Metal roofing has become a popular option for homeowners.  The following is a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of metal roofing.

The Benefits of Metal Roofing

Metal beats out conventional roofing materials on a number of counts:

Expected life. Properly installed, a metal roof should last as long as the house, completely sealing out water and surviving high winds.

Metal is resistant to fire, mildew, insects and rot. Warranties vary widely but most companies strongly back their products for from 20 to 50 years.

Weight. Compared to tile at 750 pounds per square (an area equal to 100 square feet) or concrete tile at 900 pounds per square, metal roofing is lightweight. Most are from 50 to 150 pounds per square.

Fire resistance. Because metal roofs are noncombustible, they're given a Class A fire rating (the most resistant). Part of a roof's classification depends on materials beneath the surface that could ignite in intense heat, so some metal roofs applied over an old combustible roof--such as wood shingles-- may be rated lower.

Heat conduction. Metal reflects radiant heat from the sun, minimizing midday heat gain. Though the material itself is low in insulation R-value, many systems utilize a dead-air space between the metal and roof deck to increase energy efficiency.

Minimal roof pitch. Most metal roofing materials can be installed on gently pitched roofs without danger of leaking. Typical minimum roof pitch is 3-in-12 (the roof rises 3 inches for each horizontal foot).

Metal Roofing Drawbacks

Though metal roofing offers many pluses, there are a few drawbacks or concerns worthy of consideration. For the most part, roofing manufacturers have faced these concerns and improved their products to address or solve many of them.

Cost. Metal roofing is equivalent in cost to other premium materials but the secret is that you get it back if you stay in the house for a long time. Of course, if you plan to move in a couple of years, you probably won't get the cost returned in value.

Noise. For some, the sound of rain tapping on the roof is romantic and homey; for others, it's like living inside a drum. In a rainstorm or hailstorm, living beneath thin sheets of metal is bound to be noisier than beneath thick slate or tile. Noise can be controlled, however, both by using materials that have structural barriers to minimize the drum effect and by applying them over sound-deadening insulation and solid plywood sheathing.

Denting. Just as your car will dent if a golf ball hits it, a metal roof may dent if large hailstones fall on it. Aluminum and copper, much softer than steel, are more prone to denting. Some are guaranteed not to.

Though you shouldn't have to walk on a roof that doesn't leak, there may be occasions when a plumber needs to snake out a vent pipe or a chimney sweep will need access to the chimney flue. You can walk on some metal roofs, but not all--depending on how the particular product is made and the type of construction supporting it. Also, metal is slippery when wet.

Marring. Some painted finishes can peel, chip, fade, scratch or chalk, although nearly all are guaranteed for many years. Walking on some types--particularly those with a granulated-stone surface--may show wear.

Unlike conventional roofing, some metal shingle systems are installed from the top down, eliminating the need to walk on them. Once installed, it may be necessary to hose-off roofing now and then to keep it looking good.

Modification. Roofing materials installed in large panels are more difficult to replace if damaged than individual shingles. Also, if you remodel or add-on to your home 10 or 20 years from now, it may be difficult to match the material.

We at Roche Roofing want to help you make the smart choice for your home. Please let us know if you have any questions.