When you are considering roofing for your home, there’s a lot to think about – like materials, style, cost and installation. When weighing your options, metal roofing systems provide an alternative to traditional asphalt shingles. Here’s what to think through before you make your decision:
What are the benefits of metal roofing?
Longevity, energy efficiency and a lower environmental impact are just some of the benefits of choosing a metal roof.
Although the initial cost of a metal roof is more than traditional asphalt, so is its lifespan. Metal roofs can last 30 to 50 years longer than other roofing materials, saving you money in the long-term. ) Plus, cool-metal roofing uses a reflective solar coating designed to minimize heat buildup and reduce air conditioning costs. (Another money-saver!)
Every year, about 13.2 million tons of asphalt roofing shingle waste is generated across the United States; making metal an environmentally friendly option to consider. They are also 100% recyclable and are made with a minimum of 25% recycled material, depending on the type of metal.
What roofing material should I pick?
Metal roofs can be manufactured from a variety of metals and alloys including steel, aluminum, copper, zinc and terne (zinc-tin alloy).
- Steel: There are three variations of steel: galvanized, galvalume, and weathering steel (corten). Steel is one of the most common metal roof materials.One reason for its popularity is the varying color options, high strength, low weight and long-term durability. These can allow for a variety of looks to complement your home.
Compared to other metal, steel is typically less expensive. Depending upon the thickness, color, and quality of the desired panels, pricing could range anywhere from $75 to $250 per roofing square (100 square feet).
Steel roofs do have a downside, though. If your home is located along the coast and exposed to salt spray, you may want to rule out galvanized steel – it could corrode in such conditions.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is typically more expensive than steel, but also comes with more resistance. Aluminum sheet metal is very lightweight and easy for a contractor to form and install. Even though aluminum is a thinner and lighter material, it’s still very durable and can replicate the strength of much thicker metals.
One of the biggest selling points of an aluminum roof is the fact that it doesn’t have red rust and corrosion is generally minimal as it ages. Studies have even shown that aluminum can work great in coastal areas with high rainfall and seawater spray conditions. However, aluminum is typically a thinner material and therefore more prone to denting.
- Copper:Copper is long-lasting, known to last up to 100 years. It is very soft, which makes it a quieter option, think heavy rain downpour! However, copper is expensive and over time acquires a greenish patina. Some people find that attractive, but others don’t like the transitioning hues.
- Zinc: Zinc actually possesses its own outer protective layer, which prevents against corrosion, scratching and panel markings. If wind or another element were to scratch the surface of the zinc roof, the metal’s protective layer would actually fix and correct itself over time. Zinc roofs have been known to last anywhere from 60 to 100 years.
Are there different styles of metal panels?
Metal options come in two general styles: vertical panels and interlocking shingles. Both styles offer a range of colors to complement the style of your home. Metal roofs come in more than 100 colors, while standard shingles typically provide 15-20 color options. Vertical panels use metal-standing seams, while metal-stamped panels are meant to match the look of traditional roof materials.
Are metal roofs more expensive?
According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, you can expect your new roof to cost roughly two to three times what an asphalt shingle roof costs. Metal roofing installation is more expensive compared to other roofing systems, because it requires special training, knowledge, tools and equipment. Installation costs are impacted by complexity of the roof, things like slope and rooflines play a role in the overall installation cost.
Your metal choice can also affect the price. Copper is typically the most cost prohibitive, so it’s often used for architectural details/accents – think bay windows, porches, or low slope sections – instead of a whole roof.
Although the materials and installation of metal roofs are expensive, there are benefits to the price. They typically come with a longer warranty, 30 to 50 years, and need to be replaced less often. They even keep your home cooler.
