When it comes to residential roofing systems, some of the popular options include asphalt shingles, composite tiles, wood shakes, metal panels, and concrete tiles and each has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Metal roofing has been gaining immense popularity over recent years. So, to help you make an informed decision, let’s look at the benefits and drawbacks of metal roofs in comparison to other materials.

Metal Roofing Pros

1. Exceptional Durability

A well-installed, high-quality metal roof is incredibly durable and designed to protect your property for decades. With a lifespan between 40 and 50 years, a metal roof offers remarkable resistance against water infiltration, strong winds, heavy snow loads, and various other threats.

One of the key advantages of metal roofing systems is their unrivaled resistance against common roofing issues that most roofing materials must deal with during their lifespan. Unlike traditional alternatives, metal roofs are highly fire resistant, as well as keep rot, mildew, and insects at bay. This inherent resistance not only ensures a prolonged lifespan but also translates into significant cost savings over time.

In terms of warranty coverage, leading metal roof manufacturers typically offer extensive protection for their products. Depending on the climate conditions in your region, quality of workmanship, and unforeseen incidents, metal roofs can easily last up to 50 years with minimal maintenance.

2. Sustainable and Eco- Friendly

Unlike asphalt roofs, which heavily rely on fossil fuels and petroleum during their manufacturing process, metal roofs have a significantly lower environmental impact. Additionally, asphalt roofs typically need replacement after 15 or 20 years, resulting in a staggering amount of discarded asphalt shingles that usually end up in landfills across the United States. So, by opting for a metal roof, you can contribute to the preservation of our environment and help mitigate this alarming waste issue.

3. Lightweight

With a weight between 1 and 3 PSF (pounds per square foot), based on the material thickness, metal roofing is remarkably light. This characteristic brings about several benefits for you, particularly in terms of cost savings and structural considerations.

The lightweight nature of metal roofing enables you to save on both engineering and construction expenses. Since the material doesn’t put that much burden on the supporting structure, you can easily downsize or decrease the amount of roof support. This advantage is particularly beneficial if you want to construct a new home or upgrade an existing structure. 

4. Reflect Heat and UV Rays

One of the notable advantages of metal roofing is its ability to reflect heat from metal surfaces. This unique feature plays a significant role in reducing heat gain caused by the sun's radiant heat. By harnessing this reflective characteristic, you can effectively reduce your energy consumption by air conditioning systems. Furthermore, while metal roofing itself may not possess a high insulation R-value, it can be installed over foam insulation with exceptional R-values. 

Metal Roofing Cons: 

1. Every Metal Roof Is Suitable for Walking On

Whether or not foot traffic will cause dents on a metal roof depends on the specific product and the underlying construction. However, do remember that metal surfaces can become quite slippery when wet.   

Certain painted finishes on metal roofs may experience issues such as peeling, chipping, fading, scratching, or chalking. The good news is that most premium products come with a minimum 30-year guarantee.

2. Installation May Not Be Foolproof

For a metal roof to perform optimally, it must be properly installed by experienced professionals. Failure to do so can lead to significant issues such as condensation buildup beneath the roof or even leaks. To mitigate these risks, many manufacturers or distributors require that their metal roofing components must be installed exclusively by certified metal roofing contractors who have received adequate training and accreditation.

Conclusion: 

Metal roofing is a great choice to enhance your residential property and protect it from harsh weather elements. However, to maximize its potential, you need to hire trusted and experienced metal roofing experts like Sugar Land Premier Roofing. 

For more information, contact Sugar Land Premier Roofing at 832-639-1299. We service areas in Sugar Land, Katy, and Houston, TX.