If you have a metal roof or are considering getting one, you likely have many questions about metal roofing. We are here to help! Here are the answers to your metal roof FAQ.
How Long Does A Metal Roof Last?
One of the major pros of metal roofing is longevity. In general, you can expect your metal roof to last 30-50 years. That may seem like a large range, but it all depends on how often the metal roofs are serviced and repainted. Typically, if you run into an issue, your metal roof can just be repainted instead of entirely replaced.
How Does This Compare To Other Roofing Types?
If you’re unaware of how long a typical roof lasts, you may think that 30-50 years sounds normal. This is far from the norm! On average, a typical roof will last about 12-20 years. You’re also not guaranteed that long depending on the area and climate you’re in. Regular roofs are typically made of asphalt, which deteriorates when exposed to weather conditions over time. In contrast, metal roofs last and come with no worry that they will decompose.
Is Metal Roofing Good For The Environment?
It’s completely understandable to want a roofing material that doesn’t harm the environment. If you’re worried about that, metal roofing is a great option to consider. Metal roofing is generally a lot better for the environment than asphalt due to the recycled content of steel in the metal roof. As your metal roof lives it’s last days, you won’t have to worry about where it will end up. The roof will be 100% recyclable, which makes it a green-friendly material. In contrast, asphalt almost always ends up in a landfill. There are approximately 20 billion pounds of asphalt dumped into landfills each year, according to the National Association of Homebuilders Research Center.
Does A Metal Roof Cost More Than A Typical Roof?
By now, you can see that metal roofing is a great option if you’re looking for something environmentally friendly and long-lasting. There’s got to be a catch, right? Well, sort of, but hear us out. Due to all of its benefits, you can expect a price tag two to three times higher than an asphalt roof. This may make accessibility a bit more difficult for you, but if you’re able to, the cost essentially pays for itself. You likely won’t have to worry about replacements due to the great warranties that come with metal roofing. You can also see it as an investment because it can help the resale value of your home greatly and lower your energy bills.
Can You Give Me An Estimate?
The cost of your metal roofing will depend on the style of metal roofing you’d like and the shape of your home’s roof. A contractor will need to visit your home to get a proper estimate, so looking at average metal roofing costs may not be the best option for you. However, if you have absolutely no clue about the range, you can utilize a roofing calculator to give you a better idea.
Is Metal Roofing Noisier?
You may be surprised to learn that there is very little difference between the sounds that a metal roof makes during weather vs. an asphalt roof. This is due to the insulation in your attic. The insulation does a pretty good job of masking those sounds for you.
How Do Metal Roofs Do In Bad Weather?
They may not make more noise than an asphalt roof, but how do they fare with the weather? Pretty well! Your metal roof will be able to withstand a pretty significant beating from weather events like strong wind, snow, hail, and even fire. Just how powerful is the wind resistance? Well, you can remain calm at any winds under 140 mph. That is an incredibly strong wind rating.
If you live in an area with snow and you’re worried about the integrity of the roof, it will ease your mind to know that metal roofing quickly sheds snow, so the structure beneath remains strong.
Lastly, if you are in an area prone to wildfires, metal roofing can help protect you from certain falling embers.
Will Metal Roofing Match My Home And Neighborhood?
If you’re worried about metal roofing being an eyesore, it’s understandable. Everyone wants a roof that matches their home and doesn’t stick out in comparison to the homes around it. In the past, this could be an issue, but today, metal roofs are made to look like typical roofing materials like asphalt shingles, cedar shake, or slate roofing. The only difference is how strong and durable it is. There is also a very wide variety of choices to consider, so you’re sure to find one that suits your design and style desires.
Is Metal Roofing Too Heavy For My Home?
Here’s another surprise for you: Metal roofing is actually much lighter than most roofing materials. You can expect your metal roof to be, on average, 50% lighter than asphalt and 75% lighter than concrete tile. You typically don’t need to worry about metal roofing being too much for a structure like a garage or a porch.
Do Metal Roofs Get Hot In The Summer?
You may think that a shingle roof may be more suitable for hot weather. It only makes sense, right? I mean, have you touched a metal surface in the summer before? Ouch! While this is a reasonable assumption, metal roofing actually reflects a lot of UV rays, which will help your home stay cooler. This is due to their low e-coatings.
What are some advantages of a metal roof?
One of the primary advantages of choosing a metal roof is its longevity; when properly installed and maintained, it can last up to three times longer than other types of roofs. Metal roofs require much less maintenance than traditional shingle roofs, saving money on regular repairs. Furthermore, metal roofs are considered “cool roofs” because they reflect up to 95% of the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them like other types of material do; this has been found to reduce cooling costs by 10-25%. Finally, metal roofs come in various colors and styles that can improve the aesthetics of your home while providing maximum protection from the elements.
What types of metals are used for residential roofs?
The two most common metals used for residential roofing applications are aluminum and steel. Aluminum and Steel offer excellent durability and resistance against corrosion when treated correctly with coatings explicitly designed for each material. Steel is known for its higher strength-to-weight ratio. At the same time, aluminum has excellent formability and outstanding Reflectivity levels due to its light color, which helps reduce cooling costs in warmer climates. However, both materials come in various thicknesses depending on how durable you need your roof to be.
Are there any drawbacks to installing a metal roof?
Metal roofs can have several drawbacks if not properly maintained or installed incorrectly – this includes potential leaks from improper installation or lack of maintenance due to rust build-up over time when left exposed without proper protective coating layers. Homeowners should also be aware that these types of systems require professional installation since cutting into existing structures can cause damage if not done correctly by an experienced contractor. Additionally, some areas may have local ordinances that restrict the use of certain colors or styles, limiting what you could install on your home and increasing permitting costs if applicable.
Do I need special tools or materials when installing a metal roof?
Yes – while there are some DIY-friendly products out there designed specifically for low slope installations, professional contractors will use specialized tools such as shears and roll forming machines along with fastening systems designed specifically for each product type being installed to ensure a secure fitment that meets specific building code requirements as well as industry standards set forth by manufacturers warranties. Additionally, particular materials must be used for any warranties offered by manufacturers to cover any resulting damages due to faulty installation techniques or incorrect tooling usage during the application process.
Ridgeline Can Help With Your Metal Roof
At Ridgeline Construction Roofing & Exteriors, we offer the following styles of metal roofing:
- Shingle & slate
- Tile
- Shake
- Vertical panels
- Standing seam
Not sure what you need? Let us help you! Our experienced team can guide you through the selection process all the way through to your roof installation. Ridgeline Construction Roofing & Exteriors is a local roofing company that services regions of Alabama and Florida. We are one of the few metal roofing companies and roof coating contractors that offer high-quality materials from well-known manufacturers at the best prices available. With Ridgeline, you can be sure you are getting the highest-quality customer service, products, and workmanship every time. Get a free estimate today by calling (256) 325-1345, or by completing our online contact form.
