DIY Outdoor/Garden Patios/Decks Metal Roofing Buying Guide – Is Metal Roofing the Right Choice?
Metal Roofing Buying Guide – Is Metal Roofing the Right Choice? Print E-mail
Written by Robert   

Metal Roof

Metal Roofing Buying Guide – Is Metal Roofing the Right Choice? Metal roofing has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Due to this popularity, companies are manufacturing different styles than what used to be available. The days of tin barn roofs are gone. Metal roofing has found its place in the residential areas. This metal roofing buying guide will help you determine whether metal roofing is for you. This metal roofing buying guide will introduce the different materials available, as well as, benefits and disadvantages of metal roofing.

Related articles: Installing Roof Jacks

What are the benefits of metal roofing?

  • Durable
  • Fire resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Easy and quick to install
  • Long term warranties
  • Mildew and rot resistant
  • Minimal roof pitch
  • Reflect heat from the sun

How much does metal roofing cost?

Metal roofing generally costs from $1.50 to $6 per square foot. The price generally includes panels, fastening clips, caps, and all trims and flashing. While this may seem expensive, you need to consider the cost of an average roof and the amount of times you will have to replace an average roof. Most metal roofing companies have at least a 20 to 25 year warranty. Generally, metal roofing will last way past this warranty.

Are there any disadvantages of metal roofing?

As with anything, there are some disadvantages to metal roofing. Aside from the metal roofing cost, here are few:

  • Noise during a rainstorm or hail storm.
  • Denting, especially aluminum and copper metal roofing. Purchase one that guarantees not to dent.
  • Painted metal roofing can peel, chip, fade, scratch or chalk.
  • More difficult to replace as the material may be difficult to match.

What are the different metal roofing materials?

  • Steel is heavier and sturdier than aluminum and has heavy duty coating and finish that protects from rust and corrosion.
  • Stainless steel will not rust or corrode and has Terne coating to give it a matte- gray finish.
  • Aluminum is lightweight and will not rust, but must be painted for the finish.
  • Copper will not rust, has no finish that will scratch and peel, is soft, but is very expensive.
  • Alloys are durable and strong, but are expensive.

Two main systems for joining panels together for sheet metal roofing:

  • Standing seam roofing: Architects seem to like the standing seam roofing that gives a clean and modern look to homes. The standing seam roofing has a self-sealing, raised seam.
  • Batten roofing has a wider cover gap. Special metal parts are made for the ridges, hips, edges and connections.

What are the different styles of shingle metal roofing?

More and more styles are being manufactured. They are creating shapes that imitate:

  • Spanish and mission tile
  • Wood shakes
  • Slate
  • Victorian metal tiles

These styles have a multi-layer finish and a granulated-stone topcoat for a realistic look. Most have been painted or coated steel or aluminum that has been pressed in realistic shapes. Shingle metal roofing has become a popular choice for many home owners. Consider the benefits and disadvantages carefully. Remember, while metal roofing is more expensive, it has a long warranty and is resistant to fire, as well as other environmental issues.

Comments (1)
  • wyman moase  - metal shingles
    Hi. I have metal shingles on my house roof ...about 80 years old. They have been painted several times....starting to rust and show their age. I looked at repairing it myself and got a price from a professional......however they are 80 years old ( anyone want to question the durability of steel shingles call me).and fixing would only give them a few more years whereas a new steel roof will last 50.
    What should I expect in cost of replacing them with new shingles ....I prefer shingles to sheet steel on my home.Also I received a professional quote to replace .
    Does anyone have any tips on picking a new product or a contractor. wyman
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