If you’ve ever heard raindrops pitter-pattering on a metal roof, you know how charming this roof material can be. Although it’s not quite as popular as some other options, like asphalt, clay, and synthetic shingles, it offers undeniable benefits. Sleek, lightweight, and recyclable, metal roofs are the perfect option for some homeowners. If you’re interested in metal roofing, you surely want to check that your new roof will stand the test of time. So, how long does a metal roof last?
The Durability of Metal Roofing
Although metal roofs are known to be quite long-lasting, their longevity depends on the exact material used (aluminum, copper, stainless steel, zinc, etc.), the quality of the installation, and the area’s weather conditions. According to State Farm, you can expect a metal roof to last between 40 and 70 years. That’s quite impressive when you consider that asphalt roofs have an average lifespan of 20 to 25 years. (If you’re interested in exploring how these roofing materials compare to one another, check out our blog post Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles.)
Metal roofs are also impact-resistant (depending on the product) and able to sustain wind gusts of up to 140 miles per hour. They won’t crack or corrode, and they require very little maintenance — just a brief inspection from time to time to ensure no repairs are needed.
Other Benefits of Metal Roofing
While durability is certainly one of metal roofing’s top selling points, it offers a number of other advantages:
- Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect solar heat, helping you stay cool in the summer. You can also paint on special products that reduce heat absorption even further. Metal roofs can cut your AC costs by up to 25 percent!
- Recyclability: Metal roofs can be recycled at the end of their lifespan.
- Eco-Friendly Lifestyle: Metal roofs can provide an excellent base for solar panels and rain barrels, so they’re a great choice if you’re interested in solar energy or rainwater harvesting.
- Ice, Fire, & Wind Safety: They’re a popular choice in the north because they can prevent ice damming and support heavy snow, and they’re often used in the west because they won’t ignite in a wildfire. In addition, homeowners in areas with heavy wind sometimes prefer metal roofs because they stand up to strong gusts better than asphalt shingles.
- General Protection: Metal roofing can protect your home from pests and also resist mold and rot.
Concerns to Keep in Mind
All that said, metal roofing isn’t the right choice for every homeowner. You may wish to explore other roofing material options if any of these downsides concern you:
- Noise: Some people find the sound of rain on a metal roof charming, but it is quite loud compared to other roofing types. You can mitigate this issue with sound-dampening insulation.
- Dings and Dents: A metal roof may be damaged by hail or debris, creating unsightly dings and dents. Many types of roofs are damaged by hail, however, so this isn’t a unique concern.
- High Cost: Metal roofs cost a bit more than other roofing materials. That said, they can also help you save money on maintenance and energy bills.
- Inconsistent Color-Matching: If you need to replace a portion of your roof years down the line or wish to add an extension to it, you may have a rough time matching a new product to the existing roof color.
- Coastal Concerns: The high salt content found along coastlines can cause metal roofs to rust, so they may not be the best option for your beachhouse.
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If you live in southwest Missouri and are interested in replacing a metal roof, contact the professionals at Taylor-Made Roofing. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!