Residential Metal Roofs FAQ

While the upfront costs of installing a metal roof are often higher than shingles, a metal roof lasts longer and will be replaced or repaired far less frequently. A typical shingle roof lasts anywhere from 12 to 20 years, depending upon how well it’s maintained and weather elements it may encounter. Metal roofs, on the other hand, can last between 40 and 60 years while also requiring less maintenance, making them a more cost-effective choice over the lifespan of the roof.

While it may be true that metal roofs on buildings like garages and pole barns intensify the sound of falling rain, this is primarily caused by the lack of a roof deck, insulation, and underlayment. On a residential home, layers of building materials between the metal roof and the living area reduce the noise significantly, making metal roofs as quiet as any other roofing material when it rains. Check out this video to see and hear for yourself.

Metal roofing actually reflects much of the sun’s heat and energy. While conventional shingles absorb much of the sun’s heat, metal roofing can actually reduce cooling energy costs by as much as 20%. That’s because the coating used on modern metal roof panels incorporates special pigments that reflect the sun’s energy and release heat that is absorbed throughout the day.

Residential metal roofing is available in a variety of aesthetically pleasing designs that can heighten the curb appeal of any home. In addition to conventional panels, there are several styles that are virtually indistinguishable from conventional tile and shingles. Metal roofing is available in a wide array of colors as well, making it easy to find an option that best suits any style of residential home.

The odds of a lightning strike hitting a metal roof are the same as any other roof, regardless of material. In the event that there is a lightning strike, however, metal roofing will not ignite and catch fire since it is not combustible.

Far from it. Studies conducted by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) have found that metal roofing is far less likely to be punctured by hail than conventional asphalt shingles, withstanding even golf ball-sized hailstones with only cosmetic damage.

Metal roofing consistently outperforms shingles when it comes to resisting harsh elements. In addition to being fire and hail resistant, metal roofs are also effective against extreme winds. Many insurance companies recognize the durability of metal roofing, offering discounts for structures with metal roofs.

Definitely not! Like most building materials, metal roofing is available in varying levels of quality. Homeowners should be sure to ask their contractor or supplier what substrate and paint coating they are recommending for their home. Galvalume steel substrates and Kynar 500^® (PVDF) coatings provide the best long-term performance. Click here for facts about substrates and coatings.

Metal rusts, but if the right metal substrate is chosen, the risk of rust is minimized.

We know they are. Learn why.

Wondering where to begin? We can help.

Metal roofing is an energy efficient, environmentally friendly roofing material that offers cost savings and a long lifespan.

There are a lot of metal roof colors to choose from! We'll help you navigate the options.

Get the metal roofing pros and cons homeowners need to know to make an informed roofing decision. 

Snow does slide off of metal roofs. Snow retention systems can be used to help prevent the sudden release of built-up snow from a metal roof.

The good news is that metal roofs with a roof assembly (decking, insulation, and underlayment) are no noisier than any other type of roof.

Metal roof systems offer homeowners in hail prone areas a long lasting, durable roofing solution. 

Metal roofs that look like tile share many similarities with clay tiles but offer homeowners some distinct advantages over the most traditional tile construction material.

While it is impossible to call any roof hurricane proof, a properly designed metal roofing system can be capable of handling wind speeds in excess of what is normally experienced in hurricane-prone regions.

Homeowners across the country are replacing their shingle roofs with metal. Get help choosing the right roof for your home.

Yes! Solar panels and metal roofing are a great match!

Yes! Installing metal roofing over existing shingles is often an excellent way for building owners to not only get a long-lasting, high-performance roof but also to save on roof tear-off expenses. However, sometimes tearing off the existing roof is a necessary step. Please click the link below for more information.

Metal roofing offers exceptional performance in harsh conditions. With the right choice of materials, it can withstand extreme weather and environmental challenges where other roof types would struggle or have a dramatically reduced lifespan.