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If you are in the market for a new roof, your mind may automatically turn to asphalt shingles. After all, this is one of the most popular choices across America, and you may already have this solution installed atop your current home.
However, there are many reasons why you should consider an alternative type of roof and understand the benefits of metal roofing instead. What do you need to know before you make a choice?
A replacement roof represents a sizeable investment, and you’ll want to make sure that it will last as long as possible. Metal roofing can last for as long as 50 years if properly installed and maintained. This is far longer than traditional asphalt shingles. In fact, certain types of metal roofs (such as copper or zinc) could last for as long as a century.
Metal roofing materials are much lighter per square foot than some alternatives, especially popular solutions like concrete tiles. Consequently, it may take less time for the installers to transport the products to your worksite (which could save on your installation costs), and you’ll put less pressure on the supporting structure. Typically, metal roofing materials come in single sections so they can be easily carried up to the worksite.
If you live in an area prone to heavy winter snowfall, you may be glad you chose metal roofing. Due to the nature of the surface and the fact that it is slippery by nature, it’s hard for snow to get traction and accumulate.
Consequently, you may not need to climb onto your roof in frigid conditions to alleviate some unwanted weight. Also, the material is likely to warm up more quickly in the sun, which could further encourage snowmelt.
Metal roofs are highly reflective, so they will not allow heat to build up beneath the surface. Instead, they repel the UV rays, and as this will keep the overall temperature of your property down, this should result in lower energy costs.
Reflective metal roofs will stress your air conditioning unit less, which may not need to go through as many cycles during the summer heat. In addition to lower cooling costs, this may reduce your maintenance bill, elongating the life of your A/C compressor and condenser.
Ask your installer about the materials used in your new metal panels. In many cases, they will feature recycled metals, reducing your use of natural resources. In addition, metal roofing is 100% recyclable at the end of its life.
This is a considerable advantage over traditional asphalt shingles. Almost all of the asphalt shingle material will end up in a landfill, and some estimate that this could add up to 20 billion pounds of unwanted waste per year.
If you decide to install solar panels to reduce the size of your carbon footprint even further, you may be glad that you added a metal roof. It may be easier to attach these panels to this type of surface.
Roofs made from asphalt shingles or wood are vulnerable to natural attack. They may often suffer from moss, fungus, algae, or mildew, which can be challenging to keep in check. However, if you don’t take action, it can cause deterioration, curling, detachment, and leaks.
Some pests and rodents may also break through asphalt or wood roofs to make their way into your attic. Due to their material and nature of construction, metal roofs do not deal with these issues.
If you live in an area prone to wildfire, you need to pay particular attention to your type of roof. After all, the roof is often the most vulnerable part of the property when embers are blown from one point to another.
Most metal roofing is classified to provide the highest protection level for the covering and the underlying roof material. If the worst comes to pass, you may be glad you chose metal roofing instead of the alternative.
Metal roofs are particularly tough when it comes to bad weather and windstorms, and can withstand severe gusts while remaining in place. If your property is struck by lightning during a major storm, it is unlikely to spark and burst into flames, which is a risk with other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingle roofs.
If you would rather not remove your existing roof as you do not want to contribute to the growth of your local landfill, there’s more good news. Installing a metal roof on top of your original roof is possible, as these roofs are much lighter than the alternative. They will not put too much pressure on your existing frame.
If you like the look of tiles and have been thinking about that option, metal roofing may yet be the best solution. Many products resemble traditional tiles without the issues that can sometimes accompany the original product. You can have the look of tiles with the added benefit of sustainability.
Finally, metal roofs are particularly efficient if you’re considering installing a rainwater tank to harvest some natural resources. Due to the nature of their surface, they represent an excellent platform for gathering this rainwater and transporting it to your tank.
As you can see, metal roofs offer many benefits. And, if you want to install one, ensure that you work with a quality roofing contractor. JET Contracting has been established in North Georgia for more than 20 years and has a reputation for providing top-notch service and delivering quality products.
No job is too big or too small for JET, and one of the company’s friendly representatives will be delighted to discuss your needs. Reach out to JET to learn more about the benefits of metal roofs for your home improvement project or to get a free estimate.
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