A lot of people out there sum up the entire category of metal roofing materials at once. They act as if they can represent various distinct materials through simple generalizations. And while many generalizations about the superior strength, durability, and longevity of metal roofing materials may be true, it still does not do justice to the distinctions between each material. By looking closer at each variety, it’ll help you make an informed choice as to what’s best for your home.
Classic Copper Roofs
Copper roofing is the classic choice when it comes to modern metal roofing. It’s been used successfully for centuries, and its benefits are widely acknowledged. Copper is naturally a soft metal, meaning it can form into whatever shape best fits your roof. This reduces the cost of customization. As the seasons pass, copper will naturally acquire a nice blue-green coating. Because of this, this metal does not need any fancy finishing. It’s an excellent choice, but it is a little pricey.
Strong and Sturdy Steel Roofs
Steel roofing has this negative stigma that it’s only good for commercial roofs. This is definitely not the case. By applying a finishing coat, you can make a steel roof look however you want. Steel makes a great roofing material because it’s strong and durable. In addition, it has great corrosion resistance. This is aided by a zinc or zinc-aluminum coating. Because steel is so strong, it excels in locations where there’s often extreme weather conditions. Steel’s only drawback compared with other metal materials is that it’s the heaviest. However, it’s still far lighter than many other conventional roofing materials.
Elegant Aluminum Roofs
A third excellent choice at Perfect Steel Solutions in metal roofing materials is aluminum. Aluminum naturally forms a rust resistant layer on its surface, making it extremely hard to corrode. In addition to this natural protection, aluminum roofing is also coated the same way that steel roofing is.
One of aluminum’s strongest selling points is its exceptional light weight
This means that you don’t need to install any structural reinforcement for your roof – saving you on your bottom line. Aluminum is malleable as well, which means you can get it customized and formed to your desires. And as if that isn’t enough, aluminum roofing materials are all recyclable, minimizing your impact on the earth. Overall, it’s truly a remarkable material.
Many Choices, All Good
Whatever your decision, metal roofing materials are excellent investments in your home. Make sure you think hard about your exact situation before you choose which material is best for you.
Pros of Installing a Metal Roof:
It is durable and can last over 7 decades.
It can protect you from typhoons, hurricanes and strong winds of up to 160 miles per hour.
It is environmentally friendly. Materials in metal tops are recyclable. You can also install metal tops over your existing roof, thus preventing your old roof to further decay.
It has low maintenance. Since metals don’t crack, rot, split and snap, you need not spend much for the maintenance expenses.
You can DIY. There are lots of local stores that offer brochures on DIY metal roofing. They can guide you on the materials you will need in installing your roof safely and successfully.
Some contractors offer lifetime warranties, others give up to 50-75 years. They are confident to give lifetime warranties because metal coverings are built to last a lifetime.
Cons of Installing a Metal Roof:
Metal coverings are very expensive. The cheapest metal roof is equal to the price of the most expensive traditional roofing.
It can be noisy especially on rainy days. Placing on a good insulator before installing the metal top can lessen the noise.
Tendency to be dented and scratched. Your metal top can withstand strong wind gusts, however it’s still susceptible to scratches and marks when hail storms land on its surface.