More than a viable option for nearly all homes, metal roofing can be used both for new construction and replacement of aging roofs. Made from an array of metals, such as copper, aluminium, galvanized steel and tin, they can be installed in different ways. Despite the disadvantages of installing metal roofing, there are way more advantages than completely eclipse those drawbacks.
Actual Disadvantages of Installing Metal Roofs
1. You Cannot DIY This
Unfortunately, this is something you’ll have to leave to an expert. Even if installation and repair have been known to be done by DIYers, these require specific techniques and specialized skills that you may not have. So, if there’s a problem with your metal roof, which typically occurs rarely, you have to be ready to hire a professional.
2. Slippery
When wet and covered with snow, metal roofs can be real safety risks. They are very slippery when moist and it is not advisable to climb on them right after a rainfall. There’s also the risk of snow “avalanching” off the roof – that’s how slippery they are!
3. Severe Hail Can Irreversibly Damage Metal Roofing
No matter how durable and maintenance-free they are, metal roofings are not resilient to large hail. While this does not bode well for you if you live in a region that’s prone to such weather conditions, bear in mind that asphalt would fare just as bad, if not worse.
4. Ridge Vents Are More Obvious
All metal roofs come with very noticeable ridges. Some people may not like their very prominent lines and there’s nothing they’ll be able to do about it as the continuous ridge vent (CRV) runs the entire length of the peak of the house, masking outflow holes on the sides of the ridge.
5. Other Disadvantages of Metal Roofing
- They can be annoyingly loud during rainstorms or hail. (Personally, I enjoy the sound of raindrops on my roof. But that’s just me. And if the noise is too loud, there’s a possibility that the installation was not properly done.)
- They can fade in time.
- They are susceptible to staining.
- They are considerably more expensive than most other options.
Benefits of Having Metal Roofing Installed
As you’ll notice, the advantages of having metal roofs installed greatly outweigh the drawbacks. Which would explain why metal roofs continue to grow in popularity despite the disadvantages mentioned above.
1. Can Be Installed Over Existing Roofs
The great thing with metal roofs is that they can be installed over the existing roof and doesn’t even require tearing off shingles (unless local building codes prohibit it). More than being messy, shingle removal will also raise the cost of the job.
2. They Are Not as Noisy as Some Will Have You Believe
It’s a common misconception to think that metal roofs are going to be exceptionally noisy. But in reality, when properly installed over a solid substrate, they are no noisier than any other types of roofs.
3. They Do Not Attract Lightning
This may come as a bit of a surprise, but according to a bulletin from the Metal Construction Association, “Metal roofing does not in any way increase the risk of a lightning strike.” To top it all off, even if the roof gets struck by lightning, the bulletin asserts that, being a noncombustible material, “the risks associated with its use and behaviour during a lightning event make it the most desirable construction available.” It is less combustible! How great is that?
4. Can Be More Cost-Effective than Asphalt Roofing
Sounds false? It’s really not. While it does cost more than asphalt roofing, it lasts for a longer period of time. If you have an asphalt roofing installed, you might have to change it twice or thrice over a period of 50 years. Metal roofs, on the other hand, routinely have a longevity of 40 to 70 years.
5. They are Impervious to Rot
Metal roofs have exploded in popularity because they are less likely to rot and are impervious to mildew. They are durable and resistant to damage. It even takes very severe hail for the roof to be bent or destroyed.
6. They Are Resistant to Insect Damage
Unlike other types of roofs, it is impossible for termites to eat metal roofing. Which is why it has become the roofing material of choice in many parts of the country.
7. Other Advantages of Metal Roofing
- They are energy efficient as the surface reflects heat, lowering cooling costs in hot climates.
- They are less susceptible to leaking than shingles.
- They are more resistant to wind damage when compared to other roofing choices.
- In addition to being long-lasting, metal roofs are also recyclable when they reach the end of their useful life. In fact, the old metal is readily accepted at metal recycling outlets
I enjoyed reading all the benefits of metal roofs you listed, specifically the one about how they’re pest-proof. Pests and rodents in the attic have always been a big fear of mine, and I’ve been trying to center my new home construction project around preventing that as much as possible. Metal roofs sound like they can do that for me and so much more, so I’ll look around for any contractors that can get me one.
It’s nice to know that metal roofing does not attract lightning so it’s pretty safe even in areas that get hit by storms frequently. Perhaps it would be best to start looking for metal commercial roofing installation service while I’m still preparing everything for opening my own glassblowing workshop someday. Having a metal roof for it will insulate it and keep the temperature consistent at all times.
I find it amazing how metal roofing is rot-resistant and it reflects heat, which can cool your home better. I have a friend who’s thinking of having his roof replaced since it looks old. He should probably consider this as one of his roofing options by hiring a residential roofing expert!
I just read your article on metal roofing and it was really informative! I found the following to be most helpful:
“You cannot DIY this. Even if installation and repair have been known to be done by DIYers, these require specific techniques and specialized skills that you may not have.”
So true! It’s great to know how much work goes into installing a metal roof before deciding whether or not to go with it. Thanks for posting an awesome article.
Homeowners are seeking ways to help the environment. A roof replacement is one way to accomplish this task. You as a homeowner can reduce your energy usage by replacing you roof with an energy-efficient roofing option such as metal roofing or energy-efficient asphalt shingles. This will reduce the heat absorbed and keep your home’s interior cool and comfortable. In addition, you can qualify for tax credits on your energy-efficient roof replacement.
Before replacing your roofing material, consult a roofing professional to see if your roof’s life can be extended through the application of a roof coating.
Butyl Liquid Rubber is ideal for recoating existing roofs and adding a significant number of years to the life of a roof. In fact, our customers have described it as essentially getting a new roof for a fraction of the cost, since, for most roof types, this is a single application with significant cost savings compared to multiple coat systems. The cost savings alone have made it the choice for thousands of our customers over the years. Labor costs are also decreased since you only need one coat versus 3-4 with other systems.
Having our house become more resistant to wind damage by installing metal roofing is a really good idea. This way, even if the storms around here get stronger, it’s going to be a lot more manageable for us and we don’t need to worry about damage. I’ll take your advice and go look for a roofing expert that has some choices for us right away.
I like that you mentioned that metal roofs can have a lot of resistance to all sorts of damages such as insect-related ones. I’d like to find a good metal roof installation service soon because I’m interested in looking for a good way to improve the longevity of my home. Sturdier materials will surely be essential for that.