Choosing the right roofing material is vital for your home’s look and longevity. In this guide, we compare metal roofing vs other roofing materials, examining key factors like durability, cost, and maintenance. Discover which option offers the best value and meets your specific needs.

Overview of Common Roofing Materials

When it comes to choosing a roofing material for your home, the options can be overwhelming. Each material has its unique benefits and drawbacks.

  • Metal Roofing: An energy efficient roofing option that withstands harsh conditions for 40 years minimum. Metal Roofing requires a little more on the installation cost on the front end, but has a much longer lifetime than the other options and equals out in the long run.
  • Asphalt Shingles: The most popular choice in North America due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. Available in various colors and styles, they offer versatility for many homeowners.
  • Slate Roofing: Celebrated for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Natural slate can last over a century with proper maintenance, but its heavy weight can be a limitation for some homes. Synthetic slate offers a lightweight alternative that mimics the look of natural stone.
  • Concrete Tiles: Known for simulating various styles and offering a lifespan of up to 50 years at a lower cost than clay tiles. Ideal for those seeking durability without the weight of slate.
  • Built-Up Roofing (BUR): A traditional system for low-slope roofs, made from layers of materials that provide excellent protection and longevity.

Given the variety of roofing materials, weighing the options against your specific needs and preferences is crucial, especially when there is a large selection of roofing materials available.

Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing offers several advantages that make it an appealing option for homeowners:

  • Durability: Metal roofs can withstand severe weather conditions, including high winds and heavy snowfall, making them a reliable choice for various climates.
  • Energy Efficiency: The reflective properties of metal roofs can lead to significant energy savings, reducing cooling costs by up to 40%.
  • Longevity: Metal roofs can last between 40 to 80 years, offering a long-term solution for homeowners.

However, it is necessary to consider both the pros and cons:

  • Higher Installation Costs: Metal roofs can be more expensive to install due to the complexity and specialized labor required.

Understanding metal roofing’s full range of benefits and drawbacks aids homeowners in determining its suitability for their needs and budget. From energy efficiency to durability, metal roofs offer a range of advantages that can significantly impact your home’s performance and value.

Common Problems with Metal Roofs

As a metal roofing supplier, we understand that contractors need to be prepared for potential challenges and equipped with solutions when installing metal roofing systems. While metal roofs offer superior performance, understanding these common issues helps ensure successful installations and satisfied customers.

  • Oil Canning: Visible waviness in flat metal panel areas that can concern property owners but doesn’t affect structural performance. Minimize this by specifying thicker gauge materials, recommending matte finishes, and following proper handling and installation procedures during the job.
  • Leaking Issues: Water intrusion typically occurs at seams, fasteners, or flashing points due to installation errors or extreme weather conditions. Prevent leaks by using manufacturer-approved installation details, proper sealant application, and conducting thorough quality checks during installation.
  • Corrosion Concerns: Surface rust or galvanic corrosion in coastal or high-humidity environments, especially where protective coatings are damaged during installation. Select appropriate materials for the project location and educate crews on proper handling to avoid coating damage during installation.
  • Thermal Movement: Metal expansion and contraction that can stress fasteners and seams if not properly accommodated in the system design. Specify systems with floating clips and slotted fastener holes, and ensure proper installation techniques that allow for natural movement.
  • Noise During Rain: Increased sound transmission during heavy rainfall that can concern building occupants. Address this by recommending proper insulation and solid roof decking in your project specifications to achieve noise levels comparable to traditional roofing.

Working with experienced metal roofing suppliers who provide proper installation training and technical support helps contractors avoid these common pitfalls and deliver superior results on every project.

Advantages of a Metal Roof

Performance Under Extreme Weather Conditions

Extreme weather performance is a critical factor when choosing roofing materials. Metal roofing is known for its resilience, providing excellent protection from moisture, UV rays, and heavy rain. Its lightweight yet strong nature makes it highly durable against strong winds and hail.

In fire-prone areas, metal roofs are rated Class A for fire resistance, offering superior protection compared to other materials. For regions prone to hurricanes, reinforced roofing structures and secure fastening systems are essential to handle high winds.

Considering local climate conditions and potential for extreme weather is crucial in selecting a roofing material that ensures longevity and performance.

Energy Efficiency Benefits

When specifying metal roofing for your projects, energy efficiency represents one of the strongest selling points you can offer clients. Metal roofing systems deliver measurable energy savings that provide long-term value and can help justify the material investment to cost-conscious customers.

Proven Energy Savings

Industry research consistently demonstrates the energy-saving potential of metal roofing installations. Studies show that metal roofs can reduce cooling costs by up to 40%, making them an attractive option for energy-conscious building owners. This performance is achieved through metal’s ability to reflect 75% to 80% of solar energy rather than absorbing it like traditional materials.

