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Investing in a new roof can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s a material you’ve never worked with before, like metal. It is a large expense, and you want to make sure you pick the best material possible.
You have many options to choose from, like copper and zinc. But which is best for your home?
Here’s what you need to know about each metal roofing material and how to choose one for your property.
Copper Roofs
Copper roofs are a classic metal material. They have existed for centuries all over the world because they are very durable and beautiful. Additionally, copper is a lightweight metal, so it will not put much stress on the internal structure of a home.
There are two major drawbacks to copper. The first is the expense; copper is one of the highest-priced roofing materials per square foot. The other aspect to consider is your climate. Copper expands and contracts with the temperature, which can cause issues for humid areas.
Zinc Roofs
Zinc is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials. It has many of the same properties as copper but at a slightly lower cost. Zinc is environmentally sustainable and can be more available than other materials, depending on your area.
Zinc goes through an oxidation process, similarly to copper, called patina. Many people choose zinc roofs specifically for the beauty of the patina. However, the color and timeline of this oxidation process can vary depending on the climate. We recommend researching how your climate can affect the patina.
Aluminum Roofs
According to this metal roofing Charlotte NC company, aluminum roofs are ideal for coastal climates. They can last for more than 30 years because they do not rust or corrode easily. They are also resistant to damage from harsh storms.
However, the longevity of aluminum roofs comes at a high cost. Aluminum is one of, if not the, most expensive roofing materials, depending on the area. If budget is a constraint, this may not be the roof for you.
Steel Roofs
There are three types of steel roofs:
- Galvanized
- Galvalume
- Weathering steel
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, as a whole, steel tends to be suitable for more extreme climates and is the most environmentally sustainable metal roofing material.
Steel is also affordable. It is much less expensive than other materials, and it can also help reduce cooling costs due to its reflective nature.
The main downside to steel is the noise. Steel cannot dampen noises from storms, so whether it’s rain, sleet, or hail, you will definitely hear it.
Tin Roofs
Tin is a very uncommon type of roof. A large majority of contractors do not even offer tin as an option. That is not to say that tin is a horrible material; it is just a newer roofing consideration.
The rarity and uniqueness of tin make it a statement piece. That, combined with the price tag, explains why tin is popular among luxury homeowners. If you are going for the wow factor, tin may be the best option.
Bottom Line
Metal roofing has become a fast, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly option for families around the country. As a whole, this type of roofing offers great benefits with very few trade-offs.
When it comes time to decide which type of metal roof is best for you, remember that climate and budget have the biggest influence. You won’t want to choose a steel roof in a sub-tropical climate, like Florida, and aluminum will be too costly for people with tight budgets.
We recommend making a checklist to compare the pros and cons of each material above. You’ll have a visual comparison that informs you which metal roofing material will be most ideal for your property.
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