What Should You Know About Metal Roofing? The Pros And Cons
Metal roofing is one of the most popular types of roofing in the country. But why? What makes it such a great choice for so many homeowners in the United States? Let's take a closer look and find out why:
If you want a new roof for your home, there are many materials available. You can go with asphalt shingles, ceramic tiles, concrete tiles or metal roofing. No matter what type of roofing material you choose, there are advantages and disadvantages you must consider. Metal roofing is one of the best choices because it is very durable, resistant, requires minimal maintenance and is very energy efficient. What's more, metal roofing is very adaptable – you can choose either aluminum, tin, zinc, copper or galvanized steel. Also, most metal roofing contractors in Miami will make sure your new roof is properly tested and approved by your local building department. Here's a more in-depth view:
Advantages of metal roofs
Metal roofing is extremely lightweight – this is one of the main benefits of choosing metal roofing for your home. While ceramic or concrete roofing runs from 750 to 1,000 pounds per square (all metal roofing contractors use this type of unit – a square equals to about 100 square feet), metal roofing is almost ten times as lighter – the average weight hovers around 50 to 150 pounds per square. This makes it very useful for virtually all types of buildings. You won't need any structural work done to your home and the new roof will cost less money. You won't have to hire other contractors to repair the underlying structure or create additional supporting frames. What's more, some types of metal roofing products can be placed on the existing roof – this means you don't have to tear down the existing roof at all!
Metal roofing is easy to install – this is one of the main reasons why metal roofing contractors love it, and you'll love it as well. Metal roofs come in various panels, from 12 to 36 inches in width. Because of their size and adaptability, they are very easy to install. What's more, the operation is quick and doesn't require a lot of workers. Depending on the size of your home, you can get a new roof in just a matter of days. This means lower costs for you and shorter construction times.
Metal roofing is long-lasting – when it comes to durability, you simply can't beat metal roofing. Even the cheapest, lowest quality products come with a warranty of 20 years. Average and high-end products can last literally a lifetime – with warranties often exceeding 50 years. Metal roofing is also incredibly durable when it comes to extreme weather conditions. High winds, powerful storms, heavy downpours, and excessive snow are no problem for a new metal roof. Also, metal roofing is incredibly resistant to mildew, insects, and rot.
Metal roofing is fire-resistant – as you would probably expect, metal roofs are 100 percent fireproof – metal simply doesn't burn. These products are rated as Class A when it comes to fire resistance. However, keep in mind that the overall classification for your roof also depends on the type of underlying structure (usually, this is made of wood, which is not fire-resistant). Because of this, most metal roofs only have a Class C rating. No matter what your rating is, keep in mind that the metal sheets will act as fire barriers and will provide adequate protection in case of fires. Contact metal roofing contractors for more information about fire resistance.
Metal roofing reflects heat – this is especially helpful for people residing in Florida and other southern states. Because of this property, most metal roofing contractors in Miami recommend this type of product. Even though the material is not a good thermal insulator, the radiant heat is reflected efficiently. Ideally, you should have dead-air space between the roof and the roof deck, in order to increase efficiency.
Good roof pitch – metal roofing is ideal for homes that have a low pitched roof. The metal sheets can be installed on roofs with a minimum pitch of 3 in 12 (there's a 3-inch rise for each horizontal foot).
Excellent rain shedding – metal roofs are virtually impervious to rain because of the way the metal panels interlock. The surfaces are also slippery and hard, making it completely impermeable.
Disadvantages of metal roofs
Metal roofing can be expensive – metal roof prices vary a lot. The cheapest type of metal roofing product may cost you $100 to $150 per square. However, premium metal roofs, made of copper or finished with expensive materials, can set you back $600 to $800 per square. This initial cost can sometimes be too much for certain clients, especially if the roof is large. However, because the material is so durable and requires little to no maintenance, the end cost is very low, especially when compared to other types of materials, like ceramic tiles.
Metal roofs are noisy – for some, the sound of raining tapping on the roof is romantic and relaxing. However, for a lot of us, it's annoying. It feels like living inside a drum, especially during a heavy rainstorm. There's good news, however – sound can be controlled if you are using insulating materials for the underlying layers. Solid plywood sheathing or sound-deadening insulation is ideal if you want to keep the noise down.
Metal roofs are prone to dents – similar to other metal objects (your car, for instance), metal roofs are prone to dents and other types of damage. This is especially true if the sheets are of poor quality and very thin. For instance, a metal roof can be dented by a golf ball or during a hail storm. Also, aluminum and copper roofing are much more prone to dents. On the other side, steel roofs are more resistant. Make sure to talk to the best metal roofing contractors in Miami before choosing the type of metal roofing for your house.
