Metal roofs are a modern solution to roofing problems
For many of the homeowners I speak to, the term “metal roof” conjures up images of rusty sheets of tin attached dangerously to a decomposing barn. Not surprisingly, they can’t imagine why I would recommend a metal roof, or why any homeowner would seriously consider it.
Of course, the truth about modern metal roofs is quite different. First of all, while sheet metal can be great for barn roofing, it’s not a good choice for homes. The residential metal roof that I install is actually made up of concrete lined steel tiles or panels. They come in a variety of styles and colors, many of which are indistinguishable from the more common types of roofs, such as asphalt shingles, clay shingles, and even slate.
But that’s where the similarities end. Metal roofs have many advantages over other materials.
One roof, two jobs
Every roof has two critical jobs: One is protecting the weather, and most roofing products do a good job while they last, as long as they are installed correctly to begin with. Another job, and one that is becoming more important as energy costs rise, is conserving energy in a home.
It’s the hot summer months that really distinguish one roofing material from another. Many conventional roofing materials lay flat on a roof and conduct heat from the sun directly to the siding underneath and then into the attic, where it can raise the temperature inside the home dramatically, making your central air conditioner work harder to maintain the home. comfortable.
Most metal shingles are shaped to provide an insulating space between the roofing material and the siding underneath. The difference in terms of your comfort and your utility bill is significant. It is the same principle as the insulating air space inside a double pane window. By creating a barrier between the outside and the inside, you greatly reduce the impact that hot and cold weather have on your indoor climate.
Green roofing materials
Another important advantage that metal roofs have over more traditional materials is that they are less harmful to the environment. The most common roofing material, asphalt shingles, is petroleum-based. So the production of these tiles contributes to the negative environmental impact of oil recovery and processing. Then, at the end of their life (around 17 years, on average) they end up in the landfill along with millions of tons of other worn asphalt shingles where it can take decades to biodegrade.
On the other hand, a steel roof is likely the last roof you need in your home, so they don’t contribute to landfill problems. And in the event that a steel roof needs to be removed, the steel can often be recycled.
Cost v. Value
You’ve probably already guessed that metal roofs cost more than other popular roofing materials. That is, they cost more until you divide the original investment over the life of the product. Remember, getting 17 years off an asphalt shingle roof is a pretty good result. On the other hand, a metal roof can easily last up to 50 years. That’s a nearly three-to-one advantage for metal. So which costs more, a steel roof or three asphalt roofs? Advantage: metal cover.
Of course, there is also the question of durability. Asphalt shingles are relatively susceptible to damage from wind and hail. Steel roofs, on the other hand, can be rated for winds up to 130 mph. Additionally, the brand of metal roofing we install has received the highest impact resistance rating available from the Underwriter’s Laboratory.
In general, there are many advantages, and very few disadvantages, to installing metal roofing in a home that you plan to stay in for a while. Your roof is truly your first line of defense against the elements and outrageous utility bills. So why settle for less of the best protection and performance money can buy?