If your roof is leaking or showing signs of deterioration, it may be time to replace it. Finding the right roof for your home will not only determine its overall aesthetic but will also be the first line of defense against any exterior elements. Because there are so many available options, it can be hard to make a final decision. As you look at all the different options, you may have learned about the increasing popularity of metal roofing. According to industry reports, metal roofs last 2-3 times longer than other roofing materials. It can also withstand high winds and inclement weather, which is a big advantage for residents of the Coastal Bend.
Advantages of Metal Roofing
Here are some of the benefits of having a metal roof for your home:
- Life Span — Most asphalt shingles will last 15-20 years. It can also be troublesome, noisy, and expensive to replace. While a metal roofing installation can be just as noisy and disruptive, you won’t need to replace it as often. A metal roof can last 40-70 years, so it’s a worthwhile investment.
- Durability — Metal roofing sheets are usually made out of strong materials (including tin, aluminum, zinc, and steel). This makes them more durable than asphalt or slate shingles. They’re also better at withstanding extreme weather (such as heavy rain and intense heat). They can even endure winds of up to 140 mph.
- Aesthetics — Metal roofs have come a long way since their predecessors, which were made out of tin-plated iron. They can also be made in a variety of colors, types, and styles. You can choose to install standard metal shingles, but you also have other options to choose from (such as shake-inspired, tile, panel, and ribbed).
- Sustainability — Over 12 billion square feet of asphalt shingles end up in landfills every year, so they create a lot of waste. Roofers can install a metal roof over your existing shingles, which will eliminate the amount of debris that can come with a traditional roof replacement.
- Energy Efficiency — Metal roofing can be a great option if you want to lower your energy costs. Standard roofing shingles can trap heat from the sun, which can increase the need to cool your home by up to 15%. Metal roofs will reflect heat from the sun, so you don’t need to spend as much money to cool your home.
- Safety — A lot of people think that metal roofs are more likely to cause damage and safety concerns during periods of severe weather, but they don’t attract lightning during thunderstorms than asphalt roofs. Most metal roofing installations have a Class A fire rating, so they’re more resistant to surface flame spread. They’re just as safe as asphalt shingles, even if you live in an area with a higher risk of wildfires.
Be sure to speak to a professional for more information.
Disadvantages of Metal Roofing
While they can come with many advantages, metal roofs have a few disadvantages that are worth considering. Some of them include the following:
- Up-Front Cost — Most metal roofs will cost $5,882-$12,732 (with the average cost being around $10,000), so they’re more expensive than asphalt shingles. Other factors (such as the size, pitch, and type of installation) will also determine how much you’ll have to pay.
- Dents — Metal roofs are sturdy, but they can still get damaged. Steel roofs are strong, so they won’t get easily dented. But because aluminum and copper are softer metals, they’re more susceptible to dent damage.
- Noise — You’re more likely to hear noise during a storm if you have a metal roofing installation. While some people find the sound of rain hitting a metal roof to be calming, it’s something you should consider (especially if you’re sensitive to certain noises).
- Rust — Some types of metal roofing are more susceptible to rust, especially if they’re in coastal climates. Steel can rust, but many roofing companies use galvanized steel to offset this risk. Aluminum is more rust-resistant, but it may not be suitable for some homes because of its aesthetic properties. Zinc is more resistant to rust and corrosion, but it can be expensive.
- Lack of Available Contractors – Metal roofs are growing in popularity, but it can still be hard to find a roofer who knows how to install them properly. You should do your research before you hire a contractor for a metal roofing installation.
If you’re looking for one of the best roofers in Corpus Christi for this type of installation, be sure to reach out to Bayfront Roofing.