The performance advantages are significant:

  • Metal roofing surfaces run 60-70 degrees cooler than asphalt shingles
  • Reduced heat transfer minimizes HVAC system strain
  • Lower energy consumption provides measurable utility bill reductions
  • Cool roof technology qualifies for energy rebates in many regions

Advanced Cool Roofing Technology

Modern metal roofing products incorporate sophisticated coating systems that enhance energy performance beyond basic reflectivity. When selecting materials for your projects, look for systems engineered to maximize both solar reflectance and thermal emittance.

Key performance features include:

  • Reflective coatings: Specialized paint systems that redirect solar radiation
  • Thermal emittance: Rapid heat release capabilities that reduce nighttime cooling loads
  • Cool pigment technology: Advanced formulations that provide energy savings even in darker colors
  • ENERGY STAR compliance: Products that meet strict efficiency standards for rebate eligibility

Color and Climate Considerations

When recommending roof colors to clients, consider both aesthetic preferences and energy performance requirements. Light-colored systems naturally offer the highest solar reflectance, making them ideal for projects in hot climates where cooling costs dominate energy expenses.

However, advanced cool pigment technology now allows even darker-colored metal roofing to achieve significant energy savings compared to traditional materials. This expanded color palette gives contractors more design flexibility while maintaining energy performance benefits.

Longevity and Warranty Considerations

Metal roofs can last between 40 to 80 years, far exceeding the average lifespan of asphalt shingles, which is about 15–20 years. Material thickness plays a crucial role in the longevity of metal roofs, with thicker materials enhancing durability significantly.

Warranties for metal roofs typically range from 20 to 50 years, reflecting the industry’s confidence in their durability. A well-installed metal roof can even exceed its warranty period by 15-20 years, offering protection and peace of mind for homeowners. Roof coping helps protect from weather damage, leaks, and structural issues. Roofing coping in Mt.Juliet, TN, is important because of Tennessee’s intense thunderstorms and high winds.

Maintaining Your Metal Roof

One of the key selling points of metal roofing is its low maintenance requirements, but contractors should educate clients about proper care procedures to ensure optimal long-term performance. Understanding maintenance requirements also helps contractors provide ongoing service opportunities and build lasting customer relationships.

Regular Inspection Schedule

Recommend that building owners conduct annual inspections, with additional checks after major weather events such as hailstorms, high winds, or heavy snow loads. Contractors can offer inspection services as an additional revenue stream while ensuring proper system maintenance.

Inspection focus areas include:

  • Panel condition: Check for scratches, scuffs, dents, or signs of wear
  • Fastener integrity: Verify that fasteners remain tight and properly sealed
  • Flashing areas: Examine seals around penetrations and roof transitions
  • Drainage systems: Ensure gutters and downspouts function properly

For complex or steep roof installations, recommend that building owners hire qualified roofing contractors for safety and thoroughness.

Cleaning and Debris Management

Regular cleaning prevents debris accumulation that can trap moisture and potentially lead to corrosion or staining. Contractors can offer cleaning services or provide clients with proper cleaning guidelines to protect their investment.

Effective cleaning procedures include:

  • Debris removal: Regular clearing of leaves, branches, and accumulated dirt
  • Gentle washing: Soft brush or low-pressure washing techniques
  • Appropriate cleaning solutions: Mild detergent and water mixtures
  • Damage prevention: Avoiding harsh chemicals, abrasives, or high-pressure washing

Fastener and Seal Maintenance

For exposed fastener systems, periodic maintenance of connection points is essential for long-term performance. Contractors can provide maintenance services or train building maintenance staff on proper procedures.

Maintenance procedures include:

  • Regular fastener inspection during scheduled maintenance visits
  • Proper tightening techniques that don’t over-compress rubber washers
  • Replacement of damaged fasteners with manufacturer-approved alternatives
  • Sealant inspection and renewal around flashing and penetrations

Preventive Care and Damage Response

Prompt attention to minor issues prevents costly repairs and maintains warranty coverage. Contractors can offer touch-up services using manufacturer-provided materials or train clients on proper repair procedures.

Additional preventive measures include vegetation management around the building perimeter and ensuring proper attic ventilation to prevent ice dam formation in cold climates.

Environmental Impact of Metal Roofing

Two Metal Formers employees looking at roofing products

The environmental impact of roofing materials is increasingly important to homeowners. Metal roofing is often made from recycled materials and is fully recyclable after its lifespan, making it an environmentally friendly choice. This contrasts sharply with traditional asphalt shingles, which often end up in landfills.

Metal roofs can also be installed directly over existing roofs, minimizing waste. Metal roofs, with up to fifty years of lifespan, generate less waste compared to traditional materials that need frequent replacements.

