Metal roofs for residential properties are a fairly new trend in the United States. A roofing study reported that the demand for metal roofs in the US is expected to rise 2.7% per year to 32.63 million squares in 2023. Consider this blog your introduction to the basics of metal roofs. Keep reading to learn about the benefits, the style options, and some of the most frequently asked questions about metal roofs.

The Benefits of Metal Roofing

• Longevity: Metal roofs pay for themselves many times over with just their lifespan. They can last about twice as long as traditional asphalt shingle roofs, and some manufacturers even offer a lifetime warranty just for metal roofs.
• Lightweight: The lightweight nature of some metal roofs means ease of installation and homeowners can skip the cost of shingle removal and simply install the metal sheets on top.
• Safety: Metal roofs will not catch fire the way other roof style options may, and some insurance companies will even offer discounted policy if you choose a metal roof for your home. In addition, metal roofs are immune to rot, and insect damage, factors that often shorten the lifespan of other roof styles.
• Energy efficiency: Metal reflects heat from the sun, which can reduce the cost of cooling your home by 10%-25%! In warm climates, a metal roof is a great way to save money on your energy bill.

What Types of Metal Roof Options are Available?

Metal roofs are most commonly made of metals like aluminum, copper, steel, and zinc.

Aluminum: A lighter, softer, and more expensive style of roof compared to steel. An aluminum roof is usually embossed and nearly always painted. Aluminum roofs can last up to around 50 years and are best for climates with salt air or acid rain because it is a metal that doesn’t rust.

Cost of materials: $3-$9/sq ft.
Cost of installation: $15,00- $28,000

Copper: Roofs made of copper are known to last up to a whopping 200 years. As the longest-lasting, most expensive metal roof option, this metal is easy to cut and shape. Brand new copper roofs have a beautiful bright shiny hue. But, when exposed to the elements, copper’s shine quickly turns to a brown patina, and then a blue-green shade after many years (just think of a penny or of the statue of liberty).

Cost of materials: $10-$18/sq ft.
Cost of installation: $30,00- $54,000

Steel: This metal roof option is the most popular and generally least expensive of metals. To make it stronger, steel roof materials are usually dipped in molten zinc or aluminum-zinc alloy called Galvalume. Steel roofs last 30-50 years and are usually painted to increase their lifespan.

Cost of materials: $6-$12/sq ft.
Cost of installation: $18,00- $36,000

Zinc: Zinc, like copper, is a naturally weather-resistant metal and makes for a great roofing material option. Also, like copper, zinc won’t need paint and weathers into a blueish-gray and will last for 80-100 years.

Cost of materials: $5-$11/sq ft.
Cost of installation: $8,475-$16,500

Metal Roof Styles: Metal roofs are most commonly made in the shape and style of either corrugated metal roofs or tile roofs.

Corrugated Metal Roofs are made up of sheets of metal shaped into panels and ridges. Because installation of corrugated roofs involves fewer, larger pieces, this is a less expensive option compared to metal tiles which are each installed individually. Standing seam metal roofs are another popular style option for metal roofs. The installation of this style involves vertical panels joined together by interlocking seams. With a standing seam metal roof, you may never have to replace your roof again.

 

Common FAQs on Metal Roofing

Are Metal Roofs Louder During Storms?

They can be, however, if your attic has standard insulation it should not be an issue. The insulation in your home works hard to keep you warm and dry, but also serves to absorb outside sounds as well.

Will My Metal Roof Attract Lightning?

This is a commonly asked question. The answer is no. The likelihood of your home being struck by lightning has less to do with the material of your roof and more to do with the height, size, and proximity to taller objects.

What Should I Know About Snow and a Metal Roof?

For many Minnesotans, a metal roof’s winter performance might just seal the deal! Unlike other roofing styles, snow and ice just slide right off of metal roofs, protecting your home from the danger of ice dams and leaks, and saving you from the hassle of raking your roof.

Does Metal Roofing Change My Insurance at All?

Whenever you’re considering making major changes to your roof and/or property, you should give your insurance carrier a call. The age and material of a roof can affect your insurance coverage and cost – and to most insurance agencies, a metal roof is a good thing. Depending on your situation, a metal roof will likely bring the cost of your insurance policy down!

 

Reach out to CoMitted 365 if you have more questions, or if you’d like to get started on a quote for metal roofing on your home today! To see a larger list of FAQs about metal roofs, visit this page on our website.