Why Homeowners Choose Metal Roofing
Homeowners are increasingly choosing metal roofs as an option for new construction and re-roofing. They provide beauty, durability and energy efficiency.
But metal isn't the right choice for every homeowner. Read the pros and cons of metal roofing before you make your final decision.
Durability
Metal roofs are known for their durability, longevity, energy efficiency and high ROI. They've dominated the industrial sector for centuries on barns, military barracks and warehouses but recently have surged into popularity among homeowners who appreciate their durability, beauty, low maintenance and high return on investment.
Metal roofing is available in a wide variety of colors, finishes and styles. Choosing from steel (galvanized, galvalume or aluminum), zinc, copper and tin provides a choice that rivals that of asphalt shingles. Many styles mimic the look of traditional shingles or tile and come in colors from standard to premium and custom. Steel and aluminum can also be fabricated into interlocking panels and 'stone-coated' to produce a less metallic, more natural appearance.
The durable nature of metal roofs makes them resistant to fire, salty sea air, extreme temperatures and hail. They can withstand gusts of wind up to 140 miles an hour, which is comparable to F2 tornado winds. They also resist the development of ice dams and are more resistant to snow build-up than other roofing materials. They also protect against damage caused by debris that can fall from trees or other structures.
A well-constructed, properly maintained metal roofing Albuquerque can last up to 50 years and will not warp, crack or rot. It's impervious to mold, mildew and insect infestations and resists rust. If it does become scratched or dented, it can be easily repaired and repainted with no loss in value.
One drawback of a metal roof is that it can be very slippery when wet or covered with snow, which poses a safety risk for anyone walking on the roof. This is especially true for corrugated or ribbed metal panel systems with exposed fasteners.
Installation of a metal roof is best left to professional contractors or for DIYers with some experience in roofing and carpentry. The weight and size of metal panels can be a challenge to work with, and many have an interlocking system that requires careful attention to details and the use of special tools. If you plan to purchase your own metal roofing, it's important to compare bids carefully. Contractors normally add labor and material costs together in a single bid. If you can find a roofing supply company that will give you a quote on just the materials, it is possible to save money on your metal roofing project.
Energy Efficiency
While many people think of metal roofing as the corrugated tin roofs that may have been on backyard chicken coops in their childhood, today’s metal roofing is much more attractive and sophisticated. From fitted whole panels to shingle-like designs, metal roofs are available in a variety of textures and finishes to fit the aesthetic of any home or business. They can be built over existing shingles, too, saving on the cost of removal and disposal of the old shingles.
Metal roofs reflect sunlight rather than absorb it, keeping the interior cooler and decreasing energy bills. The color of the metal is also important: a white metal surface shows up best under testing for reflectivity, while dark shingles absorb more heat and radiate it into the structure. Cool metal roofs are a great option for environmentally conscious homeowners who want to lower their carbon footprint.
In addition to their eco-friendly construction and design, metal roofs are often made with recycled materials. They are fully recyclable at the end of their useful life, unlike asphalt shingles that can cause environmental problems when they are dismantled or broken up for road construction. Metal roofing is more durable, too, meaning that it stays in place longer than shingle roofs, which tend to require more repairs and replacements over time.
The insulation properties of a metal roof are another factor that makes it an eco-friendly choice. Unlike shingles, which allow air to seep through the gaps and cracks in a roof, metal roofs create a tight seal that keeps heat inside during cold weather and cool air outside when it is hot. This reduces the need to run a building’s heating and cooling systems as frequently, which is better for the environment and helps keep energy costs low.
The initial investment of a metal roof is more than twice as high as traditional shingles, but long term savings are significant with some tax credit options, widespread insurance breaks and longer warranties. It’s worth noting, though, that a proper installation of a metal roof is critical. It needs to be properly sealed and fastened, and a quality installer should have experience with metal roofs to ensure that it is done correctly.
Environmentally Friendly
Whether it’s buying eco-friendly gadgets or decreasing your waste, many homeowners and home buyers are seeking out green solutions. This includes a variety of different building materials, and metal roofing is one that is gaining popularity among the environmentally conscious. Here’s why:
The most obvious reason for choosing a metal roof is that it is a very eco-friendly material. It requires little maintenance and can last up to 50 years. This means it is much more eco-friendly than traditional shingles and tiles, which need replacement every 20 years or so.
Additionally, metal roofs are made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. This reduces the need for mining new materials and decreases landfill buildup. Traditional shingle tear-offs make up about 20 billion pounds of waste each year, which is reduced significantly by using a metal roof.
Metal roofs also have energy efficiency properties. They reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them, which helps keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can save you up to 25 percent on cooling costs.
Finally, metal roofs are highly durable, preventing damage from harsh weather conditions. They are resistant to rust, corrosion, mildew and moss, and can stand up to heavy snowfall. They are also easy to clean and are highly resistant to stains from oil and other chemicals.
A final environmental benefit of metal roofing is its ability to harvest rainwater. This can be as simple as a barrel at the bottom of the downspout, or an entire system of cisterns that provides water for your whole house. It can also help you save on your water bills.
As the population grows and more people seek out a green lifestyle, we can expect to see an increase in the popularity of metal roofing. Its durability, energy efficiency and eco-friendly benefits are just three of the many reasons to consider it for your home or business. If you are interested in learning more, contact a professional roofing contractor for more information or to get a free estimate on a metal roof.
Aesthetics
The biggest reason homeowners choose to install metal roofs is that they look great. While traditional shingle roofs can eventually start to fade and detract from the beauty of the home, a metal roof looks like it was installed just yesterday and adds to the curb appeal. This is because of the vast array of styles and colors of metal roofing available on the market today.
When most people think of metal roofing, they are likely to envision corrugated panels that resemble those found on barns or the industrial-style standing seam roofs popular in commercial buildings. However, metal is a malleable and workable material that can be shaped into many different roofing styles. For instance, a homeowner can opt for metal shingles that resemble clay tile, shakes or slate. Additionally, they can choose from a wide variety of textured panels that create the appearance of stone or wood.
Homeowners also have the option to blend their metal roof with the walls of the house by choosing a product that transitions from an exterior wall to the roof assembly fairly seamlessly. Standing-seam metal roofs can do this, as can some 'stone-coated' products that have an acrylic coating in which stone granules are embedded.
Another way that homeowners can customize the look of their metal roofs is to take advantage of visualization tools offered by most manufacturers. These tools allow a homeowner to upload a picture of their house and see what different types of metal roofing would look on it.
Ultimately, a well-chosen metal roofing product can complement a homeowner's personal style, enhance the visual appeal of their home and increase its value. For these reasons, homeowners who are interested in metal roofing should take their time and choose the right style for their homes.
If you are thinking about replacing your existing shingle roof, contact metal roofing Albuquerque professional to learn more about the benefits of this modern roofing solution. Metal roofing is a smart choice for your home and will last for decades to come.
Homeowners are increasingly choosing metal roofs as an option for new construction and re-roofing. They provide beauty, durability and energy efficiency. But metal isn't the right choice for every homeowner. Read the pros and cons of metal roofing before you make your final decision. Durability Metal roofs are known for their durability, longevity, energy efficiency…