What Are Metal Roofs?
A metal roof is a roofing system constructed using metal materials such as aluminum, steel, or copper to withstand corrosion, resistance, and impermeability to water. The roofing material has received praise for being:
- Strong
- Able to survive hurricanes, hail, and wildfires
- Durable with a lifespan of over 50 years
- Energy saver — it reflects most of the sun’s heat
- Requires virtually no upkeep when properly installed
The History of Metal Roofing
The earliest form of the metal roof was used by the ancient Egyptians and Babylonians as early as 2000 B.C. However, it didn’t gain popularity in the U.S. until the 19th century.
In the U.S., metal roofing dates back to the 18th century. During that period, the only common metals were lead and copper. According to National Park Service, Copper with standing seams covered some of the notable early American roofs, including that of Christ Church (1727) in Philadelphia.
By the mid-1800s, metal roofing popularity was skyrocketing as mass-produced steel covered ordinary homes and barns. In the 1850s, processed iron was used in post offices, train sheds, factories, and some homes.
In 1857, Philadelphia Mint installed one of the first metal roofs in the South. The Mint was then fireproofed with a 20-gauged galvanized, corrugated iron roof on iron trusses.
The 1900s Metal Roofing Revolution
Came the 1900s, the metal roofing revolution shited to performance. France started galvanizing iron with zinc to protect the iron sheets from rusting.
In the 1920s, lightweight, no-rust aluminum entered the market. At the same time, the paint coating also began to add color and longevity to aluminum and steel roofs.
Today, a majority of the U.S. population is embracing metal roofing. In the last 20 years, its popularity nearly quadrupled.
Get A Metal Roof Quote Now!
Types of Metal Roofs, Their Lifespan, and Cost Factors
The material is one of your biggest choices when installing a new metal roof. There are many metal materials suitable for the Miami climate. Here are options that will stand better against corrosion, damage from impact, and heat reflection. The price breakdown is per square foot, according to Forbe Homes 2023.
