Metal, Aluminum and Steel Roofing

In the 1700‘s, metal roofing was common, with steel, copper, and lead being popular materials. In the 1900‘s metal roofing was used primarily on farmhouses and other rural homes, being thought of as mostly functional, with little aesthetic quality.

Now however, there is a resurgence in the use of metal roofing.  New styles and techniques have made metal roofing very popular.  A list of strengths includes many qualities.  Metal roofing is:

  • Attractive, with many new styles giving homes unique looks.
  • Incredibly durable.
  • Able to hold up to all types of harsh weather and withstand heavy snow loads.
  • Nearly maintenance free.
  • Fire-resistant.
  • Made from 60% to 70% recyclable material (and in some cases, recycled material).
  • Lightweight, allowing installation without having to remove old roofing.
  • Energy-efficient, absorbing 35% less heat than asphalt shingles, reducing energy bills.

Metal Roofing Description

Metal roofing today is made from steel, aluminum and copper for the most part.  Sheets of various size and design are fastened to one another and to the roof to provide a stable, durable covering.  While installing metal roofing can be a DIY project, most homeowners hire a roofer with good experience in installing them.  Doing the job correctly is a key to how well they will perform in the long run.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that metal roofing is quite light, weighing about 1/4 that of a slate rough and 1/2 that of asphalt tile roofing.  It is also grounded and does not represent a significant threat from lightning.

Metal roof material comes in many styles and designs.  Traditional metal standing seam roofs are most common, but new designs include metal tile roofs, metal shingle roofs and metal roofing material made to look like wood shakes.

Cost of Metal Roofing

This affordable roofing material may cost as little as $1 per square foot, though most metal roofing costs between $3 and $12 per square foot, or $300 to $1,200 per roofing square (100 square feet of material).  While this material cost is higher than asphalt shingles or wood shingles, the durability of metal roofing makes it a good long-term value.

Metal Roofing Longevity

When metal roofing is properly installed, it’s longevity is at least 50 years, the standard length of a metal roof warranty.  Metal roofing that lasts more than 100 years is very common.

Where is Metal Roofing Used?

Metal roofing is now being used all over the United States, on homes of all types. It is especially useful in wooded areas where falling branches and debris may damage other roofing styles.  It is also a good choice in damp climates where other roofing materials would be prone to harbor moss or even mold.  Those in snowy regions often choose metal roofing for its ability to shed snow and hold up under the weight; those in sunny regions are choosing metal roofing because it absorbs far less heat energy than asphalt roofing.

 

Metal Roofing Articles and Guides

Skylights in a Metal Roof, Installation Costs and Warnings

Skylights add natural light as well as interest to any home. They give it a distinctive look both inside and outside. You’ve got two options for adding... more


Metal Roofing Colors, Does the Color Affect the Cost?

If you are in the market for metal roofing, a full spectrum of color choices awaits you. It’s never been easier to find the right shade to complete the... more


Eco-Friendly Roofing, Top 4 Green Roof Construction Products

If you are in the market for an environmentally-friendly roofing product, the good news is that you’ve got very good options in any price range. Here... more


Corrugated Metal Roofing, Can It Be The Most Cost Effective Choice?

Corrugated metal roofing is growing in popularity because it has many things going for it. Metal is tough and durable. New styles are very attractive.... more


Commercial vs. Residential Roofs, Who Ya Gonna Call?

Not all roofing contractors do the same type of work. There are commercial roofing contractors and those that do residential roofing. Even with those two... more


Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles, It Pays To Compare

While asphalt shingles remain the top choice in the roofing industry, many homeowners are considering metal roofing for its many outstanding qualities.... more


Life Span of Different Roof Materials

Are you looking for a long-lasting roof? Or do you plan to sell in 10-15 years and want good value for a shorter period of time? This brief overview of... more


How Much Does the Price of Oil Affect the Cost of a New Roof

We got to talking about gas and oil prices the other day. Someone asked if we thought oil prices affect the cost of a roof. Well we did some thinking and... more


The Best Roofing Material for Your Region

What’s the best type of roofing for your region? Where you live helps determine which types of roofing material are right for your home. There’s certainly... more


Which Roofing Material Fits Your Budget Best?

Over the past several weeks we at Roofing Guide have been looking at most of the top roofing materials and the cost of installing each of them. This article... more


Metal Roof Price Guide for Estimating the Cost of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing continues to gain popularity as homeowners discover its many advantages. As of Jan 2014 the number of new construction jobs using metal roofing... more


Roof Snow Guards, Are they Really Needed?

If you are familiar with roof snow guards you may be asking, “Are they really needed?”  Or perhaps you’ve never heard of them.  In this Roofing... more


Which Roofing Materials Last the Longest?

The value of a roof is greatly increased when it lasts a long time.  The roofing materials that last the longest and have the greatest longevity actually... more


What is the Quietest Roofing Material Type?

No one wants to wear ear muffs to drown out the sound of a noisy roof!  A gentle rain is nice to hear, but when the roof has a cheap and hollow sound... more


Can Hail Really Damage a Roof?

Some homeowners may wonder if hail can really damage a roof until they see the effects of a serious hail storm.  Hail that is roughly 1″ in diameter... more


How Much Does a New Roof Cost?

Having a new or replacement roof installed is a large expense for most homeowners.  This roofing guide looks at the major factors in the cost of a new... more