Metal

What is a Metal Roof?

A metal roof is one of the most important things you can do for your house. The advantages of a metal roof over a shingled roof are endless. We consider a class 4 metal roof a true permanent roof for your home or business. They can be installed over the entire house, or be used as accents. Metal roofs can be used in high-pitch installations to easily shed snow, and this is why you’ll see them often in the mountain ski towns.

Types of Metal Roofing

• Standing Seam Roof Panels
• Concealed Fastening Roof Systems
• Exposed Fastening Roof Panels
• Curved Roof Systems
• Insulated Roof Panels

It is important that your roofing contractor is trained and certified in these various types of metal roof installations. Rest assured that Go 2 Prime Roofing is your go to installer for metal roofs in Colorado.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

• Metal Roofing Lasts A Long Time. Metal roofs can last 40-70 years, and many come with warranties from 30-50 years. Metal roofs can last two to three times longer than an asphalt roof.
• Wind Resistance. A properly installed metal roofs can easily sustan category 4 hurricane force winds. 
• Metal Roofing Is Lightweight. Most homes won’t need additional structural support to install a metal roof.
• A Metal Roof Installs Fast. In most situations, a qualified metal roof installer like Prime Roofing can install this type of roofing system very efficiently. 
• Metal Roofing Doesn’t Catch Fire. Wild fires and lightning will not ingnite a metal roof. 
• Energy efficient. Metal Roofs reflect the suns UV & Infrared light rays that contribute to a roof surface radiant heat, resulting in a 10-25% reduction in cooling costs. 

Metal roofs offer many benefits, but they aren’t always right for every situation.

Some disadvantages of Metal Roofing

• Materials: Metal can dent, which is a consideration in Colorado. It is important to choose a high gauge metal that can resist dents from hailstones. You also want to be sure the metal you select is rust resistant.
• Cost: Metal roofs are more expensive compared to other types of roofs. While the initial investment may be significantly higher than other options, the long-term return on that investment may pay dividends depending on how long you stay in your home.
• Noise: Metal roofs are very noisy during hail storms. Adding more insulation can help reduce noise.
• Maintenance: Expansion and contraction are a normal facet of metal roofs. Neoprene washers and screws used during installation may become degraded and dislodged over time, depending on the climate. Due to this, routine maintenance is required.
• Color: Color match is important when adding extensions or repairs. Finding an exact match to the original color is hard.

Roofing materials are important when choosing the right roofing system. Good quality products should last longer while bad ones can crack or leak. You may want to consider these roof replacement questions roofing material insurance discounts you may qualify for.

Common Questions about Metal Roofs

• Can Metal Roofing Go Over Existing Shingles? In many cases, the answer to this question is yes. 
• Is Metal Roofing Noisy? They can be, particularly in hail prone regions like Colorado. We would definitely recommend insulation to combat the noise.
• Do Metal Roofs Attract Lightning? It is a common misperception that a metal roof will “attract” lightning. The reality is that when lightning occurs, it has nothing to do with your home’s material. What is important is that, if it does strike your house, it has a path of least resistance to the ground. 
• What does metal roofing cost? Metal roofing does have a higher upfront cost when compared to asphalt shingle roofs. There is generally a return on investment over a longer period of time.
• Which Metal Roof System is Right for You? This is a great question to ask one of our owners!

Does a metal roof lower your insurance? In most cases, yes, it can save you 20-30% off your homeowner’s insurance policy. However, we strongly recommend you have this discussion with your insurance agent to understand your particular situation.

Is a metal roof right for your home?

This is largely a personal decision based on design goals, your regional climate, longevity, and budget.