With the installation of a metal roof, homeowners can take future roof replacement concerns completely off the table. The more commonly used asphalt roofing typically requires replacement every 15-20 years. Installation of a metal roof may cost more than asphalt, but over time it offers many cost-saving advantages. As most metal roofing products now come with lifetime warranties of 30 to 50 years or more, homeowners can trust in the durability and longevity of a new metal roof. In fact, according to State Farm Insurance metal roofs routinely last between 40 to 70 years.

A properly installed quality metal roof is also impervious to insects, extreme climate conditions and it is naturally fireproof. Metal roofing will not warp, crack, rot, or rust and requires very little upkeep. The only weather condition that is known to potentially damage metal roofing is hail. In this case, aluminum and copper roofs are the most vulnerable, while steel stands a much better chance of long-term durability.

Eco-friendly

With a recyclable factor of 100%, metal is considered the most environmentally friendly and sustainable roofing material available today. Since metal roofs can be installed right over an existing roof, it helps the environment by reducing the need to dispose of old roofing materials. Approximately 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingles are dumped into U.S. landfills every year. Should a metal roof ever need to be replaced, the old metal is easily recycled.

Saves Energy

As one of the most energy efficient roofing materials available, a metal roof can offer a savings of up to 40% in home energy costs, while delivering exceptional insulation during the winter. Homes built where the climate is warmer pre-painted or granular coated metal roofing systems help to save energy by reflecting solar rays, and then naturally discharging most of what solar radiation is absorbed. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, highly reflective and highly emissive painted or granular-coated metal roof is optimal for reducing energy consumption and can re-emit up to 90% of absorbed solar radiation.

Looks Good

The days of boring metal roof options are a thing of the past, with today’s wide range of styles, construction types, material choices, paint options and coatings available. In fact, metal roofing comes in so many shapes and sizes that homeowners can choose from designs that mimic the look of almost any roofing material you can imagine, including asphalt shingle, cedar shake, clay tile or slate roofing.

Final Considerations

Although metal roofing is nearly maintenance free, it’s always a good idea to make a once-yearly inspection to check for minor maintenance requirements such as removing debris, undertaking minimal cleaning and checking for spots that might need paint touch-ups, to keep the metal roof in topnotch condition.

Although the initial installation may be slightly more than other roofing options, many insurance companies offer reduced rates to homeowners with metal roofs – offering another savings advantage, particularly for those located in wildfire or hail prone areas.

 

 

Article Sources: Metal Roofing Alliance https://www.metalroofing.com/
StateFarm: Pros & Cons of metal roofs: https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/metal-roof-pros-and-cons