Metal roofing is an increasingly popular roofing solution that continues to be utilized in neighbourhoods across Canada. Longevity, durability, energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, and safety are the major benefits that draw many homeowners to choose a metal roofing system for their home. If you are considering to install a metal roof on your home, there are certain things you should be aware of prior.
Below we highlight what should be known about metal roofing:
1. Some metal roofing solutions can be installed over shingles
If you are looking to replace your existing asphalt shingles with a new metal roof, it may be possible to have your metal roof installed on top of your old shingle roof utilizing strapping. This can lead to additional savings as time is not needed to remove the old shingles and there will be no disposal costs either.
This option is not always available, and at times should be avoided, especially if you are concerned that you have damage to your sheathing or framing as you will not uncover any potential issues.
2. Metal roofing is lightning resistant
There is a myth about how metal roofing often attracts lightning. However, no scientific finding supports this claim and metal roofing is made with non-combustible material. Furthermore, metal roofing doesn’t have an affinity for lightning and doesn’t attract it. So, if you are concerned about a metal roof attracting lighting, it is a not an issue that should worry you.
3. Metal roofing can resist insect damage, fire, and rot
Unlike wood shakes and asphalt shingles, metal roofing is capable of resisting fire. In addition, this roofing material will reduce the risk of mildew and mould growth. Similarly, metal roofs don’t rot and cannot be eaten by termites and other insects. Therefore, when it comes to imperviousness to insect damage, rot, mold growth and fire, metal roofing is unique in its ability to withstand them all.
4. Professionals are your best option for installing and repairing metal roofing
Although many proficient DIYers can take on many home improvement projects in their home, we do not recommend it for metal roofing work. This is because the installation and repair of this roofing option requires a unique skill set and expertise. Any mistake with the installation can lead to costly damage to the metal material or due to water seeping through. Hiring a professional metal roofing contractor that understands how to handle the material and is proficient with installations and repairs will help ensure that this is the last roof you will ever need.
5. Metal roofs can be more cost-effective
It is no secret that a metal roofing system is not the cheapest roofing replacement option. In most cases they can cost double or more than the price of basic asphalt shingles. However, the value of a metal roofing system far exceeds that of other material as a metal roof offsets the initial cost with its longevity. Typically, metal roofing will last over 50 years, this means that you will probably never need to replace your roofing again. Compare this to asphalt shingles that can last anywhere from 15 – 25 years, this means they will need to replace at least once, if not twice before anyone would ever need to replace the metal roofing, saving you money in the long run.
6. Metal roofing can be damaged by severe hail
Despite the strength and durability of metal roofing, the panels or shingles are susceptible to dents. A severe hail storm that drops medium to large sized hail can dent or damage your roofing. Similarly, you may not be able to walk on your metal roof as it can damage.
