For so long metal roofing has been associated with a zinc sheet tacked to shed roofs or as a fancy finish on architect-designed house. Metal roofing has come quite a distance and there are now some terrific options available.

Types of Metal Roofing Materials

The type of metal for your roof is really a major consideration with regards to look and cost. One of the more affordable possibilities is Aluminum and is good value for money because of its durability and longevity whilst Galvanized steel includes a proven long life.

Zinc is always a choice and is far more attractive than the shed roof sheet but there are also some different choices to think on including copper and stainless. Metal Shake is a style that has the appearance of authentic wood which will come in many different finishes and is naturally longer lasting than the wood it is mimicking. Metals with a faux stone finish are also available.

Should you have environmental concerns you can find roofing options created from so called natural metals which create a patina with age and naturally blend into their surroundings and so are 100% recyclable.

Styles

As well as the range of metals available, there are several style options for your new metal roof. No longer limited to corrugated sheets, there is a whole range of various kinds of metal panelling – ribbed, plain, snap locking and these usually include the choice of visible or invisible fixing.

As well as panels and to complement the full selection of metals and the colours and finishes that these metals now present, there are tiles and shingles with a whole slew of designs to supply your home with traditional or contemporary look. If you prefer a house with a roof that looks like it is manufactured from Spanish tile or welsh grey slate, with a metal roof you can have it.

The Benefits

As well as giving your home a brilliant look, there are plenty of practical benefits to metal roofs. Straight off, metal roofs are fast and simple to install particularly if panels are used. They are also a lot lighter than conventional roofs being around seven times less weighty per square metre than roof tiles. This makes metal roofs especially ideal for fragile buildings.

The other benefits are:

Longevity and durability
Metal roofing doesn’t crack or rot and it doesn’t warp or curl. Neither panels or shingles split or break, they don’t really break or burn nor are the finishes susceptible to peeling. metal roof systems is also probably the most resistant to freezing and thawing, snow, hail, wind and fire.

Low maintenance costs
Other than maybe the casual brushing down if leaves stick there is no maintenance required. Assuming you have painted over the metal roofing’s natural finish that will require looking after or replacing in exactly the same way as any painted surface.

Long term warranties
Because of the longevity and durability of the materials found in metal roofing, manufacturers and installers are pleased to provide lengthy warranties and guarantees.

Efficiency
Metal roofs help you save money with reduced heating and cooling costs and some materials have been proven to present costs savings of 40% compared to conventional roofs.

Increased resale value
The use of metal implies that no future delipidation factor needs to be built-in for the roof and audience know they never have to take into account a new roof in the house’s lifetime.

Increased aesthetic appeal and curb value
With a range of style options, a metal roof perfectly complements any kind of home and fits with any neighbourhood. They are also ideal for historic buildings that want replacement roofs as they may bring the building right up to date whilst retaining the initial look.

Environmentally friendly
As well as being energy efficient in their production, saving energy when in use, metals found in roofing are completely 100% recyclable and do not add to landfill sites.

Ease of fitment
A new metal roof can even be laid over a preexisting roof without the need to eliminate the shingles or tiles which are already there. This will help reduce the cost of a new roof installation and save in plenty of mess having to be cleared up before the job can begin proper.