Pros And Cons of Metal Roofing For Homes

Your roof may be in need of a total makeover, or perhaps you are choosing roofing for a newly constructed home. Either way, there are many materials available to you. Metal is one of the most attractive roofing options for residential homes today. This is due to their longevity, minimal maintenance and energy efficiency. What other advantages come with metal roofing? 

Advantages of Metal Roofing

  • Metal roofs come in a wide variety of styles and materials to suit any design preference. Material choices include steel (galvanized, galvalume or weathering), aluminum, copper, zinc, or tin. Style choices allow you to have the look of shingles, slate, tile, shakes or vertical panels.
  • Metal roofs have an unbeatable lifespan, often lasting anywhere from 50 to 100 years. By comparison, asphalt roofing materials have an expected shelf life of 12 to 20. This means more maintenance, or more replacement, and more money spent. That being said, the roof should be inspected periodically to ensure everything is in good condition.
  • Metal panels are one of the most durable materials out there. They undergo rigorous standards for impact resistance, can withstand high gusts of wind, and fluctuate more easily with changes in temperature. 
  • Metal panels are environmentally friendly. They are both made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable. On top of that, metal panels are energy efficient. They can result in a 10% to 25% reduction in cooling costs. 

Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

  • While metal roofs come with a host of advantages, there are some potential drawbacks. These include:
  • High Initial Cost. Metal panels are an investment. They are best suited for your “forever” home, as the cost benefits work out over time. 
  • Noisy. Metal roofs are noisier than other materials, mainly during rain or hailstorms. Choosing an insulated panel can help with this. 
  • Inconsistency. Oftentimes panels experience slight variations in color. This is especially true if you need to repair a hole years later – it may be difficult to find an exact match. 

With a full list of pros and cons, you can more easily make a decision on whether or not a metal roof is suitable for your home. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our qualified team for answers. We can be reached at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.