Metal Roofing: Advantages & Benefits

Metal roofing is a growing choice of roofing material. Metal roofing accounts for about 10-14% of all re-roofing jobs in the United States. Metal roofs are most popular in Southeastern states, like Florida, where tropical storms are a threat. There are several reasons why metal roofs are growing in popularity. First, homeowners are not as transient as they used to be. More and more homeowners are choosing to stay in their homes as they age. Since metal roofs can last more than five decades, homeowners who choose metal roofs know that they wont need to replace it again. Other reasons include the strength and protection which metal roofs provide, and the greater design options available with meal roofing materials.

Federal Tax Credits for Metal Roofing

If you install a metal roof before December 31, 2010, you may be eligible for a Federal tax credit. You can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost (up to $1500) for Energy Star metal roofs with pigmented coatings. Before you choose a metal roof, ask your roofer if it contains pigmented coatings. Pigmented coatings increase the energy efficiency of metal roofs.

Longevity

Metal roofs last the longest of any roofing material. Most metal roofing manufacturers offer 50 year warranties for their products. With just a little maintenance, metal roofs can last up to 75 years.

Strength & Durability Benefits

Metal roofs withstand all weather conditions, from large amounts of heavy snow, to hail and high winds. Metal roofs do not rot, which eliminates the possibility for insect damage. Additionally, metal roofs do not absorb water and moisture, crack or peel. They are also resistant to mildew and decay.

Cost Benefits

Metal roofs cost more than most other roofing types. The average costs for metal roofs are: steel shingles - $5,000-$22,000; aluminum shingles - $12,000-$24,000; copper shingles - $25,500 - $39,600. There are many variables that will determine the cost of a new metal roof, including size, material, pitch, accessibility, permits and any special labor costs associated with your roofing project. Homes with metal roofs are known for their higher resale values.

Safety Benefits

One of the greatest advantages of metal roofs is that they are fire-resista nt. Unlike wood or asphalt shingled roofs, metal roofs do not burn, adding an additional level of protection for homeowners.

Environmental Benefits

There are several factors that make metal roofing environmentally-friendly. Most metal roofs can be installed over an existing roof. Installing a metal roof over an existing roof eliminates waste from a roof tear-off which would otherwise end up in a landfill. Metal roofs are often made from recycled material, and metal roof materials can be recycled.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs reflect the sun and block heat transmission from the roof to the interior of a house. A pigment coated metal roof is more energy efficient because it creates a cooler home, due to the reflective pigments within in the finish.

Design Benefits

There are many color choices and design schemes available in metal roofing materials. Painted metal is available in almost any color. There are two types of metal roofs: standing seam metal roofs and corrugated metal roofs. Standing seam metal roofs are made up of interlocking metal panels that are placed vertically from the ridge of the roof to the eaves. Corrugated metal roofing is corrugated or rippled sheets of metal. These two metal roof types create different appearances. Depending on your design preference, you can choose the wavy appearance of a corrugated metal roof or the flat, vertical appearance of standing seam metal roofing.