Metal roofs offer a 60-year life expectancy, up to 25% energy savings, non-prorated warranties, minimal maintenance, and 100% recyclability. If they're so great, why doesn't everybody put a metal roof on their home?
- Higher Initial Cost: Metal roofs are typically more expensive than traditional asphalt shingle roofs, which can deter some homeowners from installing a metal roof. However, for folks planning to stay in their home for a while, they're one of the most economical long-term roofing options. Check out our cost comparison to learn more.
- Concerns About Noise: Anyone who has ever been in a non-insulated building with metal roofing knows that a light shower can sound like a downpour. Therefore, many people believe that metal roofs are noisy when it rains, but that's not necessarily the case. When a metal roof is installed over solid sheathing and insulation (similar to shingle installations), the noise is no different than with a shingle roof. Not sure; listen to the video below!
- Fewer Choices: For homeowners unfamiliar with all the different metal panel options, it can feel like metal roofing offers fewer options than products like shingles or clay tiles. In reality, metal roofing presents more options. You can choose between panels that look like clay tiles, shingles, or slate and some that look like metal roofing. Beyond the style options, metal roofing also comes in a wider variety of color options. In addition to the earth tone colors that competing products offer, metal roofing is available in whites, beiges, and exotic colors like deep blues and rich reds. Check out our photo gallery to see some of the options.
- Durability: Some people worry about the potential for dents and damage to metal roofs, particularly in areas prone to hail or falling debris. While it's true that large hail can dent a metal roof, in most cases, hail damage is cosmetic, and the metal roofing continues to keep the building watertight. The same often doesn't hold true for shingle roofs. To learn more, read our earlier post, "How do Metal Roofs Hold Up to Hail?"
- Energy Concerns: Anyone who has ever touched a car's roof on a hot summer day knows that metal can get hot. As a result, many people think metal roofing will cause their houses to be hotter and increase their utility bills. Actually, the opposite is true. Metal roofs reflect most of the heat from the sun back into the atmosphere, while shingle roofs absorb it. Consequently, metal roofs can help reduce heating and cooling bills by as much as 25%, depending on the construction method and roofing color. If you're interested in conserving energy, selecting lighter roofing colors is always best. Check out this article to learn more.
- Aesthetics: Standing seam metal panels look very different than shingles. While some folks love being different, other homeowners worry that metal panels won't look right on their homes. If you like the long life expectancy, energy savings, and recyclability of metal roofing but aren't sure about the look, you have choices. Use a tool like our Visualizer to upload a photo of your home and experiment with different metal panel styles and colors. Or consider a stone-coated shingle product like our Tilcor, which combines the great attributes of steel with the look of traditional shingles.
- Metal Roofs Attract Lightning: The odds of a lightning strike hitting a metal roof are the same as any other roof, regardless of material. In the event of a lightning strike, however, metal roofing will not ignite and catch fire since it is not combustible. Learn more about lightning and other fun facts by visiting our FAQ page.
- Contractor Challenges: In some parts of the country, finding an experienced contractor to install metal roofing can be difficult. If that's one of the reasons you've avoided metal roofing for your home, we're here to help! Check out our Find-A-Contractor tool to find folks in your area.
Have you considered putting a metal roof on your home? If so, what were your pros and cons?
Learn everything you need to know about Residential Metal Roofing. Check out our metal roofing resources for inspiration and answers to your questions.
About McElroy Metal
Since 1963, McElroy Metal has served the construction industry with quality products and excellent customer service. The employee-owned components manufacturer is headquartered in Bossier City, La., and has 14 manufacturing facilities across the United States. Quality, service and performance have been the cornerstone of McElroy Metal’s business philosophy and have contributed to the success of the company through the years. As a preferred service provider, these values will continue to be at the forefront of McElroy Metal’s model along with a strong focus on the customer.
Topics: Metal Roofing, Residential
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