Driving around any neighborhood, you will see that metal roofs are incredibly popular. No matter what city or state you live in, metal is one of the main materials you will see on rooftops. So, whether you are building a new home or your current house is ready for a new roof, metal could be a good option for you.
There are several roofing materials, colors, and textures to choose from and each comes with their own advantages and disadvantages. Today, we are going to discuss metal roofs and the pros and cons of installing one on your home.
Pros
Long Lifespan – With proper care and maintenance, a metal roof can last upwards of 40 years! Compared to other materials, this is on the longer end of the lifespan range. For example, asphalt shingle roofs typically last up to 20 years. If you are looking for a roofing material that will likely last, metal is for you. The key to ensuring your roof lasts as long as it should is to complete necessary repairs in a timely fashion and schedule routine maintenance with a professional roofer.
Durability – No matter where you live, the climate will have an effect on your roofing system. So if you live in the northeast, your home can experience warm temperatures in the summer and freezing temperatures and snow during the winter months. On the contrary, the southwest portion of the US sees extreme heat and monsoons with heavy rain and high winds. Luckily, a metal roof is designed to endure all climates. Again, if the metal roof sustains damage, it will need to be repaired immediately to remain durable for years to come.
Environmentally Friendly – Most metal roofs are constructed from sustainable materials. This makes them incredibly popular among homeowners who are looking toward the future and consider using recycled materials. Additionally, when a metal roof is taken off of a home, 100% of the material is recyclable.
Energy Efficient – Many homeowners believe a metal roof will make their house warm, but metal roofs actually reflect radiant heat. Based on the design of your roof, it can reduce your cooling costs up to 25%! A few elements to take into consideration when deciding on your new roof include the color, panel size, ventilation, and the finish. Ask your local roofer how you can use your roof to keep cooling costs low.
Cons
Cost – While metal roofs likely will outlast any other roofing material, it also has a higher initial cost. For example, a shingle roof costs much less than a metal roof, but a shingle roof will also need to be replaced at least twice within the same timeframe as a metal roof. Consider this when you are selecting a material for your roof.
Proper Installation is a Must – Naturally, metal expands and contracts with the temperatures. If a metal roof is not installed correctly and with fasteners that allow for the expansion and contraction, the panels will become loose. This will cause damage to the panels, requiring repair, and potentially affect the lifespan of the roof. While many homeowners think they are capable of installing a roof, it is best to have a professional complete the job.
Rust – Metal shingles will start to show signs of rust if water gathers, materials start to deteriorate, or hail causes dents. Rust can lead to cracking, hole formation, and leaks within the roofing system. Large areas of rust will require significant repair if not a replacement of the entire roof.
Is A Metal Roof Best For Your Home?
While metal roofs are increasingly popular, they also come with a few disadvantages. However, when deciding on a new roof for your home, it is important to keep in mind that every roofing material comes with pros and cons. Deciding what is important to you and your family will help you ultimately discover which is best.
If your home is ready for a new metal roof or you are currently building a home in the East Valley, Arizona area, contact Craven Construction. Our team is experienced with metal roof installation of every type and roofs of all sizes. We also offer professional metal roofing maintenance and repair for your convenience. Call our office to schedule your FREE estimate today!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.