Part 2 – Metal Roofs – A Solid Choice – The Big Three of Residential Roofing

You’re probably familiar with the sight of a home protected by a layer of metal roofing. Metal is often associated with strength and durability, so it makes perfect sense why a lot of homeowners would want to put a metal roof on their home. Of course, you wouldn’t want to just pick a metal roof simply because you have heard of it or have seen one. Fortunately, metal roofing has the qualities to back up its reputation.

Metal roofs can be made of different kinds of metals, but the most common choices are aluminum and galvanized steel. These metals are used as roofing in the form of broad, smooth panels, corrugated sheets, or smaller, uniformly sized shingles. However, metal roofing can also be shaped in a way that imitates other roofing materials such as tile.

Living up to Reputation

Pound for pound, metal roofs are one of the most durable roofing options available. You’ve probably seen a metal that was dented by an errant baseball or a falling branch. The same force of impact that dented that metal could’ve easily shattered concrete tile if it was as thin as the metal panel. This means a properly reinforced metal roof weighs less than a tile roof, but still provides better protection.

Another testament to a metal roof’s durability is its ability to resist cracking and warping. Although metal roofs expand and contract the most when subjected to temperature changes, they do not suffer from long term problems, such as curling. Furthermore, metal is completely immune to damage caused by mold and termites.

Water is perhaps the biggest threat to metal roofs, and even then it’s not as troublesome. While it’s true that water can cause a metal roof to develop rust and weaken over time, this problem can easily be prevented by applying a protective coating on the roof surface. Furthermore, processes like galvanization and anodizing further increases metal’s resistance to moisture damage.

Last but not least, metal roofs are energy efficient. A reflective metal surface can greatly reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. Heat that doesn’t get reflected gets absorbed quickly, but metal’s excellent heat transmission means it loses the heat just as quickly.

Feel like using another roofing material? Find out more about another popular roofing option in part 3 of this blog series, coming soon!