A modern metal roof is not what you would imagine. It looks like a roof on a farm, but it is not the typical industrial structure you’d find on a suburban home. Today’s metal roofs are aesthetically pleasing, lightweight, and very durable. The standard roofing metals are aluminum and steel, but you can also find some designs in zinc or copper. These metal roofs have a low environmental impact and are also incredibly cost-efficient. You can create nearly any style you can imagine with this material.
While there are many benefits of installing a modern metal roof, you may not be sure whether you want a standing seam or a more traditional flat roof. While several options are available, vertical seam metal roofs are the most popular and versatile. Regardless of what you prefer, you can use a metal roof calculator to estimate the cost of materials and labor. Many different colors are available for modern metal roofs, including custom colors and premium hues. There’s truly no limit to the color you can choose compared to asphalt shingles, which are limited to just a few shades.
If you’re looking for a durable roof, you need to consider the noise of its shingles. The sound produced by a modern metal roof is similar to that of a traditional asphalt roof, but it’s significantly quieter. That’s important because sound travels through the top. For example, the sound of falling rain can cause an uncomfortable roar. But if you live in a noisy environment, a metal roof may be an excellent choice. If you live in a noisy area, you can use plywood sheathing or insulation to help dampen sound, although these methods will increase the project’s cost.
The durability of a metal roof is enhanced by using sealants along the seams. Heavy-duty fasteners also reinforce those seams. In addition, the panels are precision-punched to prevent corrosion, and the splices are staggered to avoid exposed seams. Roof curbs are also factory-engineered to eliminate leak points. And proper ventilation is essential to ensure the roof’s longevity. These features and more make modern metal roofs an excellent choice for any home style.
Another reason to invest in a modern metal roof is that they are an intelligent choice for the environment, cost-effective, and safer than other roofing materials. Modern metal roofs are available in various styles to match any home. And once installed, a current metal roof can save you money in repairs, which means you can enjoy all of the benefits for many years to come. In addition, when you install a modern metal roof, you will have peace of mind that your home is protected from the weather.
A modern metal roof can be installed over old shingles if the shingles are intact. But if the top is covered with more than one layer of shingles, it is best to remove them before installing a metal roof. Otherwise, the fasteners won’t be able to get a firm grip on the roof sheathing. Instead, Bowden recommends putting a layer of building paper between the asphalt shingles and metal roofing to prevent rubbing.
Modern metal roofs also offer many other benefits, including withstanding extreme weather conditions. You can rest assured that hail and other meteorological events will never cause your roof to dent. Many metal roofing systems are rated for up to 120 mph winds, meaning they will hold up well in hurricanes. Regular shingles or plywood are often destroyed during storms and can only be replaced with a metal roof.
Another significant benefit of a modern metal roof is its long lifespan. Installed correctly, a current metal roof should last 40 to 50 years. A stylish metal roof will also seal water, resist high winds, shed snow, and be resistant to insects, fire, and mildew. In addition, metal is highly resistant to rot, mold, and mildew. However, a poorly-installed roof can decrease the lifespan of your new metal roof.
Another benefit of a modern metal roof is its energy efficiency. It dissipates heat quickly, meaning less heat enters your home and lowers your utility bill. And it reduces stress on your cooling system. You’ll be much less likely to need to run your air conditioning system more often when a metal roof is installed. If you’re worried about your insurance premiums, consider this option before deciding.