Why Metal Roofing is a Smart Choice for Your Home

Are you looking for an upgrade? You may overlook metal roofing, but it offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve your property. Whether building a new house or upgrading, metal roofing provides benefits such as reduced energy costs, long-lasting protection, and an improved building look. Together, we will explore the benefits of metal roofing while explaining the different types.

Several metal roofing materials have their appearance and durability. Here is a quick rundown of the most common types of metal roofs.

Steel Roofing

When someone says "metal roofing," they usually mean steel roofing sheets. Steel is an alloy made from iron and other elements. It is used for commercial buildings but continues to gain popularity with residential homes. Steel roof panels are resistant to fire and rotting, cost-effective, and durable.

Aluminum Roofing

Aluminum is a roofing material that is lightweight and highly resistant to rust and corrosion. It performs well in coastal areas where salt exposure is common. The aluminum roof panels are great for heavy rain or snow since they shed water and snow easily. It is a malleable material that can be configured into different profiles, giving you different designs.

Copper Roofing

Copper roofing offers a unique appearance that is highly resistant to corrosion. The copper will develop a unique patina that can add character and charm to any home. The patina will be brown or a blue-green color, depending on the climate. It will last for decades, but it is one of the most expensive options.

Tin Roofing

Tin roofing sheets became popular in the 1800s because they were lightweight and easy to install. However, its popularity declined over a century ago, and it became obsolete due to the use of aluminum. Some people like tin because they enjoy the look and the sounds of heavy rain.

Since tin is no longer available, this look and sound can be enjoyed with galvanized steel, painted metal, or aluminum roofing; this is what people are referring to when they mention tin roofing.

Zinc Roofing

Like copper, zinc has a beautiful appearance that will patina and change color. Since zinc is self-healing, scratches and minor damages will heal as the material oxidizes. Although it lasts a lifetime, it is not popular in the United States due to its high cost.

Depending on your preference, you can select from various metal roofing types. Each type varies in appearance and has different life spans and responses to inclement weather. Below are the most popular roofing types, and their pros and cons.

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Typically found on agricultural and industrial buildings, a corrugated metal roof is known for its wavy pattern. It is normally made of aluminum, but steel and copper can also be used. Most people use aluminum because it is cheaper than steel or copper. While steel and copper are more expensive, they are stronger than aluminum.

The benefits of corrugated metal roofing sheets include affordability, fast installation, lightweight, water-shedding, and resistance to harsh weather conditions. The drawbacks include the potential for debris to collect in the ridges and the increased likelihood of water intrusion from exposed fasteners.

Standing Seam

The most popular type of metal roofing, standing seam, is easily recognizable because of its long vertical panels with concealed fasteners creating an interlocking seam. The design creates a watertight seal and a modern look lasting 50 years or longer. The material is recyclable and has low maintenance requirements. It is made from steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc. The main issues with standing seam are the high price tag and loud echoes from the rain.

Stamped

Made from aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc, stamped roofing is created when individual pieces of metal are shaped and formed to emulate tile, shingle, shake, and other types of roofing systems. It is durable, energy-efficient, lightweight, and versatile. Compared to other metal roofing, it is more susceptible to damage from strong winds and hail, and it may be noisy when it rains.

Powder-Coated Steel Roofing

Powder-Coated Steel Roofing is made of steel, pigment, and resin. The powder coating is applied electrostatically and then cured with heat. It is most useful in northern regions because it allows snow to melt evenly, eliminating the need for snow bars. It also protects the base steel from hail and wind. Powder-coated roofing is available in various colors to suit preferences.

The coating makes it resistant to scratching, fading, and shipping. It is low maintenance, environmentally friendly, and offers a long lifespan. The powder coating makes it expensive, and it produces thicker finishes. The steel can rust if the granules in the finish become dislodged.

Metal roofs have a much higher life expectancy compared to materials such as single-ply or asphalt shingles. Metal roofs have a lifespan of 40 years or more. The lifespan depends on proper installation and maintenance.

Safety

Metal roofing is one of the safest materials on the market. Its strong fire-retardant properties mean it won't burn in the event of a fire. Metal roofing installed over combustible materials can lower your roof's fire resistance rating.

Eco-Friendly

Metal is an environmentally friendly material. The panels can be torn off and recycled, reducing the need for raw materials. Metal also reflects heat during the summer, reducing the need to run the air conditioning. It can save you money and the environment.

Lightweight

Most types of metal roofing are lightweight compared to alternative materials such as tile. This makes them easy to install. The weight also reduces the stress on the load-bearing roof support structures.

Appeal

The appeal of metal roofing has evolved over the years. It is available in various colors to match the rest of your home's exterior. Metal roofing can be built to resemble shingles to provide the benefits of metal with a traditional appeal.

Easy Maintenance

Metal roofing will not crack, split, corrode, or mold. A properly installed roof means, the rain and snow will run off smoothly. The durability means the roof will require little to no maintenance. This saves money on repairs.

Property Value

Investing in a roof that lasts as long as metal increases your property value. The lifespan, energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and weather resistance make it a great choice for someone who plans to sell their home. Consult an expert to learn the specific value it would add to your area.

DECRA Metal Roofing and EDCO offer metal roofing that will last a lifetime. Learn more about each below.

DECRA Metal Roofing

DECRA Metal Roofing offers metal tile, shingle, and shake roofing. Their products are designed to combine the look of traditional roofing materials, like tile or shingles, with the strength and longevity of metal. Natural stone granules adhere to base steel sheets using DECRA's proprietary stone-coating process to provide a wide range of styles, colors, and textures backed by the strength of multi-layered steel. A lifetime limited warranty backs DECRA Metal Roofing.

EDCO

EDCO is known for its high-quality steel roofing systems. The metal shake and slate combine traditional shingles’ aesthetic appeal with the metal's durability and longevity, making them a superior choice for those seeking style and protection. EDCO is recognized for providing premium, sustainable roofing products offering superior performance in tough climates. A lifetime limited warranty backs EDCO.

Choosing the right roofing for your home is an investment in both protection and long-term value. With its unmatched durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance, metal roofing offers numerous benefits that can save you money and peace of mind for years to come.

DISCLAIMER: DECRA Metal Roofing and EDCO products are available to purchase at your local MBS branch only. Find out which branch is closest to you here.