Does a metal roof cost more than other roofing materials? Yes, it does cost more upfront. However, other roofing materials tend to have shorter lifespans and need frequent replacements. If installed properly, a metal roof rarely needs to be replaced, saving you money in the long run and adding value to your property.
How much protection does a metal roof offer? Metal roofs offer superior protection against the elements compared to asphalt, wood, tile, cement, and fiberglass. For example:
- FIRE: Metal roofs do not burn or support combustion.
- WIND: Metal roofs have outperformed other roofing products in recent hurricanes.
- WATER: Metal doesn’t absorb water, reducing structural damage. It also withstands hail without penetration.
- SNOW: Snow slides off metal roofs, preventing excessive weight build-up, especially over doorways with metal guards.
What about the cost of energy—does it cost more to heat or cool a building with a metal roof? A metal roof with a high-quality paint finish reflects most of the sun’s rays, retaining less heat than wood, asphalt shingles, tile, or cement. This helps keep your attic cooler and lowers cooling costs.
Is a metal roof noisy when it rains? Not really. Residential metal roofs are installed over wood, which absorbs sound. Studies show that metal roofs are about as noisy as other materials like asphalt shingles, wood shingles, or clay tiles during rain.
Can I walk on my metal roof? Yes, you can, but since metal roofs require no maintenance, there’s usually no need to. If you must walk on it, it’s best to consult with your roofing company for specific advice to avoid damage.
Does my present roof have to be removed before a metal roof is installed? Often, metal roofs can be installed directly over old asphalt shingles, saving money and avoiding the mess and cost of disposal. This also helps protect the environment by sparing landfill space.
How much do metal roofs weigh compared to other types? Metal roofing is lightweight—less than one-third the weight of asphalt, one-twentieth the weight of concrete, and adds less than 10% to the weight of the existing roof materials.
Does a metal roof attract lightning? No, metal roofs do not attract lightning. They are electrical conductors and noncombustible, making them safe during lightning events. Lightning strikes are influenced more by the location of the building and other factors. Metal roofs can actually help protect buildings from lightning strikes.
How long will a metal roof last? A metal roof won’t dry out, split, curl, peel, or flake like other materials. Metal roofing has been used successfully for over a century and lasts much longer than any other roofing material available.
How good is the paint finish on a metal roof? Most metal roof manufacturers offer a 35 to 40-year paint warranty, ensuring long-term durability and aesthetic appeal.
Can solar energy systems work on a metal roof? Yes, metal roofing is an excellent platform for solar electric and solar thermal energy systems. Metal roofs can earn up to 25 U.S. Green Building Council LEED credits due to coatings that prevent 75 to 80 percent of the sun’s energy from being absorbed, reducing surface temperatures by 60 to 70 degrees.