FAQ

How much longer will a metal roof last than other common roofing materials, like asphalt shingles?

An asphalt shingle roof can wear out in 15-20 years when exposed to severe weather. In contrast, metal roofing stands up exceptionally well to weather extremes. It’s a safe bet that a newly installed metal roof will last 40 – 60 years.

Is a metal roof more expensive than other types of roofing?

The price of a metal roof installation is influenced by the same factors that affect any roofing project, such as the size of the roof, the pitch of the roof (steeper roofs being more costly), and the complexity of the roof (such as the number of valleys, ridges, skylights, and dormers). However, on average, you should anticipate a metal roof to cost around two to three times as much as an asphalt shingle roof. Compared to a slate roof, a metal roof is less expensive, but it typically costs about the same as a tile or cedar shingle roof.

How will a metal roof stand up in bad weather?

Thanks to the super-durable factory-applied finishes used on metal roofing, today’s metal roofs are exceptionally durable and resistant to weather-related damage. Metal roofing won’t degrade in direct sunlight as a wood shingle roof can. Nor will it lose a protective layer of material, which is what happens as asphalt shingle roofing slowly sheds its protective granules. A properly installed metal roof exceeds building code requirements for resistance to uplift in high winds.

Although hail damage (denting) can occur in a severe hail storm, dented panels can usually be replaced easily. Metal roofs have a Class 4 rating (highest level of impact resistance) and can withstand up to 140 mph wind.

Will a metal roof be noisy when it rains?

Barns and sheds that have metal roofing installed directly over exposed, open framing are responsible for this noisy reputation. However, when metal roofing is installed over a plywood or OSB underlayment (sheathing), the noise produced during a rainstorm is minimized; it’s usually no more than what an asphalt shingle roof would sound like in the rain.

How “green” is metal roofing?

About 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingles are dumped into landfills in the U.S. every year. This isn’t good for the environment. In contrast, a new metal roof can often be installed directly over an old asphalt shingle roof, and it will last 2-3 times longer. Metal roofing contains recycled steel, and it’s easier to recycle than asphalt shingles.

Will I be able to find a style and color of metal roofing that will look nice on my house and in my neighborhood?

The variety of metal roofing styles often surprises someone unfamiliar with this roofing category. Although you can install metal roofing manufactured to look like other materials (slate, wood shingles, tile), many home and business owners opt for metal roofing panels manufactured in different parallel profiles that run the length of each panel. As for metal roofing colors, your choices are almost unlimited. Compatible flashing, transition profiles, and other roofing elements are also available to give your metal roof a well-crafted appearance.