Many homeowners appreciate the eco-friendly nature of metal roofs, aligning with a growing preference for sustainable options.

Comparing Metal Roofing to Other Materials

Metal Roofing vs. Shingles

Metal roofs generally outlast shingles, offering superior durability and requiring less frequent repairs. While metal roofs reflect sunlight, reducing cooling costs, shingles absorb heat, increasing energy expenses. Metal roofing maintains its color better over time, while shingles may fade. Despite higher installation costs, metal roofs offer long-term savings and lower maintenance needs.

Metal Roofs vs. Slate Roofing

Slate roofing boasts longevity, often exceeding 100 years, but is heavy and requires structural support. Metal roofs, while slightly less durable, are lighter and versatile. Both materials offer excellent fire and weather resistance, but metal roofing provides a more adaptable solution for various homes. Additionally, metal roofs are available in a wide range of styles and colors, allowing homeowners to customize their appearance according to personal taste. This versatility makes metal roofing a preferred choice for those seeking both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Metal Roofing vs. Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles offer durability and style versatility, lasting up to 50 years, but require additional structural support due to their weight. In contrast, metal roofing is lightweight and easier to install. Metal roofs excel in energy efficiency, reflecting solar heat to reduce energy bills, while concrete tiles provide insulation without reflective benefits. Both materials offer fire resistance, but metal roofs better withstand extreme weather. Though concrete tiles may have lower initial costs, metal roofing provides long-term savings on maintenance and energy.

Cost Considerations

Metal roofing installation costs are higher, averaging $11,000, compared to $7,225-$14,025 for shingles. However, metal roofs offer long-term savings due to their durability and low maintenance needs, making them a cost-effective choice over time.

Maintenance Needs

Metal roofs require significantly less maintenance compared to shingles, which often suffer from curling and cracking that demand frequent repairs. Ensuring proper maintenance can greatly extend the lifespan of metal roofs, making them a durable option. Regular inspections, typically costing between $120 and $400, are essential to maintain their longevity. This reduced need for repairs and maintenance makes metal roofing a cost-effective choice over time.

Installation Process

Metal roofing installation involves a more complex process due to the need for specialized techniques that accommodate material expansion and contraction. Despite the intricacy, the durability and performance benefits of metal roofs are well worth the effort. These roofs not only offer exceptional longevity but also provide superior protection against extreme weather conditions. The initial complexity in installation is offset by the long-term savings and reduced maintenance needs, making metal roofing a wise investment.

Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Home

When selecting the ideal roofing material, it’s essential to weigh several factors, including aesthetic preferences, budget constraints, and long-term value. Metal roofs present sleek, contemporary designs that can elevate your home’s appearance, while shingles offer a timeless appeal favored by many homeowners. Moreover, asphalt shingle roofs often yield a higher return on investment in terms of resale value compared to standing seam metal roofs.

Maintenance is another critical factor to consider. Many roofing companies provide maintenance programs encompassing inspections, repairs, and additional services such as gutter cleaning. These programs play a crucial role in preserving the longevity and performance of your roof.

How Homeowners Feel About Metal Roofs

Customer experiences with metal roofing are generally positive. Many homeowners are surprised by the quietness of metal roofs during rain, contradicting common misconceptions about noise levels. The aesthetic appeal of metal roofs is frequently commended, with homeowners noting that it enhances the overall look of their homes.

Homes with metal roofing typically achieve higher resale values due to their durability and energy efficiency, unlike asphalt shingles which add less value. Additionally, insurance discounts may be available for homes with metal roofs due to their superior durability and fire resistance, a benefit not typically extended to homes with asphalt shingles.

Summary

In summary, metal roofing offers numerous benefits, including durability, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness. While the initial costs are higher, the long-term savings and minimal maintenance requirements make it a worthwhile investment. Comparisons with other materials like asphalt shingles and slate reveal the unique advantages of metal roofs.
When choosing a roofing material, consider factors such as aesthetic preferences, budget, and local climate conditions. By making an informed decision, you can ensure that your new roof meets your needs and enhances the value and performance of your home.

Metal Roofing with Metal Formers

At Metal Formers in Nashville, TN, we offer a variety of metal panels, trims, and flashings to make your metal roof look outstanding. By offering customized metal pieces and concealed fastening systems, your clients will have a high quality roof to put their minds at ease. You can find more information about the metal fabrication options we provide online, and view some of our residential roofing work.

If you have additional questions about Metal Formers and our products, feel free to connect with us online. For online orders, visit our order form page to download the order form for the products you need. Once completed, you will want to send your form to us via email at office@metalformersinc.com.

No matter where you may land on the metal roofing journey, whether looking at options or ready to purchase for your clients, the team at Metal Formers are eager to assist you in any home improvement needs! We look forward to hearing from you.