And Other Common Questions
Metal roof installations for residential properties have become more common in recent years here in Jasper, Georgia and surrounding areas. That leaves us with a few questions, starting with – are metal roofs better? For decades, asphalt shingle roof installations have ruled the industry for residential roofing. They are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and reliable.
But today, a metal roof installation is almost as common as that of an asphalt shingle roof, and there are several reasons why. So, before you choose your next roof based on the appearance because both asphalt and metal roof installations come in designs and styles that match almost anything you may want, opt for the roofing material that is the best choice for your home. Two popular reasons that metal roof installations are taking off in the industry:
- Durability: Just about anything that Mother Nature can dish, a metal roof can withstand it and keep on protecting. While a metal roof installation will typically have a 30 to 50 year warranty, they have been known to last up to 70 years. And though a metal roof has its weaknesses, like falling tree branches or hailstones denting them, it is still a sturdy roofing material. Asphalt shingle roofing materials are vulnerable to moisture, which can grow algae and fungus. It weakens with UV rays, ice dams form, and the lifespan averages 15 years for most homeowners by comparison.
- Eco-Friendly: The material for metal roof installation is mostly recycled and when it has reached the end of its lifespan, it can still be recycled. Metal roofs are considered to be a more sustainable roofing material compared to asphalt shingles. A metal roof installation also provides more energy-efficiency because of its reflective qualities, and it blocks heat transmission to a home’s interior. A specialized paint coating can be applied that will reduce the cooling bills even more. This is all compared to asphalt roofing shingles, which require replacement more frequently, adding as much as 20 billion pounds of old asphalt roofing shingles to landfills every year. Additionally, asphalt roofing shingles are made from a petroleum-based product.
What is the best metal roofing system?
Most roofing experts will tell a homeowner to go with an aluminum metal roof installation. Why? Because it isn’t just durable and corrosion-resistant, but it is also lightweight, making it easier to work with for installation. Aluminum metal roof installation is a great option for most residential roofing systems, including these five types:
- Standing seam
- Shake
- Shingle
- Tile
- Slate
Aluminum metal roof installation is rust-resistant, making it an ideal material for homes on the coast.
Is corrugated metal roofing good?
Absolutely. In fact, it may be the best metal roof installation material. A corrugated metal roof is highly resistant to hailstorms, ice, snow, and other extreme weather conditions. It is a fade-resistant, fire-resistant, rust-resistant roofing material in addition to being resistant to insects like termites, making this a “must-have” roofing material.
What is a standing seam metal roof?
Standing seam metal roofs are metal panels with female and male legs that engage and are installed with clips that fasten them to the substructure. There is a version of clipless panels available too. Regardless of which method is used to attach the panels, the fasteners are not exposed, making maintenance easier after the metal roof installation is complete.
How long does a metal roof last?
For a metal roof installation done correctly, that has proper maintenance and repairs afterward, and with routine upkeep by somebody that knows how to clean a metal roof, you can expect a lifespan between 40 years to 70 years, or even longer. The thicker the metal, the more durable, but regardless of the thickness, compared to the 15 year average of asphalt roofing, you get more bang for the buck with a metal roof installation.
Are metal roofs noisy?
Not any more than asphalt shingle roofing when the metal roof installation is done correctly. In fact, they are known to be quieter because of the durable material. A metal roof is an ideal material to defend your home from noise pollution in addition to being an energy-efficient roof that is eco-friendly and has strong solar reflectivity.
Is metal roofing easy to install?
For an experienced roofing contractor that has worked with metal roof installations, yes, it is a relatively easy job. However, it can be complicated depending on the brand and quality of the metal panels used. The knowledge of how to fasten down with the right type of screws and the rubber seal under the screw is essential in the quality of a metal roof installation. This is why it’s generally better to hire a pro.
Concluding Thoughts
Metal roofing comes in a variety of colors and designs, but what if you get tired of what you choose? Or perhaps the house you purchase has a color of metal roofing you don’t like, can you paint a metal roof?
The answer is yes, but you’ll need to do proper and thorough prep work first. The instructions for painting metal roofs can be found online with videos. Keep in mind, once you paint a metal roof, it will need repainting every three to five years. This takes away the minimal to no maintenance feature of a metal roof installation.
