When it comes to roofing materials, there are plenty of options , with metal roofing growing in popularity. Although the benefits of metal supersede the advantages of other types of roofing materials, myths exist about effectiveness and efficiency, causing homeowners and property owners to question the benefits.
The Myths Opposing Metal Roof Benefits
The advantages of a metal roof are great, but metal is still a newer type of material. Because of that, many people are skeptical about how it works and what it will do— developing some misconceptions about what will happen if they choose a steel roof.
Most of these cons are more fiction than fact …
Here are five common myths in opposition to the pros of steel roofing, debunked, so you can make a smart, informed decision about whether metal is right for you.
- Metal Roofing Will Be Struck By Lightning – A lightning storm can be a very scary event, and homeowners worry about their roofs being struck. Metal roofs don’t attract electricity, although they do conduct it. Metal systems aren’t more likely to be hit; if struck, electronic appliances won’t be destroyed either. In fact, metal is safer than wood, shingle or asphalt, and won’t catch on fire if struck.
- Noise When It Rains – The idea of rain hitting metal and the clatter that it makes often causes people to question installation. However, proper installation and insulation eliminate noise and keep metal systems just as quiet as other options.
- Hail Causes Dents – A typical hail storm with normal-sized hail will not cause any more damage to a metal roof than it would to a typical shingle roof. A textured metal system further protects against hail damage.
- Walking On A Metal Roof Is Impossible – This myth comes with a bit of truth. Walking on metal can cause damage, but if a person knows how to walk on the roof, and where to walk on it, the chances of damaging the roof are minimal. An experienced roofing professional can walk on a steel roof and cause no problems, as he can on any other roofing material.
- Metal Roofs Don’t Work In Cold Weather – Many homeowners believe a metal system will actually make their home colder. This is far from the truth. The key to keeping your home warm is a complete roofing system. As with other materials, metal roofing can hold heat from the sun, its insulation and underlayment playing a much larger role in how warm the house is during cold weather.
Metal Roofs Benefits by Texas Star Roofers
Now that we’ve debunked common myths, let’s break down the benefits of upgrading to a metal roofing system. Used for both residential and commercial applications, metal is a practical, stylish, long-lasting option.
Here are many benefits you should consider before selecting a system for your home or property.
- Long Life – A typical asphalt shingle roof can last between 15 to 20 years. Metal roofs can last 50 years or more. Even though it cost more to install, the extended life of the metal actually makes it less expensive over the life of your home. Additionally, many metal roofs will come with a long-term, multi-year warranty so that you can feel confident with your purchase.
- Durability – Re-roofing is required on traditional roofs every 12-20 years, with 17 years being the average for roof replacement in the United States. As a result, many people choose metal as an alternative, since it doesn’t decompose and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
- Energy Savings – Metal roofs can actually provide better insulation. They are able to help keep homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, reducing energy consumption, and, ultimately, lowering your heating and air conditioning bills.
- Appearance – Another advantage of metal is that steel comes in a variety of styles and colors. They can add to the appearance of the home in many ways that a typical roof cannot. Many homeowners are surprised that a metal roof can look similar to typical styles of roofing, including tile, slate, cedar shake, and shingles.
- Fire Resistant – A metal roof will not burn. Asphalt roofs are made of an oil-based product and can add fuel to a fire. Metal makes a home more fire-resistant.
- Less Weight – Metal roofs are lighter than other roofing materials. Metal systems put less stress on the structure they’re protecting.
- Better Wind Protection – Metal panels interlock to create a roof able of withstanding higher winds without being damaged.
- Environmental Impact – Metal shingles are made of 56% recycled content, which is superior to that of asphalt. Metal roofing can also be installed on top of current roofing without the need to remove what is already there, and this can reduce your amount of waste.
Wrapping Up Asphalt Roofs vs. Metal Roofs for Texas Residents
When it’s time to install a new roof or replace an existing one, make sure you know all the facts prior to making a lifelong decision. Even though some materials cost more than others, creating a larger initial investment, there are times when spending a little more money on your roof may end up saving tons of money in the long run.
Despite the pros of a tin roof, some people will still say there are too many problems caused by metal to make them a good investment. They will complain about the noise, but they will not realize that soundproofing insulation reduces the noise to a level comparable to that of any other roof. They may claim that metal will be a target for lightning without realizing that a properly grounded metal roof is not at risk. They may claim that the roof will reduce the value of their home, but, in reality, a premium steel roof system can add value to your home.
Overall, a metal roof may not be for everyone, but there are plenty of homeowners that are taking advantage of what these roofs offer their home. While the initial cost may exceed that of a traditional asphalt roof, the long-term value will be greater. Due to the fact that these roofs will not break down over time like other roofing materials might, choosing this type of roof can ultimately save you money in the long term.
Smart Texas homeowners have weighed the pros and cons of steel roofs and found metal is worth the added cost for a unique, durable and effective roof that will last a lifetime. Regardless of your personal style, there is a metal style, design, or pattern to meet your needs. If you too are in the Dallas, Texas, area and would like to learn more about metal systems, please contact us here & we’ll get back to you with the information needed to make an informed decision.
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