Metal roofing is slowly becoming a preferred option for most homes, apart from those having flat roof pitches. Fortunately for them, they can consider other roofing materials like asphalt and wood. Metal roofing styles and products are also many as opposed to the past and can be distinguished from traditional roofing types.
Like other roofing types, you require custom roofing accessories during the installation of these roofs. But before you consider buying metal roofs, here are some things you need to know:
- They Can Be Used For Conventional And Modern Houses
There was a time that metal roofs were only a conserve of high-end modern homes. However, due to enhanced manufacturing processes and availability, many conventional homeowners are using it.
Industry statistics show that metal roofing’s market share has been rising by roughly 3% every year, and about 15% of all installations are from metal roofing materials. On the other hand, the asphalt shingle roofing market shares have been falling and currently only accounts for about 59% of the roofs installed.
- You Can Install Them Over Other Roofs
You can install these roofs over other existing roofs without damaging their shingles. However, your local building regulations need to allow it. Tearing off singles can be messy and expensive though installing metal roofs on old roofing also has its share of problems. If not correctly installed, it can promote the build-up of mold and moisture, leading to rot. However, experienced roof installers can add a vented roof to eliminate this issue.
- Metal Roofs Don’t Attract Lightning
Some people think that because metal roofs conduct electricity, they can also attract lightning. But this isn’t supported by statistics and facts. According to research by the Metal Construction Association, metal roofs don’t boost lightning strike chances.
Also, if lightning strikes them, they’ll be less explosive than other types of roofs, such as wood shingles. The research further states that these roofs don’t attract lightning because lightning requires paths to the ground. That’s why telephone poles and trees are great targets for lightning. However, the design of metal roofs and their isolated structural components don’t offer a direct path to the ground.
- They’re Cheap
Metal roofing materials have warranties similar to those of asphalt shingles and other types of roofs. However, compared to other roof types, they can last for more than 50 years.
Statistics by State Farm Insurance show that these roofs’ longevity period is between 40 to 70 years. That makes it very unlikely for homeowners to buy and install more than one roof during their lifetime.
However, homeowners with asphalt shingle roofs may replace them three or four times over the same period. Therefore, though metal roofs are expensive than asphalt, they’ll save you money in the long run.
- They’re Energy-Efficient
According to industry research, metal roofs are efficient reflectors of radiant heat, minimizing cooling costs by 25%. So if you live in an area with expensive cooling costs, coating your roof with a granular or shining coating can help to boost your roof’s reflecting capacity and enhance energy savings.
Bottom Line
Metal roofs have many advantages attached to them. Despite that, you should know these facts about them to help you make an informed purchase decision.
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