It is time to replace your roof, and you are torn between choosing asphalt shingles and upgrading to a new metal roof. After comparing the costs and speaking with your friends and neighbors, you may be leaning toward a metal roof, but you may not be sure if it’s the right product for your needs and budget.
A metal roof is a great investment that has many advantages over several other roofing options, including asphalt. Here are a few of the many benefits of upgrading to a metal roof.
BETTER DURABILITY
One of the biggest advantages to metal roofing is its longevity. The average asphalt roof has a lifespan of 17 to 20 years. A properly-maintained aluminum of steel roof can last over 60 years. If the roof is constructed with copper and zinc, it can last at least 100 years or longer.
Metal roofs typically cost more to install. However, their predicted lifespan makes the initial expense worth it.
MORE ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
When you rip off asphalt roofing shingles, they go right from your dumpster to a landfill. It is estimated that 11 million tons of asphalt shingles are put in landfills each year. Asphalt shingles can be recycled, but this is an expensive process that is often not worth the cost.
Metal roofs, on the other hand, are often manufactured with a high percentage of recycled material. If you ever need to have portions of your metal roof replaced, or must tear off an existing metal roof to have it replaced, all the metal is recyclable.
INCREASED FIRE RESISTANCE
An asphalt roof is constructed from materials that are flammable. If your house is struck by lightning or if there is a small fire in the home, the shingles will not hold up well against the flames. A metal roof, on the other hand, can survive far longer during the fire. Additionally, once the fire spreads, an asphalt roof will fall apart much more quickly, which leads to even further damage to your home.
MORE POTENTIAL HOME BUYERS
Metal roofs are becoming popular and attractive to both homeowners and home buyers. In addition to the durability and longevity metal roofs offer, they are stylish. Unlike asphalt roofs, which are only available in a small number of style, colors, and patterns, metal roofs can be custom made to perfectly complement any home’s exterior.
If you’re considering selling your home in the future, consider upgrading to a beautiful metal roof.
INCREASED ENERGY-EFFICIENCY
For most homeowners, nearly 50 percent of their monthly energy use is spent on heating and cooling their home. If your electric bills have always been high, you might be surprised to learn that having a metal roof installed on your home can reduce your energy usage every month.
A traditional asphalt roof is covered with small granules. These granules reflect the sun’s rays and protect the asphalt underneath from degrading. Eventually, the granules will begin to fall off after years of exposure to the elements, leaving the asphalt underneath vulnerable. An older asphalt roof could be one of the reasons why your energy bills continue to rise.
Metal roofs are excellent insulators, and if you choose a light-colored roof, it will reflect ultraviolet light. This will provide you with even more potential energy savings. Ask a professional which color metal roof would provide the most energy savings and complement your home’s style.
From the increased energy-efficiency and fire resistance to the potential to attract home buyers, there are several reasons why you should upgrade to a metal roof. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Paris Building Supply.