Nobody likes the thought of putting a new roof on their house. But whether it’s due to age, weather damage, or a freak accident, sometimes it just needs to be done. When it comes to residential roofing, you’re the one who makes the call on what kind of roofing material should be used. There’s a host of options out there — asphalt shingles, tile, slate, metal — and it can sometimes be a difficult decision to make. Depending on where you live, the choice might be easier — those who live in extreme weather zones, for example, may already know what type of roofing material is needed for safe residential roofing. One of the top choices in roofing these days is surprisingly that of metal roofing. Residential metal roofs have come a long way in the last few years and can make homes look elegant, modern, and chic.
What Kind of Metal Roofing Materials Are There to Choose From?
Genearlly, the most common types of metal used in metal roofing are steel and aluminum. For those looking for a pricier residential roofing option, copper or zinc can also be used. However, even the pricier types of metal are still 30% less than the cheapest tile or slate roof, so if you were thinking about going with the latter option, it’s worth considering a metal roof as well.
Some metal roofs may also be brushed with an aluminum-zinc alloy, for longevity. Indeed, steel roofing that has this alloy can last up to 100 years!
The most common types of metal roofing are vertical seam paneled roofing or interlocking shingles, but you can vary the style by choosing a specific color for your metal roof.
Why a Metal Roof?
One of the top things that homeowners look for when deciding on residential roofs is longevity. Metal roofs can last 50 or more years with the right kind of maintenance, and as mentioned before, with the right kinds of coating, can even last as long as 100 years! The average metal roof will also last about three to seven times longer than the average asphalt roof — so if you don’t want to have to worry about replacing your roof again, a metal roof might be the way to go.
They’re also easy to customize, with over 100 colors being offered with modern metal roofs. That includes not just standard colors, but also premium and customized. Compared to the color options that asphalt shingle roofs offer (15 to 20 standard colors), that’s excellent flexibility in being able to customize your roof.
Furthermore, a metal roof can help keep your home safer and reduce the amount of energy that you use. Most metal roofs come with a 140 mph wind rating, which will help keep your home from incurring any major weather damage. And, a metal roof can save you as much as a quarter off your annual energy bill!
Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly. A new metal roof might have as much as 30-60% recycled metal content in it and when its life as your roof is over, it’s 100% recyclable.
What Do I Need to Consider With a Metal Roof?
If you live in an area with lots of hail, you might want to consider adding a protective coat to your metal roof to prevent dimpling. Generally this isn’t too much of a concern, but if your hail is heavy and frequent enough, it could happen, so it’s best to safeguard against ahead of time.
Metal residential roofing also tends to be a bit more expensive than other types of roofing (barring slate and tile roofs), but are well worth their money. However, it’s worth taking your budget into consideration when looking at metal roofs. Most homeowners find that the cost is well justified and are satisfied with their decision.
If you’re willing to pay a little more, a metal roof will last you a lifetime, most likely, save you money in the long run, and leave just a small footprint behind. What’s not to love?