Metal Roofing 101

Purchasing a new roof is a huge investment, so it’s important that Hartford, CT homeowners make the right decision for their home and climate. Metal roofing is growing in popularity, mostly due to the wide variety of options that are now available. With a little research and time, you can decide whether metal or traditional asphalt roofing is right for you.

Pros of Metal Roofing

Environmentally Friendly

The number one reason metal roofing has grown in popularity in the last few decades is because of its energy-efficient nature. In hot summer months, metal roofing reflects most of the solar rays away from your home so they are not absorbed into the interior. This reflectivity minimizes the heat entering your home from the outside, ultimately saving on air conditioning costs. The opposite is true in the winter, with metal roofing improving insulation and keeping heat within the home.

Another green aspect of metal roof installation is the recyclability of roofing materials. Many metal roofs are produced with recycled metals, but almost all of them are recyclable after their use. Traditional asphalt roofs are composed of thousands of pounds of unrecyclable materials that end up in landfills every 15 to 25 years. Metal roofing is recycled once its life is complete, in 50 to 60 years.

Long Lifespan

Asphalt roofs are projected to last anywhere from 15 to 25 years on average. Metal roofing can last up to 60 years. This means you will likely never need to reroof your home. With the costs involved in purchasing a new roof, this is a huge saving. Some metal roofs actually outlast the homes they are built on.

Fast Installation

Metal roofing is produced in multiple-shingled sections or wide panels. These materials make for much faster installation than traditional roofing. If you’ve ever been to a home that is being reroofed, you’ll understand that a shorter process will be much more convenient and comfortable for your family. Roofing contractors will not need to lay the roofing shingle-by-shingle, but will instead install panels for a much faster process.

Low Maintenance

Proper maintenance of a metal roof involves removing debris. If branches fall onto the roof, they need to be removed to prevent damage. Other than that, there is no maintenance. Many homeowners with asphalt roofs and shingles must actively maintain their roofs or replace shingles after storms. With metal roofing, this is not necessary.

Fire Resistance

Unlike traditional asphalt roofs, metal roofs have a Class A fire rating. This means they are non-combustible and have a high resistance to fire. If you live in a high fire-risk area, this can be a huge advantage. When wildfires surround homes, sparks land on roofs and ignite the home. With metal roofs, this won’t be an issue. Of course, if your home is constructed from a highly combustible material such a wood, the fire-risk increases, even with the installation of a metal roof.

Cons of Metal Roofing

Walking on a Metal Roof

Many people believe they are not able to walk on their metal roof. In actuality, walking on the roof is not a problem with proper technique. Once a roofing contractor has installed the metal roof, they will instruct you on proper walking techniques. The professional can tell you where on the panels you can safely walk without damaging or denting the materials.

Metal Roofing Can Cost More Upfront

It’s true, metal roofing can cost more upfront than traditional asphalt roofing. When you consider energy-saving costs, doubled lifespan compared to traditional asphalt, and tax credits, the costs are not much more than asphalt. If you plan to stay in your home for the long-term, you will definitely receive a return on your investment. If you plan to move within the next few years, your home value can be increased with a metal roof, but likely not to the extent that the costs will be returned. Knowing the long-range plans for your home can help you with this decision.

Large Hail

The problem of hail on metal roofs has been improved with materials and textures. Aluminum and copper are relatively soft materials, presenting the possibility of hail damage. Many companies offer stronger materials or non-denting roofs to remedy this situation. If you are considering a metal roof, ask your roofing contractor about hail damage and their guarantees for prevention of dents.

Making an Informed Decision

Be sure to do your research and speak to professionals about the pros and cons of metal roof installation. If you know of others that have installed metal roofs, ask their opinions. Just remember that metal roofing materials have improved significantly in the last 10-20 years, so others’ problems may not be applicable today.

Discuss these factors with a trusted professional before making a decision.

Pros of Metal Roofing Installation

• Environmentally friendly
• Faster installation
• Longer lifespan
• Low Maintenance
• Fire Resistance

Cons of Metal Roofing Installation

• Walking on a metal roof requires care
• Cost can sometimes be more
• Large hail can cause dents in some metal types