How will a metal roof stand up to extreme weather? Metal roofs are designed to withstand extreme weather abuse for decades. They can hold up against high winds, hailstorms, and even wildfires. Most metal roofs have a wind rating of up to 140 miles an hour. Metal roof systems have a wind resistance and uplift resistance that exceeds what is required by code. Metal roofs shed snow quickly, eliminate ice damming, and improve the structural integrity of the home.
Homeowners that live in areas with inclement weather are attracted to metal as a roofing option because a metal roof is lightweight, easily sheds snow and water, and has a high R value that improves a home’s insulation and reduces energy costs. Homeowners should speak to Austin roofing professionals for advice on what metal material is right for their roof. They should consider the pros and cons of metal as opposed to traditional roofing materials such as asphalt, wood, and tile.
There are many reasons a metal roof is superior to a conventional roof. The first reason is life expectancy. If it is properly installed, a metal roof will outlive the house that it is built on. A metal roof can survive high winds and is waterproof. Metal roofs are fire resistant, and they are impervious to mildew, wildlife, and insects. They are so durable that most companies offer a warranty of up to 50 years on their products. The paint and other finishes applied on a metal roof will usually have a 30 year warranty.
Metal is a lot lighter than other roofing materials. A 100 square foot section of tile roofing will weigh approximately 750 pounds. The same area of concrete roofing will weigh more than 900 pounds.
However, metal roofing material only weighs 50 to 100 pounds per 100 square feet. The material is so light that it can often be applied over existing roof materials without requiring a tearoff or the construction of additional support.
Metal roofs are a great option because the installation process can be completed quickly. They come in shingle sections between 12 inches to 36 inches wide and can be installed in a matter of hours. This is advantageous for homeowners who need to have their roof repaired in a timely manner. Because the material is lightweight, homeowners will save money on engineering, and roofing professionals will not need to build additional support structures.
Metal is noncombustible and is usually given a class A fire rating. Classification may vary depending on the combustibility of the structure that supports the roof. If a metal roof is installed on top of wood shingles, the fire rating usually drops to a C. Another benefit of metal revolves around its ability to reflect radiant heat from the sun. This minimizes the amount of heat that accumulates inside the home during the summer. Less energy is needed to condition the home, reducing energy costs.
Are metal roofs worth the investment?
The context defines the answer to this question. As a long term investment, metal roofs offer significant benefits. When viewed in terms of the roof replacement costs for traditional roofs, over time, metal roofing may prove to be a more prudent investment. However, if a property is built or renovated with the intention of being sold after a short period, this will be a costly and unwise expense.
Metal roofing is emerging as a popular option in public buildings and private houses. Whereas traditional choices for roofing are cedar, asphalt or tiles, more and more people are now opting for metal roofs. There are different metals that can be used for roofing purposes including tin, aluminum, copper and galvanized steel. Each metal offers its own set of benefits ranging from anticorrosion to durability to the weight of the roof. Metal roofing is a sound alternative to traditional roofs and comes with its share of positives and negatives.
On the positive side, metal roofs are durable. A metal roof installed by an Austin roofing expert can last a very long time and may not need replacement at all. It is effective in terms of protection against strong winds, extreme temperatures and water leakages. At most, the roof would require a simple paint job and that only after a few decades.
They can also be energy efficient. Depending on the material used, a metal roof can act as a natural insulator by reflecting solar heat and significantly reducing energy expenses. This is particularly useful in keeping the house cool during the summer periods.
Metal roofs are effective at resisting the elements as well. With traditional roofs, contractors strongly advise inspection especially after rainy summers and snowy winters that can incur damage onto the roof in a number of ways.
Metal roofing avoids these problems due to high shedding and low susceptibility to leakages and cracks.
In case of a fire, metal roofs provide greater security for the house. This is because most metal materials used in the construction of roofs are nonflammable and have a Class A rating providing the greatest resistance against fires.
Finally, metal roofs are versatile. A number of metal materials can be used for roofing purposes. Most are significantly lighter compared to traditional options and do not extensively burden the foundations of the house. Modern houses are equipped with different shapes and colors of metal roofs.
There are a few downsides to metal roofing. The strongest deterrent to metal roofing is its initial cost. Though a case can be made in terms of long term savings, it is undeniable that metal roofs have a larger upfront cost. The metal sheets can also be prone to denting whether from falling tree branches or hailstones. This can leave a permanent mark on the exterior of the roof. A metal roof is bound to produce more noise, especially during rain. Whether this is soothing or maddening depends on the owner. Thankfully, these roofs can easily be soundproofed through insulation.
