Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has been increasing in popularity for a variety of reasons. It’s a durable material that can last longer than shingles and can withstand extreme weather. It’s also more fire-resistant. There are a lot of benefits that have seen more homeowners choosing metal over other materials. However, it’s not the right roofing material for everyone, so you should learn more about both the pros and cons before deciding on metal for your next roof replacement.

What Are the Pros of Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing’s popularity speaks to the many benefits this type of roofing offers. Here are the reasons you should consider metal the next time you replace your roof.

Metal Roofs Have a Long Lifespan

One of the reasons metal roofing is so popular is that it lasts a long time. Homeowners can install metal roofing and then not have to worry about replacing it for up to 70 years. By contrast, shingle roofs typically only last up to 30 years before they need to be replaced.

Metal Roofs Are More Environmentally Friendly

Metal roofs are typically made of at least 25% recycled materials and on top of that, the metal roof itself is usually completely recyclable. Metal roofs are also more energy-efficient, which helps the environment by decreasing how hard HVAC units have to work to heat or cool a home.

Metal Roofs Can Save Homeowners Money

That energy efficiency can also help homeowners to save money. With HVAC units not having to run as often to keep a home at a comfortable temperature, you’ll save money on energy costs.

Metal Roofs Come in a Variety of Styles

Metal roofs are very versatile and come in a variety of styles and colors. Some types of metal roofs can even look more like shingles than they do like metal panels. This means that homeowners have a lot of freedom to choose the style they want for their homes. If you want your home to fit in with the aesthetic of your neighborhood, then there are options that can help your home to blend in. Alternatively, you could choose a style that makes your home stand out from the rest.

Metal Roofs Are Safer

Metal roofs are more fire-resistant than other types of roofing. If there’s a fire nearby or a lightning strike, the roof won’t catch fire, endangering the rest of your home. The metal roof can instead help to protect your home.

Metal Roofs Are Durable

Metal roofs are also very durable. They can better withstand storms, strong winds, and more that could damage other roofing materials.

Metal Roofs Require Less Maintenance

Metal roofs also don’t require as much maintenance. They should still be inspected at least once a year to check for any repairs that might be needed. However, they don’t require much more than that in terms of ongoing maintenance that the homeowner has to perform.

What Are the Cons of Metal Roofing?

While there are many reasons to choose metal roofing, it’s not necessarily the right choice for everyone. Before you decide to switch to a metal roof, it’s a good idea to also learn about the possible downsides.

Metal Roofs Are Expensive

Metal roofs have higher up-front costs than other roofing materials do. Those who can afford this, they’ll save money over the lifetime of the roof with lower energy bills and not having to replace their roof as quickly. However, that higher initial cost could prevent some from taking advantage of the benefits of metal roofs.

Metal Roofs Can Be Noisy

When it’s raining, the sound of raindrops hitting the roof can be louder with a metal roof than with other materials. However, many homeowners with a metal roof either enjoy the sound or find that it’s not as loud as they’d expected prior to installing the metal roof.

Metal Roofs Can Dent

In a hailstorm or if a tree drops branches onto a metal roof, it could dent. However, other types of roofing materials would still get damaged in the same situations. Shingles and tiles could crack, for example, which could then increase the risk of roof leaks. A dented metal roof is typically still just as protective.

For informational purposes only.