Metal Roofing Pros and Cons
The popularity of metal roofing in Miami has exploded over the last several years. Here is a balanced view of the pros and cons of metal roofs in order to help with your roof replacement process.
Here’s A Complete List of Metal Roof Benefits
Metal Roofing Lasts A Long Time
Metal is the most durable of all other traditional roofing materials. One of the major advantages of metal roofing is that a properly installed, high-quality standing seam roofing has a lifespan of 40-70 years. The metal panels are typically made from a galvanized steel and aluminum alloy known as Galvalume or 100% aluminum if located along the coast.
Most roofing materials will last less than 30 years. Asphalt shingles can last from 15 -20 years while clay tiles or concrete tiles last around 25 years. Both these common roofing materials are less durable and can be easily damaged by flying debris.
It is important to note that not all metal roofing products are the same. Some have a thinner gauge or are attached to the deck with exposed screws which makes the roof susceptible to damage from water and wind.
Durable and Weather Resistant
A high-quality metal roof in Miami should be constructed to withstand the elements. Standing seam metal roofing materials from Englert are coated with kynar paint which reflects radiant heat off the solid metal surface improving energy efficiency while also maintaining paint color with minimal chalking. Rustproof coatings are an important part of long-lasting, durable metal roofs in South Florida which have to withstand abundant rain and extreme heat. A metal roof is also a fire-resistant roof system.
Metal Roofing Is Lightweight
Another one of the benefits of metal roofing is that actual metal roofing materials are lighter than traditional tile, particularly concrete tile. This contributes to their longevity as the decking is less likely to get warped over time by the weight of the roof. Cracked tiles allow water to seep through to the underlying structure of the roof which then bends underneath the weight of a heavy roof. This can cause all types of issues including cracks in the structure of the property. A lightweight metal roof protects the home from these issues.
Low Maintenance
High-quality, standing seem residential metal roofing does not require much maintenance if any. The protection offered to the screw during the seaming process means they will not need to be replaced. Metal does not crack so water penetration through damaged panels is highly unlikely.
As mentioned, cheaper metal roofing systems with exposed fasteners will require maintenance in as little as 10 years. In addition, poorer quality paint will have to be repainted in as little as 5 years if the homeowner wants to restore the look of the roof to its original aesthetic when purchased.
Energy Efficient-Metal Surfaces Reflect Heat
Kynar painted metal roofs are energy efficient products. In fact, Englert metal roof systems are energy star rated. Worthouse metal tile roofs have a special coating that reflects radiant heat gain as well as a vented roof system that allows air to flow underneath the panels and escape through a ridge that is vented.
A traditional asphalt shingle roof absorbs heat from the sun and requires the added cost of attic insulation. Even with this, traditional asphalt shingles increase cooling costs when compared to modern metal roofing materials.
The color of the metal does play a part in the relative effectiveness of energy efficient metal roofs in reflecting heat. However, even dark colors will reflect heat off the roof.
One of the added benefits of high end metal roofs that reflect radiant heat and sunlight is that they maximize sun exposure on solar panels. The ease of installation of solar panels on a standing seam roof is another reason to choose metal roofing for your home.
Insurance Discounts
With recent extreme weather wreaking havoc on Florida homes in the past few years, many long-standing insurers have stopped writing policies. As a result, the cost of homeowners insurance continues to rise in Florida. However, due to the many benefits of a metal roof and its ability to withstand significant hurricane winds, and other elements such as water, fire, and hail, insurance companies have taken note and offer healthy discounts on homes with a metal roof installed.
Metal Panels Can Go On Low-Pitched Roofs
There are metal roof products on the in the market that can be installed on low-pitched roofs as long as they have passed the required engineering. Typically, 2/12 is the minimum roof pitch required; however, there are metal roofing systems that have approvals for 1/12 pitched roofs.
Steel Roofing Is Environmentally Friendly
One of the benefits of steel is that it is mostly recyclable at the end of its lifespan. Recycled materials assist in producing less waste for the environment which is a win-win for everyone.
Do Metal Roofs Attract Lightning?
According to research by the MCA, metal roofing offers a 0% chance of additional risk from lightning strikes when compared to other roof types. However, a metal roof is a fire-resistant roof. This makes metal roof materials safer should the unfortunate event of a lightning strike occur. The height, topography, and geographic location of the home are more important factors when it comes to lightning.
Is Metal Roofing Noisy?
This is one of the biggest misconceptions about most metal roofs. Most metal roofing in Miami is thick-gauge steel on top of underlayment and plywood. This normal metal roof does not make noise when it rains.
However, in areas with no local codes and no or fewer roofing material requirements, a tin roof proves to be very loud indeed!
A Metal Roof Installs Fast?
Installing metal roofs can actually be more difficult to install if they are standing seam. This is due to the on-site bending and seaming which has to take place.
However, a new metal tile roof product from Worthouse, sometimes misnamed metal shingles, is very easy to install with a traditional 2500 square foot roof taking 2-3 days once the roof is dried in. Most metal tile roofs require the use of battens which makes the installation process longer. A Worthouse metal roof is very strong and can be installed direct to the deck.
