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Building a Home

What's the deal with a metal roof?

14 years ago

I have seen some homeowners get such a roof, and am wondering why. What is the relative cost versus lifetime and performance? What are the types of metal roofs? I see some that seem to be plain, with a ridge every couple of feet, and others that look like fancy ceramic roofing.

Also, I plan on eventually putting up solar panels or collectors, and as I understand it, devices such as these cannot be put on a metal roof (or can be put on, but very difficultly.)

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Comments (9)

booboo60
14 years ago
Not really familiar with metal roofing and solar panels but Dh and I did have a metal roof on a home we used to own. We lived in the PNW in a moist,heavily treed area so when the time came to replace the old shingle style roof we chose a metal roof. It was a "Snap Lock" type and as far as pricing it was comparable to a cedar shake roof. Just like other products there are many different styles and manufacturers. We were pleased with it for our "conditions"; not sure it is best in some parts of the country. For our new build in a dryer climate we chose a 40 yr., 3-tab asphalt shingle.
creek_side
14 years ago
A metal roof will outlast just about any other type of roof. Its overall cost can be cheaper in the long run.

A metal roof is fireproof. Couple it with cement siding and your insurance premiums should be lower.

Metal roofing weighs less than conventional asphalt shingles. It is far more durable and does not require the maintenance of a conventional roof.

Some advocates of metal roofing claim lower cooling costs for a metal roofed structure.

It just looks cool.
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srercrcr
14 years ago
I've heard water leaks can be harder to find the source cause the water flows down the seams.
flgargoyle
14 years ago
It can also handle a lot more wind than regular shingles, and on a steep roof, snow slides right off.
coffeehaus
14 years ago
We have a standing seam metal roof with a solar hot water collector on it. No problems mounting it. In fact, our architect specified metal roofing with an eye to future PV panels.
{{gwi:1462288}}From Water
kaffine
14 years ago
I love the sound of rain on a metal roof. I also think that shingles and tile roofs are too common around here I want my house to stand out.
dumaspup
14 years ago
Look up Dawn Solar for all your solar and metal roofing needs.
I am not affiliated with this company.
swampwiz
Original Author
14 years ago
So what would be the difference in price. For example, if a regular roof would cost $5K, what would the various types of metal roofs cost?
ilmbg
14 years ago
I want a metal roof when it comes time. I checked with my insurance agent, and metal will be MORE in insurance! I was shocked, as it will be fireproof- but their theory was that they damage because of hail. Figures- an insurance company will find ANY way to raise the cost...
Also- there are solar producta that the film rolls right onto the metal roof- no glass. It makes it much nicer looking, and it is supposed to be just as effective. Look in June(?), 2006 of Mother Earth Magazine, page 44.

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