or Replace Your Metal Roof
Complete Roofing is a licensed, bonded, and insured roofing company with locations, local agents, and local crews on the Mississippi coast, Alabama coast, and in the greater New Orleans area. We install, repair, and replace all types of residential and commercial roofs – including metal. We also offer no-cost roof inspections to ensure your roof continues to provide the safety you need.
When you work with Complete Roofing, you receive outstanding customer service, the highest quality craftsmanship, and your choice of resilient materials. Our friendly customer service team can answer your questions and help determine which material best meets your needs. In most cases, we can even file your insurance claim from start to finish.
To contact a roofing specialist in your area, use the following links for our 3 general areas or click your city for express service:
Installation and Repair Services for Roofs and Gutters are available in the following locations:
- Coastal Alabama Main Office with local agents in:
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