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According to the National Roofing Contractor’s Association residential metal roofing has become a good deal more popular over the past decade. Is it that the corrugated tin barn look has come into style, or did pixies and elves with metal roof stocks skew the results? No. The market now includes new types of metal roofs that look great while being durable, light weight, and fire-resistant. Once by and large used for business and industrial buildings, metal roofs have found a new home…on houses.

There are other advantages to metal roofs. In addition to those already mentioned, metal roofs are quick to install and great at reflecting the heat from the sun.  People think metal roofs make the home hotter because if they stand on a metal roof it is hot. But the metal roof reflects the heat, that’s why it it hot above the roof. If it’s hotter on top, it is cooler down below the roof.

Most metal roofs are aluminum and/or steel, but copper and other alloys are also used. While the new metal roofs can mimic the look of other traditional residential roofing materials, some architects stick to a commercial look because of its clean lines.

Surely its not all peaches and cream for metal roofs. Metal roofs do have negatives which each homeowner must judge in relation to the advantages. At about $150-$600 per 100 square feet, a metal roof is expensive. but unless the plan is to sell within a a couple of years this cost will be recovered in the long run  and metal roofs help save money by minimizing the need for maintenance of the supporting structure. In a rain storm having a metal roof can be a little like living inside a drum. A metal roof is louder than other types of roofs. But sound deadening insulation aids minimize this noise. Metal roofs, particularly aluminum and copper materials, are soft and prone to denting from hail stones. Some metal roofs, however, are guaranteed against denting. When planning to walk on the roof for maintenance such as cleaning the gutters, keep in mind that a metal roof tends to be slippery when wet. Another issue is marring, including chipping, peeling and chalking, but many metal roofs are guaranteed against these.

A quick note on lightning for residential metal roofing is, do not be afraid. People assume that because metal conducts electricity a metal roof will attract lightening. This is not the case, especially when trees or other objects surrounding the home are higher than the roof. Metal roofs can also be grounded for additional protection.

In this world of worlds in which we live, residential metal roofing is for sure to give, a homeowner a great roofing experience.