Steel roofing has now become common and is a good choice for most homes, except those with very flat roof surfaces. Not all metal roofs look like “steel.” There are also shingle-style metal roofing materials that look almost like traditional asphalt shingle roofs. If you wonder about the advantages of metal roof repair, here are some facts to know.
Metal Roof Repair and Installation Over Existing Roofs
Metal roofs can be installed over your current roof without removing shingles, if local building rules allow it. While removing old shingles is the usual method, tear-off is messy and raises the cost of the work. One possible problem with this type of installation is trapped water vapor.
Roof contractors can install a vented metal roof to avoid this problem. Or, putting the new metal roofing over furring strips (like 1x3s) will lift the metal and create an air gap between layers. Be sure to check local building codes before having a metal roof installed directly over old shingles.
Metal Roof Cost and How to Install
Many think metal roofs are noisy when rain or hail hits them, but actually, when properly installed, metal roof repair is no louder than other roofs. Metal roofing panels are usually installed over a solid base.
People inside rarely hear more noise when a steel roof is installed. Also, metal roofs do not attract lightning. You might think metal roofs draw lightning, but data does not support this.
Metal Roof Repair and Maintenance and Longevity
Most metal roofing materials come with warranties like asphalt shingles (about 30 years), but in reality, steel roofs last many years longer.
It is rare for a homeowner to install more than one metal roof while living in the same house. In contrast, asphalt roofs might be replaced two or three times in 30 years. So, even though metal roof cost is higher than asphalt (almost double), it can save money in the long run.
Metal Roof Replacement and Fire Resistance
Metal roofing is very fire resistant, rot-proof, and not damaged by bugs. Because wildfire risks are rising, metal roofing has become popular in many parts of Canada.
Metal roof replacement can also work well on roofs with low slopes. Standing seam metal roof repair fits well on gently sloped roofs. This type of roof is made in large panels with raised seams that are tightly sealed to keep water out.
Metal Roofing Materials and Weather Resistance
Severe hail can damage steel roofing panels. Although metal roofs are much tougher and require less maintenance than asphalt, they are not unbreakable.
Aluminum roofing sheets and copper can be scratched by hail the size of golf balls. Smaller hail is usually not a problem, but bigger hailstones have damaged metal roofs before. However, hail can also harm asphalt roofs, so with good insurance that covers storm damage, metal roofing is still a great choice.