What is a residential roof?
According to the National Association of Roofing Contractors, residential metal roofing has become much more popular over the past decade. No, that's not because the corrugated tin roof has taken shape. The market now includes new types of metal roofs that look great while being durable, lightweight and fire resistant. Once used mostly for commercial and industrial buildings, metal roofs have found a new home ... on homes.
Metal roofing materials have many other advantages. In addition to those already mentioned, metal roofs are easy to install and reflect the heat of the sun. People think that metal roofs make the house warmer because they are hot on a metal roof. But this heat is reflected away from home. If it's warmer at the top, it's colder under the roof.
Metal roofs are mainly made of aluminum and steel, but copper and other alloys are also used. While new metal roofs can mimic the appearance of other traditional residential roofing materials, some popular styles retain a decidedly commercial appearance that architects have found to give the home clean lines.
It's the real world, and in the real world nothing is perfect. Metal roofs have disadvantages that every homeowner must weigh according to the benefits. At around $ 150 - $ 600 per 100 square feet, a metal roof is expensive. But this expense can be recovered if the homeowner stays in the house for a long time and a metal roof reduces the engineering and structural maintenance costs of the support structure. In a rain storm, having a metal roof can be a lot like living in a drum. A metal roof is stronger than other types of roofs.
The use of sound insulation can help minimize the extra noise of a metal roof. Metal roofs, particularly aluminum and copper, are flexible and can be deformed by hail. Some metal roofs, however, are guaranteed against bumps. Metal roofs can also be slippery when wet, which must be taken into account for gutter cleaning, inspection or any other maintenance requiring a walk on the roof. Some metal finishes may chip and peel, although again, they are generally warranted for many years against such marks.
A quick note on lightning for residential metal roofing is not to be afraid. People assume that because the metal drives electricity, a metal roof will attract lightning. This is not the case, especially when the trees or other objects surrounding the house are taller than the roof. Metal roofs can also be grounded for added protection.
