Over the last decade or so, more homeowners than ever before have been choosing metal roofing for residential purposes. For quite some time, this roofing material was primarily used for commercial and agricultural applications, but that is no longer the case. If you are thinking about having a new roof put on your home in the near future, it is important to consider both the pros and cons of any material you’re seriously considering. Here, you’ll discover the perks and downsides of metal roofing in particular.
Perks:
- Lifespan – Metal roofing is incredibly durable, with some of the top brands coming with 50-year warranties. Mid-grade styles typically still have 30-year warranties attached to them. The odds of ever having to replace your metal roofing are slim, even if you live in a hurricane-prone region like North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Metal roofs can withstand high winds, heavy rain, and even snowstorms.
- Relatively lightweight – Many popular roofing materials, including tile, are extremely heavy, which can make them difficult to install and, in some cases, lead to structural damage over time. Metal roofing, however, is relatively lightweight in comparison. To put it in perspective, tile averages 750 pounds per 100 square feet of roof, while most types of metal roofing weigh only 50 to 150 pounds for the same area.
- Flame resistance – Although wildfires are not a major concern in most parts of the Carolinas, other types of fires, including electrical fires, can impact everyone. One of the significant benefits of metal roofing is that it is resistant to flames, making it a great choice for homeowners who consider fire safety to be a primary concern.
- Reflective properties – Because metal roofing reflects the sun’s rays, it allows less heat into homes, ultimately reducing energy bills, particularly in the summertime. This is an important perk for both North Carolina and South Carolina residents, where hot, balmy weather can last for much of the year.
Downsides:
- Initial cost – The initial cost of metal roofing tends to be higher than that of other popular materials, particularly asphalt shingles. The most pricey options can cost as much as $600 per 100 square feet, with more affordable choices topping out around $200 for the same area. It is essential to bear in mind, though, that metal roofing lasts a long time, so the odds are good that you’ll make-up the additional upfront expense over time.
- Sound – While some homeowners adore the sound of rain pitter-pattering on a metal roof, others are not fond of the noise. If you’re worried about a metal roof being too noisy for your family, you should talk to your contractor about soundproofing options before you nix the material completely. There are numerous techniques that can be used, including using plywood sheathing and other sound barriers under the roof.
- Dents and dings – Though metal roofing is certainly durable, it isn’t completely indestructible. As it endures various weather events, including hail storms, which are common in some parts of the Carolinas, dents, and dings are likely to appear. This will not impact the structural integrity of your roof, but some homeowners find it unsightly.
If you think a metal roof could be the right choice for your upcoming remodeling project, contact the team at Hatch Homes today. We will be happy to schedule a consultation with one of our expert team members so you can learn more about metal roofs and all of the benefits they offer in residential projects.