The Benefits of Metal Roofing for Modern Homes

When building or renovating a modern home, the roof material you choose is arguably one of the most important parts. It, alongside the other components of your home’s exterior, is what people see first when they drive past or up to your home. Plus, it’s your home’s first line of defense against the elements.

So, all that to say, it needs to meet aesthetic and practical standards. Metal roofs sparkle in both categories, offering aesthetically versatile options and a host of practical benefits, including longevity, durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and more. Here’s what you need to know about the benefits of metal roofing for modern homes. 

Longevity and Durability

Metal roofing is built to last. If installed properly on your roof, it can last up to 70 years, far outlasting other common roofing materials, like asphalt shingles. Of course, the exact lifespan can vary a bit based on the type of metal used, but generally speaking, these roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. 

That longevity stems from the durability of the material. Metal roofing is built to withstand the harshest weather conditions, ensuring your home is ready for the heavy rain, snow, and strong winds Mother Nature may throw at it. It’s remarkably resistant to cracking, shrinking, and erosion, holding up well under drastic weather shifts. 

Single family home featuring a metal roof.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Benefits 

Metal roofing is becoming more popular in modern homes for its energy efficiency. Unlike other roofing materials, metal roofs help reflect solar radiant heat, which can dramatically decrease cooling costs. In the heat of the summer, when your AC system is working overtime to keep your home cool and comfortable, that heat reflection can translate to a lower cooling bill and a more consistent home temperature. 

In colder climates, metal roofing lends well to insulating. With the right underlayment materials, a metal roof can help trap the heat your HVAC system churns out inside your home. This can mean reduced heating costs, saving you money year-round. 

So, if you live in an area that experiences freezing cold winters and swelteringly hot summers, metal roofing can be an eco-friendly option. It helps reduce your carbon footprint by reducing heating and cooling costs. It’s a win-win!

On top of that, many metal roofing materials are constructed from recycled materials. And, when your metal roof finally reaches its retirement, the material itself is fully recyclable. It’s a far more sustainable choice, making it a top contender for those who want the best of energy-efficiency and long-term sustainability. 

Low Maintenance 

While every roof needs a bit of attention from time to time, metal roofs are notably low maintenance. They require substantially less maintenance than traditional roofing materials. 

For example, asphalt shingles are prone to warping and cracking, so maintenance is often more frequent. Metal roofs, on the other hand, are resistant to these common problems, minimizing the amount of maintenance you need to do to keep yours in tip-top shape. 

Generally, maintenance is as simple as regular inspections and occasional cleaning. Beyond that, these roofs tend to remain in good shape, even in humid or forested areas where moss and fungus growth are a problem. 

Fire Resistance and Safety 

Metal roofing is non-combustible. This means that in the horrible event that your home or the area around it went up in flames, the roof wouldn’t ignite or contribute to the spread of the fire. This makes metal roofing an excellent choice for areas prone to wildfires. 

In addition to fire resistance, metal roofing can actually keep your home safer during an electrical storm. Metal roofing is a poor conductor of electricity, so if lightning were to strike your home, it would help disperse the energy and reduce the fire risk. 

Beyond protecting your home and its precious contents, metal roofing can even give you a lower premium on your homeowner’s insurance. Many insurance companies recognize the fire-resistant nature of metal roofing and may even provide discounts on homeowner’s insurance for properties with metal roofing. Of course, it varies based on the provider, but if you’re upgrading to metal roofing, it doesn’t hurt to check. 

Versatile Design Options 

While metal might not sound like the prettiest or most aesthetically pleasing material for your home’s roof, there are more options than you may expect. Metal roofs come in a surprisingly wide array of colors, finishes, and styles, ensuring you can customize your roof to match the architectural style of your home. 

If you want sleek and stylish to match your contemporary home, go with a glossy or textured option in a color that meshes with your exterior color palette. Or, if you want to keep things classy with timeless wood-look or slate-like roofing, opt for a metal roofing material that mimics those appearances. 

There are lots of options, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice beauty for functionality and durability. 

Increased Home Value 

A metal roof offers all sorts of benefits, so it’s no surprise that installing one can increase your home’s value. Between the longevity, durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and fire resistance, metal roofs are an attractive selling point, especially among eco-conscious buyers. 

Prospective buyers appreciate these benefits, especially if you’ve recently installed the roof, as it means they won’t have to replace it soon or pour money into their newly bought home’s roof. While the exact boost in value varies based on the specifics of your home, there’s no doubt that installing metal roofing can be an excellent investment for increased home value.  

Lightweight and Easy to Install 

Metal roofing is surprisingly lightweight, especially compared to other roofing materials like slate or tile. This makes installation much quicker and easier, which can translate to lower labor costs and construction time. On top of that, the lightweight nature of metal places less stress on your home’s structure, which can be an ideal solution, especially for older homes or buildings that can’t handle the weight of heavy roofing materials. 

Excellent Performance in Extreme Weather 

Metal roofing is a top performer, even in harsh weather conditions. So, if you live in an area prone to extreme weather conditions, metal roofing can be an excellent pick for unparalleled protection. 

For example, let’s say you live in an area where heavy snowfall is the norm during the winter. Metal roofing excels at shedding snow, preventing ice damage and reducing the risk of structural damage associated with heavy snow piling up on your roof. 

Plus, since metal is resistant to expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes, it’s less likely to suffer from cracks or leaks over time (especially during the awkward freeze-thaw of late fall and early spring). 

Long-Term Cost Savings 

Metal roofing materials tend to be pricier than other materials, including asphalt shingles. However, that initial investment is typically offset by the long-term savings. Metal roofs typically require fewer repairs, last longer, and significantly reduce energy costs.

On top of that, since metal roofs are so durable, you won’t have to stress about replacing your roof every couple of decades, as you would with traditional asphalt shingles. This all adds up to significant savings over time, making metal roofing a cost-effective option over the long haul. 

Strong Warranty Coverage 

Metal roofing often comes with lengthy manufacturer warranties. The exact warranty length varies based on the product but typically ranges from 30 to 50 years. This provides an extra layer of assurance, giving you peace of mind in knowing your roof is protected for a sizable chunk of its lifespan. 

Integrate the Beauty and Benefits of Metal Roofing With Glick’s Exteriors

Metal roofing is more than just a passing trend. While it’s undoubtedly trendy right now, especially for modern homes, it’s a practical, durable, stylish, and long-lasting option that offers benefits even after the spotlight turns to the next latest and greatest thing in exterior home design. 

So, whether you’re building a new house or upgrading the roof on your current one, metal roofing can be a stellar choice. Between its longevity, energy efficiency, low-maintenance nature, and aesthetic versatility, it’s a top contender for those seeking long-term value and peace of mind. 

If you’re ready to upgrade your home with a metal roof, Glick’s Exteriors can help. Contact us today to start with a free quote.