We often get asked about using metal roofing in Salem and if it is truly a better option than traditional shingles. Dakota Roofing has experience installing metal roofing in Oregon and sees many benefits in this material, but we know that homeowners can be overwhelmed with how many factors there are to consider. We wanted to provide a simple, unbiased pros and cons list to help narrow down what a homeowner may prefer. With the range of Oregon weather, certain areas may benefit from metal roofs more than others. Another factor to consider is how long does the homeowner plan to stay in this house? Most people are aware of the price difference between metal and shingle. However, metal roofing in Oregon can be worth the investment in the long term.
Here are more factors to consider for roof projects, with pros and cons of metal roofing in Oregon.
Pros
Lifespan.
A shingle roof can be expected to last 20 to 25 years (with the exception of slate shingles), but a metal roof is twice that, lasting 50 years or even longer. Some last up to 100 years! In addition, most product warranties back the roof for 20 to 50 years.
Energy Efficiency.
According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, having a metal roof can reduce your cooling costs as much as 25 percent, so the extra money you invest into this metal roof can be redeemed in the first several months of having it! The reason being, that metal roofs reflect the energy from the sun vs. absorbing the heat into the home. Some come with Energy Star Rated reflective coatings that reduce the heat gain even further and may qualify you for an insurance rate reduction. Correct installation of your metal roof actually regulates temperatures inside your home, keeping your home warm and cozy in the colder months, and cooler in the warmer months reducing the need for heating and air conditioning therefore slashing your energy bills.
Sustainability.
This is also a great option for homeowners who are environmentally conscious. Metal roofs are made from material that is 25%-95% recycled content (depending on the material used) and are 100% recyclable at the end of its life span.
Noise.
Some people love the sound of rain on the roof for a cozy April afternoon. When looking into a metal roof, it is important to consider the atmosphere it will create in your home, specifically the sounds. These days metal roofing can be installed with a noise cancelling insulation (we will go into more detail later) however, some personally prefer the subtle rattle when rain falls or the comforting feeling of being inside a warm home when it’s blustering out.
Style.
Metal roofs have evolved throughout the years, there used to be only one style that was available but now, homeowners can choose from metal with an arrangement of stunning colors, shapes, finishes and sizes. Asphalt may come with 15-20 different colors, but metal roofing can have 100+! Metal roofs are also designed to hold paint and finish for long term durability.
Seals out water.
The amount of rain we typically receive in Oregon is no problem for a metal roof. It keeps out water, helping to avoid mildew, rot and other problems from leaking rain.
Extreme weather.
In addition to rain, metal roofing survives high winds, hail and snow.
Wind - According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, some metal roofs can withstand blasts up to 180 mph as opposed to shingle roofs that are assessed to withstand 90mph winds. In more hurricane and tornado prone areas, there are more products for shingle roofs that withstand up to 150mph, but the most high wind-proof roofs are metal.
Snow - Metal roofs are intended to shed snow and ice. At the point when temperatures are above freezing, hefty snow easily glides off, as opposed to burdening the rooftop and compromising its structural integrity. Metal material can also prevent ice from damming at the eves so when the weather warms up, water is prevented from backing up and spilling into your home.
Hail - Even in hail storms, a metal rooftop will not be penetrated by the storm. Most metal roofing products earned the "highest impact resistance and hail rating" (which would be class 4) through the Underwriters' Laboratory (UL).
Heat - When paired with proper insulation, metal reflects sunlight and can help keep your home cooler on hot days.
Fire.
Metal is the most fire resistant type of roof. When installed properly, it has the highest (Class A) fire rating.
Cons
Upfront cost.
Metal sheeting is a premium roof material, which is reflected in the upfront cost. It is certainly an investment that pays off over time, but not always in the short term if planning to move soon.
Upkeep.
A metal roof is lower maintenance compared to traditional. But there will be upkeep needed, especially over a longer lifespan. For instance, a large hailstone (less common in Oregon) can sometimes dent the roof. This also depends on the type of metal. With proper installation of fasteners, leaking should not be an issue. However, fasteners may loosen over time as metal expands and contracts from hot and cold weather. These are things to keep in mind to enjoy the longevity of metal roofing free from issues.
Replacements.
Compared to traditional roofing materials, making modifications or repairs down the road may be more difficult. Replacing metal panels is not always as straightforward as shingles. Also if you are planning to remodel or add on to your house, it may be more difficult to match the metal material exactly.
Expansion, contraction and fasteners.
Metal roofs are designed to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. But, both exposed and concealed fasteners vary in life spans because of this, the screws and washers used during installation may become dislodged and weathered over time depending on the climate.
Noise.
Metal roofs have gotten the reputation of amplifying the sounds of rain. Living in Oregon, the rain is anything but avoidable. This doesn’t have to be an issue however because it doesn’t have to be installed directly over the roofing surface. With our quality installation, metal roofing can come with a noise cancelling insulation that goes between the metal rooftop and the roof deck. The truth of the matter is that metal roofing can even be more soundproof than your everyday asphalt shingles. However, because of the extra insulation to reduce noise, this may raise the upfront cost, but is well worth it if noise is a concern and the long-term energy efficiency.
If you have more questions about metal roofing pricing or the process in general, please contact us. We would be happy to go over your options and provide you with a free estimate!
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