A few decades ago, metal roofs were really only seen on barns and commercial buildings. These days, metal roofs are appearing on more and more homes. This might leave you wondering whether you should choose a metal roof the next time you need your roof replaced. Here are the upsides and downsides to metal roofing. Review them, and you'll get a better idea of how you should proceed.
The Upsides to Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is often touted as a green or sustainable roof option. It is often made from recycled metal, which helps reduce waste. Plus, most metal roofing can be recycled again when it is stripped off of the home. Metal roofing is also reflective, which means it reflects a lot of sunlight and heat, keeping a home cooler in the summer. If you live in a hot area, this could reduce your AC use, which is good for the planet.
Metal roofing is also known to be durable. The big, heavy panels are less likely to be lifted off the roof when wind blows in. Hail is less likely to damage a metal roof than a shingle one. Plus, you don't have to worry about snow buildup on metal roofs. The surface gets slippery when wet, and then the snow slides right off the roof. So, regardless of your weather, metal roofing should stand up to it well.
Finally, metal roofing is long-lasting. It will last several decades longer than a shingle roof. While it may not last as long as tile, it does tend to cost significantly less than tile roofing. So, it offers a good balance of lifespan and affordability.
The Downsides to Metal Roofing
The downside to metal roofing is its appearance. It looks like metal, and while some people like that, others do not. You can find painted metal roofs in lots of colors, but the look is still smooth, sleek, and modern.
Metal roofing can also be hard to work on. When it suffers damage, a whole panel often needs to be replaced, and this is harder than replacing a couple of shingles. If you're a DIYer, you may prefer a shingle roof because you can more easily make small repairs yourself.
If you think metal roofing may be a good choice for your home roof replacement, talk to a roofing company in your area. They can give you more insight into the points above, and they can also give you a quote.
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