Metal roofing has been around for quite some time, but it’s only become more popular as a residential roofing option over the last 10 years or so. This is in part because the materials have become more refined, affordable, and easy to install, but it’s also because homeowners are starting to see the many benefits in using it.
While it has become more popular, it’s not well understood by the majority of homeowners. Many questions and myths are still persistent. If you are considering metal roofing installation on your home, you can find the answers to some of the most common metal roofing questions below.
How Long Does Metal Roofing Last?
You can expect a residential metal roof to last between 40-75 years. Why such a large range? Like every other roofing material, it all depends on how well it’s maintained as well as the climate it’s placed in. But make no mistake about it: metal roofing is the longest lasting metal roofing option. It will likely be the last roof you will need to purchase and install on your home.
Does Metal Roofing Perform Well in the Midwest?
Midwestern winters are cold, harsh, and filled with snow. So it’s understandable that homeowners would want a roofing material that performs well in this type of climate. There is a persistent myth about metal roofing that the material is not a good insulator, which is not true. Metal roofing will insulate your home very well throughout the winter months. Metal is good at insulating a home because of the way the material reacts to heat. Metal is a very good thermal conductor, meaning it easily transfers heat to cooler objects and absorbs heat from warmer objects. The material stores heat after the sun goes down and fights against the colder temperatures at night, and it does a better job at heat storage than asphalt shingles and wood.
Metal roofing can also help keep your house cool during the summer months.
Is Metal Roofing Susceptible to Hail Damage?
Yes, but it is far more durable than any other roofing material. No roof is “hail-proof”, but metal roofing will be able to withstand storm damage better than any other option.
Isn’t Metal Roofing Only for Commercial Buildings?
While metal roofing is very common on commercial buildings, it is becoming much more common on residential homes as the years go by. Thanks to the many different types of metal that can be used in residential roofing, there are now affordable metal roofing options for almost any home. More homeowners are choosing metal roofing because of its many benefits:
- Long lasting
- Durable
- Low maintenance
- Color options and ability to be painted
- Flame resistance
- Resistance to bugs like termites
- Corrosion resistance
What Color Options are Available for Metal Roofs?
Metal roofing materials come in various color options. The material can also be painted any color you choose, so long as you use a high-quality exterior paint.
Is Metal Roofing an Eco-Friendly Roofing Option?
Yes, metal roofing is a very eco-friendly option for many reasons:
- It is recyclable after use (and sometimes made with recycled materials)
- It’s long lasting, which reduces waste
- It’s energy efficient and insulates your home, which reduces energy usage and costs
Can You Install Solar Panels on Metal Roofs?
Yes, you can install solar panels on metal roofing.
What is the Cost of Metal Roofing?
This depends on the type of metal used. You have multiple metal options that include ribbed steel, Decra, standing seam steel, copper, etc. You can expect to pay about 25% more for a metal roof when compared to asphalt shingles, but keep in mind that the material lasts about 2.5 times longer. Metal roofing is the most cost-efficient roofing option in the long run.
Do You Recommend Metal Roofing for My Home?
That depends on what type of home you own, your personal style, and your budget. We recommend considering metal roofing as an option, but we will never try to upsell you on it just because it costs more. At Schmidt Roofing, we install all types of roofing and are dedicated to helping you choose the best material. We provide honest opinions and transparent quotes, and we’ll never pressure you into making a purchase that you are not 100% happy with.
Get in touch with us and we will help you make the right decision for your home and family.
