If it’s time to replace the roof on your home or commercial building, you may want to consider a metal roof. Since your roof is an important investment, be sure to consider the benefits and drawbacks of this option before taking the plunge. Your budget, lifestyle, preferences, and location will all determine whether metal roofing is worthwhile. To help you decide, we’ve compiled this handy list of pros and cons.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

In recent years, metal roofs have become more popular than ever before. Here are several reasons this roofing option is so appealing to homeowners and property owners in the Seattle area:

Durability

Regardless of where you live, durability should be top of mind. If you’re in Seattle, a strong roof that can withstand harsh weather events, like winds, storms, hail, and even fire. Fortunately, metal roofs are known for their impressive durability. Believe it or not, a metal roof can last 50 years or more as long as it’s maintained properly. Compared to traditional asphalt shingles, with a typical lifespan of up to 20 years, metal roofs are far more durable.

Rust and Corrosion-resistant

Most modern metal roofs are treated with special coatings to prevent rust and corrosion. This makes them an attractive choice for homeowners or property owners looking for a low-maintenance option that is going to keep its aesthetic appeal year after year.

Low Maintenance

Compared to other types of roofing, metal roofs require minimal upkeep. They are less prone to issues like cracking, warping, loose shingles, or moss growth due to their design and exceptional durability. Occasional inspections to check for dents, scratches, or loose fittings are about all the maintenance they need.

Fire Resistance

Metal roofs are non-combustible, making them an excellent choice for fire-prone areas. Paired with proper underlayment materials, a metal roof can offer additional protection and give homeowners peace of mind that they are protected in the event of a fire.

Energy Efficient

Since metal roofs reflect heat rather than absorb it, they offer exceptional energy efficiency, reducing your costs by up to 25%. During the hot Seattle summers, a metal roof can keep your family and guests comfortable without requiring you to turn up the air conditioning. You may even choose a metal roof with reflective pigments, which may further enhance the efficiency of your home. In the winter, the metal can help insulate your home and in turn, reduce your heating needs.

Versatile

Metal roofs are not created equal. If you shop around, you’ll find countless options with different styles, materials, coatings, and colors. You can also find a metal roof that’s been built to replicate other types of roofs, such as cedar shake, slate, and asphalt roofs. It should be fairly easy to find a metal roofing system that matches your home’s unique architectural style and your particular preferences. You can choose a metal roof that blends in or stands out among other homes in your neighborhood.

Safety

Contrary to popular belief, metal roofs are safe. Even though they’re made of metal, you don’t have to worry about lighting strikes against them. If there’s lightning outside, there’s a low chance it will hit your roof. This is because lightning will usually make its way to the ground area of your home instead of your roof.

Environmentally Friendly

If you’re a homeowner or property owner who prioritizes sustainability, metal roofs are a great choice. Many are made with recycled materials and are themselves recyclable at the end of their life. Additionally, their energy-saving properties reduce overall carbon footprints.

Drawbacks of Metal Roofing

While metal roofing systems offer many advantages, they’re not perfect. Some of the most noteworthy drawbacks of metal roofs include:

Cost

Metal roofs are not a viable option if you’re budget-conscious. Even though they’re incredibly energy efficient and can last for 50 years or longer, they’re significantly more expensive than other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, for example. While pricing varies by manufacturer and the specifics of a metal roof, you can expect to pay up to ten times more for a metal roof than asphalt shingles. It’s up to you to do the math and determine if the benefits of a metal roof are worth the higher upfront cost.

Dent Risk

There’s no denying that metal roofs are durable. However, they’re also prone to denting. While they do have the ability to withstand a variety of harsh weather conditions, the risk of dents from high-impact events is still there. A tree branch during a hailstorm may dent your metal roof, so it’s important to be aware of this risk.

Noise

During hail or rainstorms, a metal roof may be loud. The good news is advanced installation techniques and a quality product with solid insulation capabilities can mitigate the noise. Despite the fact that metal roofs can cause more noise than other roofing materials, many homeowners still believe they’re a good idea.

Specialized Installation

Installing a metal roof requires specific expertise. Hiring experienced professionals is essential for ensuring a proper fit and long-term performance. This can add to the overall cost and complexity of your roofing project.

Should I Invest in a Metal Roof?

Whether a metal roof is worthwhile depends on your priorities. If you’re in the market for a durable, eco-friendly roof that stands the test of time, a metal roof can be a smart move. This is particularly true if you don’t mind the higher price tag. However, if you’re on a budget and prefer a more traditional style roof, you might be better off with an asphalt or cedar shake roofing system.

Types of Metal Roofs

If you decide to jump on the metal roof bandwagon, here are the options you can choose from:

• Steel: Steel is a popular choice due to its strength, durability, and lower cost.
• Aluminum: Aluminum roofs are lightweight and resistant to rust, making them a great pick if you live somewhere that’s prone to salt corrosion.
• Copper: With a copper roof, which is usually pricier than other roof options, you can give your home a distinct look.
• Zinc: Zinc roofs are ideal if you’d like a roofing system that can naturally self-heal minor scratches over time.