Roofing: Metal Pros and Cons

Deciding what to replace the roof with can be a tough choice. Here are some of the pros and cons that metal affords.
In the course of owing a home there will undoubtedly come a time when the roof needs to be replaced. Because it is constantly at the mercy of the elements it eventually wears out and begins to function sub-optimally. Constant rain combined with hot sun and freezing conditions compounded over several years can lead to conditions that can damage other parts of the house and lead to even more expense in the long run. Because of the need for a material that can do a better job of standing up to the elements many people are looking to metal for their roofing needs. However while there are many benefits to using this material there are drawbacks that ought to be considered as well.

The absolute biggest benefit to metal roofing is that it lasts a really long time and requires minimal maintenance. A good installation can last more than fifty years without need of replacement. Part of this benefit is also the incredible durability and strength. As compared with traditional materials theses installations can hold up under gale force and even hurricane force winds. This increased durability leads to a minimal amount of maintenance. It will not crack, chip or rot and will be essentially the same sixty years from now as it was the day you bought it.

One of the benefits most attested to by owners is the fact that they can install it themselves. Rather than having to pay a professional roofer and incurring additional expense there is simply the price of the materials. Also in the event that you must replace it there is the possibility of recycling. This is both cost saving and earth saving.

On the other hand it is good that it is possible to install yourself because metal roofing is significantly more expensive than its traditional counterparts. It costs more on an order of magnitude that is remarkable. It is likely that the most reasonably priced alloy is about the same as the most expensive shingle.

Also, as anyone who has sat in a car on a rainy day knows, it can be really loud to have metal roofing. Rain, of course, is loud but so are hail and strong winds, which can be incredibly loud. During hail storms or strong winds that may bring down branches there is also the risk of dings and dents as well as scratches in the surface that may reduce the aesthetics.
Whether you opt for metal roofing or not it is definitely an option worth seriously considering. It is an excellent choice for durability and strength but may not be ideal for people on a budget or looking for a more traditional look.