Metal roofing has become more popular in recent years because of the tremendous durability they provide. Metal roofs should be expected to last a minimum of 50 years, and can last over 100 years with correct installation.
There are several types of metal roofs. They include:
Standing seam – these roofs consists of vertical panels covering the roof surface. The panels are usually 16 inches wide with seams in between each panel that interlock and seal out water. The panels have clips that fasten the metal to the roof, but the clips and fasteners are not visible.
Exposed fastener – similar to standing seam, these metal panel roofs have ribs running vertically down the roof. The main difference from standing seam is exposed fastener roofs (such as Pro Panel systems) are fastened to the roof sheathing with screws attached from the outside. The screws have special washers to not allow any water to seep into the hole.
Stone-coated steel – these metal roofing systems have become very popular in residential applications because of the traditional appearance they provide. Stone-coated steel roofs consist of hundreds of metal panels that overlap each other (similar to tile roofing). The metal is coated with granules to provide texture and color to the roof.
Metal roofing projects can cost significantly more than budget roofing options (such as asphalt shingles). However, because they can last up to 100 years, metal roofs provide significantly more value than budget options. For example, a 2,000 square foot metal roof may cost $25,000 versus asphalt shingles that would cost $10,000 for the same size roof. But the shingle roof will likely have to be replaced 5 or more times in the metal roof’s 100 year lifespan, meaning the total cost of shingle roofing over the 100 years is double that of metal.
Metal roofing is considered one of the most environmentally friendly roofing options available. One key reason is the metal can be recycled when the roof’s lifespan is over. Another main reason is the longevity of metal roofs’ lifespans, which keeps asphalt and other roofing materials out of the landfills.
Metal roofs require a special type of roofing underlayment to be considered properly installed. Metal-specific underlayment is designed to absorb high temperatures that can be a byproduct of the metal material under peak sunlight. This adds protection against ice dams and hot attics, and helps keep interior cooling costs to a minimum.
Installation of metal roofs requires extra time and precision, and should only be undertaken by experienced professional metal roofing teams. For certain projects, such as garage or shed roofs, certain metal installations are possible for the handiest of homeowners.