Metal roofing was once primarily used for commercial projects only, but today it is one of the fastest-growing roofing materials used for both residential and commercial roofing in the US.
Many people all across the country are opting for residential metal roofing. It’s easy to see why, because more people are becoming aware of the potential benefits of metal roofing.
Curious why this building material has won over so many homeowners? This expert and unbiased article brings you a complete list of the benefits of metal roofing. So you can make an informed decision about whether or not to choose a metal roof for your home.
Whether you’re replacing an existing roof, building a new home, or replacing your existing one with a new roof, doing your research is the first task of the project.
With that said, if you opt for a metal roof, it’s important to understand the advantages.
1. Long-lasting
Among all the benefits of metal roofing, its lifespan is always listed as the main benefit. Compared to traditional asphalt shingles, metal is much stronger and more durable.
If you opt for high-end metal roofing, such as aluminum shingles and field-locked standing seams, it could last more than 50 years. One made of zinc or copper can last more than 100 years.
2. Lightweight
If you compare modern metal roofing materials to other traditional roofing materials such as concrete tiles, you will find that metals are much lighter.
Concrete tiles go up to 900 pounds per square, while metal tiles range from 50 to 150 pounds per square.
The lightweight metal eases the installation process and helps you save on engineering and construction of the supporting structure.
3. Speed and ease of installation
Speed and ease of installation are benefits of metal roofing that we can’t afford to ignore. Its length, width, size ratio, and the fact that it is lightweight makes it easy to handle.
Most metal roofing materials come in several individual sections or panels 12 to 36 inches wide that can be easily handled and installed.
4. Maximum shedding of rain and snow
For those who live in areas with heavy snow and rain, this is one of the best benefits of installing metal roofing.
The surface of sheet metal is hard and slippery in nature, making it difficult for snow and water to grab onto.
Also, if you install dark-toned metal roofing or metal roofing with a PVDF coating, the benefits of metal roofing are doubled.
The dark shades of metal roofs heat up quickly in the sun, promoting snowmelting, and the PVDF coating helps reflect more sunlight, promoting HVAC performance.
5. Energy Efficiency
If you’re looking to cut some of your monthly bills, installing a metal roof can help. Homes with metal roofs can save up to 30% per month on cooling costs.
Your roof is exposed to extreme heat in summer. Whatever happens, the ceiling will somehow absorb radiant heat and transfer it to the attic, essentially trapping it and making your AC unit fight to get it out.
With energy-efficient metal roofing, your roof will be cool to the touch after the sun goes down, allowing your air conditioning unit to take a much-needed breather, resulting in lower cooling costs.
6. Metal roofs are environmentally friendly
The products that we use in our daily lives are causing a lot of damage to our environment. If you are among those who like to help mother nature, then the metal roof is for you. Here’s how it’s eco-friendly:
• Cool-metal roofs:
The electricity you use every day comes from natural resources like coal, natural gas, and oil, which are not renewable.
By using the cool-metal roof, you are not only reducing your electricity bill, but you are also minimizing the use of natural resources. Also, between 25 and 95% of metals are recycled materials.
• Solar friendly:
Metal roofing and solar panels make a great combination. That is, it is easy to install a solar panel on a metal roof. The solar panel provides additional shade to the roof and maximizes cooling.
Another great benefit of metal roofing is that it is 100% recyclable. At the end of its useful life, the metal can be recycled into new sheet metal or other products.
7. Metal roofs are moss and fungus proof
The reason asphalt and wood shingle roofs have a shorter lifespan is that they are prone to mold, moss, and fungus.
But with metal, you are free from all those fungus attacks. On top of that, a metal roof protects your home from rodents, pests, raccoons, and wild animals. They are not able to break through your attic.
8. A metal roof is a fire-resistant roof
This is one of the biggest benefits of metal roofing for people who live in wildfire-prone areas. When these sad events occur, the fire resistance of a roof may be what saves a home.
This is why it is so important to pay attention to a material’s fire-resistance rating, especially if you live in an area that is at risk of wildfires.
Most metal roofs are considered Class A assembly rating, which means the deck and underlying roofing material provide additional fire protection.
9. Good for all seasons and climates
The ability to withstand any type of weather and season is one of the best benefits of metal roofing.
It should be emphasized in regions where winter storms are prevalent since it makes it easier for snow and ice to slip off. It is also perfect for hot and humid climates as it resists moisture and reflects heat.
Another benefit of metal roofing is that it is rust-resistant and waterproof. The solid metal surface also resists algae.
Types of metal roofs
1. Screw-panel metal roofs
While screw-panel metal roofs can last 20-30 years with frequent maintenance, they are not generally considered the best metal roof for residential homes. This type of metal roofing system uses screws to snap the metal panels into place, creating a strong and secure defense barrier.
However, because the panels are locked, the metallic materials cannot expand or contract in response to changes in temperature. As the material tries to do so, it will wear down the screws which typically need to be replaced every five years. This is a common expense that you can avoid by choosing the standing seam type of metal roof.
2. Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Typically considered the best metal roof for residential structures, standing seam metal roofs use fasteners under the ribs of the material, allowing it the ability to expand and contract. This makes it more durable against the elements and needs less frequent maintenance.
If professionally installed and properly maintained, standing seam metal roofs can provide up to 50 years of residential protection.
With years of roofing experience, we at Jenkins Roofing know the best metal roofs on the market for residential properties. To learn more about the metal roofing services we provide get roofing estimates from Jenkins Roofing.