Pros and Cons
& of Metal Roofs

Lifespan & Strength

Metal roofs are tough. They can withstand some of the most extreme conditions, and that’s why they’re known to last as long as 40 to even 70 years. Most of the manufacturers we work with provide a 50-year warranty to give homeowners a lifetime of security.

The fortitude of metal roofs allows them to withstand wind speeds as high as 140 miles per hour. This feature is quite appealing here in South Florida, where rooftops need to contend with hurricane-level gusts.

Rooftop wind resistance is such a pressing issue here that Florida’s home insurers are required to provide wind mitigation discounts to homeowners whose roofs qualify. Metal roofing, when properly installed by professional roofers, can secure you a wind mitigation discount, and possibly even reduce your windstorm deductible.

Safety

Metal roofing poses far less of a fire hazard than traditional asphalt roofs and many other roof types. This quality has earned most metal roofs recognition as Assembly-Rated Class A materials that provide additional fire protection.

The panels are entirely non-combustible, meaning that a stray flame or lightning strike will not set your roof on fire. So while contact with extreme fires may cause your metal roof to melt or contort, there will be little worry over your roof catching fire itself. Installing a metal roof will reduce your home’s vulnerability to fire ignition, and minimize spread.

Green Benefits

Metal roofs are one of the most “green” types of roofing on the market. Their sustainability is optimal in terms of recycling, given that they are usually composed largely of recycled metal, and can be recycled at the end of their use. This makes metal roofing an actual waste-free option, which is quite rare for home building materials.

Furthermore, metal roofs offer outstanding energy efficiency. Their naturally-reflective material allows them to bounce UV rays back into the sky, helping to reduce home energy costs by as much as 10-25%. These savings are yet another reason why metal roofing can have a superior investment value over some other types of roofing.

Cons of Residential Metal Roofing

Higher Upfront Cost

Metal roofs tend to cost twice or even three times as much as other standard roofing. While there is a significant potential for return on your investment over time (in the form of reduced energy bills, maintenance, and replacement needs), it may not be a good option if you can’t handle a large upfront cost. Metal roofing may also not make economic sense if you don’t plan to stay in your home for many years to come.

Noise

Metal roofing can be percussive when it’s hit by rain, hail, branches, and more. On average, metal is at least 50 decibels louder than classic asphalt shingles. You can expect to hear a lot more noise when Florida’s storms hit.

It is possible to soundproof the roof decking during installation. But this entails extra costs, as does buffering the sound with extra attic insulation. It’s up to you to decide whether the benefits of metal roofing offset the expense of soundproofing.

Installation Standards

Metal makes for an excellent roofing material – when it’s installed correctly. If the installation is done poorly, you can have a lot of problems on your hands. Water can pool in depressed areas, causing rust and erosion, and improperly attached bolts and fasteners can loosen quickly.

These standards make it critical to enlist expert help if you’re going to outfit your home with a metal roof. Knowledgeable contractors who have experience installing metal roofs will be able to ensure that yours is set up perfectly, allowing you to enjoy its benefits without any premature maintenance issues.

Get a Professional Metal Roofing Installation for Your Home

Since 2006, AKVM has been helping homeowners throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties upgrade to metal roofing with ease. Our crew is specially trained to perform perfect installations that accommodate the specific needs of metal roofing panels in South Florida’s climate.

We’re ready to give you our expert advice. Contact us today to arrange your FREE contactless inspection and quote.