Most residential roofs in Arizona are either asphalt shingles or ceramic tile. This is because asphalt roofs are incredibly cost-effective, and tile roofs are very durable and long-lasting. However, we are starting to see more interest in metal roofing in residential settings. Why is this? And what are the benefits of installing a metal roof on a residential home?
Why Are Metal Roofs Gaining in Popularity?
While you are more likely to see metal roofing on commercial properties, they are starting to pop up on residential homes across Arizona. They are remarkably versatile and come in a wide variety of colors. But their aesthetic appeal is not the main reason you are starting to see them more frequently on residential homes.
Heat & UV Resistance
Metal roofs are popular in commercial settings because they are incredibly durable and stand up well to harsh climates. In Arizona, where we receive intense heat for the better part of the year, metal roofs are a good option as they stand up to the damaging effects of the sun very well. They not only reflect the sun's rays, helping prevent excess heat absorption but they can also be coated to be resistant to UV damage, a major problem in sunny states like Arizona.
Review our blog post to learn more about protecting your roof from rising temperatures.
Longevity & Durability
Most metal roofs are made from aluminum, tin, or steel, all of which are very durable materials. You may also see the occasional copper roof. The average asphalt shingle roof will last for around 20 years if well-maintained. Comparably, a metal roof can last upwards of 50+ years. This rivals the longevity of clay tile roofs. Furthermore, metal roofs are incredibly durable, and though large hailstones can dent them, they are not as fragile as clay tile roofs which are prone to cracking and breaking, making routine maintenance easier.
Cost-Effective
Compared to tile roofs, metal roofs have a lower up-front installation cost and are less expensive to maintain and repair. Tile roofs are more prone to breaking and cracking, and replacing those tiles can be difficult. Not only is walking on a tile roof likely to cause further damage, making repair work tricky, but because many clay tile manufacturers have gone out of business, getting matching tiles for repairs can be a challenge. Additionally, the replacement cost of a tile roof is substantially more expensive than replacing a metal roof.
But what about the cost compared to asphalt roofs? While the upfront cost of an asphalt roof is much lower than a metal roof, a metal roof's long lifespan and reduced maintenance make them just as cost-effective over time as asphalt roofs.
Potential Drawbacks to Metal Roofs
Though metal roofing offers many benefits for a residential home, there are some drawbacks you should consider before moving forward with an installation. First, you may not like the way they look. Because they are used so widely in commercial settings and only recently in residential areas, some people find them aesthetically incongruous with their neighborhood. Similarly, if you live in a community with an HOA, you may not be allowed to deviate from your existing style and material of roofing. You should always check HOA requirements before making significant changes to your home, including selecting a new roof.
Another thing to consider is the initial investment cost of a metal roof. As mentioned earlier, metal roofs have a higher up-front cost than an asphalt shingle roof. Though they do last for decades, the cost of installing a metal roof may not fit comfortably within your budget right now. Similarly, if you are not planning to stay in your current home for more than a couple of years, this investment may not be worth it to you.
Finally, metal roofs may be noisier than asphalt or tile roof. When rain or hail comes, metal roofs are noticeably louder than other roofing materials. However, if this is something you are concerned about but still want a metal roof, this can be tempered by an extra layer of insulation.
At Lyons Roofing, Inc., our goal is to help our customers select the best roofing for their homes. As you local roofing expert, we are well-versed in all types of roofing materials, and we are happy to discuss the various benefits and drawbacks of the different roofing materials you are considering. Send us a message online to get in touch with one of our professional roofers today.
