For so long metal roofing has been of 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.

Forms of Metal Roofing Materials

The type of metal for the roof is a major consideration when it comes to look and cost. One of the more affordable options available is Aluminum and is value for money due to its durability and longevity whilst Galvanized steel includes a proven long life.

Zinc is always a choice and is a lot 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 look of authentic wood which comes in a variety of finishes and is naturally more durable than the wood it really is mimicking. Metals with a faux stone finish may also be available.

If you have environmental concerns there are roofing options made 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 plenty of style options for your brand-new metal roof. No longer limited to corrugated sheets, there is a whole range of several types of metal panelling – ribbed, plain, snap locking and these usually come with the option of visible or invisible fixing.

As well as panels and to complement the full range of metals and the colours and finishes these metals now present, you can find tiles and shingles with a complete slew of designs to provide your home with traditional or contemporary look. If you want a home with a roof that appears like it is made of Spanish tile or welsh grey slate, with a metal roof you could have it.

The Benefits

As well as giving your home a brilliant look, there are plenty of practical advantages to metal roofs. Straight off, metal roofs are fast and simple to install especially if panels are used. They are also a whole 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 will be the finishes prone to peeling. eco-friendly roofing options is also probably the most resistant to freezing and thawing, snow, hail, wind and fire.

Low maintenance costs
Other than maybe the occasional brushing down if leaves stick there is no maintenance required. In case you have painted over the metal roofing’s natural finish that may require caring for or replacing in a similar way as any painted surface.

Long term warranties
Thanks to the longevity and durability of the materials used in metal roofing, manufacturers and installers are happy to provide very long warranties and guarantees.

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

Increased resale value
The use of metal means that no future delipidation factor needs to be built in for the roof and potential buyers know they never have to think about a fresh roof in the house’s lifetime.

Increased aesthetic appeal and curb value
With a variety 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 current whilst retaining the original look.

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

Ease of fitment
A new metal roof can also be laid over an existing roof without the need to remove the shingles or tiles which are already there. This will lessen the cost of a fresh roof installation and save in plenty of mess having to be cleared up before the job can begin proper.