It could be time to consider a metal roof!
I'm often asked about the straight goods on metal roofing, especially at this time of the year when roof damage is being realized by homeowners. Our great Canadian seasons can really tear up a roof.
“Which roofing material is best?” is the question I get the most? The answer depends on who you ask. If you talk to someone who is only qualified to install traditional shingles, you can pretty much guess the answer.
But as an independent contractor, I often recommend metal roofing. Sure it costs a bit more, but then it outlasts other materials by a long shot. What most people don’t realize is residential metal roofing collections have a broad range of styles and colours so that the roof actually becomes an important architectural feature of the home’s design. There are styles that appear to look like traditional singles, but in fact are steel — and you would not even know.
Beautiful and long lasting. That’s a combination you can’t beat. I like that.
How do I know if I need a new roof ?
The first sign of needing a new roof is shingles that are starting curl up and pieces of shingle broken off because they are too brittle. Shingles typically don’t last much longer than 15 to 20 years.
Why spend more for a metal roof?
1. To protect your investment. Why would you spend so much money on the interior of your home and cheap out on what protects it the most.
2. Re-sale value. If a buyer knows he or she doesn’t have to spend money on a new roof for the next 30 to 40 years that is a major selling feature for them. This is one place you can actually see the value — all the time.
3. Curb appeal. There are so many different products available that a metal roof no longer has to look like metal.
4. Most important: longevity.
I’m in my 50’s why would I care if the next roof lasts 50 years?
That’s what my dad said and he is 95 and still going strong. Again, it’s all about keeping the value up on your investment. Let’s face it, for a lot of us our home’s value is our retirement! And no one wants an unexpected costly roof replacement while on a fixed retirement budget.
Does my shingle roof have to be removed before a metal roof can be installed?
No, in most applications you could go right over the existing shingled roof. I suggest checking local building codes to understand what is permitted.
I live in the city. I don’t want my house to look like a farm house
Metal roofing comes in many styles, there are is an assortment of metal roofing products that look like traditional shingles and even cedar shakes. What’s great is they will outperform your regular asphalt shingle.
Will a metal roof fade?
The truth is, all metal will fade to some degree over time. Over the years, paint manufacturers have developed better paint finishes than before, adding UV inhibitors to their paints to further reduce this from happening. Always ask about the finish warranty.
What should I know when choosing a contractor to install my metal roof ?
The most important thing is to do your research. Ensure you are choosing someone who is skilled at installing metal, someone who is fair, respectful and has good workmanship. No contractor is going to provide a bad reference, so ask where they are currently working and go to the jobsite to see for yourself. Never feel pressured.
People say metal roofs are noisy when it rains or when snow slides off, is that true?
Yes, sometimes you may hear the rain if it’s a heavy. But usually that means there is not enough insulation in your attic. As for the snow sliding off, yes it does happen but there are snow restraint systems that are available.
It’s not just a roof. It’s your home.
