Advantages
When properly installed, a metal roof has a long life span. It is able to seal against water, survive rough winds and shed snow easily. It is also resistant to fire, rot, insects, and mildew. Warranties vary between companies, usually from 20 to 50 years.
Metal roofing is one of the most lightweight roofing materials available. Depending on the gauge (for steel) and mils (for aluminum), metal roofing can weigh 5 to 15 times less than clay tiles and about 6 to 18 times less than concrete shingles. In fact, some metal roofing products can be applied on an existing roof without the need to add extra structural support.
Metal roofing can be purchased in panels or shingles. Metal shingles can be made to look like asphalt but have the durability of metal. Panels have standard widths which make them easier and quicker to install, especially compared to smaller shingles that are placed individually over the roof surface. A shorter installation process also means a lower installation cost. Furthermore, the lightweight nature of the materials also helps reduce costs by removing the need for extra supporting structure.
Due to its high reflectivity, metal roofing can act as a partial radiant barrier, protecting against infrared light and radiant heat. A radiant barrier is the only type of insulation that can protect against radiant heat but is usually an extra cost when insulating the attic. With a metal roof, you may be able to skip the radiant barrier.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of metal roofs include the noise created from rain hitting the roof, snow can easily fall off the roof and onto pedestrians or property, and large hail may leave dents. However, there are metals available for roofing which are dent resistant.
The paint on the metal roof can also be a problem. This is where most metal roofs show visible wear and tear. Peeling, chipping, fading, scratching and chalking are all problems that can occur. Walking on these painted surfaces may also cause wear. Check with the manufacturer to know whether your metal roofing can withstand walking.
One of the main disadvantages of metal roofing can be the initial price, depending on the type and thickness of your metal roof. Because of the special tools and skills required to install a metal roof, hiring a professional installer is a good idea. Unfortunately, that could make your installation costs significantly higher. However, this high initial price is balanced by the material’s longevity and durability. It can also be noisier than other types of roofing material, especially during rainstorms and hailstorms. The noise can be controlled with proper installation.
Some metals will also restrict access to the roof, which is a problem, especially if an unrelated project requires roof access. While allowing for easier and faster installation, wider roof panels may make it harder to modify or repair your roof.
What Is a Roof Gauge?
Gauge is the thickness of the metal used for a roof. Metal roof panels are measured by gauge and are usually between 22 and 29. Each number represents a range of inches (0.0179 to 0.0217, for example) so two roofs may have the same gauge but slightly different thicknesses. Any difference is minimal in actual thickness but may have an effect on how sturdy the metal is. But be wary of basing a decision on roof gauge alone. Other factors are at play when it comes to metal roofing durability.
Gauges for Residential Buildings
The standard gauges for residential roofs are 22 through 29. 22 is the thickest gauge, while 29 is the thinnest. For reference, a can of soda is usually 37-gauge, while the thickness of the hood of a car is 20-gauge.
Minimum Recommended Gauge
Based on gauge alone a thicker metal will be more durable and is more resistant to weather events. A thicker gauge also requires less support from the building because it will remain structurally sound for longer. However, not every building requires such a thick gauge, so customers should take into account what their home actually needs. Plus, roofs aren’t as simple as selecting a gauge and installing the roof. There are plenty of additional features and factors which can create superior durability in a roof made of a lower gauge.
Keep in mind too, the thicker the metal, the more it costs. While thicker metal may save money in the long run by preventing long-term damage, it may not be necessary for certain locations. Thicker gauge typically helps with the amount of snow a roof can hold up, but we know that isn’t a huge concern here in Florida.
Many homeowners choose to install a 29-gauge roof with trim that is 26-gauge, which can be more cost-effective than a 22-gauge roof.
Benefits of Higher Gauges
The biggest benefit of having a higher gauge roof is that it is less expensive. 29-gauge metal is used on 90% of homes with metal roofs.
Benefits of Lower Gauges
Lower gauges of a roof are more expensive. But they’re also far more durable and more resistant to damage caused by weather if the competing higher gauged roof is without fasteners or hard steel.
When to Choose Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is for homeowners who want to invest in a highly durable roof. By paying a higher upfront cost, you ensure that your roof is leak-proof and that repair jobs will not be a regular occurrence. Leaks can cause extensive damage if left unchecked. These repairs often pop up as hidden costs with less expensive roofing materials.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Our project specialist will call you to get the details of your project. They’ll answer all your questions and help you select the products that are right for your project and your budget.
