Metal Roofing Advantages and Disadvantages

If your roof is making you want to pull your hair out and spend a fortune on home repairs, then maybe it’s time for an upgrade.

Metal roofing is one option that can provide protection against the elements and be low maintenance compared with shingle or tile roofs.

There are many benefits of metal roofing, but there are some downsides too.

So, before you make your decision if you should invest in a metal roof, let’s take a closer look at metal roofing pros and cons!

METAL ROOFING PROS

Does metal roofing have a longer life than asphalt shingle roofs?

Metal roofing lasts up to 50 years, or longer, with little to no maintenance required. This is because of their resistance to wind, hail, and fire damage.

That’s why metal roofing is a popular choice in hurricane-prone areas.

But metal roofing is not just for tropical areas. They’re also used in northern climates, where temperatures can plummet well below freezing and snow accumulation can fall up to feet of snow during the winter.

In addition, metal roofing is fire resistant and can withstand temperatures of up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, metal roofing is a superb choice for hot climates and areas prone to wildfires.

Is metal roofing attractive?

Metal roofing materials often have an attractive appearance that blends well with any architectural style.

Metal roofing systems are available in different finishes, including copper, bronze, redwood, and black slate.

Having a metal roof adds value to your home and boosts your property’s curb appeal with a sleek, modern aesthetic not found in other types of roofs.

Do I have to have gutters on my new metal roof?

Good news! Metal roofing is an excellent option for homeowners who no longer want to worry about cleaning and maintaining gutters.

Gutters are expensive and difficult to install, but metal roofing require no gutters at all!

This means you can save money on installation costs and still have a beautiful, durable roof that will last for years.

Since metal roofing requires no rain gutters, it also drains away water faster, so water droplets don’t congregate at the seams and penetrate through them.

So, if you’re tired of dealing with gutters, a metal roof may be just right for you.

Can metal roofing be recycled?

Yes, metal roofing is also environmentally friendly.

Metal roofing is recyclable at the end of its life instead of ending up in landfills where it can emit greenhouse gases like traditional asphalt shingles.

Metal roofing is most commonly recycled as scrap metal, shipping containers, metal furniture, and vehicles.

So metal roofing is a responsible choice for green-minded consumers.

What about metal roofing insulation?

Because of the thickness of metal roofing panels (over 8 inches), these types of roofs have excellent insulation properties.

Metal roofing provides a reflective surface that helps cool the house in summer and stays warmer in winter, saving energy for heating and cooling purposes.

These benefits make metal roofing a good choice for Rio Grande Valley residential neighborhoods.

How do you repair metal roofs?

Metal roofs are easy to repair.

For example, if there are hail dents, the damaged area is replaced with new panels.

The metal panels are soldered together and mended when necessary for protection from wind storms or hail damage.

Seams in metal roofs are the weakest point, with a lower life expectancy than other parts because they’re less resistant to wear down.

Do metal roofs leak?

Metal roofing is not susceptible to residential storm damage like some other types of roofing materials because they do not absorb water and, therefore, don’t leak into your home during heavy rainstorms.

Just make sure you purchase high-quality metal panels with an optimal porosity level for maintaining a watertight seal.

Does metal roofing prevent animals from crawling into the attic?

Yes! If you have ever had problems with animals such as squirrels nesting in your attic, installing a metal roof will help eliminate that problem.

Animals are much more unlikely to enter the attic through metal roofing. However, if your metal roof is missing a protective shield, animals could find their way into your attic.

The metal roofing panels should be sealed and insulated to prevent gaps and holes vulnerable to animal infiltration.

Some metal roofs also come with metal screening that can be installed for added protection from wildlife.

METAL ROOFING CONS

How much does a metal roof cost?

Metal roofing’s popularity is growing in residential communities where it was once confined to the barn or shed. And the cost can be expensive.

There are also many factors to consider when determining the cost of metal roofing, such as choosing roofing materials, the desired style, and the standing seam.

Labor costs are also a large percentage of the cost.

What is the cost of a standing seam metal roof?

Again, the actual cost of a metal roof standing seam depends on the size of your roof and the contractor you hire.

For a one-story residential home with a base top and roof without penetrations and no valleys, you can expect a 24” steel standing seam metal roof for around $12.00 per square foot.

Remember, these standing seam prices are not perfect. You will receive a proper quote when you are ready.

Can hail dent metal roofing?

Yes, and no. While standard-size hail (between 1-1.75 inches) will not harm your metal roof, huge hail can.

Is metal roofing noisy?

Again, another yes and no answer.

Today, most metal roofing systems are installed over an existing roof, so it’s no louder than any other type of roof.

Other types carry more noise. But many people love this sound.

What about metal roofing colors not matching?

For homeowners interested in keeping the metal on their homes looking uniform, it may be challenging to find an exact color match for future repairs or home additions.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for something that will survive your home’s lifetime while still providing good energy efficiency, then metal roofing might be the right option for you.

It should be easy to see why more homeowners are turning to metal roofing because of the added benefits.

However, even though the advantages of owning a metal roof seem to outweigh its disadvantages, always do your research before deciding.

If you’re interested in learning more about what types of roofs are available for your home or business, contact Texas Damage Consultants at (956) 253-1206.

I can help walk through all your options so that you make the right decision for your home’s needs.

Call for a free estimate on a roof inspection project today!