Why Metal Roofs Are So Unpopular
Why metal roof? When people think of metal roofs they often picture old tin roofs that create a deafening sound every time a drop of rain hits it. Or perhaps you need to access the roof to clean the gutters or trim some overhanging branches and have always heard that metal roofs cannot support that type of weight.
Now, it is true that metal roofs are more slippery than shingles, but you should have no concerns about walking on them. A metal roof is supported in a different manner than traditional wood and shingled roofs.
Speak with your roof contractor to learn the best practices if you ever need to access it. As technologies change to make metal roofs more functional and sensible, so have consumer taste. Metal roofs are popping up more and more throughout neighbourhoods and communities, and for good reason.
There are a multitude of options when it comes to metal roofs since there are so many materials, colours, and textures to choose from. There are even metal roof options that mimic the look of traditional shingles.
Reviews On Metal Roofs
There are many positive reviews on metal roofs. There are a handful of metal roof characteristics that homeowners actually prefer. For instance, metal roofs won’t catch fire as the material is non-combustible, whereas the oil used to create asphalt shingles are susceptible to fire. A metal home will not only bring down insurance premiums, it can actually boost the value of your home.
Metal roofs also reflect the sun’s rays, which will help to keep your home cooler. Depending on where you live, homeowners living in colder climates should consider installing snow guards if they own metal roofs. This will prevent snow from sliding off the roof as one big sheet.
Metal Roofs vs. Shingles
Are metal roofs better? When comparing metal roofs to shingles, there are a few significant differences to pay attention to. One of the biggest is the lifespan of each material. On average, asphalt shingles will last 12 to 17 years whereas a metal roof can last upwards of 50 years. So the odds are, you will install a metal roof once and have it forever.
The cost of metal roofs are more expensive up front, but when you consider maintenance and repair work when it comes to asphalt shingles, the cost is very comparable. When facing the elements that Mother Nature throws at it, metal is always a better option than shingles since it’s far more equipped to handle all aspects of weather.
Are Metal Roofs Very Expensive?
Are metal roofs expensive? If you simply compare the upfront costs, metal roofs are typically more expensive. However, this doesn’t take into consideration the overall lifespan and maintenance required for this type of roof. You’ll likely have to re-shingle your roof three to four times over the course of your metal roof’s life.
You also need to consider labour and repair work for small things like shingles blowing off. When you opt for a metal roof, the maintenance is next to none and you can be confident knowing that this roof will get the job done for many years to come.
Are There Problems With Metal Roofs?
There are a number of myths that paint metal roofs in a bad light that are simply not true. This makes people think there are problems associated with metal roofs. Let’s explore the age old question: are metal roofs good?
Lightning – while it is true that metal conducts electricity, metal roofs do not attract lightning. Trees and telephone poles are far more likely to be struck by lightning than a metal roof, and even if a metal roof comes into contact with lightning, it’s completely safe. A metal roof is actually one of the best roof materials to have if lightning strikes. Metal roofs help absorb and disperse the electricity through the home. Metal is actually noncombustible. So if your roof is ever struck by lightning, you don’t have to worry about it catching on fire.
Affected by the elements – if you’ve even been in a barn during a rainstorm and heard the raindrops slam down on the tin roofs, then you might be apprehensive about getting one for your home. You don’t have to worry about this with metal roofs. Metal roofs for homes have roof decks and insulation to help muffle any sounds. Funny enough, metal roofs are as quiet, if not quieter, than other roof options.
Metal roofs are also rather durable, so in the event of a major hail storm, you can rest easy knowing metal is one of the best options to withstand the force of nature. Big enough hail can damage any type of roof, but a metal roof is one of the most durable options you can choose.
Heat up home – one of the myths about metal roofs is that the material will cause your home to heat up. In fact, a metal roof will help to reflect UV rays that the typical asphalt roof will absorb. Metal roofs will also release the solar heat far quicker than an asphalt one.
A metal roof that is properly installed will allow you to maintain a more consistent temperature inside your home. You will also notice a considerable amount of savings on your energy bill due to reduced cooling costs.
Heavy and rusty – we have the technology in this day and age to create metal roofs that will not rust. They are made specifically with roofing in mind and are constructed with a coating that is galvanized. A special roofing paint is applied to protect it from the elements. A new metal roof that is properly installed should remain rust-free for decades. New technologies have actually drastically reduced the weight of metal roofs. Now a metal roof is around 50 percent lighter than the traditional asphalt tiled roof. Metal roofs can also be installed right on top of existing asphalt shingle roofs.