• By Liam Ridings
• In Blog, Metal Roofing, Renovation
• Tags roof repairs

The Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing Materials

Metal roofing is a popular choice, known for its durability and longevity. Like any material, however, it has its drawbacks. Metal roofing vs. tiles, slate, concrete, or asphalt shingles — it’s always a difficult decision to make when building or renovating your property.

In this article, we’ll run you through the pros and cons of using metal roofing and what the material can offer your home. Whether you’re building a new property or intending to replace your roof, it’s essential to understand what metal roofing can do for you and whether it aligns with your needs and budget.

Pros of Metal Roofing Material

Metal roofs are known for being incredibly durable. They’re also fully fire-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions such as intense winds and hail without sustaining much damage. Metal roofing requires little-to-no maintenance, which can save you time and money in the long run. They’re also great for hot weather, as they help keep the interior cool by reflecting hot sunlight. So, if you’re looking to save money on cooling, you can’t go wrong with metal roofing. It’s one of the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly building materials out there — it’s usually made of recycled materials and can be recycled again even after it’s been used on your roof.

Cons of Metal Roofing Material

If you’re on a smaller budget (maybe you spent too much on that state-of-the-art entertainment unit), there may be a better material for you than metal roofing. Building with metal is much more costly compared to other roofing options like tiles and slate. Although metal roofs are much more durable and resistant than different types of roofs, they can also be much more challenging to repair. Should your roof suffer significant damage, it can be costly and inconvenient to fix. On the same train of thought, if your roof isn’t installed correctly to begin with, it can cause you a lot of strife and you may even have to get it redone. That’s why going with a trusted, experienced roofing company is critical.

Another drawback to having a metal roof is that it’s going to be noisy during rainfall or hail. There’s no getting around it; when things fall on metal, it’s going to get loud. If you’re a light sleeper and live in an area prone to heavy rain, you may not want to have a metal roof adding to your woes.

Types of Metal Roofing Material

If you’ve decided that the pros of metal roofing outweigh the cons, it’s time to choose what type of metal you want for your home. You’ll want to consider the following:

• Aluminium: lightweight and corrosion resistant, this material is easy to install but less durable than steel and copper.

• Steel: more robust and durable than aluminium, it’s also more expensive. It’s great for commercial properties and areas with harsh weather.

• Copper: sturdy, with a unique appearance, this is usually used for high-end properties. It’s the most expensive metal in the roofing market.

Installation

As we mentioned before, if your metal roof isn’t installed properly, you may be plagued by leaks, creaks, and other unfavourable experiences. A professional roofing installer will ensure the roof structure can support the metal panels. It’s essential to have the proper underlayment and to fasten the panels correctly to ensure your roof doesn’t need fixing in the future. The classic saying applies well here: a stitch in time saves nine. Except our stitches are nuts and bolts, but that doesn’t quite read as well, does it?

Maintenance and Repairs

Although metal roofing is generally low maintenance, it can be good to check up on your roof with regular inspections and clean it at least once a year. Check for signs of damage, rust, loose fasteners, and dents. Cleaning should be done to remove debris or build-up — this can trap moisture and corrode your roof, which you don’t want. As metal roofing repairs are more expensive than with other roofs, choosing a reliable roofing company with proven experience in metal roof construction and repairs is essential.

So, Should You Choose Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing has a lot to offer, including durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. As such, it comes with a higher cost to build and repair. Whether you choose metal roofing for your property depends mainly on your budget, aesthetic preferences, climate and location. Whatever you decide, choosing a reputable, experienced roofing company is crucial to ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible.

There are many pros and cons to metal roofing. If you’ve weighed them up for yourself and decided that metal roofing is not for you, there are other options, such as tiles, shingles, slate, and concrete. At Vertec Roofing, we can help you with any roof you’d like.

If you’re interested in learning more about building, or if you’ve chosen metal roofing for your home and want to get started, then contact our team at Vertec Roofing — the best roofers in Sydney, with proven experience in building strong and long-lasting metal roofs.