Metal roofs tend to last for 50+ years. When buying a metal roof, you’re making a long-term investment. When you have a roof that lasts so long, you want to make sure it’s the right choice for your home.
Below we’ll review the pros and cons of installing metal roofing. You’ll have the knowledge you need when deciding on a roof type.
Pros
First, metal roofing weighs around 70-150 lbs. per 100 sq. ft. Other types of roofing can weigh thousands of pounds.
Second, the lightweight of the roofing material makes it easier to lift. Metal roofing is one of the easier and faster types of roofing to install. This means you’ll have reduced installation costs as the roofers won’t need as much time to install your roof.
Third, unlike with other types of roofing, with metal roofs, you don’t need to worry about fires, mildew, or rot. You’ll have fewer maintenance costs and worries when it comes to the safety of yourself and your home.
Fourth, as metal roofs are harder and slippery, they’ll easily shed rain and snow. If you live in an area where it snows a lot, by using darker metals, it can warm the snow to help melt it quicker.
On the flip side, if you live somewhere warm, the metal helps reflect the light away from your home making it cooler. This can help you save on air conditioning costs.
Finally, metal has become a versatile material, you can make it look like other materials, such as wood. So, you can now have a nice wood looking roof without all the consequences that come with it.
Cons
First, the initial cost of metal roofing is more on the pricey side. Yet, if you plan on living in your current home for a long time, it may be worth the price. It requires less maintenance and has a longer lifespan compared to other roofing.
Second, metal roofing can be very loud unless properly insulated. When there is stormy weather outside your home, you’ll know it. You can combat the noise by installing noise-canceling insulation and/or plywood sheathing.
Third, depending on what type of metal you opt for your roof can dent. Most metal roofs are made from steel, but some can be made from copper, aluminum, or tin.
The dents tend to form when there are hailstorms, or if someone is walking on your roof. You may want to opt for thicker and heavier metal (such as steel) to prevent denting.
Finally, if you live in an area with fluctuating temperatures, you may need to invest in fasteners. When it’s hot outside your roof will expand, and conversely, when it’s cold outside it’ll contract. This can cause your roof to leak if you don’t have fasteners installed.
Is Installing Metal Roofing Right for You?
Now that you know more about the pros and cons of installing metal roofing, it’s time to decide if it’s right for you. Every type of roof will have its pros and cons, it comes down to whether the pros outweigh the cons for your home.
Reach out to us today if you want to learn more about metal roofing.
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