Metal Shingles Roofs Pros And Cons
Whether you are putting a roof on your new dream home or your existing roof needs to be updated, you have probably quickly learned that there are numerous different roofing materials to choose from. Before deciding what roofing material you should use, it is essential to be well aware of each one's pros and cons. A material that you should have on your radar is metal roofing. Often dubbed the "forever roof," metal roofs offer countless benefits. Continue on to learn more about the pros and cons of metal shingles.
Pro: Metal Shingles Are Durable And Long Lasting
In comparison to their asphalt or wood counterparts, metal roofs are incredibly durable and are able to endure even the most intense weather conditions, withstanding winds of up to 140 miles per hour. Further, metal shingles are generally covered in a rust-proof coating, meaning they do not corrode or crack. In a McGraw-Hill Survey, 26 percent of homeowners cited longevity as their primary reason for investing in metal roofs. That survey also found that 22 percent chose metal roofs because of the material’s strength. If installed properly, metal shingles have an average lifespan of anywhere between 40 to 75 years, making it a one and done project.
Con: Metal Roofs Have An Expensive Price Tag
The longevity of metal shingles comes with an expensive price tag. On average, metal roofs can cost as much as two to three times more than other roofing materials. On the lower end of the spectrum, metal shingles are approximately 100 to 300 dollars per square foot. However, depending on the style, the price for metal roofing can be as high as upwards of 600 to 800 dollars per square foot. While metal roofs have a long lifespan, it may only be a worthwhile investment, if the homeowner plans to stay in the home long enough to reap the cost benefits.
Pro: Metal Shingles Are An Environmentally Friendly Option
Metal roofs are a more environmentally sustainable option than other roofing materials. For example, asphalt shingles are traditionally used for roofing; asphalt shingles are created using petroleum, a non-renewable resource. Metal shingles are typically created from 25 to 95 percent recycled content, with 100 percent being recyclable at the end of the shingle’s lifetime. Additionally, asphalt shingles must be replaced every 15 to 20 years, in comparison to metal roofs, which can last up to 75 years. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingles end up in American landfills every year. Opting for metal shingles would help eliminate the dependency on non-renewable resources. Separately, metal roofs also reflect solar radiant heat. This helps to reduce a home’s cooling cost by up to 25 percent, further conserving energy, and helping the environment.
Con: Metal Roofs Can Be Noisy
While some may find the pitter-patter of rain on the rooftop romantic, others may feel as though they are living through a seemingly neverending rock concert. However, the noise level can be mediated if a few steps are taken during the roof installation process. When the shingles are getting installed, be sure to let your builder know that you want materials with structural barriers that will help minimize the drumming effects, such as insulation and solid plywood sheathing. Although, the addition of insulation may drive up the costs of the already pricey roof.
Bottom line: While it may be costly, metal roofing is a durable, long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and worthwhile investment.
