The Pros and Cons of a Metal Roofing

What Is a Metal Roof?

Metal roofs are a type of roofing material that is made from either steel or aluminum. Unlike traditional shingle roofs that have a layered design, metal roofs are one solid piece. This design can make metal roofs more durable and long-lasting than other types of roofing materials. However, metal roof installation costs also tend to be higher than average because of the amount of labor and material needed for installation.

The Pros of a Metal Roof

Metal roofs are an excellent choice for homeowners that want a durable roof that requires minimal maintenance. They can last up to 60 years and do not need to be replaced often. Additionally, metal roofs are fire-resistant and provide good insulation for your home. This is important if you live in a colder climate where ice dams are an issue.

A metal roof also reflects heat back into the environment. This can save energy costs because your HVAC system will run less frequently to keep the house at the desired temperature. Finally, metal roofs are quite affordable when compared with other types of sustainable and premium roofing materials available on the market today.

The Cons of a Metal Roof

Metal roofs are not the best choice for everyone. A metal roof may not be right for your home if you are looking for lower upfront costs, plan to sell your home in the near future, you want a more “traditional” style roof with shingles or tiles, or you live in an area prone to hail storms which can get quite noisy or even damage the roof.

Metal Roof Maintenance: Pro or Con?

Should you decide to go with a metal roof, you’ll still need to do some maintenance. Metal roofs are one of the most durable roofing materials available. But this doesn’t mean that you can let your home go without proper maintenance! Like all roofs, metal roofs need to be regularly maintained for them to last as long as possible.

A metal roof is easy to maintain because it does not need any special treatments like waterproofing compounds or sealants. This means that you can hire a professional power washer to clean the roof surface periodically, making your roof look good as new. Washing will also help prevent any potential corrosion. You should also inspect the roof periodically for missing fasteners, loose shingles, or other signs of damage. If the roof is too high or otherwise inaccessible, drones are an increasingly viable choice for roof inspections.

You will need to find out what type of surface the metal has (galvanized steel or copper). Galvanized steel is easier to clean and less likely to rust than copper, but may not have a lifetime warranty. Copper tends to be more expensive but lasts a long time with proper care and maintenance. On the balance, we consider the low maintenance requirements of a metal roof to generally be a pro.

Is Metal Roofing the Right Choice for Your Home?

As you can see, metal roofing is not for everyone. It has pros and cons. In a nutshell, it can cost considerably more and—depending on quality—doesn’t necessarily last any longer. However, if you want a durable, quality roof that will last for years with minimal maintenance, then it’s worth considering metal roofing.

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits and drawbacks of this type of roofing material or want to know how to make your metal roof last as long as possible, contact us today!

Cecil Jennings Roofing in Athens, GA is locally owned, family-operated, and has decades of experience with roof replacements and repairs. It would be our pleasure to help you better understand if a metal roof is a good decision for your home, including a free, no-pressure estimate for a new metal or traditional asphalt shingle roof.