6 Advantages of Metal Roofs

Considering a Metal Roof?

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to choosing the material for a roof. It can be a bit overwhelming and a big decision. Here are 6 metal roof advantages for you to consider when it comes to sheds, pole barns, and detached buildings.

1. Durable + Sustainable

One of the main advantages of metal roofing is its strength and durability. Especially in a state that is prone to rough weather—severe thunderstorms producing hail, long winters with accumulating snow and ice—it’s important to consider the durability of your roof material. 

The midwest is known for its cold, snowy, icy winters. With snow and ice, ice dams are a common issue and occur when a wall of ice builds on a roof. Metal roofing has the ability to prevent ice dams which makes it an ideal option for cold climates. 

A metal roof installation can last up to 50 years. The longevity is due to the material’s ability to withstand the elements. Metal roofs are built to hold up to gusts of wind up to 140 miles per hour, and will not rust or fade in the sun. 

metal roof barn

2. Project Efficiency

Undertaking a roofing project can be daunting when you consider time and cost. Another advantage of metal roofing is the ability to install the new roof over the existing shingles. Leaving the old roof in place has advantages:

      • Decreased labor costs and additional expenses of stripping the old roof
      • Extra insulation for increased energy efficiency
      • Additional sound insulation for rain and hail

You can certainly choose to start from scratch and tear the old roof off, but it’s not necessary.
 

3. Energy-Efficient

Metal roofing is energy-efficient thanks to its ability to reflect the sun’s rays. This reflective property keeps the roof surface much cooler than asphalt shingles. This helps regulate the temperature inside the building. While the metal roof will absorb some of the heat during the day (as does any roof surface), it also quickly releases the heat at night.

In some cases, federal rebates are offered for metal roofing that meets EnergyStar requirements. This tax credit is for 10 percent of the cost, up to $500 (not including installation).

4. Environmentally-Friendly

Another metal roof advantage is its environmentally friendly qualities. A majority of metal roofs are made of recycled material, and an added bonus can be fully recycled at the end of its life. Also, as mentioned above, its ability to conserve energy makes it a great environmentally-friendly roofing option. 

5. Style

Looking for a style update to pair with your modern, contemporary, or cottage-style home? Consider metal roofing for an upscale look for your barn and sheds. There are a variety of material choices when it comes to metal roofing including tin, zinc, aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel. Along with material, there is an abundance of choices for color, finishes, and shapes; resulting in more than 100 different colors with standard, premium, and custom hues. Steel and aluminum are also designed to hold paint finishes.

In addition to color and material options, there is a range of style options:

      • metal roof shedWood Shake
          • Country Manor Shake
          • Rustic Shingle
      • Clay Tile (Barrel Tile)
          • Grande Tile
      • Architectural Shingles/Slate
          • Slate Rock Oxford
          • Oxford Shingle
      • Standing Seam
          • ClickLock Premium Standing Seam
          • Universal Standing Seam 

With all of these options, you can pick a roof style and design that fits your desired look.

6. Fire-Resistant

Metal roof materials are fire-resistant and typically have a Class A fire rating as they are noncombustible. An impressive safety feature, metal doesn’t spark or catch fire from a lightning strike or wildfire. This feature provides peace of mind. 

The Choice is Yours

Making a choice on your roofing material can take some time and research. The advantages above can help you in that decision. If you have additional questions about metal roofs, please reach out. We’d be happy to provide more information and talk through options.