Selecting a Metal Roof – 5 Buyer Tips

It’s important to consider both function and aesthetics when selecting a roof for your home, and many homeowners choose metal roofing because of its durability and stylish design. In addition, metal roofing adds value to homes through its insulative benefits—which can lead to reduced utility costs, lower insurance premiums, home appreciation and tax credits.

Buyer Tips

Most types of metal roofing require little upkeep once installed, so the selection process is based upon

• personal taste, and
• cost of materials and installation.

Keep the following tips in mind as you choose your new roof:

1. Look at metal roofing options from 20+ feet away before purchasing. When viewed from a distance, you may not like the color or sheen—or you may determine that the selection doesn’t complement your home’s architectural style.
2. When shopping for a metal roof, bring a swatch or piece of wood that represents your home’s paint color. Make sure the roofing color you select is an attractive match for your siding.
3. Determine what look you’re trying to achieve with your new roof. Do you prefer a rustic, corrugated design or something more modern? Today’s metal roofs come in styles that emulate cedar shake, slate and tile designs, and they last longer and require less maintenance.
4. Consider your budget. Steel roofing is typically the cheapest option, while stainless steel, aluminum and copper are more expensive (read more about the specifics of metal roofing materials including advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing).
5. Decide whether you prefer a straight, metal sheen, a painted style or a textured look. Many of the new metal roofing materials are coated in ceramic granules (to look like stone) or painted and then coated with epoxy.

While many homeowners are concerned that a metal roof would be too heavy for their home’s structure, many metal roofs are up to 50-percent lighter than traditional roofing materials. The downside is that metal roofing is difficult to install on your own, however, so you’ll definitely need the assistance of a qualified New Jersey roofing specialist, instead. Call LGC Roofing today at 609-712-8157 to discuss metal roofing options or schedule a no-obligation metal roof consultation.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

The National Roofing Contractors Association reports that metal roofs have become significantly more popular over the last ten years. If you tuned in for our September blog on metal roofing, you know that there are several materials options to choose from—depending on your personal taste and roofing requirements. But is a metal roof for you? Let’s examine the pros and cons.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

Home and business owners can still purchase corrugated, barn-style metal roofs, but today’s roofing has evolved significantly. It has become high-tech, with a clean look that suits the architectural style of many homes and businesses. Consider the other benefits of upgrading your roof to metal.

• Durability: Despite being surprisingly lightweight, metal roofing is extremely sturdy. It’s non-combustible, offering the highest fire-retardant rating available. In addition, it stands up to hail, wind and severe storms—and often comes with a 30-year+ warranty.
• Attractive Design: If you’re not looking for a basic, contemporary metal design, new metal roofing styles are covered in colorful topcoats or granulated finishes to mimic Spanish tiles, slate tiles and even wood shakes. These new designs allow you to enjoy the durability of metal while improving your home’s curb appeal.
• Installation Speed: Metal roofs cost more than other styles, but they are often installed over existing shingle layers—which can save homeowners labor expenses in the long run.
• Energy Efficiency: Excellent for reflecting the sun, a metal roof can protect your home from the sun’s heat and damaging rays. In addition, metal roofing helps to shed snow buildup in cold climates.

Drawbacks to Metal Roofing

While there are few disadvantages to metal roofs, remember that they come with a premium initial price tag. However, if you plan to live in your home for 10 years or more, you’ll reap the benefits of your investment with low maintenance costs, high durability and a lasting look.

You may find the sound of rain on a metal roof to be relaxing, but it’s also important to point out that metal roofs can be noisy. Your professional installer can minimize noise with insulation and solid wood sheathing, but you cannot completely deaden the sound.

Finally, if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you’ll likely find metal roofing trickier to modify than asphalt, composite or shake shingles. In fact, professional installation, repair and modification is always recommended to optimize the life of metal roofing products.

At LGC Roofing, we offer homeowners a variety of premium metal roofing products—from painted aluminum to steel and copper styles. Call 609-712-8157 today for a product estimate, or to schedule a free, one-on-one roofing consultation.

Selecting a Metal Roof Material

If the thought of a metal roof conjures up images of industrial facilities and aging barns, it’s time to adjust your thinking.

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular among home and business owners, and their profiles are far more stylish than you might think. And while you’ll probably pay more upfront for a metal roof, its durability, energy efficiency and ease of installation make it a cost-effective investment for many consumers.

Metal Roofing Options

The most common metal roofing options include steel, stainless steel, copper and aluminum. Pricing varies based upon the property of the metal—such as its longevity, appearance and installation requirements.

1. Steel: A strong, safe roofing option, steel roofs are durable enough to withstand most severe rain, snow, hail and windstorms. Steel resists fire damage, reflects heat and offers insulation from cold. To prevent corrosion, steel roofs are typically coated in zinc and sealed for extra protection. If you’re hoping to match your roof color to that of your home, ask for a durable, baked-on acrylic top coat. Considering an eco-friendly roof replacement? Inquire about steel roofing created from 100-percent recycled materials.
2. Stainless steel: Markedly more expensive than steel, stainless steel roofs are a beautiful, modern option for homes and businesses. Stainless steel resists corrosion, and can be terne-coated with an alloy mixture to reduce its sheen and give it a more natural appearance.
3. Copper: Offering unmatched aesthetic appeal, copper is a lightweight architectural choice. As copper ages, it begins to take on a “patina” finish—which, to many homeowners, is even more desirable than its initial look. One of the lightest, least corrosive metal roofing options, copper has few disadvantages aside from its high cost.
4. Aluminum: The cost for aluminum roofing varies, depending on the local roofing market, but it typically costs more than the installation of standard steel roofing. It is, however, very lightweight, noncorrosive and easy to manipulate—making it a popular option for complex roofing designs. Aluminum is also a sustainable choice, since it can be crafted from recycled materials. Most homeowners prefer to paint or epoxy-coat aluminum, though, since it is not as attractive in its “raw” state.

New Jersey’s Metal Roofing Experts

If it’s time to replace your roof, contact the metal roofing experts at LGC Roofing. Ask our professional installers about metal roofing options, or call today to schedule a home or business roofing estimate.