Are Metal Roofs Right For Your Home?

Metal roofing has long been associated with nailed zinc sheet to shed roofs or as a stylish finish on an architect-designed home. Metal roofs have come a long way and now there are some fabulous options available.

Types of metal roofing materials

The type of metal for your roof is an important consideration in terms of appearance and cost. One of the most affordable options available is aluminum and it is good value for money due to its durability and longevity, while galvanized steel has a proven long life. Zinc is always an option and much more attractive than shed roof sheeting, but there are also a few different options to think about, including copper and stainless steel. Metal Shake is a style that has the look of real wood that comes in a variety of finishes and is naturally more durable than the wood it mimics. Metals with a stone effect finish are also available. If you have environmental concerns, there are roofing options made from so-called natural metals that develop a patina over time and blend naturally with their surroundings and are 100% recyclable.

Styles

In addition to the range of metals available, there are many styling options for your new metal roof. No longer limited to corrugated sheets, there is a wide range of different types of metal panels: ribbed, smooth, snap-on, and usually come with the option of visible or invisible fastening. In addition to paneling and to complement the full range of metals and the colors and finishes these metals now feature, there are tiles in a variety of designs to give your home a traditional or contemporary look. If you want a house with a roof that looks like Spanish tile or Welsh gray slate, with a metal roof you can have it.

The benefits

In addition to giving your home a shiny look, metal roofs have many practical benefits. Directly, metal roofs are quick and easy to install, especially if panels are used. They are also much lighter than conventional roofs and weigh up to seven times less per square meter than tiles. This makes metal roofs especially suitable for fragile buildings.

The other benefits are:

• Longevity and durability

The metal roof will not crack or rot and will not warp or bend. Neither panels nor tiles will split or break, they will not crack or burn and the finishes are not prone to peeling. Metal roofs are also the most resistant to freezing and thawing, snow, hail, wind, and fire.

• Low maintenance costs

Other than occasional brushing if the sheets stick, no maintenance is required. If you have painted over the natural finish of the metal ceiling, it will need to be cared for or replaced in exactly the same way as any other painted surface.

• Long-term guarantees

Thanks to the longevity and durability of the materials used in metal roofs, fabricators and installers are happy to offer very long warranties and warranties.

• Efficiency

Metal roofs help you save money with reduced heating and cooling costs, and some materials have been shown to have 40% cost savings over conventional roofs.

• Higher resale value

The use of metal means that no sagging factor should be incorporated into the roof in the future, and potential buyers know that they will never have to think about a new roof for the life of the home.

• Increased aesthetic appeal and value on the sidewalk

With a variety of style options, a metal roof perfectly complements any type of home and fits into any neighborhood. They are also ideal for historic buildings that require replacement roofs, as they can update the building without losing the original look.

• Environmental friendly

In addition to being energy efficient in their production, saving energy when in use, the metals used in the roofs are completely 100% recyclable and are not added to landfills.

• Ease of adjustment

A new metal roof can also be placed over an existing roof without the need to remove the shingles or shingles that are already there. This will help reduce the cost of installing a new roof and avoid a lot of clutter to clean up before the job can start properly.

Naturally, anything that has advantages also has some disadvantages.

The disadvantages

Contrary to what you might imagine, noise is not a disadvantage of metal ceilings. The materials and the installation method mean that there is great sound insulation. However, there is a downside if the roof is damaged, although it is unlikely. It is much easier to repair or replace a broken tile or shingle than it is to replace a large metal panel.

Perhaps the biggest disadvantage is the cost. These installations are more expensive than other types of roofs, however, with low maintenance costs, a reduction in energy bills, reduced insurance premiums, and a potential increase in home value, the initial expense is easily offset. with future benefits.

Other minor downsides include the fact that walking on metal roofs is dangerous because they become slippery when wet, and while most metal roofs are tough and resistant to the elements, hail storms can lead to roof dents. made of softer metals such as aluminum and copper.

The advantages of a metal roof far outweigh the disadvantages and choosing one is a fantastic addition to your home that will last a lifetime.