10 Things to Consider When Installing a Metal Roofing System
- On September 5, 2021
Metal roofing has grown in popularity, and you do not need to look far to see why. The year-round energy efficiency of a metal roof is something that stands out among all roofing options. During the summer, metal roofing absorbs and reflects sunlight and heat more efficiently and effectively than an asphalt shingle, helping to maintain a cool temperature in the home. During the winter, the metal roof panels add insulation by absorbing heat and sunlight and keeping the temperature warm within your home.
Are you thinking of a metal roof installation or replacement? It is imperative that you take time to consider certain key aspects of roofing, including the material, installation cost, and care requirements. Weighing the various roofing solutions available today, metal roofing proves to be the best option when compared to other materials, particularly traditional roofing shingles. Are you wondering what makes metal roofing the best solution for most property owners and how it could work for you? Let’s explore.
10 Essential Things to Know About Metal Roof Installation
1. Metal Roofs are an Excellent Investment
The cost of a metal roof installation is higher than that of traditional options. However, when you consider the lifespan and long-term value, it is clear that metal roofing is the better investment.
In the best-case scenario, an asphalt shingle roof will only last 20 to 25 years at best before needing to be replaced. In contrast, a metal roof will comfortably last you well over 50 years with proper installation and care.
2. Metal Roofs Have Much Easier Maintenance Requirements
The maintenance requirements of shingle roofs far outweigh any cost savings from installation. They also require frequent repairs, shingle replacement, and care to address curling or discolouration. This will add to the long-term costs. By comparison, metal roofing requires very little maintenance, even after severe weather.
Metal roofing is designed to last and is not susceptible to rot, mold, rust, and wind damage. It is also significantly easier to clean. A quick inspection to ensure there is no debris on the roof is often enough to keep it looking good and performing well.
3. Metal Roofs Offer Superior Energy Savings
Your roof helps to maintain the temperature in your home. As an asphalt shingle roof ages, this becomes increasingly harder due to natural deterioration. This can lead to increased energy bills as the heat and cold air your HVAC system generates begins to leak out of the roof. In addition to the increasing cost of power, the HVAC system is placed under higher demand to meet the desired temperature. This increases the chances of failure and expensive repairs while also lowering its lifespan.
In contrast, metal roofs are excellent for energy efficiency throughout the year. They do an excellent job of absorbing the heat and sunlight during the colder months and reflecting the heat during the hotter months to ensure that the internal temperature of the home does not fluctuate.
4. Metal Roofs are Friendlier to the Environment
Canadians are more conscious about their environmental responsibility than ever before. Asphalt shingles have one significant drawback with this regard: they end up in landfills upon their inevitable removal and replacement. Considering how often the asphalt shingles will need to be replaced, this is a significant threat to the environment as they are not recyclable.
In contrast, metal roofs last a significantly longer time and can be fully recycled at the end of their service life.
5. Metal Roofs Are Able to Handle Severe Weather
Canada experiences all weather extremes, and the demands on roofs are high. Metal roofs are far better at handling these severe weather conditions than most roofing solutions. A metal roof can withstand heavy rains, strong winds, hail, and snow for decades and continue to look great and function perfectly.
6. Metal Roofing Can Boost Your Property Value
A metal roof installation is an investment – and a wise one at that. In addition to the performance benefits of metal roofing, it also boosts the value of the property. When considering different homes, a prospective buyer will want to buy the one that will be the easiest to maintain in the long term. That is not a quality you can associate with shingle roofs. Knowing that the roof can be such an important deciding factor in whether you will be able to sell the home and how much you can get from it makes metal roofing a much more attractive solution.
7. Hiring a Metal Roofing Contractor is the Best Way
A metal roof is a better alternative to traditional roofing solutions. However, to realize its benefits and potential, it needs to be installed properly. If you are considering a metal roof installation, be sure to hire an experienced contractor who can guarantee top-quality work.
Since metal roofs are often able to be installed over an existing roof, it is essential that you work with a knowledgeable contractor who can let you know if this is feasible in your situation. Reputable metal roofing installers will also bring technical experience, tools, and industry knowledge to your project, minimizing problems in the future.
8. Understand the Price of a Metal Roof Can Change Quickly
You likely have a budget in mind for your metal roof. However, the construction industry changes day to day as does the price of steel, which can possibly increase the cost of your project. This may be more than you had initially budgeted for. As such, it is crucial to look at all aspects and determine how much you are willing to spend. Once you have an amount, be proactive and book your installation sooner to take advantage of the current cost of steel and labour. To come up with a realistic estimate for the cost, you should:
- Look into the price of steel roofing. Speaking with the contractor and getting quotes can help.
- Select the contractor you like best and use their quoted price as your base.
- Evaluate what you are already paying in bills and other regular costs and consider how the cost of a metal roof will impact your available funds now and in the long term.
- Determine a realistic figure that you are comfortable spending.
- Ask your chosen contractor about financing options to help pay off your roof over time.
- Make a list of additional items you would like to have on top of the base cost of the roof. Arrange these by the level of importance to you and associated cost.
- Pick the options you want and that fit in your budget.
That said, it is important to remember that a metal roof is a one-time investment. Once you get it right the first time, you will never have the need to replace it.
9. Know What Increases the Cost of a Metal Roof Installation
The cost of a steel roof installation will depend on:
- Order specifics (width, colour, application, panel profile)
- Size of the roof
- Accessories
- Customizations or Repairs
- Your location
- Type of material used
Factors that may increase the cost of a metal roof after installation include:
- Repairs – depending on the competence of your installer
- Additions – solar panels, skylights, etc.
10. Steel Roofing Types
When you purchase a steel roof, it helps to know that two main types of steel substrate are used: Galvanized and Galvalume. Galvanized steel is coated with a zinc alloy, while Galvalume has a coating of zinc and aluminum. Using Galvalume steel will provide the best long-term solution for most roofing applications, as it offers superior performance and unmatched corrosion resistance.
Invest in Our Metal Roofing Installation for Maximum Protection
At Ironclad Roofing, we understand that getting the right roof and contractor can impact how you feel about your home. We have the best roofing solutions and a knowledgeable and experienced team to handle your metal roof installation. Give your home a suit of armour from Ironclad Roofing, and it will be guaranteed to last a lifetime. If you have any questions, reach out to us today. You can also fill out our online form to request a free estimate.
Also Read:
