A Closer Look at Metal Roofing
If you need to replace an existing roof or install a new one, you may want to consider a metal roof. But before you buy, plan to do some research and weigh the pros and cons of metal roofing versus other roofing materials.
In this post, our trusted roofing experts at Nelson Contracting in Lincoln, NE, break down some metal roofing pros and cons to help you decide whether metal roofing meets the needs of your home. If you still need help or are ready to start with new metal roofing installation, call our team at (402) 464-2418.
What Is a Metal Roof?
A metal roof is simply a roofing system made using metal shingles, panels, or tiles. The demand for metal roofs has nearly quadrupled in the last 20 years. Curious why this roofing material continues to win over so many homeowners? Keep reading to weigh the metal roofing pros and cons.
Pros of Metal Roofs
Extremely Durable
If you have a metal roof installed and take care of it, it will easily survive rain, water, snow, and windstorms and last a long time. A professionally installed quality metal roof should last about 40 to 50 years. The fact that metal proves resistant to fire, rot, insects, and mildew contributes to its longevity.
Please bear in mind that poor workmanship, harsh climatic conditions, and damage from severe weather can shorten any roof’s lifespan.
Lightweight
Depending upon the thickness and profile of the roofing material, a metal roof weighs from about one to three pounds per square foot. That makes metal roofing one of the lightest of all roofing materials. Because of their light weight, roofers can often apply metal roofs directly over other materials without any additional structural support or removal.
Easy to Install
Metal roofing material typically comes in 12- to 36-inch-wide panels, multiple-shingle sections, or custom sizes. An experienced roofer can install these quickly. By installing a metal roof, you can save considerable costs by shortening the installation time.
Reflects Heat
Metal reflects heat from the sun, minimizing heat gain during the day. This reflective characteristic allows you to save the energy needed to cool your home during the day. You can even get federal rebates or tax credits for metal roofing with coatings that meet EnergyStar requirements.
Can Go on Low-Pitched Roofs
Roofers can install metal roofing materials on gently pitched roofs. Metal shingles require a minimum roof pitch of three inches for each horizontal foot, and in some cases, even as low as one inch for each horizontal foot. In comparison, materials such as tile require a slope of at least four inches per horizontal foot.
Other benefits of metal roofing include:
- Easy to maintain
- Operational efficiency
- Range of options
- Environmentally friendly
Cons Of Metal Roofs
Can Be Noisy
If the area you live in gets a significant amount of rain, water will tap on your metal roof a lot. Some people find the sound calming or soothing, but that’s not always the case. You can minimize the noise by having extra layers of insulation or solid sheathing installed beneath the roof.
High Initial Cost
The longevity that metal roofs promise comes at a premium. Though most metal roofs tend to cost about the same as other premium types of roofing, higher-end metals can run up to 10 times the cost of traditional asphalt shingles. Don’t worry, though. You can still recoup the money on your initial investment.
Can Dent Easily
Although today’s metal roofs can withstand decades of abuse from harsh weather, some metal can still dent when branches or large hail fall on them. Depending on the type of metal roof, even walking on the metal shingles might damage them.
Ready to Start Your Metal Roofing Project?
Now that you understand the metal roofing pros and cons, contact us at Nelson Contracting to begin your roofing project. We have over 25 years of experience in roofing installation, repairs, and replacement, in Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding area. Dial (402) 464-2418 today for a free estimate.
