How Long Do Metal Roofs Last?

Gutter system for a metal roof. Holder gutter drainage system on the roof.

Projects like roof repair or roof replacement require careful planning and selecting the best quality materials and products. You might have wondered if it’s convenient to replace your asphalt or tile shingle roof with a seam metal roof, and what’s the lifespan of the latter.

To determine if it’s the right option for you, you need to ask yourself two questions: Are you looking for durability, or for a quick fix? How much are you willing to invest to avoid a costly roof repair in the future?

Projects like roof repair or roof replacement require careful planning and selecting the best quality materials and products. You might have wondered if it’s convenient to replace your asphalt or tile shingle roof with a seam metal roof, and what’s the lifespan of the latter.

To determine if it’s the right option for you, you need to ask yourself two questions: Are you looking for durability, or for a quick fix? How much are you willing to invest to avoid a costly roof repair in the future?

Roofing companies recommend metal roofs as they offer plenty of benefits and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Among its benefits are its aesthetic appearance and low maintenance costs.

If you’re not fully convinced metal roofs are the right option for you, or you are not fully familiar with its advantages, below we share with you everything you need to know about metal roofs and their lifespan. To obtain additional information, check out our website: https://allroof.us/metal-roofing/

Aspects That Impact Metal Roof Durability

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Roofing contractors often talk about the long life of a metal roof, its ability to remain look good through the years, and its energy-efficient features.

As a general rule, metal roofs can last over 50 years as long as they’re installed by professional and experienced roofers. This approximation varies according to the type and quality of material used and its regular maintenance.

It’s safe to say that metal roofs don’t require extensive maintenance, but property owners should still be aware of the issues that could arise and take care of them in a timely manner.

That’s why roofing companies insist that you should call them at the very first sight of damage, as that can save you from more expensive repairs in the long run. Other factors that affect the lifespan of a metal roof are:

Maintenance

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Metal roofing panels require little to no maintenance, and they’re convenient for facilities that require a visual roof inspection once or twice a year. Still, your roofing company might recommend preventive maintenance measures in order to extend the life of this roof, including getting rid of debris and residue such as leaves and tree branches.

Exposure To Elements

Metal roofs are usually very resistant, but they can be vulnerable under certain weather conditions. Extreme temperature changes can make the material expand and contract, leading to leaks, which is known as thermal shock. Thermal shock can be caused by extreme highs or lows in temperature.

This can create gaps in seams or holes. Although high-quality metal roofs are highly resistant to this, roofing companies recommend keeping an eye on leaks, cracks, or damage when experiencing severe temperature shifts.

Installation

An adequate process of metal roof installation performed by reputable roofing contractors is crucial if you want your metal roof to last. Metal roofs require a professional hand in order to avoid leaks and cracks that will further need a more complex roof repair. Installing it the right way by the right hands is key for an extended lifespan.

What Problems Could Arise With Metal Roofs?

The benefits of metal roofs have turned them into a very popular choice for customers, but they have a couple of downsides. They tend to be more expensive, which can be discouraging with limited budgets, and they tend to dent. On the other hand, they are a great choice for sustainability and resistance to wear.

Are Metal Roofs Worth The Investment?

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Price can dissuade customers with tight budgets at first, but reliable roofing companies advise them to consider other factors rather than just the price. Its superior endurance can help you save money in the long run, as they last longer and require less roof repair and maintenance.

Throughout its useful life, metal roofing ends up being cheaper than other options that are susceptible to a number of issues and eventually will require a roof replacement.

Another benefit of metal roofing is that it comes in a variety of materials such as steel or copper.

That way roofing companies can imitate the look of other materials like terracotta or clay tiles, which makes it very versatile for homeowners that want to achieve certain styles that fit with the overall architecture. You can also find it in a wide variety of colors.

Are Metal Roofs Resistant to Wearing Out?

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The right roofing company, an adequate installation process, and proper venting can guarantee 30 years of life for your metal roof. However, most standing seam metal roofs have a lifespan of 50 years, so you can relax knowing that your roof still has decades to keep you covered.

What Makes Metal Roofs Long Lasting?

Some of the features that make the metal roofs a popular recommendation among roofing contractors are:

Solid Elements

Some people mistakenly believe that metal roofs are just metal sheets. This is far from true, as metal roofs include tough, high-performing components developed over years of research and design.

Metal roofing companies have achieved significant advancements and plenty of new features in recent years. All its components and features are designed to fit with each other accurately and efficiently. They are also fast and easy to install when done by professional roofers.

Lightweight

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Metal roofs are lighter than many other roofing materials, which also adds up to its durability in the long run. Roofing contractors put special emphasis on how heavier materials can add unnecessary strain on a building’s structure.

Resistance to Fire, Rot, and Pests:

Metal has the property of being non-combustive, while other materials like wood shingles can do the opposite and reduce the fire-resistance rating of a property.

Metal is also more resistant to damage caused by insects and rot, as well as other organic threats like the buildup of fungus and moss. This is why roofing companies recommend metal roofing under these conditions.

Energy Efficiency

Another property metal roofers often talk about is the ability to reflect heat from the sun, which allows for a steady indoor temperature, therefore making heating or cooling systems more efficient. This is a great way to save on energy costs.

Impact-resistance

Metal is a hard material with a very high capacity to withstand impact, adding up to their durability features. Because of this property roofing contractors favor its installation in settings with harsh weather conditions such as snow, ice, strong winds and tornadoes.

They Are Built To Last

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The bottom line is that metal roofs are the ideal choice for homeowners that prioritize durability and stability over other features. The advice of professional roofing contractors is to always go for the sturdy properties of a metal roof rather than a traditional asphalt roof.

If you’re still in doubt, want additional information, or require a metal roof repair or replacement, our expert roofers are here to help.

To learn more about the benefits of metal roofing, contact the best roofing company today, or visit one of our showrooms to explore your options.