Roofing materials often aren’t given the credit or due diligence they deserve for the job that they serve. Protecting the inhabitants of any given structure while providing a layer of protection for your property between itself and Mother Nature is an important role. So why don’t people pay more attention to their selections, available materials, and the roles each can serve when installed and maintained properly? Unfortunately, individuals only seem to pay special attention when an issue arises, but there is one type that has opinions ranging far and wide on both ends of the spectrum.
Metal roofing has numerous proponents in addition to those who would argue to never utilize this type of surface. The differences between traditional shingles and metal are many but the ability of each to serve as a qualified protectant of your property is without question. There are a few rumors out there about a metal roof but many can be dispelled with a little research. Consider each of these distinct characteristics of a metal roof and then weigh them in comparison to other types of roofing before making any decisions – particularly since this is a long-term investment with a considerable amount of responsibility.
Color
Advances in modern technology not allow for homeowners to choose from a variety of different metal roof colors for their property or project. No longer are residents bound to a simple grey or shiny metallic material, in addition to a bright red which seems to also have been around forever. Today, choices between virtually any color imaginable can be achieved in an effort to create the exact style and look a homeowner hopes to achieve.
Depending on you personal preference, metal roofing materials may even be able to offer something that more traditional methods cannot. The extreme color options are typically not something that is achievable from a simple asphalt shingle but can be constructed using metal.
Lightning
One hesitation from choosing metal roofing is the belief that these roofs are lightning magnets. Fortunately this isn’t the case and if it were, then why would so many people have chosen this material over such a long time period. Metal roofs are just as protective against storms and will not make your home a target for lightning anymore than choosing any other surface material might.
By being constructed of a non-combustible material, the effects of a lightning strike (should one occur) may also potentially be less than that of another roofing material. While obviously unpredictable, the notion that metal roofs attract lightning is false.
Sound
Another hesitation many potential owners have is that a metal roof will be louder than any other surface. This is not necessarily the case and often metal roofs can be quieter, if not equal to any other construction material.
Snow
Not only can a metal roof assist in getting rid of snow piling up on top of your property but it also allows for the prevention of ice damming. While stoppers may be a good idea to prevent snow from sliding off around certain areas – i.e. above doors, walkways, garages, etc. – the design of many metal roofs aids in the removal process. This not only helps to protect your home but also provides less wear and tear than other construction materials may allow.
In addition, the color selected can also have an impact on the energy bills depending on the climate for which it is exposed. While cooler climates won’t see as much change from darker to a lighter option, in most instances a lighter hue can help to reflect heat and keep your costs down.
Durability
One of the biggest differences in roof materials from other options to metal is the length of time exceptional service can be expected. For traditional shingled coverings, life expectancy ranges anywhere from 20 to 30 years depending on the environment, upkeep, and other factors. For a metal covering, owners can expect to receive nearly double, if not more, the amount of work after being properly installed.
Repair
Another useful component of metal roofs is their ability to be repaired simply and easily. While damage to the roof of this type is rare, should it occur, the fix is usually a simple replacement of the damaged section. Now that these types of roofs are being constructed to mirror other types of roofing options, the simple replacement can be both less invasive and more inexpensive than other materials.
The damaged section can be removed and replaced seamlessly without affecting other portions of the roof area. When this task needs to be completed on other materials, ensuring the replaced components fit seamlessly can be a difficult task, not to mention the color difference between a new patched portion and the remainder of a roof that has been exposed to the elements for another amount of time. With metal roofs, the ability to match colors and make a repair without it being noticeable can help to alleviate some stress from an otherwise intense situation.
With a wealth of knowledge and experience, quality service has been our priority in Denver and the surrounding area for years as we handle any and all roofing needs. Arvada Roofing and Construction has been completing roof installations, evaluations, and multiple other exterior household projects or associated services for nearly two decades. Their highly trained experts can provide an estimate on any repair, remodel, or now construction project, if needed, as well as any inspection you wish to have completed. Should you find yourself in a situation where you are concerned about the effectiveness of your roof or already have an issue, we are here to help. Our certified and extremely knowledgeable staff is available to handle any construction or roofing job and provide a variety of other services such as seamless guttering systems, or any potential damage analysis thought to be caused by severe weather for the purposes of insurance reporting. Contact us today online or call 303-432-2753 for your free estimate on any of the above mentioned projects!