Residential metal roofing

According to the National Roofing Contractor’s Association residential metal roofing has become much more well loved over the last decade.  Is it that the corrugated tin barn look has come into style, or did pixies and elves with metal roof stocks skew the results?  No.  The market now includes new types of metal roofs that look fantastic while being durable, light weight, and fire-resistant.  Formerly only well loved for business and industrial buildings, metal roofs have found a new home…on houses. 

There are other advantages to metal roofs.  In addition to those already mentioned, metal roofs are quick to install and fantastic at reflecting the heat from the sun.  It’s a common misconception that because it’s hot on a metal roof it will be hot under the roof.  But that heat is reflected away from the home.  If it’s hotter on top, it’s cooler down below the roof. 

Metal roofs are made mostly from aluminum and steel, but alloys such as copper are also used.  While the new metal roofs can mimic the look of other traditional residential roofing materials, some well loved styles retain a decidedly commercial look found by architects to give home clean lines. 

Surely it’s not all peaches and cream for metal roofs.  Metal roofs do have drawbacks which each homeowner must evaluate in relation to the advantages.  At about $150-$600 per 100 square feet, a metal roof is expensive.  But this expense can be recovered if the homeowner remains in the home for a long time, and metal roofs help save money by minimizing the need for maintenance of the supporting structure.  In a rain storm having a metal roof can be a small like living inside a drum.  A metal roof can be much louder than other types of roofs.  Using sound deadening insulation can help minimize the extra noise of a metal roof.  Metal roofs, particularly aluminum and copper materials, are soft and prone to denting from hail stones.  Some metal roofs, but, are guaranteed against denting.  Metal roofs can also be slippery when wet, something to keep in mind for gutter cleaning, inspection, or other maintenance that requires walking on the roof.  Some metal finishes can chip and peel, although again they’re generally guaranteed for many years against such marring.

A quick note on lightning for residential metal roofing is, don’t be worried. Metal roofs don’t attract lightning even though metal conducts electricity.  Metal roofs can also be grounded for extra protection.

When you wish upon a star, and residential metal roofing is where you are, look up at the bright light, and be pleased your choice was right.

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