Jun 19, 2023
Some of the modern metal roofs, at first glance, are a daunting price tag that has you questioning why so many people are installing them instead of regular shingles. What if we were to tell you that metal roofing is so much more than a trendy, expensive roofing system? If you plan on owning your property long-term, or want to increase the property value, metal roofing material offers tons of advantages.
Disadvantages
The price of standing seam roofs or exposed fastener roofs depends on multiple factors. The material you choose dictates the final cost the most, with corrugated steel panels ranging from $3.50 to 6.50 per square foot while an aluminum roof can ramp up to nearly $20.00 per square foot. That’s a sizable gap when compared to a shingle roof, which usually ranges from $1.50 on the low end up to $12.00 per square foot.
Some metal roofing materials and panels show damage more than other roofing materials. While it is very important to note that scratches and dents have no affect on the structural integrity of the panel, things like large hail or tree branches can still leave unattractive marks. There are color pens that can come with roof installations to cover small scratches, but a common shingle or tile roof can receive damage and not be noticeable from a distance.
Last on this list, metal roofs are harder to install than other materials. The process requires a balancing act of making sure the panels are lined up correctly, trying not to scratch panels by walking on them, water sealing roof penetrations, and custom buying products like flashing and drip edge. This goes back to price, where usually installation crews will charge more to complete a metal roofing job.
So Why are People Switching to Metal?
Tying into the longevity of metal roofing systems, the long-term cost of owning a metal roof drops significantly when compared to other material. Thanks to the emissivity and thermal resistance of metal products, metal roofs are more energy efficient than standard shingles. Lighter colors can reduce electricity costs from the AC by 25%, while darker colors still edge out other products by around 5%-10% (very valuable in a hot, Texas climate). Metal roofs also, on average, add 6% to your property’s value, making the material an incredible investment.
Aside from the cost and longevity benefits, there are many other advantages to choosing a metal roof. Most metal roofing materials have a class 4 impact rating, which means they can withstand a 2″ steel ball dropped from 20 feet without evidence of tearing, fracturing, cracking, splitting, or other signs of damage, according to Underwriters Laboratory, a non-profit testing organization. However, it is worth noting that exceptionally large hail or tree branches can still leave dents or scratches that do not affect the roof’s integrity.
Lastly, some other important draws of a metal roof include its fireproof nature, recyclability (unlike shingles made with crude oil), and its high aesthetic appeal. Metal roofs offer dozens of color options, along with natural patterns that mimic copper corrosion or metallic finishes. You can opt for a full metal roof or choose a hybrid option that combines metal with another roofing material to create a visually pleasing combination.
In conclusion, the advantages of a metal roof outweigh the initial investment and offer long-term value, durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Regardless of all its advantages, the one factor most customers love about a metal roof is how amazing it looks!