Why Should I Get a Steel Roof?
In recent years, steel roofing has gradually increased in popularity, with 750,000 United States homeowners opting for a metal roof instead of standard asphalt shingles.
Currently, approximately 11% of residential roofs in the U.S. have a steel roof, making it second only to asphalt.
Many homeowners enjoy the sound of rain falling on the surface of a steel roof. Not only that, with exceptional durability, and a life expectancy of between 40 to 70 years, metal roofs are a much better option when compared to asphalt roofs.
Below, we’ll break down the pros and cons of steel roofing, so you can make an educated decision on which roof type to choose for your home.
Pros of Steel Roofing
1.) Durable
When compared with asphalt and other roof types, metal roofing is going to be the most durable choice. A steel roof can withstand windy gusts of up to 140 miles per hour without damage. In fact, the steel will not corrode or crack due to its rust-proof coatings.
2.) Exceptional Longevity
As we mentioned earlier, steel roofs last a long time! A recent McGraw-Hill survey revealed that about 26% of homeowners said that they chose a metal roof due to its long-life expectancy. While asphalt roofs last only around 20 to 30 years, steel roofs last between 40 to 70 years. Despite the greater cost upfront for steel roofs, for many homeowners, the longevity of the roof in the long term makes it a good investment.
3.) Environmentally Friendly
Metal roofs consist of at least 25% of recycled materials and are 100% recyclable after use. In fact, steel roofing can be recycled multiple times without the loss of strength. Additionally, steel roofing is ideal for installing solar panels or even systems for harvesting rainwater. Not only that, but steel roofing can be installed over old asphalt shingles without placing too much of a burden on the home’s structure. (This saves the time, cost, and effort that goes into removing the asphalt shingles).
4.) Energy-Efficiency
Keep you’re A/C costs down! If you are concerned about the cost of steel roofing, with time, the roof will definitely pay for itself. This is because a metal roof reflects solar radiant heat instead of absorbing it the way that asphalt shingles do. Especially during the summer, your steel roof can reduce you’re A/C cost by nearly 25%.
5.) Style
Metal roofs have lots of variety when it comes to style. You can choose virtually any color, finish, and shape. Modern steel roofs are available in over 100 colors. Choose from a standard, premium, or custom hue, or customize with metal shingle types that resemble wood shakes, clay, or slate tiles. With metal roofing, you don’t have to sacrifice at all on aesthetics.
Cons of Steel Roofing
1.) Expense
Yup, steel roofing is expensive. The price tag is one of the few reasons why homeowners stay away from steel and opt for the standard asphalt shingle instead. According to Home Advisor, your average cost for metal roofing per square foot is $120 to $900.
Higher-end metals especially can be more than 10 times the price of asphalt shingles. In addition, specialized training is required, making the cost of installation higher.
2.) Denting
While metal roofs are exceptionally durable, withstanding intense weather like snow and ice storms, they can still be dented by large hail or heavy falling tree branches. Make sure you have discussed all your metal shingle type options with your contractor, to choose a shingle type that’s much less likely to dent. Choose a steel roof over softer metal roof types like aluminum or copper.
3.) Noise
For some homeowners, that metal roofs can be noisy during a summer rainstorm isn’t necessarily a con. However, for some, this will be a drawback. To help reduce sound, your roofing contractors can install additional layers of solid sheathing or insulation. Please note that these additional layers will add to the overall cost for your steel roof.
Read more here about the pros and cons of metal and steel roofs.
Contact Us for Steel Roofing
If you’ve made the decision to have steel roofing installed on your home, you’ll want to contact professional roofing contractors in the Fox Valley area. ACS Roofing has years of experience in the industry, with expertise in roof replacement, installation, custom garages, and more. We serve Appleton and the surrounding cities of Menasha, Kaukauna, Oshkosh, and Kimberly.
The team at ACS Roofing is proud to have served our customers since 2003. All our roofers are licensed experts and we are also GAF Certified Weather Stopper Roofing Contractors. Contact us for steel roofing services by calling us at 920-216-2243.
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