A metal roof can do wonders for a property, but it has pros and cons. Before you take the leap, here’s everything you should know.
The Pros
Because metal is a strong material, it will pay for itself. On average, a metal asphalt roof can last up to 20 years. Stronger metals like steel will stay in peak condition for up to 70 years.
If a metal roof is installed correctly, it can withstand high winds up to 140 mph. In addition, if the material is cared for properly, it will never crack or corrode.
A metal roof is one of the safest materials on the market for two reasons. It’s highly durable and fire-resistant. If lightning strikes it, sparks will never ignite, and the metal will never catch on fire.
In the summer, a metal roof can help reduce a household’s cooling costs by up to 25 percent. This is possible because metal is highly reflective. As a result, a metal roof can withstand the effects of radiant heat.
Finally, metal is great for the environment. When a metal roof reaches the end of its lifecycle, up to 95 percent of the materials can be recycled.
The Cons
Because metal lasts twice as long as other materials, it has a higher tag. For this reason, it’s not the most economical roofing material for a temporary home.
Metal is very dense, so it can be noisy during a rainstorm or a hailstorm. There are ways to overcome this. For example, you could add more insulation in your attic, but this will lead to additional costs.
Reaping the Benefits – How to Pick the Right Metal Roof Style
There are three common metal roof styles. Each option has its own characteristics and unique architectural elements.
A Corrugated Roof
A corrugated roof has ridges or folds. Most roofing systems that fall in this category are made of aluminum. However, there are some companies that manufacture their corrugated roofing supplies out of copper or steel. Although steel and copper are stronger than aluminum, many homeowners prefer aluminum because it costs less than steel and copper.
A Standing Seam Metal Roof
In most communities, standing seam metal roofing systems are commonly found on contemporary-style houses and cabins. Unlike a corrugated roof, a standing seam variety is flat with raised ribs, which are at the end of each panel.
A standing seam roof also has fasteners, but they are hidden from view. There positioned under the roofing material because they are part of an interlocking system.
If this type of roofing system sounds interesting, steel is the most common option on the market. However, if you shop around, you’ll also find alternative standing seam systems made of copper or aluminum.
When the installation is completed, you won’t have to schedule consistent maintenance for two reasons. First, a standing seam roof will not break down easily because the fasteners will not be exposed to the elements. Second, the roof’s interlocking nature makes it tougher and stronger.
A Stone-Coated Metal Roof
A stone-coating metal roof has a very distinctive look that’s quite attractive. The manufacturing process begins with basic steel sheets. These sheets are strategically rolled into panels. Next, stone granules are added to the panels. The granules are necessary because they provide dimension, color, and texture.
This type of roofing system is worth buying because it’s extremely energy efficient. To understand why, you must grasp the material’s structure properties. Within each granule on a stone-coated panel, there are infrared pigments. These pigments can reflect solar energy naturally; this is what makes a stone-coating roofing system an economical investment.
Metal Roofing Material 101
Aluminum is known for its fantastic environmental properties. It’s energy-efficient, wind-resistant, and fire-resistant. If you’re seeking an aluminum roofing system, you’ll have three options. You can go with a standing seam roof, an aluminum roof with corrugated panels, an aluminum roof with rolled panels, or a roof with aluminum shingles.
A copper roof can be expensive, so it’s not for everyone. If you go with this variety, it will require frequent maintenance. Without maintenance and a proper protective coating, a copper roof will tarnish.
Steel and stone-coated steel roofing materials are both winners. However, if you can afford it, go with the stone-coated variety because it’s more robust and efficient.
Upgrade Your Roofing System
If you need a new roof that’s great, don’t hesitate. Hire a roofing team that has been in business since 2008. To get started, visit www.southtexasroofingpros.com.