Metal roofing has become widespread primarily in commercial applications, but nowadays, architects are increasingly using this technology in home design as well. Whether stainless steel, aluminum or copper, they offer excellent performance and above-average durability at a not at all affordable price. Why, then, are homeowners still installing asphalt shingles? What are the pros and cons of metal roofing? Let’s find out!
Both stainless steel and aluminum have become widespread in virtually all branches of construction. Their relatively low weight, flexibility, high availability in nature and recyclability make metals modern, sustainable and highly effective materials that are suitable for building structures, securing roofs or producing siding.
In the case of copper, the case is somewhat different. As a metal, copper has been known to mankind for more than 2,300 years, and it became widespread due to its corrosion resistance, low melting point and flexibility, which made it possible to process it even with not very sophisticated tools.
Nowadays, both steel, aluminum and copper are used primarily for their functionality, although the aesthetic aspect is very often also strongly considered. Much also depends on the customer’s personal preferences – after all, he is the one spending thousands of dollars on their roof.
Let’s start by distinguishing the advantages of stainless steel, aluminum and copper that are relevant to metal roofing. As a sheet metal producer, we must add that some parameters can be strongly dependent on the alloy used. In this article, we will discuss the most popular blends used in construction industry.
Roofs made of stainless steel can last for 30 to as long as 70 years, depending on the maintenance coating used. Aluminum roofs also need to be replaced after about 30-40 years, and roofs made of copper are up to 200 years old!
Durability and longevity is a huge advantage of metal roofing. The only materials that can compete with copper, stainless steel and aluminum in this regard are some composites and ceramics, but for all intents and purposes, we can’t yet predict the durability of the resins used to make shakes and tiles from brands such as DaVinci Roofscapes and Brava.
Although every metal expands and contracts when exposed to temperature, stainless steel, aluminum and copper do not suffer damage during even a very hot day, as asphalt shingles can. Unlike clay roofing tiles, metal sheeting is also not as prone to cracking in the cold with a possible hailstorm or being hit by another hard object.
An additional advantage of metal roofing is that the smooth sheet surface is highly resistant to wind, provided it is properly attached. In the case of cedar shakes and slate tiles, the pressure of rushing air can break loose, turning them into projectiles that are dangerous to people.
Most metal roofs are certified for wind speeds as high as 150 mph, effectively keeping homeowners safe even in tornadoes and hurricanes. Remember, however, that the quality of the installation service is very important, as minor irregularities can significantly reduce the stability and streamlining of the entire structure.
A key advantage of metal roofing is also its relatively low environmental impact, due to the high recyclability of steel, aluminum and copper sheets. It is worth noting that almost 70% of the steel and aluminum produced in the United States is recycled, and the vast majority of steel roof components can be recycled again. Slightly less environmentally friendly are Kynar500-coated roofs, but this accounts for no more than 2% of sheet metal by weight.
No other roofing material has such potential for further processing. Used asphalt shingles are an environmentally hazardous waste, old cedar shakes can at best be burned, and slate and terracotta tiles can be recycled into rubble.
Another huge advantage of metal roofing is its safety for humans. Both steel and aluminum and copper do not emit any toxic fumes with normal use, trimming or dismantling, which is different from asphalt shingles and asbestos, for example.
Although aluminum is considered a neurotoxin, it only becomes dangerous when exposed to high temperatures or chemicals. Being fair, however, it should be noted that during a house fire, almost any material begins to emit substances hazardous to health and life.
Homeowners are paying increasing attention to the fire safety of the materials they choose, and in this case, metal roofing also fares extremely well. The vast majority of steel, aluminum and copper sheets have the highest fire resistance class (A). Although this is a score also achieved by high-quality asphalt shingles or composite cedar shakes, it is difficult to compare these materials with each other. During a fire, steel may change its shape, but it certainly won’t catch fire.
Also, most paint coatings used to maintain metal roofing panels remain non-flammable or flame-retardant. Compared to synthetic materials, the difference in safety is downright colossal.
We would not be honest if we did not mention the disadvantages that naturally accompany metal roofing. We must mention:
When it comes to metal roofing, prices can sometimes vary tremendously. A sqft of sheet metal can cost from $3 to $40, and it depends on the standard of finish, the thickness of the material, the amount of metal ordered as well as the reputation of the company responsible for installation.
Of course, the price is followed by the quality, as metal roofs are basically wear-free and are treated as a lifetime solution. Keep in mind, however, that if you have a large house, the price of a roof replacement can exceed as much as $100,000 for a roof made of thick copper sheet.
If you live in an area that is particularly prone to hail, choosing a roof made of copper or aluminum is asking for trouble, as both of these materials are relatively malleable, so that after an intense storm, your roof may develop visible dents leading to leaks. Stainless steel is admittedly a much more rigid material, but the risk of damage still exists.
We should add, however, that repairing metal roofing panels after a hailstorm is relatively easy, as straightening them requires a hammer and a lot of patience. Individual panels can also be replaced, which greatly reduces the cost of renovation.
Unfortunately, roofs made of steel and aluminum will start to corrode sooner or later. If you live in a house that is very close to a large body of water, especially the ocean, after just a few years you can expect the roof structure to gradually begin to weaken. This problem does not occur with copper roofs, which is why they are relatively common in the Chicago Northshore Area, for example.
Metal roofs perform well in temperate and dry climates. You don’t have to live in the desert to enjoy the long life of this material.
If you live in a rainy area or on a busy street you must expect higher noise levels in the attic. Sheet steel, copper or aluminum transmits sound very well, and even a thick layer of mineral wool or other material will not dampen sound as well as, for example, cedar shakes.
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Looking for personalized offer?
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(847) 947-6797
Contact us
Do you need personalized offer?
Call or write to us – let’s talk about what we can do for you!
(847) 947-6797
Our Company
Northshore Sheet Metals
ABM Distributing, Inc.
418 Mercantile Ct.
Wheeling, IL 60090
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Monday – Friday: 7AM – 4PM
Saturday: Appts Only
Sunday: Closed
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