If you have ever seen a beautiful metal roof, you will understand its attraction.
Whether in the form of shingles, tiles, slate, or panels, metal roofs have a uniqueness about them, and some are also very practical options. They can be an inexpensive alternative with many advantages that make them excellent roofing options.
Of course, as with anything else, different metal roofs also have their downsides.
Let’s discuss the pros and cons of various materials for metal roofs to give you a better idea of which material is good or bad for metal roofs.
Always remember to consult J&K Roofing for your roofing solutions, including metal roofs.
That being said, let’s begin.
Pros and Cons of Various Materials for Metal Roofs
Here are the pros and cons of various materials for metal roofs.
Steel Roofs
Steel is the most common metal roof. It is so common that the term steel roofing is synonymous with metal roofing, and both are often used interchangeably. However, this is incorrect because not all metal roofs are made of steel.
Steel has been long been used for commercial roofing. However, it has recently gained popularity as a residential roofing material because of its low cost, maintenance, and longevity. Steel is an alloy made with iron and other elements.
Therefore, not all steel is the same quality, and there are also many steel roof panels, like shingles, tile, slate, corrugated, and standing seam panels. You can also coat them in different colors as per your preference.
Pros:
- Low cost and inexpensive alternatives to traditional clay tiles, slate, and shingles.
- Fire and rot-resistant
- Very durable, can withstand falling objects, and is resistant to cracking and warping
- Plenty of color options
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Heavier than other options
- More prone to corrosion than other options
- Shorter lifespan than other options
Aluminum Roofs
Aluminum roofs are some of the most durable metal roofs, and aluminum is certainly the lightest roofing material of all. Aluminum’s strength-to-weight ratio is incredible, which makes it easy to install. It is probably why aeronautical engineers use aluminum alloy to make airplanes.
Pros:
- Resistant to corrosion, making it great for homes in coastal places like Florida
- Incredibly lightweight, more than any other roof material.
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- More dent prone than steel
- Low availability, which adds to costs
- Limited color options
Copper Roofs
If you want a unique metal roof that has a striking appearance, copper is the option for you. Not only is it attractive but it is also dynamic because copper changes color over time. The patina it forms depends on the environment it is in.
Pros:
- Unique and attractive with a traditional look that forms a patina over time
- Resistant to corrosion, the patina forms resistance according to the environment
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting, copper roofs can last over 100 years easily
- Easy to install
- Recyclable
Cons:
- Very expensive, one of the most expensive metal roofs
- Prone to denting
- Low availability
Zinc Roof
Zinc is a very beautiful roofing material increasingly being used in contemporary homes because of the blue and gray patina that changes its appearance over time. However, similar to copper, zinc is very expensive and has availability issues.
Pros:
- Very attractive and forms a patina that changes its appearance to shades of blue and gray
- Corrosion-resistant, the patina protects it from corrosion
- Long-lasting, it can last up to over 100 years
Cons:
- Very expensive, almost as expensive as copper
- Can form unsightly white streaks of chalk if patina is exposed to water
- Low availability, which is partly why it is so expensive
Conclusion
Whether it is steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc, each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For most people, simple steel roofs are an excellent cost-effective solution for roofing that provides many benefits.
Some prefer the attractive qualities and traditional look that copper has to offer. However, you need to remember that all of these metal roof materials have different grades of quality, and it is best to have a professional’s opinion before you opt for one.
We highly recommend J&K Roofing for the best roofing solutions and professional advice when it comes to metal roofs. If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of various materials for metal roofs or about your next roof from the best professionals in Florida, please visit our website today.
