How Durable Are Metal Roofs?

Production

• Metal roofs are typically made of aluminum or steel. Zinc, copper and titanium are also used. These metals are manufactured as large rolls at steel mills. Metal rolls are coated with more metal to prevent rust and then painted. Roofing manufacturers use presses to make shingles from the large metal rolls. Aluminum roofing does not get the anti-rust metal coating.

Durability

• Metal roofing is very lightweight but is strong enough to stand up to harsh weather conditions. It will withstand heavy snow, hail storms, extreme heat and cold and is very fire resistant. Metal roofs are not affected by insects and mold and they will not rot. Aluminum and copper are softer metals and may eventually dent if hit by tree limbs, balls or other hard objects. There is also a possibility of denting if someone walks on the roof. A roofing manufacturer or installer can give instructions on properly walking on a metal roof. Metal roofing typically lasts 50 years or longer, which is two to three times longer than asphalt, the most commonly used roofing product. Some metal roofs have a lifetime warranty. One condition of its durability is that the metal roofing must be installed properly.

Maintenance and Environment

• Homeowners may find metal shingles to be nearly maintenance free. The roof may only need to be hosed off occasionally to remove dirt or minor debris such as leaves. When they finally succumb to age or deterioration, metal roofs are easily recycled. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, all metal roofing material is made with some recycled materials.

Considerations

• Metal roofs cost more than some other roofing materials but they also tend to last longer so there may be low to no replacement costs. Homeowners can choose roofing in various colors and materials that look like other products such as slate or tile. The metal can have texture and layers that do not look metallic. Contrary to what some may believe, metal roofing is not more likely to be hit by lightning. In addition, while it can amplify noise from rain and other bad weather, the noise is practically non-existent when metal roofing is installed with solid sheathing.