Metal roof panels are all around you, even if you don’t notice them. Most people wouldn’t think to look at their home’s roof, but if you drive down any city street, you’ll probably see a building or house with some metal roof.
Recently, metal roofing has become popular and can be used on almost all houses. Some metal roofs don’t look very “metal.” Metal roofs that look like asphalt shingles are now available that are hard to tell apart from the real thing.
What is the Biggest Problem with Metal Roofs?
Metal roof panels are known for being strong and lasting long, but they can still have problems over time. Let’s research to find out what problems building owners may face with their metal roofs and how to fix them.
Roof Leaks
Property owners can be frustrated and worried about metal roof leaks. Roof metal panels are durable, but various conditions might cause leaks. As indicated, inadequate installation is a common problem. Water can leak through gaps, flashings, or panels during rain or storms.
If you want to fix metal roof leaks, you need to find the cause correctly. It can be done by having a professional roofer who specializes in metal roofs do a full check. As soon as the cause is found, fixes can be made, like filling in gaps, replacing broken panels, or putting on protective coatings to stop corrosion from spreading.
Corrosion and Rust
A lot of people like metal roofing because it doesn’t rust or break down for decades, so it’s the last roof they’ll ever need to buy. Professionals from manufacturers and builders can help you determine which metal will resist corrosion the best in the climate of your home or building. Some metal roofs don’t have corrosion-resistant paint systems or coats, but most do.
In some situations, metal roof panel might not have protective paint systems or coatings designed to prevent corrosion. There will be corrosion at some point in the roof’s life. It depends on how much people know about the different kinds of metal, paint systems, and the places where these things work best. It could happen right away or in 50 years.
Fading and Chalking
You may have heard of chalking and fading, another concern that could cause problems. Due to UV exposure, the paint resin breaks down, leaving a white residue on painted or coated metal surfaces. Paint applied on metal substrates fades when the pigment dissolves, changing color. Due to uneven light and chemical exposure, roof panels may fade unevenly.
Chalking and fading will happen no matter where you live. But how much chalking and fading happens depends on the weather and chemicals the roof is subject to. Luckily, most reputable paint companies offer warranties that cover chalking and fading that go beyond a certain size over time. You should be good to go if the warranty correctly states this.
Scratching and Scuffing
Like anything with a paint system, metal roofing can be scratched and scuffed. Most metal coil manufacturers avoid coil damage during slitting, recoiling, and shipping to your home or office. Most contractors and installers handle coils and panels carefully throughout roll-making and installation. However, one or more parties may mishandle the metal, causing surface damage.
It is important to let your builder know about any scratches or scuffs so that they can be fixed. This is especially important if the damage is noticeable and goes from the top to the bottom of the metal panel. Painting and touch-up tools can be used to fix a lot of scratches and scuffs. It has to be changed, though, if the scratch is very deep and goes all the way through the metal.
Denting
Metal roofs can get dents for a number of reasons, such as when hailstones hit them or when people walk on them during installation or repair. Different types and thicknesses of metal can dent differently. Aluminum and other soft metals are more likely to get dents than steel and other stronger metals.
A lot of the time, people, machines, and other industrial tools work on the roof. Dents can also be caused by bad fitting methods, not enough roof support, or big changes in temperature. Dents in the roof might not necessarily make it less useful, but they can make it look bad and might need to be fixed if they are deep or spread out.
Is It Less Expensive to Install a Metal Roof or Shingles?
Getting new metal roof panels and an asphalt shingle roof will cost money. It won’t be cheap, no matter what you pick.
Asphalt roofs cost less to install, estimated at $6,000 for a 1,000-square-foot home, including materials and labor. A 1,000-sq-ft home with a metal roof costs roughly $11,375, depending on the metal and design. Asphalt roofs need replacing every 12–20 years, but metal roofs endure 40–70 years. A metal roof may cost more upfront but usually saves money over time.
Also, metal roof panels can handle harsh weather better and are less likely to leak or get severely damaged. But hail or flying objects can dent them, which doesn’t happen with shingle roofs. Metal roofs also put off some homes because they make more noise when it rains or hails.
How Much is One Piece of Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing panels are better than asphalt tiles, and wood shakes in many ways, which is easy to see. The average-sized roof costs $8,500 to $68,000 for metal roofing components and labor. Metal roofing costs more than traditional roof replacements, but it can last up to 100 years, making it worth the investment.
A 1,700-square-foot roof with metal covering costs about $13,200 to put on. It is important to keep in mind that materials often make up more than two-thirds of the price. Metal roof parts cost between $1 and $25 per square foot, and labor costs between $2 and $14 per square foot.
Can I Install A Metal Roof Myself?
Metal roofing is one of the best types of roofs for homes these days. Metal roofs last longer, use less energy, and are less likely to get damaged than other roofs. Putting up a lot of different kinds of roofs is easier than this one.
However, you need to make sure that your metal roof is put correctly for it to work right. So, installing it yourself isn’t something that you should do. A skilled roofing contractor should do the installation instead.
A lot of people who do their own metal roof panels think they can make it look as good as a professional roofer. Getting the right product is easier if you know every step to get that look. The finished metal roof is made up of many small parts. If you want a roof that looks good, you should hire pros.
Final Thoughts
If you want to put up metal roofing, think about the pros and cons of metal roof panels. Before you decide to replace your roof with a metal system, you should learn about the three types of metal roofing systems and talk to a local roofing professional to find the right one.
We know the importance of picking the right roof for your home or business at QDRUSA. You can ask us anything, and we’ll help you make a choice. Get in touch with us right away to talk to our metal roofing experts.
