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Are metal roofs better?

Picture of Zach Reece Zach Reece

Durable metal roof

Metal roofing isn’t just for old barns and storage sheds anymore! Why? Homeowners have discovered the benefits of metal roofing versus asphalt shingled roofing. The benefits they are finding to be worth the expense of metal roofing are: 

  1. The old roof doesn’t have to be torn off before installing metal roofing
  2. Metal roofing is a lighter material
  3. Metal roofing is more energy efficient
  4. Metal roofing has little required maintenance
  5. Metal roofing installation earns a tax credit
  6. Metal roofing is fire resistant and earns insurance discounts
  7. Metal roofing is more durable and weather-resistant than asphalt shingles
  8. Most metal roofing sheets are made from recycled metal and are recyclable at the end of roof life
  9. Metal roofing has a longer warranty than asphalt shingles
  10. Home has a higher resale value with metal roofing because of these benefits

What is the best color for a metal roof?

It surprises most people to find out that metal roofing has unlimited color options today. Gone are the days when the only choices for aluminum, steel, or tin metal roofing were dark gray or reddish-brown.

Copper metal roofing is a material that is a color all its own, including the patina green it acquires as it ages. All colors eventually fade, but copper undergoes the most drastic change as it oxidizes. Over twenty years, the appearance will change significantly.

Some metal roofing factories add color there so that it is baked onto the metal material. Any metal roofing company you choose to work with can explain this to you in more detail and talk to you about painting the roof after it has been installed. Things you want to keep in mind about metal roofing colors are:

  • The pigment: the color or hue.
  • The resin: the surface appearance.
  • The solvent: the evaporating liquid part of the paint.
  • The fading: this relates to the pigment and can change as the elements interact with moisture and UV rays.
  • The chalking: this is the whitish appearance that builds up metal roofing over time. 

Remember, muted tones won’t fade as fast as pure colors on metal roofing. The quality of the paint will determine how quickly the paint fades or becomes chalky, and choosing lighter color reflect the sun and dark color absorb heat. 

Does a metal roof need gutters?

The purpose of gutters is to funnel water off the roof and away from the structure. They prevent damage to the foundation from rain, sleet, or snow, which left to puddle up around the foundation can cause severe damage to the property. So, strictly speaking, no, your metal roofing does not require gutters, but the foundation of your house and the landscaping around will be protected with a gutter system installed. 

Can you walk on a metal roof? 

Have you heard that you cannot walk on metal roofing? Well, whoever told you that was misinformed, because, depending on the style you choose, you can walk on metal roofing. You can walk on metal roofing with a less likely chance of damaging the roof than with ceramic tiles. Repeated foot traffic will cause damage to asphalt roofing before it will metal roofing. Even fifty years down the road, your metal roofing will hold up to foot traffic.            

What maintenance is required for a metal roof?

Most homeowners choose metal roofing for durability and minimal maintenance features. Where asphalt shingles come loose in the winds and wood shakes split as they age, metal roofing doesn’t damage easy, remaining reliable, steady, and sturdy. 

Metal roofing still needs maintenance and proper care. Here are some tips that experts have told us in metal roofing:

  • Keep Trees Off Metal Roofing: Constant rubbing by tree branches and limbs will damage the finish, loosen the fasteners, and If heavy enough, branches can dent metal roofing. 
  • Keep Debris Cleared Off Metal Roofing: Allowing debris to build up on metal roofing will damage the finish, and as it decomposes, it ruins the finish. Twice a year, using a brush on a long handle with a water hose, clear the debris off, the same time gutter cleaning is done. 
  • Minimize Foot Traffic: Minimize the amount of foot traffic on your metal roofing, but if there is a need for our HVAC technician, an electrician or plumber must access the roof, advise them when you schedule your appointment so they can plan accordingly.  
  • Avoid Mixing Other Metals with Your Metal Roofing: Some types of roofing materials don’t mix well, like aluminum roofing or copper roofing.  
  • Fix or Replace Fasteners: With your monthly metal roofing inspections, if you notice any loose or missing fasteners or screws, tighten, or use the same material to replace them. Make any repairs for holes and separations that you find while taking care of the fasteners.
  • Reseal If Needed: The sealant used on metal roofing will last longer than sealant on other roofing materials, but this needs to be check after each storm or once the snow melts. 

Does having a metal roof lower your insurance?

With most homeowner’s insurance policies, yes, there is a discount for having metal roofing. Before you invest in having a metal roofing installed, check with your agent, and if they don’t offer a discount, or it doesn’t seem to be enough, call around for quotes. 

Metal roofing has had the reputation of being noisy.  With professional installation, metal roofing with insulation today, it as quiet as an asphalt shingle roofing. The benefits of energy efficiency and the style your home will have will be worthwhile. Call (678) 365-3138 today for your metal roofing installation.

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