10 Things to Know about Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are becoming a very convenient option for many when it comes to replacing their roofs. They have many advantages, including being eco-friendly, saving you additional costs.They have high durability and they’re very resistant in extreme weather conditions.
They are suitable for almost every type of house, except for houses with very flat roof pitches.
Today, there is a large variety of metal roofing styles, colors, and other options to customize them.
In this article, we collected 10 things to know about metal roofs, in case you’re looking to replace your old roof.
Metal roofing can be installed over existing roofs – They can be installed over existing roofs without having to tear off shingles saving you the messy job and extra work. However, it is recommended to install a vented metal roof that eliminates the problem of possible molding between the old roof and the metal roof or installing the new metal roof over furring strips which will provide ventilation between the layers.
Metal roofs do not attract lightning – According to the Metal Construction Association “Metal roofing does not in any way increase the risk of a lightning strike. Because metal roofing is both an electrical conductor and a noncombustible material, the risks associated with its use and behavior during a lightning event make it the most desirable construction available.” In simple words: trees, telephone poles, and similar things attract lightning because it seeks a path to ground and because metal roofs are isolated structural components, they don’t have a direct path to ground inherent their design.
Severe hail can damage metal roofing – Metal roofs are known to be very durable and resistant materials, but they are not indestructible. There is one weather condition that can seriously damage your metal roof: that is a severe, golf-ball-size hail. Usually smaller size hail doesn’t mean a problem for metal roofs, but a larger one can leave serious damage. Large hail can also destroy asphalt shingle roofs, but if you have a homeowner’s insurance that includes covering storm damage, you have nothing to worry about.
Installation and repair require a professional – There are lots of videos and tutorials on the internet on how to install your metal roof for your home, but its’ not recommended to start doing it by yourself. It is worth calling a professional with experience in installing metal roofs since that requires special skills and practice.
Metal roofs are eco-friendly – If you are always on the lookout for ways to make your house more energy-efficient, installing metal roofing might be a good idea for you. By reflecting radiant heat from the sun, metal roofs help you save some money on cooling systems which tend to cost more than heating. To maximize the reflective capacity of your metal roofing, it is recommended to do a shiny or granular coating to improve energy-efficiency.
Metal Roofs are just as efficient on roofs with low slopes – People often assume that metal roofs only work well on a steep slope, but standing-seam metal roofing can work well on gently pitched roofs. This type of roof is installed in big sheets with seams that are raised and sealed well to resist water.
Metal roofing isn’t affected by fire, rot or insect damage – One of the main reasons metal roofing enjoys such great popularity is because it’s very durable. It has high-resistance to wildfires, which happen often lately in the US. This type of roofing is impervious to rot and mildew, which makes it the best choice for lots of people who are having issues like this.
Metal roofs are not noisier than other roofs – You might think that metal roofs are noisier when hail or rain falls on them, but this is a common misconception. In fact, when the metal roofing is installed properly, it shouldn’t be noisier than any other roofing material. Metal roofing is installed over a solid substrate, and the attic also provides a sound barrier between the roof and the living spaces in the house.
Metal roofing is more cost-effective in the long run – It’s true, installing metal roofing is on the expensive side, but due to its high resistance and durability, it saves you some money in the long run. Metal roofs are expected to last from 50 to 100 years, and they come with a 30 to 50-year warranty, while a homeowner with an asphalt shingle roof will most likely have to replace it from two to three times in a 50-year period. That means that even though it’s more expensive in the beginning, metal roofing will save you a significant amount of money and time in the long run.
Metal roofs are recyclable – Compared to asphalt-shingle roofs, metal roofs are 100% recyclable and can be reused for different purposes like folding partitions, door paneling, wall art or feature wall. That makes metal roofs the most environmentally friendly and sustainable roofing material available. Metal roofs are made with at least 25% reused material.
Metal roofing is becoming more and more popular, which is understandable considering its advantages and beauty it gives to your home.
It is friendly to the environment which, I personally think is very important these days, especially if you’re looking for sustainable options when it comes to your home and lifestyle.
Metal roofs come in a large variety of colors, shapes, and styles, so everybody can find something to customize it to their likes and make it suitable for their homes.
These were the top 10 things to know about metal roofs. Hopefully, this article will help you make the best decisions while doing your research for your new roofing project.
In Awe Roofing Limited is an Award-Winning, family owned and operated Vancouver Roofing Contractor with over 17 years of roofing experience. We serve the entire Lower Mainland area, from Whistler to Chilliwack, employing a team of professional staff members. Our team has won numerous awards including Best of Homestars for the last five years, and Three Best Rated six years in a row. Learn more
