What is good and bad about metal roofs?

Answer 1

One of the only disadvantages to metal roofing is the cost of installation, which is higher than asphalt and other composite shingles, but lower than authentic clay tile and slate. Metal roofing expert Tina Montone reminds consumers that although the cost of installing metal roofing can be higher, its long lifetime and low requirements for maintenance make it comparable to the cost of cheaper materials in the long run.

Some consumers may be turned off by the sound of rain falling on a metal roof while others would consider it an added benefit. New technologies make noise reduction possible with metal roofing. Sound proofing techniques include structural barrier between the roof and the attic and the application of insulation and plywood to eliminate excess noise. Therefore noise should not be considered a barrier in choosing a metal roof.

Denting can be another concern with metal roofing, but only extremely large hail or flying debris is likely to cause denting, and even then it rarely jeopardizes the integrity of the roof or causes leaking. It should be noted that aluminum and copper products are more prone to denting than harder metals such as steel.

Metal roofs offer a number of advantages over almost every other type of roofing material. They are much more durable and long lasting than asphalt shingles and much easier to install, not to mention cheaper, than heavier clay and slate tiles, which share its resistance to extreme weather and fire. Metal roofing stands up to almost any weather condition imaginable including high winds, heavy rain, high and low temperatures, and even earthquakes. It is also resistant to fire and is impervious to collapse if a house does catch on fire, increasing the occupants' safety and chance of escape.

Metal roofing resists the growth of mildew and algae that may appear on clay tiles and other roofing materials thereby eliminating the need for pressure washing. In some cases, metal roofing may require additional coats of paint during its lifetime depending on the products used. Consumers may also wonder whether their metal roof will rust and become unsightly or weakened. Current technologies involve treatments of the metal or protective seals and paints that make metal roofing resistant to rust, so this factor can also be dismissed as a concern.

Stainless steel is of course naturally resistant to rusting but is more expensive than other metals. It should be noted that some protective seals may require reapplication more often than others to protect the roof against rusting. But being informed about the grade and durability of your chosen metal roofing product and keeping up with proper maintenance should eliminate any need for concern about rusting.

Metal roofing has been around for a long time and has recently gained popularity as a residential roofing material. Some of the most famous historic structures utilized metal roofing such as Thomas Jefferson's home Monticello and the Washington Monument. With all its benefits metal roofing can be expected to continue to be a top roofing choice.

Answer 2

There is no real downside to a metal roof. The roof will last well over 30 years, it helps insulates your house which will save on your heating and cooling bills, and it is recyclable. Metal roofs also do not support fire, so there is no need to worry about lightning strikes.