The Benefits of a Metal Roof

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Metal roofs have grown increasingly popular for their durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Though long used on commercial properties, more homeowners than ever are opting for them when roofing their residential homes.

One popular misconception regarding metal roofs is that they attract lightning more readily than other roofing materials. While metal is an excellent conductor of electricity, lightning strikes typically target whatever surface offers the direct path from height to ground.

Table of Contents

Durability

Metal roofs are durable and long-term options that are great for protecting against heavy winds or direct lightning strikes, are fireproof, and help lower energy costs by reflecting sunlight off their surfaces.

Eco-friendly roofing shingles such as recycled materials make asphalt roof shingles a more eco-friendly choice than most others, helping reduce landfill waste.

Even though metal roofs can withstand most environmental conditions, not all are created equally. If you live in an area prone to large hail storms, ensure you select a product guaranteed not to dent from such impacts. Also consult your homeowners association before choosing one because there may be specific restrictions in your neighborhood regarding what types of roofing types can be installed there.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs provide energy-saving advantages when painted with reflective pigments. A light-colored metal roof reflects sunlight away from your home, helping lower summer energy costs; in comparison, asphalt shingles absorb the sun’s warmth and radiate it into your home – raising cooling expenses considerably.

Energy efficiency of metal roofs depends heavily on their attachment system. According to one study, batten/counter-batten attachment creates air gaps which reduce heat transfer from attic into home, thus leading to reduced cooling bills.

Metal roofs are even more eco-friendly when considering that they contain 25-95% recycled content and are 100% recyclable when their life as roof is completed. Furthermore, their reduced waste footprint eliminates landfill fill-in costs for tear-off waste disposal; additionally they’re an ideal surface for mounting solar energy panels.

Aesthetics

Most homeowners strive to select a roof that not only looks great, but provides protection, energy efficiency and long term lifespan as well. Finding a compromise that balances aesthetic and performance can be challenging – that’s where metal roofing comes in!

Standing seam metal roofs create an architectural aesthetic that suits modern building designs perfectly, as well as offering various profile options to meet specific requirements for height, narrow rib heights and widths to fit individual needs. Aesthetic finishes add further beauty and appeal.

Homeowners looking for more classic aesthetic can choose metal shingles designed to resemble wood shake, slate and clay tiles for their roofing material. These roofs can be customized in terms of color and texture to complement any home, acting as an accent against asphalt shingles or being used alone as accent pieces. Many manufacturers provide visualization software so homeowners can understand what a specific product style would do for the curb appeal of their property.

Maintenance

Maintenance for metal roofs can be an extensive investment, and to protect its long-term success you must do everything in your power to keep it looking its best. Regularly inspect penetration point areas (flues, chimneys and vents) for leaks or damages as well as trimming nearby trees as they may scuff and scratch the surface, rendering your metal roof less appealing and leaving it vulnerable against further damage.

As it can be slippery when wet, it is wise to hire an experienced roof surface maintenance service provider so as to reduce your chances of falling off and injuring yourself. Even small steps could leave permanent marks that compromise warranty coverage or lead to corrosion. Furthermore, any type of walking on metal roof surfaces – ridge, hip and valley flashings, skylights and any other flat sections – is to be avoided in windy areas, since even one step could leave permanent marks and scuffs that compromise warranty coverage or cause corrosion damage that compromises warranty coverage or leads directly.