Many people envision the “tin barn” look when they hear “metal roof”.  But metal roofing has come a long way.  Today metal roofing includes a variety of styles and materials so that the roof can look good, while still retaining the qualities of durability, longevity, fire resistance and easy maintenance.

A variety of metals are used for modern metal roofs.  These include the traditional aluminum and steel, as well as copper and a variety of alloys.  Modern metal roofs can be formed into shapes that imitate Spanish tiles, wood shakes, and even slate.  They can be given a variety of finishes such as granulated stone topcoats to complete a realistic imitation of almost any other material. 

Metal roofs have some downfalls.  A typical square can cost between $150 and $600, so that’s one issue for consideration.  Another is the necessity of professional installation and maintenance, which also adds to the overall cost.  Even with these negatives many feel that metal roofs have benefits that make them worthwhile.  Speaking of cost, a properly installed and maintained metal roof can last as long as the house.  That means, over the typical life expectancy of a home, the cost of a metal roof is low compared to the cost of other roofing materials that might require replacement after 15 to 20 years.

Metal roofs are lightweight, 50 to 150 pounds per square compared to seven hundred fifty pounds per square foot for tile or nine hundred pounds per square foot for concrete tile.  Metal roofs can be installed right over existing roofs without installing additional support.  Metal roofs resist high winds, snow slides off them, and they resist mildew, insects and rot.

Another major concern with a roof is roof pitch.  Other types of roofs require a steep pitch to ensure water flow so that the roof won’t leak.  The pitch for a metal roof can be more shallow, with a typical recommended minimum being 3-in-12, which is three inches of height for every horizontal foot.  Consider the benefits of a flatter roof next time you have to climb onto it to clean the gutters, or retrieve a ball or Frisbee thrown there by a child.

Word of mouth is perhaps the best way to locate a metal roofing professional.  Talk to friends and neighbors, or look for metal roofs around the neighborhood and ask the home owners who installed them.  The Internet is a good source to find pre-screened metal roofing contractors, as are architects who design homes with metal roofs.  Also consider the National Roofing Contractors Association.  Call 1-800-USA-Roof for their advice.

A cat on a hot tin roof may not be a good thing.  But if you want great roof for your home, consider that traditional wood and shingles are good, but metal may be better.