The Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing

If you are about to begin your home’s construction, you might be wondering if metal roofing is a better choice as compared to other materials. Below is an article to help you make an informed choice when it comes to home’s roofing.

Pros:

Long life

Properly installed metal roofs will last as long as a house by sealing water out, easily shedding snow and surviving high winds. A metal roof is resistant to fire, insects, mildew and rot. Roofing with paint finishes can even last up yo 30 years.

Weight

Metal roofing sheets are lightweight, quick to install and fire-resistant. Further, lightweight allows you to save on engineering and the home’s support structure, as the number of roof supports are reduced.

Fire resistance and heat construction

Metal roof materials are noncombustible and reflects radiant heat from the sun. With less midday heat inside the house, you can minimize the use of air conditioning, hence saving on energy and money.

Cons:

Cost

Your home’s metal roof top has long-term durability, as such if you intend to in the house for a long time, you will benefit from your long term investment. However, if you are plan to move in a few years, you will most probably miss the returns on your investment.

Noise

Living beneath metals sheets will mean more noise during a rainstorm or hailstorm, as compared to living under a thick slate or tile. Noise can be reduced on metal sheets by using structural barriers to minimize any drumming effect.

Denting

Similar to dents your car is vulnerable to when any object hit it, a metal roof can dent when large objects such as hailstones fall on it.

Marring and care

Painted metal roof finishes can chip, peel, scratch and fade by wearing when you walk on them. If water accumulates on the roof due to a dent or poor quality installation, it will eventually cause serious damage (rusting).

Leaking

Very often, rain water causes the screw heads and screw holes of metal roofs to rust, causing leaks. You must ensure a special resilient washed seal around screw heads.

Expansion and contraction

Metals expand and contract as they warm and cool. As such, fasteners that are meant to secure the roofing tend to loosen.

Modification

Large metal roofing panels are harder to replace if individually damaged. If you remodel your home 10 or 20 years from now, you might not find the matching color.

House Fire

Metal roofs resist fire and therefore good at guarding against flying sparks and embers. However, in the event of a house fire, the firemen may need to cut through a metal roof in order to put out the fire, turning the task into a more complicated and longer mission.

Whether you are placing a new roof on a house or if your existing roof requires a total makeover, ensure the metal roofing material is tested and labeled. You can contact your local building department for further information.

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