If you’re in the market for a new roof, there are many roofing materials to choose from. When you’re deciding which is best for you, there are many factors to consider. Items to contemplate include price range, long-term performance, maintenance, durability, roof slope, your surroundings, aesthetics, and more. So, what roofing material would work best taking all these elements into consideration? In this article, we’re going to hone in on metal roofing, and take you through the pros and cons of choosing this option.
Pros:
Metal Roofing Lasts a Long Time– When installed properly, metal roofing should last anywhere from 40-50 years. This timeframe is significantly longer than most of the standard options, such as asphalt. Metal is also highly resistant to fire, insects, rot, and mildew which plays a large role in its longevity.
Metal Roofs are Environmentally Friendly- Traditional asphalt shingles depend highly on fossil fuels since they’re a petroleum product. Since they require replacement every 15-20 years, this means nearly 20 billion pounds of old asphalt shingles are dumped in landfills every year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, metal roofs can be recycled.
Metal Roofs are Easy to Maintain- Metal roofs are easy to maintain, due to the material. Unlike other common materials, metal doesn’t dry out, absorb moisture, grow mold, or attract bugs.
Cons:
Budget Concerns– Metal roofing has a higher upfront cost than other materials, which can deter buyers from choosing this option. This option can cost anywhere from $120 to $900 for 100 square feet, and these figures aren’t taking installation labor into account. Investing in a metal roof may only make sense if you plan to stay in your home or building for a long period to enjoy the cost benefits of this option.
Denting- Metal is much more prone to showing imperfections such as dents and dings, compared to how forgiving vinyl is. Since this material is costly, replacing it after damage can be more of a pain.
Noisy Option– During a thunderstorm, metal can be much louder than other choices. There are options to make it quieter, such as additional sheathing or insulation, but that requires additional costs.
Whether you’re putting a new roof on your home or business, there are many materials available to choose from. Metal roofs come with many pros and cons based off geographic location and building code requirements. We hope this helps your decision when considering if metal roofing is right for you. Aspen Contracting provides free inspections and quotes. Let us help you with your roofing needs today! Call us at 877-784-ROOF.