Replacing your roof is a big deal, and we’re guessing that’s why you’re here. Like any good homeowner, if you’ve decided it’s time for a new roof, you’ve started doing your research. You’re talking to your insurance company, looking for the best contractor, the best prices, and of course, trying to decide what kind of roof to actually get. There are many different types of roofing materials nowadays, so homeowners have plenty of options. Fortunately, plentiful options mean you can have your home looking just the way you want. But on the other hand, more options mean more decisions to be made and perhaps a more difficult decision-making process. You’re likely considering shingle, slate, copper, or metal for your roof. And if you live here in the Charlottesville area, you know that metal roofs have become more and more popular. So, should you get a metal roof?
Why You Should Get a Metal Roof
Style
Metal roofs have become more popular here in Virginia and throughout the country for good reason! One of the reasons that metal roofs have become a popular choice among homeowners is their wide variety of color options. Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roofs come in dozens of colors, allowing you to choose the perfect color for your home. Neutral colors are always popular, but if you want to add more pop to your home, you can also opt for various shades of blue, red, green, and more.
Lower Energy Bills
Choosing a metal roof for your home wouldn’t just add to your curb appeal, it would also likely lower your energy bill! Metal roofs will reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it like other materials. This reflective property of metal roofs means your HVAC doesn’t have to work nearly as hard. Using your HVAC system less will directly translate into a lower energy bill and more money in your pocket!
Environmentally Friendly
Another reason why more people are choosing metal roofs for their homes is that they are more environmentally friendly. Metal roofs have a very long lifespan if installed correctly. A metal roof could last you over 50 years! This increased lifespan, when compared to other types of roofing materials, means less waste overall for the planet. In addition, they often contain recycled materials and can be recycled themselves when they do need to be replaced. If you consider yourself an environmentally conscious person, these are all great reasons to get a metal roof.
Durability
Lastly, metal roofs are incredibly durable. Metal roofs are so durable that they can last over 50 years if installed properly and maintained well. Compared to a lifespan of 25 for shingle roofs, this is incredible! The properties of metal also make it fire-resistant. This added safety makes a metal roof an ideal choice for those in dryer climates. Metal roofs are also extremely waterproof and can withstand high wind speeds as well! Due to how a metal roof is fabricated and installed, it offers a much smaller chance of leakage when compared to other types of roofs. If you live in a wet part of the country, this is a great reason to get a metal roof. They can also withstand winds up to 150 miles per hour if installed correctly due to their durability.
Whether you’re looking for style, eco-friendliness, or simply durability in your next roof, a metal roof has it all. If you’re ready for your roof replacement and have chosen to get a metal roof, we would be happy to provide you with a free quote!
Why You May Not Want a Metal Roof
Though metal roofs offer many great benefits, they may not be the choice for everyone. Just like anything else in life, you will pay more for better quality. The price tag of a metal roof is often the largest drawback, as they can cost anywhere from 2 to 4 times as much as a shingle roof depending on where you live and what contractor you hire. If you’re planning on being in your home for a long time, the investment is worth it. However, if you’re not in your forever home, it may not be worth the extra money to install a metal roof, and a standard asphalt shingle roof will do the job.
In addition to the large price tag, another drawback of metal roofs is that they expand and contract with weather changes and may need additional accessories. The expansion and contraction of your metal roof due to the temperature may result in minor repairs being needed, though metal roofs tend to be much less maintenance than other types of roofs. Also, because metal roofs are so slippery, you may also find yourself needing to install snow guards depending on where you live. If you live in a part of the country with lots of precipitation, large amounts of snow or ice that accumulates on your metal roof could end up sliding off all at once, potentially damaging things (like your gutters) or people below. If you live here in Virginia, we always recommend installing snow guards.
Lastly, a metal roof’s durability relies largely on whether it was properly installed. Pick the wrong roofing contractor, and your metal roof may not be as durable as it should be. If you do decide to get a metal roof, make sure you do your research on a good roofing contractor. Ask friends and neighbors, check out the company’s reviews, and look for certifications and licenses to ensure the job will be done right!
Choose Apex Roofing for Your Metal Roof in Virginia
If you’re in Charlottesville or the surrounding area and are ready to replace your roof, we are here to help! Apex Roofing has been Charlottesville’s trusted roofing contractor for over ## years. We are licensed, insured, GAF certified, and an NRCA member. If you’ve chosen to invest in a metal roof for your home, we will get the job done right, guaranteeing you the optimal durability of your new metal roof. Give us a call today at 434-443-ROOF or fill out our online form today for a free quote. We look forward to serving you!
