Is It Worth the Extra Expense to Get a Metal Roof?

Struggling to justify the extra expense to get a metal roof? Well, here’s what you need to know

Are metal roofs worth the investment? That’s a question we hear all the time. And while you may not see too many metal roofs (just yet), they’re slowly becoming more mainstream, but choosing a metal option is more expensive.

However, there are some clear benefits, and some downsides – just like all roofing options.

This blog post will discuss the different types of metal roofing, the benefits, downsides, and whether or not it’s worth the extra expense to get a metal roof.

Spoiler alert: we recommend upgrading if you can.

The different types of metal roofing

You may be thinking: “huh, there’s more than one type of metal roof?” Yep! After all, there is more than one type of metal.

Different types of metal roofing include:

• Aluminum
• Cooper roofing
• Metal tile
• Metal slate roofing
• Steel roofs
• Tin
• And others!

These are just some of the most popular types of metal roofing, but typically, steel is the most widely used metal for roofs.

What are the benefits?

Okay, now that you know the different types available, let’s discuss the benefits.

Benefits of metal roofing include:

• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Metal roofs are energy efficient
• Environmentally friendly
• Added safety

Extremely durable and long-lasting

It is often considered worth the extra expense to get a metal roof, thanks to the durability alone.

A metal roof can last upwards of 40 years, which is sometimes more than half as long as other alternatives, including asphalt shingles and single-ply.

Your roof is an investment, and if you intend to stay in your property for a long time, upgrading will suit you well.

Metal roofs are energy efficient

That’s right! Metal roofs keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

In fact, you may save up to 40% on your energy bills – your roof is an investment, an environmentally-friendly one.

Environmentally friendly

Unlike other roofing materials that cannot be recycled, once a metal roof reaches the end of its lifespan, it can be recycled.

Also, many metal roofs contain recycled materials, to begin with, allowing you to do your part for the environment without sacrificing quality.

It’s a win, win.

What about the downsides?

As with all roofing options, there are a few downsides. And for metal roofs, potential cons include:

• Metal roofs can be expensive
• They may be noisier in adverse weather (rain, hail, winds)
• Must be installed correctly; otherwise, they can fail

Metal roofs can be expensive

We have to address the elephant in the room – the reason you’re here – metal roofs can be expensive.

Sometimes, metal can be up to two times more expensive compared to other, cheaper materials.

However, as the old saying goes: you get what you pay for.

They can be noisier in adverse weather

If where you live is prone to heavy rain, frequent hail, and other adverse weather, then a metal roof may not be the best option for you.

Why?

This is because it can be noisier – you’ll hear hail hitting off your roof. But for most households, this isn’t something you need to worry about.

Related: Metal roofing and lightning: what you need to know.

Metal roofing must be installed correctly

Finally, if you decide to upgrade to a metal roof, then it must be installed correctly.

If your new roof is not installed properly, then water and moisture will get into your roof, resulting in a leak.

Therefore, we always recommend going with a reputable roofing contractor, such as the team at Jacob’s Ladder.

Do metal roofs save money? Are they worth the expense?

Metal roofing is an incredibly energy-efficient material. Less heat is lost through the attic if you choose to upgrade.

Also, before you begin to think you’ll get too hot in the summer, an air gap prevents the sun from warming up your home to unbearable temperatures! No need to crank the AC on full.

In short, metal roofs will allow you to save money. Less energy will be lost, it’s easier to retain heat, and you won’t get too hot in the summer months.

But is it worth the extra expense to get a metal roof?

If you can afford the initial investment, then we’d recommend upgrading to a metal roof.

As long as your new roof is installed by a team of professional contractors, then you’ll save money on your energy bills, you’ll be doing your part for the environment, and your house will look like something from back to the future.

Jokes aside, we think the extra expensive to get a metal roof is definitely worth it.