Many homeowners have been known to choose traditional shingle roofs over metal roofing. When asked, many stated that the cost of metal roofing is why they chose to go with shingles instead. The average cost for a 1,000-square-foot home to have a shingled roof installed is nearly $10,000, while the average cost of a metal roof for a house the same size is significantly more, at about $16,000. However, despite the added cost of metal roofing, it has many advantages over traditional shingle roofs.
First, metal roofing is energy efficient, reducing homeowners’ heating and cooling costs by nearly 25 percent. Additionally, it is low-maintenance and better able to withstand storms and other outdoor elements than traditional home shingles.
Moreover, a flat metal roof or traditional metal roofing lasts nearly 50 years with adequate maintenance. Many roofers offer lifetime warranties on metal roofs and offer maintenance as needed.
Lastly, metal roofing is easily installed, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing, well above a traditional shingle roof. Given the two options, affordable metal roofing may cost more upfront but last two to three times longer than a conventional roof, saving you thousands in materials, home utilities, and maintenance for years to come.
If you’re planning to have new roofing installed, have you considered a metal rather than a traditional asphalt shingle roof? When you contact a metal roof contractor, they will be able to respond to your questions about the benefits of metal roofing in detail.
In general, metals roofs are composed of steel and aluminum. Since they contain between 30%-to-60% of recycled metals, they are 100% recyclable. This obviously makes a significant impact on the environment.
There are two styles of metal roofs from which to choose. They are either constructed with vertical panels or interlocking shingles. Depending on your taste, as well as the style of your home, your contractor may recommend one or the other.
Another plus with metal roofs is that they come in over 100 colors. These include standard, premium, and customized colors. This provides you with more choices than asphalt shingle roofs, which are only available in 15-to-20 standard colors.
In addition to the overall appearance of a metal roof and its eco-friendly components, they also last longer than other types of roofs. In fact, they have been shown to last three-to-seven times longer than traditional asphalt roof shingles. Not having to replace the roof as often can make a significant difference with home maintenance costs.
When properly maintained, a metal roof usually has a lifespan of over 50 years. To extend this lifespan even further, steel roofing can be coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy, which can extend the roof’s lifespan up to 100 years. This can be a great selling factor if you’re planning to sell your home in the near future.
Metal roofs also tend to cost 30% less than slate or tile roofs. This is the case even when they are composed of expensive metals such as copper, stainless steel, and zinc.
Metal roofs are also more energy-efficient. On an annual basis, you will probably lower your energy consumption and bill by up to 25%. This is because metal roofs will keep your home warmer in the cold months and cooler in the hot months.
Most importantly, metal roofs protect your home from major storm and wind damage. Testing has shown they have a 140 mile per hour wind rating. If you live in an area that has hail storms as well, metal roof have high impact resistance.
Once you contact a metal roofing company for an estimate, they will visit your home, take measurements, and let you know how much your new roof will cost. At that time, you can consult with them about how to properly maintain your metal roof.