Metal Roofing FAQ

A properly installed metal roof will last you a lifetime. The top-quality metal roofing systems carry a 50-year manufacturer’s warranty and can last longer than that. Metal roofs are extremely durable and stand up well to precipitation, UV rays and weather. Superior technology finishes provide long term protection against peeling, blistering and curling. There is an option of restoring and re-coating the finish in 40- or 50-years time in order to extend the longevity of the metal roof.

Installed correctly using the proper sheathing, a metal roof is as quiet or quieter than other types of roofing materials. This is due to the fact that metal roofs float over the roofing deck creating an air space between the metal roof and the roofing deck. This extra space creates a sound barrier. The underlay coating provides additional noise reduction properties.

Metal roofing systems are built to withstand a variety of extreme weather conditions. Most metal roofs are rated to withstand 140 mph winds. Metal also sheds snow better than asphalt shingles, so it helps prevent excessive stress on your roof structure and reduces the risk of ice damming. Metal roofs also protect against burning embers in the event of a house fire or wildfire.

The upfront cost of metal roof is slightly higher than that of an asphalt shingle roof. However, metal roof is a long time investment as it will outlast several asphalt roofs. That is why metal roofs will always cost less in the long run since the home owner will save the additional costs of replacing several asphalt roofs. Energy efficiency and cost savings are also very important factors to be considered for the comparison.

Traditional asphalt shingle roofs typically need to be replaced or repaired every 10 to 15 years. Metal roofing can last at least three times longer. The increased durability of a metal roof makes it a more cost-effective choice over the long term, although asphalt shingles carry a much more affordable upfront cost.

Because of its lightweight properties, metal roofing can be installed over an existing roof. However, many roofing companies prefer to tear off the old roofing material to ensure the proper sheathing and insulation is installed. This helps optimize the performance of the new metal roof, and it can help extend its lifespan.

The likelihood of lightning striking your home will not increase because your house is covered by a metal roof. In fact, if your home were hit by lightning, your metal roof would disperse the energy safely throughout the structure. Metal roofing is not flammable or combustible. Metal roofing is considered to be a desirable, low risk roofing option for areas with severe weather conditions including lightning.

Metal roofs are highly resistant to hail damage. In fact, metal roofs are much more hail resistant than asphalt/fiberglass shingles. Some insurance companies might offer reduced rates for houses with metal roofs.

Metal roofs reflect 70 percent of the sun’s rays, on average. This helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Studies have proved that houses with metal roofs experience 35 percent less heat gain compared to homes with asphalt shingles. This can help reduce costly energy bills.

Metal roofing systems typically have a special protective coating that protects it from rust. The paint used on metal roofing products are also designed to last long and prevent rust. Please check the warranty of the metal roofing panels to make sure rust is covered as part of the warranty.

Metal roofing products are coated with protective paints and enamels designed to prevent corrosion; however, corrosion is still possible without proper maintenance. Certain chemicals – fertilizers, animal waste, acid rain – can damage metal roofing over time. Pine needles left to decompose on a metal roof can also lead to corrosion due to its acidic properties. Luckily, it’s easy to maintain a metal roof – simply spray it down with fresh water using a garden hose or low-pressure power washer to remove harmful chemicals.

Various metals are used in manufacturing metal roofing systems and a combination of metals may also be used in some cases. The most common metals include aluminum, steel and copper.

Steel and aluminum both perform well as a roofing material. However, an important determining factor is how close you live to the lake, river or ocean. Aluminum is extremely resistant to corrosion caused by seawater.

Metal roofs are surprisingly lightweight. On average, a metal roof is 50 percent lighter than a traditional shingle roof and 75 percent lighter than concrete or slate tile roofing. The lighter weight material puts less strain on the roofing structure.

You can safely walk on any metal roof without damaging it. Before you walk your roof, however, we recommend you talk to your installer or us first. Based on the style and the pitch of the roof, the appropriate details on how to walk on the metal roof will be provided by our experts.