When it comes to a roof, you want to choose one that will not only look great on the top of your house, but will also keep you and your family safe from the elements. After all, your roof is all that is standing between you and a lot of unforgiving weather, especially during the winter months. To keep out the extreme weather and keep your family safe, consider a residential metal roof.
Metal roofing is an excellent choice: compared to asphalt shingles, it is more cost-effective, durable, and provides increased protection for all underneath it. Metal roofing also comes in a plethora of styles, colors, and materials. It’s especially helpful during the winter months as it does the most competent job of keeping moisture out and warmth in, where you need it to be.
Though many myths abound about the degree of warmth available from a residential metal roof, they’re actually more beneficial in the winter months than asphalt shingles.
What is a Residential Metal Roof?
The term “metal” is pretty general when talking about what a residential metal roof can be made out of. There are actually many options, each providing specific benefits to the home it protects. For example, steel is perhaps the heaviest material available, and with the right finish, it won’t rust or corrode. Aluminum is lighter and more popular for residential homes. These are two rather affordable and common options.
Copper is another beautiful option, and is slightly more expensive. It won’t rust and doesn’t require a finish. These can be molded into scalloped tiles for a unique Mediterranean look, as well. Stainless steel is another option that is very expensive, but it also won’t rust. There are many options to pick from, but the benefits remain the same across the board.
General Benefits of a Metal Roof
Metal roofing offers a few key benefits no matter what the temperature or weather is outside. First and foremost, a residential metal roof lasts longer than asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles must be replaced at least every 15 to 20 years. If you own your home for any length of time, you’ll at least have to replace them once, which can be costly and inconvenient.
A residential metal roof is estimated to last at an upwards of fifty years, making roof replacement one less thing you, as a homeowner, have to worry about. Metal roofing is obviously much more durable than asphalt shingles and can withstand the beating from wind, hail, moisture, and ice much better than asphalt shingles can.
Since metal roofing is much more fire resistant than asphalt shingles, you’re also adding an extra layer of protection for your home in replacing shingles with metal. If you live in warm or cold climates, metal roofing will give you peace of mind; and you won’t have to worry about the struggle of an inconvenient roofing project.
Winter Specific Benefits of Metal Roofing
This type of roof has particular benefits for winter months, or for those climates that are more snowy than sunny, that make them definitely worth their while. Consider these three areas that a residential metal roof provides immense benefits for the homeowner and the home itself:
1. Stay Dry:
Metal roofing is significantly more watertight than asphalt shingles. This means moisture won’t seep in and damage the home or material within. Asphalt shingles are not watertight–meaning that water can seep in between the panels, potentially causing structural problems down the line. You won’t face any leaks, however, with a solid sheet of aluminum, copper, or stainless steel above your head.
2. Stay Safe from Sliding Ice & Snow:
Snow and ice pose several problems for roofs and homes during the winter months. Snow and ice can pile up on rooftops, which can cause structural problems if the weight becomes too heavy. There’s also a risk of too much snow or ice sliding off the roof and hurting someone (or something) on the ground below. Metal roofing alleviates both problems. First and foremost, it is stronger so as to provide structural integrity under more weight.
Secondly, snow and ice will slide right off a residential metal roof rather than building up. Since this falling ice and snow can be a concern, the option of installing roof snow guards or heating cables is available to keep snow from piling up and sliding down in the first place. So, metal roofing and accessories available to install along with it can eliminate one of the most plaguing winter roofing problems that exist.
3. Stay Warm:
A residential metal roof can also save you significant amounts of money on your heating bill as it is remarkably energy-efficient. While asphalt shingles take in the warmth of the sun during the day, they also release it at night. This causes temperatures in the home to drop as well. Metal roofing, however, is consistent in that it keeps warm air in around the clock. Metal roofing is not only watertight, but airtight so you won’t have to deal with cold drafts in the winter. This will certainly keep heating costs lower since your roof will be cooperating with your heater throughout the winter months.
Even if it is the middle of winter and you realize a new roof is a must, it’s possible to install a metal roof in the winter. It is important to take into account the need for added safety precautions due to ice, snow, and other moisture. It is also possible to make this dramatic but beneficial change to your home in December or January.
Conclusion
To conclude, a residential metal roof can provide your home with impressive benefits that are especially noticeable during the winter months. Offering many different options for colors, style, and materials, it can provide you with a durable, long-lasting, and fireproof roof over your head for likely as long as you’ll own your home.
It’s also beneficial for the winter months, as it will undoubtedly keep you dry. It will also keep you safe from falling or packed snow and ice, and can keep your energy bills lower. Metal roofing is definitely an option to keep in mind if you’re looking for a beautiful, yet cost-effective roofing option.
