Metal roofs are gaining in popularity across the country. Today, metal roofs are designed as a shingle-style product. In most cases, they look as good as a traditional asphalt shingle roof. If you want to know more about metal roofs, here are a few facts about these unique products.
#1 – You Can Install Metal on an Existing Roof
For an easier install, you can add a metal roof to existing roofing without removing the shingles. Tearing off existing shingles can raise your project’s cost, and it causes a mess around your home. However, with this type of installation, you can run into problems with trapped water vapor. If the old material is water-logged, then you might have issues with mold. You can reduce these issues by installing a vented metal roof. Furring strips also raise the metal and provide ventilation between the material layers on your roof.
#2 – Metal Roofs Are Not Prone To Lightning Strikes
For many homeowners, they think a metal roof will be more attractive to lightning strikes. These roofs do not increase your chances of damage from lightning. If your roof is struck, a metal roof is less combustible than a wooden shingle. Metal roofs are actually a preferred material to stop those damaging lightning strikes since they are electrical conductors.
#3 – They Are Cost-Effective
When compared to asphalt shingles, metal roofs often offer the same type of warranty. Your metal roof is more durable, and they are known to last for over 50 years. During the lifetime of your home, you will only need to install one metal roof. A metal roof is more expensive to install, but it will last longer than those asphalt shingle options.
#4 – They Make an Energy-Efficient Option
Metal roofs are known to reduce your cooling costs by 10 to 25 percent. In some areas, you can spend more on cooling your home than heating it. For those high-heat locations, the metal roof will reflect the sun and keep your home cooler in the summer. If you want a more energy-efficient home, you should add a metal roof.
#5 – They Are More Affordable
In the past, you only saw metal roofs on high-luxury homes. However, this style of roof can be found in almost any neighborhood. Throughout the years, metal roofs have become more readily available. Today, metal roofs make up about 15 percent of all the new installations in the country. If you are thinking about installing a metal roof to your home, you need to choose a contractor with the experience and tools to complete the job.
#6 – They Can Reduce Noise
There are several misconceptions surrounding metal roofs. Many people believe that these roofs are very noisy during a rainstorm. If you have a professionally installed roof, then you should not have an issue with noise. These roofs are installed on a solid substrate. In addition to that, the insulation and attic act as an additional sound barrier.
#7 – These Materials Are Recyclable
These roofing materials are made to last. When it is time to replace your old metal roof, you can have the materials recycled. With an asphalt roof, these materials only end up in a landfill.
#8 – They Have Prominent Ridge Vents
With most homes, the attic’s ventilation is produced by a continuous ridge vent that runs across your roof. The ridge vent of a metal roof is more noticeable and stands out from the vent. These ridges might seem obtrusive, but they give your roof a more distinctive look.
#9 – The Repairs Require Professional Help
When you need to install a metal roof, you want to hire a professional team to help secure this product to your roof. For those roof repairs, it is always best to contact a metal roof contractor. These are not repairs that will make a great DIY project.
#10 – They Are Resistant to Fire, Insects, and Rot
A metal roof is almost fireproof. These roofs are also resistant to damage from insects and animals. With a metal roof, you never have to worry about rotting materials or mildew damage. During the winter, the metal roof holds in the heat. As a result of that, the snow will slide off your roof.
#11 – They Are Great for Low-Slope Roofs
While many people believe the metal roofs need a high slope, they can work great on slightly pitched roofs. For those low-slope roofs, the metal roof material is installed in large sheets. These panels are raised and sealed to prevent any water damage.
#12 – Heavy Hail Can Affect Metal Roofing Materials
Metal roofs are considered durable and maintenance-free, but heavy hail storms can cause damage to the material. If you live in areas prone to hail storms, you might want to choose another option. Copper and aluminum will make a better choice for your home. You should know that not all hail storms are damaging. Those events that produce dime-sized hailstones will not affect your roof.
Metal Roofs Are a Unique Choice
Now that you know these facts about metal roofs, you understand that this particular roofing material has both benefits and disadvantages. If you are in the market for a new roof, then you want to select the right materials for your house. In any case, you need to hire a professional installation company for your next project. At RGB Construction, we have the experience to install most types of roofing materials.
We can even help you find the best choice for your home. While a metal roof is nice and durable, it might not be the right product for you. Once you have made a selection, our experienced team will install those materials to your structure. We want you to choose a roof that can last the lifetime of your home. If you happen to need a repair, we can assist with those issues. For a consultation to discuss your home’s roofing needs, please call us at 856-264-9093.
