Wednesday, May 23, 2012

All You Ever Wanted To Know About Metal Roofing


Metal is the latest craze in roofing material today.  It has become popular because of the many benefits it offers over traditional roofing materials such as composite asphalt shingles.  Homeowners have become fond of metal roofs because they are durable, practically maintenance free once installed and good in many different weather environments.  Below you will find a list of answers to frequently asked questions about metal roofing.  The answers will have you calling a metal roof installer to update the look and durability of your current roof.
Q – What does the typical metal roof cost to replace in comparison to a shingle roof?
A – Metal roofing is considered a premium product.  When considering a metal roof for your home you need to understand the cost that will be considerably higher than a shingle roof because it is designed to outlast a shingle roof ten-fold.  If you compare metal roofing to tile or cedar shake roofing you will find the costs to be comparable. 
No matter what variety of metal roofing you purchase you will not ever have to think about replacing your roof again.  This is a perfect option for people that are considering living in their homes for the long term.  However, metal roofing does increase the value of your home so it is a terrific option for homeowners that are looking to sell.  Metal roofing often comes with a thirty to fifty year warranty, adds value to your home, helps save money on energy bills and allows you freedom from ever replacing your roof again.  What is not to love?
Q – I worry that that metal roofing will not fir the style of my home or neighborhood.
A – This is not even an issue considering that most residential metal roofing is made to appear like most conventional roofing materials.  Metal roofing is similar to asphalt shingles, clay tiles, slate and cedar shakes except that it is more durable and able to withstand most any weather.  When looking into a metal roof for your home you will be surprised to find the abundant array of colors, patterns and styles available to choose from. 
Q – What about lightning?  Does metal roofing attract lightning?
A – This is a great myth surrounding metal roofing.   The truth is that your metal roof has as much of a chance of being hit as does a shingle roof.  Lightning is attracted to the highest point of a home not the material on the roof of the home.  The difference is a metal roof can help avoid lightning causing a fire from the lightning strike because it spreads the electric charge out over the entire roof instead of one localized spot.  Metal roofing is a non-combustible material. 
Q – Are you able to get on top of the roof and walk around? 
A – Like any roof you should not spend an immense amount of time tromping around.  Roofs are high and sloped which can cause issues no matter what material your roof is comprised of.  Yes, metal roofing is able to support individuals walking on it.  However like any roof can be damaged if not walked upon with care to avoid stepping on raised portions of the metal roofing panels.
These are just a few answers to some of the many questions surrounding metal roofing for residential purposes.  For more information on if a metal roof is the best option for your home it is best to contact a metal roof contractor.    Metal roofing materials used on your home can greatly increase the value, the longevity of the homes roof and the roofs durability.