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Metal Roof:Why would you want a metal roof - There are many reasons why metal roofing materials have become more popular over the last decade. One place you consistently see them is in communities that get a lot of snowfall. We rent houses in the Lake Tahoe region of California and Nevada (Sierra Nevada Mountains) and in Oregon where snowfall can be 200+ inches a year. Houses in these areas are often constructed with metal roofs to help with snow on the roofs. We understand that those living in modern communities with sidewalks and picket fences may not want a metal roof on their house, but keep in mind that the metal roofing materials sold today are often simulated to look like wood shingles, slate, stone tiles, or even asphalt shingles. Also, it is not uncommon for copper and aluminum roofs to last well over 75 years. What's the downside to metal roofs? They cost quite a bit more to install.
* Expected Life - Will last probably as long as the house does. A metal roof is resistant rot, mildew, and insects. They can handle heavy snow seasons, windy conditions, hail, and major downpours. Most manufacturers have warranties that go up to 50 years. * Heat Conduction - Live in a really warm climate, the roof will actually reflect away the suns most powerful rays. We see these types of roofs in central Oregon where they get snow in the winter and hot temperatures in the summer months. * Speed of Installation - Almost all accounts we read online show that the installation process of a metal roof is the fastest and easiest of all roof types. You'll save on labor. * Fire Resistance - Compared to wood shingles, a metal roof is the safest route you can go if you live in area with wildfires. They are noncombustible. * Weight - They are lightweight which means you can actually install one metal roof over another one if need be. No need for additional roof supports like with other roofing materials. Metal Roof Disadvantages: * COST - As you will read below, metal roofs are quite costly. However, don't forget that you may never need to replace the roof again in your lifetime. * Denting - Not a big deal, but some metals are more susceptible to dents from things like hailstones or large pine cones. * Movement - Metal can expand and contract with temperature swings. The fastening systems should allow for some movement as the roof warms or cools. * Noise - The idea of having hail bounce off of a metal roof can be the type of noise that drives you crazy. Perhaps the steady raindrops tapping on the roof will annoy you. These are things to consider as they are common complaints with metal roofing materials. * Repairs - Much more difficult than for those with wood or asphalt shingle roofs. Basic repairs are often left to professionals, although maintenance is fairly easy. The top brands include MBCI, Berridge, Decra, Fabral, and Pac-Clad.
How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost?:The most common materials used are steel, aluminum and copper for metal roofs. Pricing varies based on the materials, square footage of your roof, architectural issues like skylights or very steep slopes, and roofing angles or levels. The interlocking steel shingles can range from $5000 to $15,000 - roughly $3 to $7 a square foot. On the other hand, installing a steel standing seam roof (one with corrosion resistant steel sheets) would be more like $11,000 to $23,000. Standing seam roofs tend to be a bit more complicated to install and one thing that may raise the price is whether you go with concealed or visible interlocking system. When you hide the connection between the two sheets of steel roofing, it is more costly. Interlocking aluminum shingles are equivalent to steel "standing seam" roofs in terms of price. Expect to spend between $12000 and $20,000. If you choose the aluminum standing seam panels then the price goes up to $9 to $11 a square foot and closer to $15k to $25K for the average sized roof. The most expensive metal roof material is copper. Material and installation of a copper roof can be $15 to $18 a square foot resulting in a price tag that can approach $40,000. Remember the near zero maintenance required and the long lifespan of a metal roof before you completely get turned off by the upfront cost. Metal roofs can last up to 70 years if not much maintenance. Even if you want to avoid some of the installation costs, most experts agree that it's not a good idea to take on a metal roof project unless you are a professional installer. The skill level is different than for wood shingle roofs or asphalt shingles. Even repairs can be tricky and best left for professional roofing contractors.
Metal Roof Installation and Reviews:For all those DIY homeowners, there are some quality references online for helping with the installation of a metal roof. Our first recommendation is to read the Bob Vila article on metal roof basics. Learn about standing seam metal roofs and instructions on how to install them. Also, we like the New England Metal Roof page that goes into installing metal roofing and flashing. You can watch a video on their website and learn all the pertinent details to get the job done successfully. Hometips.com is another excellent resource online with tips on materials, a buying guide, metal roofing advantages, drawbacks, and manufacturers. There are forums online with homeowner stories and postings of their experiences. When hiring a roofing contractor, always get 3 different estimates from established roofing installers. If neighbors have had their roofs done recently, check with them to see what they can recommend. Installing a new metal roof is expensive, so don't skimp on the research.
Do you have a quality site or product that belongs in this guide? We are always happy to evaluate or review new products and websites. Feel free to contact us at the email address below and let us know about you. If you have a demo product you'd like us to look at, please contact us before sending anything. Thank you.
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