February 25, 2017
The benefits of metal roofing have gotten a lot of press in recent years. But everyone knows, too, that a metal roof is a higher investment than the old technology asphalt and fiberglass shingles. So, how can you tell if the extra investment of a metal roof is right for you? Let’s take a look at a few key considerations.
How long do you plan to stay in your home?
For homeowners who intend to stay in their home through at least one “re-roofing cycle,” a metal roof makes good financial sense. In most areas, a re-roofing cycle is from 12 – 20 years. Roofing prices, regardless of the product, tend to double every 10 – 15 years. When you work through the numbers, if you intend to stay in your home long-term you will likely see a real financial benefit to a metal roof.
Do you plan to gift or sell your home to a friend or relative in the future?
Increasingly, homeowners are making plans to gift or sell their home to a friend or relative. In that case, a worry-free metal roof can be a nice “extra” for your loved one rather than leave them with an inferior roof that will someday need to be replaced.
How complicated is the shape of your roof?
Many roofs today have incredibly complex geometry – hips, valleys, wall intersections, skylights, pitch changes, rounded areas, you name it. Complex roofs require a great deal of labor no matter what type of roofing material is installed. For owners of complex roofs, a metal roof can make more sense than continually having to spend money on roof installation labor costs. Additionally, conventional roofs rarely “wear out” in the simple areas of the roof. It is always at the joints and intersections where problems occur. As a result, complex roofs can be more prone to the problems that come over time with conventional shingles.
How old is your home?
Older homes can start to have weight concerns. The low weight of a metal roof can be of huge benefit to a home that may be showing signs of age including structural sagging and deterioration.
How much of your home’s exterior is the roof?
When the roof is a major focal point on a home, having a roof that looks good and doesn’t streak or stain as it ages can be a huge benefit. Other roofs look bad as they age, detracting from the home’s beauty as well as from its perceived value by a potential buyer.
Does your roof seem to be prone to weather-related problems? Of course, it is.
Some homes, either because of construction, design, or location, are just more susceptible to weather-related roof damages than others.Of course, here in New Orleans and all of Louisana, homes are prone to weather related problems, especially wind, hail, and mold. Conventional roofs just don’t do well at all on some homes. Complex roof lines and construction methods like insulated panels can make roofs perform poorly as well. Metal roofing, with interlocking panels, is usually a great choice for these homes.
Are your air conditioning costs through the roof?
Does your home not have good insulation or ventilation? Do you have living spaces in the attic area? Or, do you live in a very warm climate? For people with these situations, a heat reflective metal roof, combined with maximum ventilation, can really reduce energy costs, bringing payback to the homeowner.
Do you base your home product decisions on what is best for the environment?
A Classic Metal Roof has recycled content of 90% or more. When you combine that with the product’s long life, energy efficiency, and ability to be installed over the old shingles, a metal roof is probably the “greenest” roofing choice you can make.
Do you have a qualified installer available?
Proper installation is important with all roofing materials. To maximize the value of your metal roof investment, you want to be certain to have your roof installed properly by someone who is trained and experienced. Our local, professional, installation teams are the very best in the area.
Are you away from home for long periods of time?
We often see pilots and others who travel a great deal choose metal roofs. We also often see our products used on vacation homes. If you’re away from home for long periods, you want a roof that will be sound and stable so that you don’t have to worry about coming home to a mess.
Do you take pride in your home’s appearance?
The number one thing that customers say about our roofs after they are installed is how beautiful they are. If you want your home to look great, and to always look its best, a long term fungus-resistant metal roof is your best option.
Let Us Help with Your Research
Please contact us with your roofing questions and considerations. We will be happy to help you, without obligation. You can also email our own metal roofing guru, Todd Miller, at asktoddmiller.com.
Todd Miller is President of Isaiah Industries, an organization that is recognized as one of the world’s leading metal roofing manufacturers, and manufacturer of Classic Metal Roofing Systems.