What You Need to Know About Metal Roofs

Whether we like it or not, there will come a day when it's time to replace the roof on our homes. The question is whether you should replace it with shingles or choose to replace your existing roof with metal. Once relegated to high-end homes, metal roofs are now available to the masses. That’s because the cost and complexity of installing a metal roof have come down significantly in the past few years. Today, fifteen percent of all roofing installations are metal.
Our family here at RoofCrafters has been installing metal roofs for families just like yours, one roof at a time since 1993. We love the luxurious look that a metal roof adds to a home just as much as you do, but we also know there's some apprehension and questions that can come along with the big change.
If you’ve been thinking about changing your roof from shingles to metal, allow us to provide you with some food for thought. In this article, you'll learn the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about metal roofs, such as how long they last, how noisy they can be, if they rust, and many more. Let's dive in!
How Long Do Metal Roofs Last?
Depending on the type of material used on a roof, it can last anywhere from

Are Metal Roofs Noisy?

There are four different metals used on houses nowadays: aluminum, copper, steel, and galvalume. Choosing the right one for your home comes down to two factors – local conditions and price. If you live near the ocean and are worried about corrosion, aluminum, copper, or zinc roofs are impervious to salt air.
Are Metal Roofs Prone to Lightning Strikes?
Absolutely not. Not only are metal roofs, no more likely to be hit by lightning than roofs covered with singles, but if they are stuck, they are 100% noncombustible. Typically made of steel with a protective zinc coating, a galvanized roof is also resistant to rust and high winds that accompany electrical storms.
Are Copper Roofs the Better Choice?
Are Metal Tile and Slate More Efficient Than the Real Deal?

What’s Included in a Metal Roof Warranty?
While many traditional roofing companies offer “Lifetime Warranties” on shingle roofs, you need to read the fine print of each company's warranty. Far from guaranteeing a roof for life, some roofing companies and manufacturers define a lifespan as short as 5-years depending on the severity of the climate in a given area.
According to State Farm Insurance, a homeowner will typically replace their home’s shingles 2-3 times over the course of 50-years, while those who install a metal roof will rarely have to install a second roof since they typically last from 40-70 years. Metal roofs are also impervious to fire, rot, and damage by insects and rodents.
Is a Metal Roof a Good Fit for My Home?
When determining if a certain type or style of roofing is best suited for you, it all comes down to personal preference and budget. Also, it never hurts to get in touch with a local roofing contractor to come out for an inspection and help you decide your ultimate decision.
If you’re just starting out the process of delving into all-things-metal-roofs, you’re probably getting ready to find and hire a local roofing contractor. To locate a great local roofing contractor that’s the best fit for you, RoofCrafters has provided a checklist of questions to ask your local roofing contractor, along with the right answers that you need to get back when you meet with these roofing contractors.
If you are in the South Carolina, Georgia, or Florida area, drop us a line on our contact page to begin your metal roof project. If you’d like to learn more about roofing services, feel free to browse the extensive resources located in our learning center.
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