The Pros & Cons of Metal Roofs

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If your current roof is a headache to maintain, maybe it’s time to consider the possibility of updating it to something better. Have you ever considered replacing your roof with metal?

Although it doesn’t sound as flashy as the likes of asphalt, rubber or slate, metal roofs are highly popular for homeowners and builders, due to its wealth of advantages. Of course, it does have a few drawbacks (which roofing material doesn’t?)

Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of metal roofs, so it make help your decision-making process.

The Pros of Metal Roofs

Durable & Long-Lasting

Perhaps the most obvious pro, and one that makes a lot of sense. Metal is a durable material that can withstand pretty much anything thrown at it. So there’s that, and then there’s also the fact that due to its materials, it can last 40+ years (with the addition of a manufacturer’s warranty for 30 years). That’s a solid investment opportunity for your home.

Environmentally-Friendly

Metal roofs are great for the environment, both in their production and in the materials themselves. They consist of at least 25 percent recycled materials and are 100 percent recyclable themselves, with leftover materials being used for other roof replacement or repair products. You’ll be helping the environment when opting for this type of roof.

Improved Energy Efficiency

You can significantly reduce your energy consumption and bills in winter and summer with a metal roof. The roof’s materials help with ventilation and airflow, making your home comfortable, while keeping in air. There’s also the reflective properties, meaning that in summertime, your roof will reflect the heart instead of absorbing it. Overall that means a more comfortable and liveable home throughout the year while enjoying savings on your energy bills.

Wealth of Colours/Styles

Don’t let the ‘metal’ part of the name fool you; there are a range of colours, textures and styles available for you to choose from for your new metal roof. Modern metal roofing comes in more than 100 different colors, including standard, premium, and custom hues, meaning you have the luxury of finding the right roof to match the decor and ambiance of your home.

Long-Term Value

When you add together all the above factors, you’ll notice the long-term benefits that will come with the metal roof. You’ll experience these advantages for decades ensuring that you get the most out of your investment.

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The Cons of Metal Roofs

It can be Expensive

According to Home Advisor, the average cost of a metal roof can range from “$120 to $900 per 100 square feet (or one “square” of material)”, putting it on the higher end of the scale compared to other roofing materials. Although you might pay more for the initial outlay, the long-term value is undoubtedly good.

The Roofs can be Dented

Although metal roofs can withstand plenty of trauma – such as extreme snowstorms and heatwaves – they can be easily dented if impacted by heavy objects, including hail or branches. That might mean that you have to pay for the repairs of the roof, which as mentioned above, can be a tad costly.

The Roofs can be Noisy

Those heavy rainfalls are going to become more obvious when you hear it all the time. That’s one of the setbacks with a metal roof: they can be incredibly noisy when impacted. However, for some it can be a minor inconvenience while others might dislike it completely. There is an upside to this con: if you install the extra layers of solid insulation sheathing beneath the metal means, you will minimize the sound heard inside.

Are You Ready for a Metal Roof?

We hope the above information helps you decide on whether to choose a metal roof or not. As you can see, metal roofs offer a lot of advantages with very minimal setbacks. It can prove a valuable investment that pays off for your home and family for years to come.

The best advice we can give you is to speak to an experienced, professional and well-recognized roofing contractor, who works with metal roof installation and replacement. We recommend Active Exteriors & Roofing, who have worked with metal roof replacements since 2002. They can guide on the best course of action on metal roofing, and help answer any questions or concerns while offering tips on how to maintain your roof.

If you’re ready for a new roof – choose metal! It will be worth it!