Metal roofing is becoming a more popular way to shingle a house. There are many benefits to this material choice regular shingles don’t have.
A metal roof house will stand out from its neighbors by providing a unique and attractive roof. Metal roofing can also protect other buildings. A metal shed roof, for instance, can protect all your garden tools and equipment from even the worst weather.
If you’re wondering how to install metal roofing, there are a few things to consider first.
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What is a Metal Roof?
A metal roof is exactly what it sounds like: a roof made from metal. Some people prefer this roofing material over others because it’s long-lasting and highly effective in keeping the elements out and the heat in.
Metal roofing can be made up of metal sheets or tiles of varying thicknesses. They can use a variety of metals for different advantages like greater protection or better energy efficiency.
They are also preferred over other roofing materials for their attractiveness. Though the choices of metal roof colors tend to be limited, the material provides a stunning exterior to increase curb appeal.
Types of Metal Roofs
The term “metal roofing” refers to a broad spectrum of different materials. Though they all have comparable advantages and disadvantages, they will provide a unique experience for you as a homeowner.
For instance, a copper metal roof will give you different metal roof colors than an aluminum roof, and corrugated metal roofing will bring a different texture than a standing seam metal roof.
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Tin
- Zinc
- Metal / Steel
Shapes
Aside from the material, you can choose between different metal roof panels to get the best structure possible for your roof.
- Corrugated
- Metal Tile
- Metal Slate
- Standing Seam
How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost?
Metal roofing prices are notoriously higher than shingled options. Cheap metal roofing sheets are more easily dented and damaged, so the more durable you want your roof, the more expensive it will be.
Averages Per Square Feet
Average costs per square foot for metal tiles are anywhere between four and ten dollars.
For installation, costs are usually double the price of the metal roofing materials used.
Dependencies
The cost of a metal roof depends on the material used, the shape of the tiles, the steepness of the roof itself, and plenty of other factors. For instance, if you want metal roof snow guards, you will pay more than if you don’t want snow guards.
To protect your roof from moisture, many contractors will use a metal roof sealant to help keep your roof dry. Without a sealant, your roof could leak, and you will have to face repairs later on.
What Your Contractor Needs to Pay For
Your contractor should provide labor, materials, and equipment as part of their services. This means finding workers or paying capital costs isn’t your responsibility. The same goes for marketing.
It’s the contractor’s job to pay their marketing and capital costs, so look to see if these show up on your receipt. Using a metal roof cost calculator can help you decide whether to commit to a metal roof installation.
Metal Roof Alternatives
When considering residential metal roofing, it’s tempting to go with alternative roof options. Metal roofing sheets can hold their own against different materials, and in some cases, have more advantages than most.
Metal Roof vs Shingles
Metal is longer-lasting, eco-friendly, and durable against the weather. In contrast, shingles are cheaper, less heavy, and easier to install and repair.
Metal Roof vs Solar
Both metal and solar provide energy-efficient, cost-effective roofs. However, metal will protect your house more so than a solar roof, and solar roofs require extra maintenance that many people can’t afford.
Metal Roof vs Flat Roofs
A flat roof provides a lower cost for installation and gives you extra space for creative home use. However, it also needs more maintenance than a metal roof and can be prone to leaks, which a properly installed metal roof will not allow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some commonly asked questions about metal roofing.
How Long Should a Metal Roof Last?
Most metal roofs should last several decades, some more or less depending on the material used. The average life expectancy for a metal roof is 50-70 years.
When Should You Install a Metal Roof?
If you’ve just bought a home and plan to stay there for years to come, installing a new roof can set you up for a good investment. The same goes for if you mean to sell a place: replacing the roof with metal paneling can increase curb appeal and make your house more attractive for potential buyers.
How Often Should You Replace a Metal Roof?
Because of their longevity, metal roofs don’t need replacing very often. Typically, a metal roof will need replacing around 50-75 years.
How Long Does a Metal Roof Installation Take?
For a moderate-sized house in a mild climate, installation can take up to a few days. For larger homes or areas with bad weather, installation can take up to several weeks.
How Does a Metal Roof Stand Up in Difficult Weather?
Metal roofs are impervious to moisture and heavy rainfall. They also stay strong against hurricane winds and are less likely to tear off your house. For some materials, hail storms can dent a metal roof, but for the most part, metal roofing will protect your home from the weather.
Are Metal Roofs Noisy?
Today, metal roof installation ensures that the metal panels lay on top of a layer of shingles or an underlayment that deadens the sound of rain or hail on the roof. In some cases, with proper installation, metal roofs are quieter than shingle roofs.
Conclusion
Metal roofs can be more expensive than other roofs, but they last a long time and do more to protect your home. Metal roofing has plenty of advantages to its name and merits consideration as a roofing choice. Give us a call today if you’re considering a metal roof for your home.
