The Pros of Metal Roofs
The main advantage of metal roofs is that they last longer than other options. They’re also durable, low maintenance, and they look great. They can be installed quickly and once on, they encourage fast snowmelt to decrease the risk of leaks.
High Life Expectancy
Generally speaking, most metal roofs are expected to last fifty years. That’s much longer than the standard shingle, which is rated to last thirty years. Because of this, metal roofs are excellent options for people who intend to stay in their current home for the foreseeable future. The initial investment means they don’t have to worry about replacing their roof for a long time and maintenance efforts will likely be low (we’ll cover that later).
Durability & Product Selection
Life expectancy still varies for metal roofs though, depending on which product you choose. When you’re looking at your options, you’ll see them described as different gauges.
This indicates the thickness of the metal (how durable it is) which is described by a number. Lower numbers mean thicker metal, and thicker roofs are obviously more durable (although more expensive).
Building codes call for a minimum of 29-gauge metal roofs. We install mostly 26-gauge products and sometimes 24-gauge as well. With this high durability you get increased protection from the wind, rain, snow, and hail. Here in the windy city of Lethbridge, metal roofs hold up well.
Fast Installation Time
One of the main reasons that metal roofs are expensive is the amount of labour involved in the installation process. If you’re dealing with a company that’s not experienced with metal roofs, they will end up charging you much higher than an experienced company because they’re simply not as efficient.
At C&M Roofing, we’re very efficient at installing metal roofs because of our experience. We can get the job done quickly which means labour costs are kept to a minimum.
Additionally, metal roofs can be installed faster than shingles which makes them a more viable option when considering the pricing differences between the two options.
They Look Great
We can’t ignore the fact that metal roofs give a home a whole new look. They’re desirable especially for cottages and homes with character. You can even get hidden fasteners on your roof so there’s no screw holes, just one clean line.
Low Maintenance
We often see homeowners choosing metal roofs after having dealt with shingles for many years. With a metal roof, they no longer have to worry about shingles blowing off, curling, or losing granules.
Having said this, the type of fastener installed on your roof can add a bit of maintenance in the future. The hidden faster that leaves no screw holes, just clean lines doesn’t require maintenance but is the more expensive product.
A more affordable option is to use exposed fasteners rather than hidden ones. Some exposed fasteners come pre-siliconed which is helpful, but it’s recommended to check on them periodically to make sure they’re tight and intact. This adds a bit of maintenance needs to your roof, which is a slight downfall.
They Speed Up Snow & Ice Melt
Metal roofs are common in snowy climates like Fernie and Waterton because they encourage snow and ice to melt away quickly. There’s minimal traction for the snow to grip so it often slides right off. This means it won’t be sitting on your roof, encouraging leaks and adding unnecessary weight & strain.
The Cons of Metal Roofs
As with anything, there are drawbacks to metal roofs. They’re expensive, some require maintenance, they can get dented, and improper installation can cause nightmares.
They’re Expensive
As you can imagine, a roof that gives a life expectancy of fifty years versus thirty years will be more expensive. As we discussed above, thicker metals are more expensive as well. But when you consider the quick installation time for a metal roof when you’ve hired an experienced roofing company, the labour costs go down which makes it a more viable option.
If you’re considering both shingles and metal roofing be sure to ask about the difference in costs for your particular home; it may be lower than you’re expecting.
Improper Installation Causes Problems
Not everybody can install a metal roof; it does take certain skills and tools. It’s definitely a job that’s best left to the professionals because the problems that come from an improperly installed metal roof can be very costly not only to your roof but to other areas of your home, as well.
They Can Get Dented
Yes, metal roofs sometimes get dented from large hail storms. Heavier gauges offer protection from this, but dents are never out of the question. Having said this, the same hail that causes these dents will also damage shingles substantially, so you should be mentally prepared for some weather damage regardless.
In summary, metal roofs are excellent options for homeowners that plan to live in their current home for a long time. They last long with minimal maintenance and look fantastic. The sound of rain adds another layer of comfort, reminding you that you’re protected from the elements. Quick installation times mean lower labour costs, so don’t be scared off of the “expensive” title right away. It certainly could be a great investment for your home.
If you do decide on a metal roof, make sure to call a professional roofing company for the installation. At C&M Roofing, our respectful, friendly team will be happy to help.
