Ready to Choose a Metal Roof? Learn the Pros and Cons First

Mar 31, 2017

Metal roofing isn’t just for commercial buildings. For decades, homeowners have chosen metal roofs as an alternative to the typical asphalt-shingle roofs that are common on most homes. If you’re interested in having a metal roof installed on your home, it’s important to know about the potential advantages and disadvantages of having one.

Metal Roofing Offers Excellent Longevity

You’ll be able to get a bit more mileage out of your metal roof, especially when compared to a typical asphalt roof. While an asphalt roof offers at least 20 years of service before requiring significant work, a standard metal roofing system can last for 50 years or more. With the right amount of care and maintenance, a metal roof can last your home for a lifetime.

Metal Roofs Come in a Variety of Styles

Metal roofing systems are available in a broad range of styles that can mimic the appearance of other traditional roofing materials. For instance, you can design your metal roof to mimic clay tile or asphalt shingles. You can even have your metal roof coated in granulated stone for a more natural appearance. You also have the option of leaving your metal roof bare or having it painted to match your home’s appearance.

Lighter Panels Equal Less Stress on Your Roof

Believe it or not, a metal roofing system can be significantly lighter than comparable residential roofing systems made from other materials. Metal roofing panels made from aluminum or steel can weigh up to 1.2 pounds per square feet, whereas asphalt shingles weigh over double that amount. Concrete and clay tiles are significantly heavier, at 9.3 and 10.8 pounds per square foot.

As a result, a metal roof places far less stress on the underlying infrastructure of your roof than many other materials. Lighter roofing panels can easily extend the overall longevity of your entire roof.

Metal Roofs Can Be Expensive

One particular caveat of installing a metal roof is its cost when compared to that of other roofing systems. On a one-story ranch-style home with 1,700 to 2,100 square feet of roof space, it could cost up to $16,500 to install a steel roof and up to 19,800 to install an aluminum roof. A copper roof is often the most expensive of all metal roof installations, at over $39,600. Meanwhile, a typical asphalt-shingle roof may cost $1,700 to $8,400 for a complete installation.

You Can Expect a Little More Noise

Another common caveat of having a metal roof is the increased noise in comparison to other roofing systems. While many homeowners don’t mind the sound of raindrops on a metal roof, others may be a bit more sensitive to the additional noise. Fortunately, the additional noise can be controlled through a variety of sound-deadening techniques and materials, including the use of solid plywood and noise-reducing insulation.

Metal Roofs Require a Bit More Cosmetic Care

A typical metal roof requires a bit more attention when it comes to cosmetics, especially if it has a painted finish. These finishes can chip, peel, and fade as they age, and metal roofs with granulated stone finishes can experience wear and tear as the years pass. Metal roofing systems are also vulnerable to dents and scratches caused by hailstorms, tree branches, and impacts with other types of debris.

A new roof is one of the biggest investments in your home you’ll make. By understanding the pros and cons of installing a metal roof, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about your home’s next roofing system. For more information or to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact the expert roofers at Advantage Roofing today.