Metal roofs are gaining popularity with homeowners for many reasons. They can last up to 50 years, they protect the home from natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes, and there is a wide variety of styles available. But before you decide on which metal style is best for your home, it’s important to understand what’s out there so that you know exactly what kind of benefits you’ll be getting (or not getting) with each one. A lot of roofing contractors in Florence SC can definitely guide you with all the things about metal. So we’re going over the different types of metal so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to install a metal roof.
The Different Types of Metal Material
There are many different styles of metal roofs depending on what you’re looking for. Each comes with its own advantages (and disadvantages) but in the end, all are highly beneficial if you want a roof that will last a long time with little maintenance.
- Corrugated
The corrugation is what gives this type of roof its signature look, and it also helps to deflect wind. It’s usually a dark color so that the sun doesn’t bake your home underneath. This style has a minimal profile (meaning less air-gap) which means it insulates well and can be installed fairly quickly without much labor involved. But with all those benefits come some drawbacks — for example, during installation you may find yourself needing extra protection against possible water damage because there are more nails used in fastening down the panels than with other types of metal roofs.
- Standing Seam
Standing seam as opposed to corrugated means that there are no visible seams on top while still maintaining its durability. This style is also very popular because of its strength and low-profile design which means you lose a little bit in the insulation department but it’s worth losing some insulation for the sleek look this delivers.
- Metal Shingles
Many people choose metal shingles because they’re lightweight and easy to install. The downside is that you lose some of the insulation benefits here too, but not as bad as with standing seam – which is what makes this a good option if your priorities are more for looks than energy efficiency.
What Types of Metal are Used?
Metal roofs can actually be made from one of many types of metal. Galvanized steel is probably the most commonly used type of material, but you can also find them in tin, copper, aluminum, steel, or copper-plated metals as well.
Aluminum will be a little more flimsy and can dent easily, whereas steel roofs would be much more hardy and withstand more elements. Thus, the more premium metals will cost more upfront, but less expensive materials can be just as effective when it comes to longevity and protecting your home.
What are the Advantages of Metal vs. More Traditional Materials?
One of the biggest reasons we see people choosing metal is to boost curb appeal. That’s a big deal in today’s market — updating your home to a more modern look. Which, as you can see, the metal shingles can give whatever look the homeowner wants with the added bonus of longevity.
Other benefits include:
- Long-lasting (50+ years)
- Low maintenance
- Fire and insect resistance
- High ROI
- Can imitate more premium materials like slate or wood shakes
- Many come with great warranties
- Recyclable
- Energy-efficient
- Can withstand the harsh elements of severe weather (wind, hail, rain)
Most people who think of a metal roof might immediately think of the roof of a pole barn. It’s just what you’ve been used to seeing. But a metal roof is so much more than that. And in recent years metal roofing has boomed in the residential roofing industry with advancements in style, installation, and even more color options.