Pros and Cons of Different Types of Metal Roofs
Here is a helpful pros and cons guide to help you get familiar with all the metal roofing options available.
05/06/2021
Are you ready for a home upgrade? A new roof is a great place to start. According to this metal roofing Salt Lake City company, metal roofs are an excellent option for adding value to a home. But, with so many choices, how can you be sure you pick the right material?
Here is a helpful pros and cons guide to help you get familiar with all the metal roofing options available. These materials are durable, long-lasting, and beautiful, but they each have their own benefits and drawbacks you should learn below.
Copper Roofs
Pros
• Lightweight: Copper roofs will not put a strain on your home's internal structures.
• Durable: Copper is a strong metal. It is resistant to hail damage, fire, and even mildew.
• Classic appearance: The beauty of copper roofs has been admired for centuries.
Cons
• Cost: Copper is one of the most expensive metals. It is the least budget-friendly option.
• Not always suitable for humid climates: Copper expands and contracts as the temperature changes, leading to damage.
Zinc Roofs
Pros
• Environmentally sustainable: Zinc is completely recyclable and can be infinitely reused.
• Long-lasting: Zinc can last about 90 years. Its durability is only second to copper.
• Cost: Zinc is cheaper than copper, even though they have very similar qualities.
Cons
• Variability with patina: The outcome of zinc's oxidation process can be widely different depending on several factors. For example, the temperature can impact the color and quickness of the patina.
• Corrosion issues: Without a protective coating or drainage system, the underside of a zinc roof can corrode from long exposure to moisture.
Aluminum Roofs
Pros
• Durable: Aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion and rust, as well as fire damage.
• Ideal for coastal climates: Aluminum can easily withstand the side effects of humid and salty air.
• Environmentally friendly: Aluminum is recyclable and easily reusable.
Cons
• Cost: In some places, Aluminum is very costly. It is not always readily available and may need to be shipped to your area.
• Hail: While unlikely, aluminum has a higher chance of getting dented by hail than other metal roofing options.
Galvalume Steel Roofs
Pros
• Highly resistant to corrosion: Compared to galvanized steel, galvalume is about 3 times more durable, but both can withstand the test of time if installed properly.
• Price: Steel, in general, tends to be one of the most affordable types of metal roofs.
Cons
• Not recommended for coastal climates: High salt levels in the air will quickly degrade a galvalume steel roof.
• Oil-canning phenomenon: This is a visual concern for some people in which light reflecting off of the steel resembles a puddle of oil.
• Negative results when mixing material: Galvalume steel does not interact well with other materials. Brick, copper, and even lumber can cause steel to fail.
Tin Roofs
Pros
• Unique: You are likely to be one of the first homes in your area to get a tin roof as they are rather uncommon.
Cons
• Hard to find: Tin roofs are rare, and very few certified contractors install them properly.
• Cost: Tin is a luxury roofing material, and the price tag certainly reflects that.
Conclusion
Metal roofs are quickly gaining popularity around the country for their beauty, efficiency, durability, and sustainability. Overall, metal roofs offer several unique benefits that other materials such as wood or asphalt do not.
When it comes time to decide, remember that cost and climate are the most influential aspects to consider. For instance, while steel is very affordable, it is not well suited to coastal environments.
We recommend doing research specific to your area. Hopefully, you will learn which metal roofs are most equipped for your region and which ones best fit your budget.