Why Are Metal Roofs Gaining in Popularity?

In the past, metal roofing was primarily used only for commercial buildings.  But today, it’s one of the fastest-growing roofing materials used for both residential and commercial projects.  Many people across the country, including right here in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties, are making the decision to invest in metal roofing.  It’s easy to understand why because people are understanding the benefits of metal roofing.

Rain on a metal roof proves to be so soothing it can be found on white noise machines and meditation apps, but that’s not the only reason for metal’s popularity.  Below is a list of other benefits of metal roofing that you can use to make an informed choice about whether to choose metal roofing for your home or business.

List of Metal Roof Benefits

Long-Lasting

Compared to traditional asphalt shingles, the lifespan is the top benefit of a metal roof. When a metal roof is properly installed and maintained, it can last approx. 25-50 years. 

Light Weight

If you compare modern metal roofing to other traditional roofing materials, metal is much lighter.  Metal roofs weigh 1.4 pounds per square foot and non-metal roofs weigh 2 to 5 pounds per square foot.  

Easy and Fast to Install

A benefit of metal roofing you can’t ignore is the speed and ease of installation.  It’s length, width of 12 to 36 inch and its light weight make it easy to handle and install.

Minimum Pitch Roof

Regardless of the slope of the home or building, a metal roof can be installed.  An added benefit to installing metal roofs on a low slope is often less expensive to construct with fewer roofing material requirements than a steep slope.

Maximum Rain and Snow Shedding

For people that live in heavy snowfall and rainy areas, a metal roof can be a real benefit.  The surface of a metal sheet is hard and slippery which makes it hard for snow and water to grip the surface.

Additionally, dark tones of metal quickly warm to the sun, which encourages snowmelts and reflects more sunlight.  Having snow easily come off your roof is a significant benefit by reducing the weight on your home.

Energy Efficiency

Installing a metal roof would be helpful if you are looking to cut your monthly expenditures.  Homes that have metal roofs can save up to 30% per month on cooling costs.

  • Reflectivity:  Metal roofs are excellent at reflecting the sun’s UV rays.  When your roof reflects the sun, it decreases the amount of heat transferred into the attic.  Less heat, the lower your electric bill. 

Emissivity (how quickly a product cools off after the heat is removed):

  • When your roof is exposed to extreme heat in the summer months, your AC unit will have to fight to remove it.  The more the sun continues to heat the roof the AC will work overtime to cool it down. The battle between the roof and AC will continue all summer.  With an energy-efficient metal roof, your roof will be cool to the touch after the sun goes down, which allows your AC unit to take a break resulting in lower cooling costs.

Environmentally Friendly

Metal roofing is 100% recyclable and made with a minimum of 25% recycled materials.  If you are among those who are environmentally friendly, then a metal roof is for you.

  • Cool-Metal Roofing:  By using cool-metal roofing you are cutting down your electric bill, but you are also minimizing the use of natural resources like coal, natural gas, and petroleum.
  • Solar-Friendly:  Metal roofing and solar panels make a perfect combination.  What’s that mean?  It’s easy to install a solar panel on a metal roof.  The panel gives extra shade to the roof and maximizes cooling.

When metal reaches the end of its life, it can be recycled and converted into a new sheet of metal or other products.  

Moss and Fungus Proof

One of the reasons why wood and asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan is they are prone to mildew, moss, and fungus growth.  With a metal roof, you are free from all those fungal strikes.

Additionally, a metal roof protects your home from rodents, pests, and wild animals because they are not able to access the attic.

Fire Resistant

One of the most highly rated benefits to a metal roof for people living in a wildfire-prone area is its fire resistance.  Most metal roofing has a Class A fire rating, which means the covering and underlying roofing material provide additional fire protection.  This rating makes metal roofing one of the most fire-resistant options on the market.

Works for All Seasons and Climates

The best benefit of metal roofing is its ability to sustain any kind of climate and season.  It allows snow and ice to slide off and it’s also perfect for hot, humid climates by resisting moisture and reflecting heat.

If you want to install a roof that will endure the passing of time, you can turn to the experts at Premo Roofing Company.  We focus on building clients for life and treating them just like family.  Contact us today and we will set you up with a roofing system that possesses durability and longevity.

Premo Roofing