Why are Metal Roofs so Popular?
Metal roofs have been climbing in popularity for several years and are now the second most preferred roofing material in the U.S., according to FW Dodge market share data. As a result, more homeowners are choosing metal roofs, especially in climates like Central Florida, that are prone to intense storms, rain, and gusty winds. If you’re considering a roof replacement, the following pros and cons will show you how metal roofing compares to other roofing materials.
PRO: Last longer
One of the most significant advantages of a metal roof is its longevity, far outlasting other types of roofing materials. When properly installed by an experienced metal roofing contractor like Barfield Contracting & Roofing, homeowners in Brevard County can expect a metal roof to have a useful lifespan of 40 to 50 years or more. For example, when stacked against traditional asphalt shingles that last 20 years, wood shingles that last up to 30 years, or a flat tar roof that lasts about 20 years, metal roofs come out on top.
CON: Cost more to install
While metal roofs have a higher upfront investment due to the higher quality materials and specialized training and equipment required for correct installation, their longer lifespan offers a much higher return on investment in the long run. A homeowner will need to replace a conventional asphalt shingle roof two to three times before needing a metal roof replacement making it a worthwhile investment.
PRO: Metal Roofs are more durable
When correctly installed and fastened to the roof by a licensed and experienced metal roofing professional, metal roofs are much more durable than conventional roofing materials. For example, some metal roofs can withstand up to 140-mile per hour winds, exceeding a category-3 hurricane. That’s a vital distinction in coastal communities like Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach and other beachside towns, where gusty winds and storms are not uncommon. In addition, it is also fire-resistant, water-resistant, and corrosion-resistant, which may also help reduce your homeowner’s insurance premium.
CON: Can be dented by hail
Although no roofing materials are impervious to damage, including denting, a metal roof will not crack or corrode. Since softer metal materials like aluminum or copper can be dented in some types of bad weather, choosing a metal roof with higher gauge steel shingles will enhance the strength of your metal roof, making it less susceptible to denting. And they still outperform other roof materials in severe conditions, including high winds, heavy rains, extreme temperatures, and even fire.
PRO: More energy-efficient
A study conducted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that a metal roof can cut up to 40% in home energy costs. Conventional asphalt and other roofing materials absorb most solar radiation, which is why so many Florida homes are much warmer during the summer. However, metal roofs reflect the majority of solar heat, so they are not only a more energy-efficient roofing material, but they will also keep your home interior cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, lowering energy costs.
CON: Metal makes noise when it rains
Although the sound of rain dripping on metal may seem noisy to some, proper installation and insulation will mute out most of the outside noise so that the metal roof will be just as quiet as other roofing materials.
Metal Roofing Installation
If you’re considering a roof replacement for your home, contact Barfield Contracting & Roofing, Brevard County’s 5-Star GAF Master Elite® Certified Roofer, for a free estimate today!