Your Guide to Metal Roofs

If your roof is getting old, it may be time to replace it. While there are many roofing materials from which to choose, you may be considering metal for its many benefits. If you would like to know more about metal roofs, keep reading.

What Types of Metal Roofs Exist?

Metal roofs can be made from a multitude of metals, including:

• Aluminum
• Copper
• Steel

They all have their own pros and cons and some look more attractive than others. Aluminum, for example, is a soft metal. This makes it easy to work with, but it may also be more prone to dents and damage. On the other hand, it withstands saltwater damage well and is incredibly lightweight.

Copper roofs are popular because they are durable and attractive. Over time, copper develops an attractive blue-green patina which further protects the copper. Copper is one of the most expensive roofing options, but copper roofs are corrosion resistant and long-lasting.

Steel roofs include multiple options, such as galvanized steel and stainless steel. Plus, some steel roofs are coated with other metals like aluminum to give them more advantages. Steel is strong and affordable, but it is not always considered as attractive as other metals.

How Are Metal Roofs Installed?

Depending on the type of metal, you can have long metal sheets or metal shingles/tiles. Just like with any roof, a metal roof needs the underlayment, drip edges, and flashing to better protect against water and moisture. However, during installation, the roofer may also install a sound damper. This keeps your metal roof quiet in rain, hail, etc.

If you already have an asphalt shingle roof, but you want to upgrade to a metal roof, the roofers may be able to install the metal shingles or sheets directly over the old asphalt shingles. This helps dampen sound, and it drastically reduces the price. However, if there is an underlying issue with the roof's structure, the roofer may suggest a total replacement.

What Are the Benefits of Metal Roofs?

Many homeowners choose metal roofs because they have many benefits. First, regardless of the type of metal, they hold up well in many types of weather. They are durable against wind and storm damage. Plus, the metal reflects a lot of sunlight, keeping the home naturally cooler in the summer. In the winter, the metal roof steals heat from the outdoor air to keep the attic a little warmer.

Metal roofs are also an environmentally friendly option. Most metal roofs are made with at least 25 percent recycled metal. On top of that, all the metal can be recycled when it's time to replace your old metal roof. This is better for the environment because it saves precious resources. However, recycling metal uses less energy and releases less carbon than processing raw materials.

How Much Do Metal Roofs Cost?

The exact cost of your metal roof largely depends on the type of metal. Steel is usually the cheapest at about $4 to $17 per square foot. Aluminum is also affordable at $6.50 to $21 square foot. Copper, however, can cost as much as $20 to $40 per square foot.

However, metal roofs typically last longer than cheaper options. The exact lifespan depends on the type of metal, the elements, and the amount of maintenance you put into the roof. While asphalt roofs last about 20 years, but copper roofs could last 50 years or longer.

If your roof needs to be replaced, consider a metal roof. While they are more expensive than asphalt, they last longer and look great. If you would like to know more, contact us at Guyer and Son Roofing today for more information.