Features

The Merits of Metal Roofing

Metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions.

Updated on

August 18, 2021

Metal roofs last decades longer than other roofs. PHOTO | COURTESY

The popularity of metal roofing is on a steady rise across the world as more homeowners adopt the usage of metal roofing panels as coverings for their homes.

According to a study published in 2017, the market share for metal roofing has been rising at a rate of about 3% annually and about 15% of all roofing installations use metal roofing sheets.

This comes at a time when the market share for asphalt shingle roofing continues to fall, with the material now accounting for an estimated 59% of the total roofing installed.

Metal roofing panels offer many advantages to the homeowner, including energy savings, expanded color options, longevity and long-term warranties.

Here are some of the key advantages of metal roofing.

1. Metal Roofing Panels Are Durable

While most metal roofing products come with warranties of about 30 years, metal roofs are highly durable with some roofing sheets lasting 50 years or more.

According to a study by State Farm Insurance, metal roofing routinely has a lifespan of 40 to 70 years, which means homeowners rarely install more than one roof over the time they occupy a house.

By contrast, a homeowner who opts for asphalt single roofing will likely replace the roof two or three times over a 40-year period – which greatly adds to the costs of housing.

2. Metal Roofs Are Energy-Efficient

According to the U.S. Metal Roofing Alliance, metal roofing can save up to 40 per cent on annual energy costs depending on the geographical region.

Another major advantage of metal roofing is that they can increase the thermal efficiency of homes in high-temperature regions with their cool-roof paints and high emissivity.

In areas where cooling costs are higher than heating expenses, metal roofing sheets can be coated with a shiny or granular coating to maximize the reflective capacity of the roof and improve energy savings.

3. Metal Roofs Can Work on Low Slopes

There is a misconception that metal roofing is fit only for roofs with steep slopes.

However, a standing seam metal roofing – a concealed metal panel system that features vertical legs and a broad, flat area between the legs – can work on a gently pitched roof.

Standing steam metal roofing is installed in large sheets with seams that are raised and sealed to resist water. Although some slope is necessary to allow water to drain, most homes can use metal roofing.

4. Metal Roofing Are Fire Resistant

This is one of the main reasons for the rising popularity of metal roofing.

With the dangers of wildfires on the rise across the world, homeowners are increasingly fitting metal roofs onto their homes.

Besides, metal roofing panels are also resistant to rot and termite damage.

5. Metal Roofs Are 100% Recyclable

When the time comes to replace a metal roofing, old metal roofing sheets are easily recyclable. This is not the case for an old asphalt single roofing that only ends up in a landfill.

6. Metal Roofs Can Survive Harsh Weather

Metal roofs are also known for their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions including high winds, wildfires and hailstorms. This is the main reason why insurance companies offer discounts of up to 30 per cent to homes with metal roofs.

Materials for Metal Roofing Sheets

Metal roofs consist of steel, aluminium, copper or tin. Steel is the most common material and may be coated with zinc to reduce maintenance costs and rust.

Aluminium is ideal for coastal regions because of its anti-corrosive properties, though it tends to be more expensive compared to steel.

Copper is popular for its rich colouring but it is usually the most expensive of all metal roofing materials. Tin is not so popular for homes but it is commonly used on barns and sheds.

These materials can be recycled and are more environmentally friendly than other materials.

Metal Roofing Cost

The prices of metal roofs are generally higher than those of other roofing materials. However, they last several decades longer than most other roof options – meaning they are cheaper in the long term.

That being said, metal roofing prices vary depending on your geographical location and other factors such as the materials used to make the roof.

When budgeting for roofing costs, always remember to include the cost of removal of the old roof, disposal of old materials and installation of the new metallic roof. It is also advisable to ask qualified contractors for price estimates.