In general, the initial cost of a metal roof is much higher than the cost of a roof containing asphalt shingles. However, given the durability of a metal roof, the total cost of installing and maintaining it is much lower than if a total roof replacement is needed every 15 to 20 years. According to recent data, metal roofs now hold 12% of the remodeling market share and 8% of spending on new residential construction. Installing a metal roof has a higher initial cost than asphalt composite shingles, but it lasts much longer and provides substantial savings in energy costs.
You should always consult at least with a professional, however, it is possible to maintain a metal roof without the help of one. Most estimates are produced between 40 and 70 years, but as materials continue to improve, the lifespan of newer metal roofs is expected to increase, not decrease. Installing a metal roof can take literally two to three times more work than asphalt, which is why its installation is more expensive. Monthly energy bill savings could help offset the increased cost of installing the metal roof no matter what climate you live in.
Shingles are usually nailed to wood-framed roof structures, laid in layers, and staggered upwards from the lowest point of a pitched roof. Metal roof colors that meet the minimum approved Energy Star Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) rating of 25, meaning that at least 25% of the sun's energy was reflected in the atmosphere, qualify for a special energy efficiency tax credit. There are more affordable metal roofing options, such as steel panels, which generally cost a little less, as well as high-end materials, such as copper roofing, which tend to average on the more expensive side. Homeowners with metal roofs tend to report fewer problems with snow build-up and precipitation (compared to homeowners with tile roofs).
If the old roof covering is in poor condition, or if it has one or more layers of shingles, old roofing materials will need to be removed prior to installation. In addition, while metal roofs can dent, it usually takes a little pressure to do so. Both metal and asphalt roofs do the job when it comes to protecting a building, but they really separate when it comes to durability, energy efficiency and long-term savings. Metal roofs can withstand just about anything Mother Nature throws at them, so you'll find that they come with 30- to 50-year warranties and often last longer than that with a lifespan of 40 to 70 years.
Asphalt shingles generally cost between a third and half of what their metal roofing counterparts cost.
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