What are the Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs?

Metal roofs have gained popularity in Florida due to their longevity, low maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency. Choosing the right roofing material is critical if you live in the Sunshine State. The roof must withstand scorching summers, hurricanes, and constant high humidity. However, potential noise issues and the initial cost of installing a metal roof may seem like a disadvantage.

Roofing is a crucial aspect of any home’s construction. It protects the property from severe weather and enhances its overall aesthetics. Metal roofs have become a viable alternative to traditional roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and clay tiles. However, weighing the advantages and disadvantages before investing in a metal roof is important.

Getting an unbiased opinion about metal roofing pros and cons is vital for making an informed decision about whether a metal roof is right for you.

This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of metal roofs, helping you decide which type of roof is best for your home.

The Advantages of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs offer numerous advantages over traditional roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. Despite the initial cost, the longevity of sheet metal roofing means greater long-term benefits, including significant energy savings. Let’s look at the seven advantages metal roofing systems offer.

Longevity

A life span of 40 to 70 years or more is one of the major advantages of a metal roof installation. This impressive durability outlasts many other roofing materials. For example, asphalt shingles may last up to 20 years in Florida. Therefore, metal roofing systems offer long-term protection and give you peace of mind.

Durability

The durability of metal roofs is unparalleled because they withstand harsh weather conditions. Metal surfaces easily repel heavy rain, hail, and hurricane-force winds without damage. When installed correctly, metal panel roofs are also resistant to rust, corrosion, and rot, ensuring long-term structural integrity and fewer repairs.

Many homeowners in Florida realize that metal roof finishes are an excellent way to future-proof homes to withstand environmental and climate challenges.

Energy Efficiency

Do you want to slash energy bills and improve your home’s efficiency? If so, a high-quality metal roof is the answer. Metal sheets can reflect solar heat and prevent heat absorption into the homes. This benefit reduces cooling costs in hot climates, enhancing energy efficiency and lowering utility bills.

Additionally, some metal roofs can be coated with reflective finishes, further enhancing their ability to keep the home cool and comfortable.

A study in Ft. Myers, Florida, found that metal roofs with reflective white surfaces cut energy consumption by up to 35 percent.

Safety

Metal roofs are a safe choice due to their fire-resistant properties. They cannot go on fire, making them ideal for areas of Florida prone to wildfires. Their strength also protects residential properties from heavy snow loads, high winds, and extreme heat, reducing the risk of roof damage during storms.

For example, a properly installed seam metal roof system is resistant to high winds and hail. A classic metal roof system can withstand wind speeds up to 140 mph. This fact compares favorably with traditional asphalt shingles that get damaged at moderate windspeeds of 80 to 100 mph.

Environmentally Friendly

Another advantage of metal and aluminum roofs is their low environmental footprint. Metal roofing materials often contain recycled material and are fully recyclable at the end of their life, reducing landfill waste. Additionally, reflective metal coatings enhance energy efficiency, reducing your carbon footprint and energy costs.

Variety and Aesthetics

A wide range of choices in metal roofing is another advantage of installing a metal roof. The best roofing contractors in Florida can offer a list of metal roofing options to suit any architectural style. These options range from classic standing seam panels to metal shingles that mimic traditional roofing materials like wood shingles or slate.

Therefore, you will find a metal roofing style to complement your home’s aesthetics.

Maintenance

Lower roof maintenance costs are one of the greatest long-term benefits of installing metal roofing products. Here are a few ways that you can save money on metal roof repair costs:

Longer life span of up to 70 years
Fewer repairs due to metal and aluminum resistance to corrosion, rust, and rot
Superior wind resistance
Better protection during storms and hurricanes

The Disadvantages of Metal Roofs

Of course, metal roofs have a significant upfront cost compared to other roofing materials. There are also several other factors when considering the various roofing types available for your property.

Initial Cost

The initial cost of metal roofing is why many homeowners hesitate to switch from asphalt to metal roofing. For example, a standard asphalt shingle roof can cost between $2 and $6 per square foot. However, a classic metal roof can cost between $8 and $16 per square foot.

Noise

One of the cons of metal roofing is the sound of rain and hail it can generate during a storm. Some reports indicate that a hail storm can cause noise levels of 52 dB(A)— about the same as a refrigerator. This compares to 46 dB(A) on an asphalt shingle roof.

However, it’s good to remember that hailstorms are relatively uncommon in Florida. And hailstones are usually pea-sized and rarely cause extensive damage. And with good insulation, you won’t hear the noise from rain in your home.

Expansion and Contraction

Movement due to temperature fluctuations is another consideration when considering the best roofing type. Extreme temperature changes can result in thermal expansion and structural issues in roofs over time. If not installed properly with allowances for movement, it may lead to leaks, warping, or loosened fasteners, requiring repairs and maintenance.

Potential for Dents

While metal roofs are durable, they can still dent when struck by hail or falling objects. However, this occurrence is rare because higher-end metal materials for roofing are designed to resist denting.

Installation Expertise

Installing metal roofing requires hiring experienced roofing contractors. Only they have the knowledge, skills, and quality of workmanship to ensure a metal roof lasts its lifespan. Inexperienced roofing contractors may make mistakes affecting the roof’s performance.

Inconsistent Color Match

Getting the right color match when repairing metal roof panels can be challenging. Over time, the sun’s UV rays can lighten the entire metal roof. However, this same problem affects asphalt roofs and roofs with wood shakes.

Metal Corrosion in Coastal Areas

A consideration about installing any type of metal roofing in a coastal area is corrosion. Salty air and high humidity accelerate the corrosion process, potentially leading to premature deterioration of the roofing material.

Therefore, if you are in the Tampa Bay area, it makes sense to consider aluminum metal roofing with a protective coating to prevent corrosion.

Conclusion: Weighing the Decision

Metal roofs have both advantages and disadvantages. However, in Florida, the benefits of this roofing option outweigh any seeming disadvantages. Metal roofs have a longer life span and lower maintenance costs. And they are less susceptible to damage during extreme weather conditions.

Call Code Engineered Systems today if you’re interested in exploring the option of a metal roof for your property. Our experienced team can answer all your questions and provide expert advice on the best roofing options for your budget and property.