The Top 10 FAQs of Metal Roofs

The beautiful look of metal roofs is becoming increasingly popular across the country, as homeowners are beginning to realize the many benefits that they provide. If you are like many people who are in the market for a new roof, however, you are likely a bit apprehensive and intimidated by misconceptions about metal roofs. This quality product has come a long way since its early days, and it is quickly becoming the preferred choice of homeowners around the country. If you need to replace your roof but feel that you don’t know enough about metal roofing options to make the transition, consider the answers to these questions that many people have.

Are metal roofs too heavy for garages, porches, and certain types of homes?

The weight of a metal roof is never a problem for homes and other structures. Metal roofs are actually 75% lighter than slate, fiber cement, and concrete tile, and 50% lighter than asphalt shingle roofs.

Is metal roofing an eco-friendly choice?

The benefits of a metal roof to the environment stack high against asphalt shingles. They are typically made with 28% recycled steel, and the product is completely recyclable when it reaches the end of its long lifespan. Asphalt shingles end up being dumped into landfills when they are removed from home – in amounts as high as 20 billion pounds per year. Not only is a metal roof recyclable, but it can also be installed over old roofing materials, which means less waste in our landfills.

How well do metal roofs stand up to harsh weather?

One of the greatest features of a metal roof is that it is very resilient in all types of extreme weather. From snow and hail to heavy wind gusts of up to 140 miles per hour and even wildfires, metal roofs can withstand decades of abuse from the elements. If you live in an area that is prone to heavy snows, metal roofs are a prime choice, as they are known to shed snow quickly, which protects your roof’s structure.

I’ve heard that metal roofs are noisy in inclement weather, is this true?

Noise from rain and hail is virtually non-existent on a metal roof. It is certainly no noisier than options like slate, tile, cedar, and asphalt. The fact of the matter is, most of the noise is absorbed by the insulation in your attic.

How long do metal roofs last?

The durability and longevity of a metal roof far outweigh that of its counterparts like asphalt shingles. Most metal roofs will last a minimum of thirty to fifty years, which is 2 to 3 times longer than a normal roof. They can also be repainted, to update the look of your home over time. Asphalt shingles begin to decompose as soon as they are exposed to the elements and usually last between twelve and twenty years. Other roofing materials also begin to break down over time due to exposure to the elements. A metal roof, on the other hand, will not decompose.

What if a metal roof doesn’t look right on my home?

Many people have a visual idea of what metal roofs look like, but don’t realize that modern metal roof products come in a variety of styles that mimic slate, clay tile, cedar shake, and asphalt shingle styles. They don’t have that same old “metal roof style” that you picture in your mind. With all of the options available, you don’t have to worry about finding a perfect style to match your home and neighborhood.

Are metal roofs a lot more expensive than other roofing materials?

The answer to this question depends on the other options you are considering. When comparing the price to asphalt shingles, it is a higher-priced premium product. While the cost is as much as two to three times more, you must keep in mind that your metal roof will come with a 30 to 50-year warranty, and you will never have to worry about replacing your roof again, as you would with asphalt. The cost of a metal roof is similar to that of cedar shake and tile, but less expensive than slate. Other premium benefits that make a metal roof worth the cost include savings on energy bills and adding to the resale value.

Will a metal roof affect my cell phone reception?

The only chance you have of a metal roof affecting your cell reception inside your home is if you are currently in a location where you have a very weak reception. If your reception is good at the moment, it should not be affected by a metal roof. If you think about it, you probably use your cell phone in a lot of businesses that have metal roofs, such as banks, stores, and restaurants. Even if your home does have poor cell reception, you can often couple your new metal roof with a cell phone signal booster to improve your signal.

Is a metal roof more dangerous during lightning storms?

When lightning strikes, it will always hit at the highest object in its vicinity, but it doesn’t matter what that object is made from. There is no more risk of a lightning strike on a metal roof than there is on other roofing materials, as a metal roof will not attract lightning any more than other products.

Can you walk on a metal roof without damaging it?

Just as the strength and texturing of metal roofs make them resistant to hail damage, they are also resistant to any potential damage from foot traffic. Most metal roofing styles actually mask the appearance of minor dents and dings that occur. The strength of the product doesn’t wear down over time, so it is just as durable after decades on the home as it is when it is first installed.

If you need a new roof but have been leery of metal roofing due to unanswered questions, rest assured that this product is superior to nearly any other available today. If you still have questions that aren’t covered here, your metal roofing contractor will be able to explain the benefits of metal roofs in detail and put your mind at ease.