Misconceptions About Metal Roofing that You Should Be Aware Of.

Metal roofs can be found on everything from houses to trailers, barns to churches. While they are more popular for commercial buildings than residential homes due to the initial cost of purchasing and installing metal roofing panels, this type of roof is gaining popularity with homeowners as well. The look of metal roofing gives any building a very polished and finished appearance, which is pleasing to look at and helps make any home stand out.

While copper is one of the most popular metals for a roof, it is not actually a metal roofing material on its own. Instead, it is typically used as an underlayment to protect and preserve the integrity of other types of metal panels that are being installed as a new roof. This type of underlayment provides an added benefit for homeowners, as it will help reduce noise pollution that can be bothersome when living in close quarters with other homes or buildings.

The average residential home in the United States is built to withstand a load of about 20 pounds per square foot, which roughly equates to about 1/10th ton for every 10 square feet of roof space. While metal roofing panels can be slightly heavier than asphalt or cedar shingles, their weight alone should not pose any structural issues for your home. Asphalt shingles are much heavier than metal roofing, so this type of roofing actually becomes lighter when installed on your home, not heavier.

Modern metal roofs are just as lightweight and easy to install as traditional asphalt ones.

Roofs With a Metal Finish Are Hot in the Summer.

While there is a common misconception that metal roofs get hotter than other types of roofing material, modern technology has helped make this a thing of the past. With the ability to lay insulated underlayment and install reflective asphalt shingles above it, homeowners can enjoy both increased insulation and cooling power for their homes.

Metal roofs are too expensive for most people.

While the initial installation cost of metal roofing panels can be slightly higher than that of asphalt shingles or cedar shakes, it is important to note that not all metal roofing types are created equally. For example, copper roofing underlayment might only add about $13-$15 to the cost per square foot of your roof. Sloped metal roofs tend to be less expensive than standard flat types, so this is another important consideration when trying to limit costs in the long run.

Metal roofs are too loud and noisy during a storm or high winds.

While old metal roofs were known for their ability to create a lot of noise in high winds, this is a problem that has been eliminated in modern roofing design. With the addition of insulation and ventilation systems, metal roofs can actually be built to help reduce sound during strong storms, not create it.

Metal roofs do not last very long.

Modern metal roofing manufacturers have worked hard to improve their products over time, which has resulted in longer-lasting roofs that are both durable and reliable. These improvements have made it possible for metal roofing to last between 30-50 years, while traditional asphalt shingle roofs typically only last about 15-20 years before requiring replacement.

New metal roofing is ugly.Do you have references I can contact?

Metal roofing can be designed with a number of different colors, styles, and finishes. For homeowners who want a more traditional look that resembles asphalt shingles or cedar shakes, metal roofs can be manufactured that way as well.

Roof replacement is not advisable in most cases unless the roof is beyond repair. One of the biggest misconceptions about metal roofs is that they need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years, which is simply not true. These roofs can last upwards of 30 or 40 years if they have been installed by a professional roofing contractor. The initial cost may be more expensive than other types of roofs, but their durability will end up saving homeowners money in the long run as they won't ever need to hire a roofing contractor for replacement.

Lightning is attracted to metal roofs.

Metal roofs are actually not more susceptible to lightning strikes than other types of roofing material. In fact, since metal roofs are made of conductive materials they actually attract less electricity during a storm or high winds. The reason for this is that the metal panels have a grounding effect on the roof which helps to evenly distribute any errant current across its surface, preventing it from finding a path to the ground during lightning storms.

Metal roofs are not environmentally friendly.

Although metal roofing does contain a certain amount of recycled material, the majority is made from new, sustainable materials that help to ensure a long lifespan. In addition to this, these types of roofs do an excellent job protecting the environment by helping to keep homes cozy and insulated throughout colder months and reducing cooling costs in the summer.

The metal panels are thin and flimsy.

While older roofs were constructed with thin, flimsy materials that easily warped or buckled under the weight of heavy snowfall or rain, modern roofing has come a long way in this regard. Most modern panels are made with much thicker materials to provide stability, while also being slightly flexible to accommodate different weather conditions.

These panels are extremely difficult or expensive to install.

Metal roofing is not especially difficult or expensive to install, especially if a homeowner does the majority of the work themselves. In fact, metal roofs can be installed in about a third of the time it would take your average contractor to complete the job.

There is no place for nails or fasteners, like what holds shingles in place.

Many metal roofs come with pre-attached fastening systems that allow for simple installation without the need for traditional nails or rivets. These types of roofing materials simply require your average flat head screwdriver to secure them into place.

Need a Metal Roofing Company in Pittsburg?

Martin Contracting LLC is a general contracting and metal roofing company based in Bulger, PA, serving the greater Pittsburgh area. Integrity is at the core of our company’s values, we are committed to delivering quality on every project. We can complete a variety of projects, anything from pole barns and garages to new custom homes! We also do light commercial projects. No matter what your building needs are give us the opportunity to assist you with your project.