In the past years, the popularity of metal roofing has been steadily increasing in the country. This roofing material boasts low maintenance and a long lifespan, so it’s no wonder why more homeowners are choosing metal for their home roofing needs.
If you’re one of the homeowners planning to invest in installing metal roofs for your Portland home– it would be best to have a solid grasp of all the advantages and disadvantages this entails.
Why Choose Metal Roofing for Your Portland Home?
So, why are more Portland homeowners considering a metal roofing installation? For starters, the material is lightweight and easy to work with. It is also known to reflect daytime heat very well, keeping your home cool during the summer months. A metal roof also creates a beautiful addition to any building style.
If fire protection is essential for you, metal roofing is a great option. It is made from aluminum and steel, making it a modern, energy-efficient roofing material.
Pros of Metal Roofing in Portland
One of the most considerable advantages of a metal roof is its durability, so you can count on it to hold up well against extreme weather conditions. In fact, metal roofs last longer than their asphalt shingle counterparts.
The material is also virtually maintenance-free. If you consider tending to a roof’s regular upkeep a tiring chore, this roofing option is for you.
Here are other benefits to expect when it comes to metal roofing:
Cons of Metal Roofing in Portland
Like other roofing options, installing a metal roof in Portland also has considerable drawbacks. Here are some of them for your reference:
The Different Types of Metal Roofing Materials
Now, let’s discuss the different types of metal roofing material you can consider for your Portland home. Each material type we’ll discuss below is a specific type of metal.
This gives you several options to choose from as you proceed with your Portland home metal roof installation. Hopefully, this gives you a better idea of the right metal roofing type for your needs. (Related: Best Roofing Materials For Portland Oregon)
Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum roofs are one metal roofing type that is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for coastal environments. This means it has some of the best attributes a metal roof is known for!
While it is the most lightweight material on the market today, it doesn’t compromise its durability. In fact, the strength-to-weight ratio of aluminum material is remarkably higher than the other metal types. You can count on the same strength (or even more) even if the material is light and easier to work with.
Copper Roofing
While copper roofing is the most expensive metal roofing material on this list, its aesthetic remains unparalleled. Copper roofs are famous for their durability, natural protective layer (that develops over time), and ability to change color.
So if you’re looking for a unique, striking roof that drastically improves the appearance of your Portland home– copper roofing is the best choice. The copper’s color will change over time, from a shade of copper (like a brand new penny) to a blue-green or brown patina. This patina shade will depend on the climate the roof is exposed to.
Tin Roofing
Tin roofs are no longer used today, but we’ll include them in this article for your reference. Nowadays, “tin roofs” usually pertain to either steel or aluminum roofing in today’s terms. Many years ago, tin became a popular roofing material because it is lightweight and easy to install. Its fame started to decline when aluminum soared in popularity– so aluminum became obsolete. It is pretty rare to find a tin roof nowadays.
Zinc Roofing
Similar to copper roofs, zinc roofs are known to be a long-lasting, premium roofing material choice that will develop a patina and ultimately change its color.
Because of its patina, it is widely regarded to have a stunning appearance. Most zinc roofing panels available today are pre-patinated without developing their protective layer to alter their appearance. Note that zinc roofs aren't trendy in Portland and the rest of the country as they can be rather expensive to install.
Metal or Steel Roof
When one refers to "metal roofing," it typically refers to steel roofing. Every material we've discussed above are metal types, but the most popular of them all would have to be steel roof. Today, a steel roof is considered the most common metal roofing type in Portland, available in different finishes.
Steel is an alloy that is made from iron and several other elements. Though a steel metal roof has been prevalently used for commercial buildings, it has also been used for residential homes in recent years– thanks to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a metal roof cost more than a typical roof?
Because metal roofing is a premium home product, your new roof will likely cost double or triple the price of an asphalt shingle roof. On the other hand, a metal roof is equivalent in price to tile or cedar shake roofing. You can expect your metal roof to cost less if you already have an existing slate roof.
You will never need to worry about your roof again, no matter what type of metal roofing you choose. Almost every metal roofing comes with a genuine 30 to 50-year warranty. Additionally, it will increase the resale value of your home, reduce the cost of energy bills, and assures you that you will likely never have to re-roof again.
What material options do I have with a metal roof?
There are many metal roofing options available and among them are the three most popular being copper, aluminum, and galvalume steel. Copper may cost a premium, but it makes for a beautiful and long-lasting material for your roof. The most economical is aluminum, but it is also the least rugged.
If you want a robust and rugged roofing material that is more affordable than copper, you should opt for galvalume steel.
Does a metal roof make your house hotter?
It is the other way around. A high-quality metal roof cools down your house because it consists of a reflective coating that bounces the heat from the sun away from your home. They may save your energy bills by up to 20% a year and lower the temperature in your attic. On the other hand, asphalt shingles make your home hotter, especially during summer.
How long will a metal roof last?
With a sound paint/protection system, a metal substrate should last you an entire lifetime. Over time, some metals may require refinishing. Most metal roof problems are caused by poor artistry rather than the product itself.
Are metal roofs environmentally friendly?
Definitely! Metal reflects solar radiation better than other roofing materials, allowing your property to stay cooler in the summer. If you're looking for more methods to reduce energy consumption, metal roofs make an excellent foundation for solar panel installation. Additionally, metal roofing uses recycled materials to some extent, and the roof itself is nearly 100 percent recyclable. It is considered one of the "greenest" roofs in the market.
What will happen to a metal roof in a lightning storm?
Despite what you've seen in the movies, aluminum roofs do not draw lightning. You never have to worry about your house, even in the presence of the fiercest electrical storm.