What Materials Are Available?

• Most metal roofs are made from aluminum or steel. You can also purchase roofing materials made from an aluminum-steel alloy, which is usually less expensive. Some metal roofing materials make use of other metals as well, such as copper, titanium and zinc. Metal roofing materials are available both in standing seam sheets that are fitted together to cover a roof and metal shingles that interlock to form a roof covering.
  
  

What Are the Benefits?

• Metal roofs are highly durable and usually outlast traditional asphalt and wood shingle roofs. They can withstand extreme weather conditions better than other roofing materials, so they are recommended for areas prone to hurricanes and other severe storms. In fact, in these areas, installing a metal roof may help lower your homeowner's insurance rate. Metal roofs are also fire resistant so they are a good option for areas that have frequent wildfires. Metal is also an eco-friendly roofing option because it requires replacement less often and reflects solar heat to reduce cooling costs. In addition, metal roofing is available in a wide range of colors so it can provide a highly decorative, attractive look.
  
  

What Are the Drawbacks?

• While a metal roof usually winds up paying itself over the course of its lifetime, the initial cost may not fit all budgets. It usually requires professional installation as well, so you cannot save money by doing the work yourself. In addition, repairs on a metal roof are usually more difficult than those on asphalt or wood shingled roofs, which can make them more costly. In addition, a metal roof can make more noise than other types of roofs when rain or hail fall on it. It can also be dented when objects strike it.
  
  

Can It Be Installed Over Existing Roofing?

• Metal roofing materials are extremely lightweight, weighing as little as 1.6 pounds per square foot depending on the gauge. As a result, it usually does not weigh down existing roofs. Many contractors can install it directly over asphalt or fiberglass roofing materials without issue.
  
  

Will a Metal Roof Rust?

• Most metal roofs are treated on both sides with a protective metallic coating. The coating is added in addition to any paint or color treatment that the materials are given. As a result, the metal is protected from rusting despite continued exposure to wet, inclement weather.