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For the average American, the obvious choice for roofing is asphalt shingles. They’re inexpensive, and they keep the rain off. But if you’re taking the time to read about this, you’re not like the average American. You’re learning, and you have options.
There’s a significant movement among US homeowners toward metal. This type of roofing has climbed to second place, right behind asphalt shingles. Are metal roofs better? That depends on your needs. But it makes sense to explore the pros and cons of metal roofs so you can decide for yourself.
Advantages of Metal Roofs
1. High Durability
Metal roofs are strong; they can stand up to a lot of punishment. And some types of metal roofing are stronger than others. Steel is more durable than copper, for example, and panels are more durable than metal shingles, which come with shorter warranties.
2. Long Lifespan
When you’re upgrading your roof, you can think about how many decades of life it has in it. Metal roofs can last for 40–70 years, often coming with 30- or 50-year warranties. Part of that long life comes from metal’s ability to resist weather damage—even wind gusts of 140 miles per hour.
3. Environmental Friendliness
Is a metal roof better? If you want to help preserve the environment, it could be. Asphalt shingles add about 20 billion pounds of material per year to our dumps.
But metal roofs are often partially made of recycled materials and can be 100% recycled themselves. Plus, lighter panels can be installed over asphalt shingles.
4. Energy-Efficient
Your metal roof might help you save energy. Some metal panels hold heat in cool weather and radiate heat out when it’s hot. It’s also easy to clamp a solar energy system onto metal panels to further reduce utility bills.
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5. Lightweight
Metal panels or shingles are light and easy to move. That makes the job easier for roof installers and it reduces weight on the structure of your home.
6. Stylish
Some homeowners dismiss the idea of metal roofs because their minds go to third-world shacks. But are metal roofs looking better these days? Yes. You can now pick from many stylish designs.
Some look like tiles or shingles, while others are panels with visible fasteners. And there are many attractive materials, shapes, and colors to fit your style.
Downsides of Metal Roofs
1. Higher Initial Expense (Lower Long-Term Expense)
Are metal roofs just better than all other options? Not for everyone. If you don’t have the money upfront, you may not like the price tag of $120 to $900 per 100 square feet of metal roofing, which can be more than several times what asphalt shingles cost.
An installation can cost more, too, because roofers need training and equipment to perform it. On the other hand, a metal roof can last around 60 years or longer before a replacement, in contrast to 15–20 years for asphalt shingles. That means the asphalt roof’s price could be multiplied by three to compare it with metal:
Metal: $17,000 x 1 (60-year period) = $17,000
Asphalt: $8,000 x 3 (20-year periods) = $24,000
2. Loud
Some people enjoy the sound of rain on a metal roof, but the roof could also become too noisy if it starts to hail or rain too hard. Additional insulation in the attic can dampen the sound.
3. Dentable
Anything made of metal can be dented. Metal roofs can suffer dents from a falling branch, a careless step while cleaning the gutter, or hail, ice, and snow. Stronger materials, like steel, can partly reduce these problems.
Note also that metal shingles can be damaged by extreme weather changes, fungus, algae, and ice. Your supplier can show you a range of materials and designs that can overcome these issues.
Are Metal Roofs Better for You?
It’s important for your budget and real estate value that you review the pros and cons of metal roofs. There’s more to learn, such as the many types of metals that roofs can be made of these days, including steel, zinc, copper, tin, and others.
Some homeowners today are planning for 50+ years in a home and are happy to invest in a long-lasting roof which could also increase their property value for the right buyers. If you want to see the stylish and durable options available in Indiana today and make up your own mind, visit DMG Exteriors online.
