4 minute read
OVERHEAD STRENGTH
BY CLAIRE MILLER
Photo courtesy of Bob Webb Homes Bob Webb Homes uses metal roofing as an aesthetically-pleasing accent on some of its recent builds, including its Parade of Homes entries in Liberty Bluff and Eversole Run .
Trending roof material has multiple advantages
Gone are the days when metal roofs belonged primarily on farm outbuildings or commercial properties. Today, accenting or completely decking out a residential home in metal is both a practical and trendy design choice.
Metal roofing is both durable and in vogue, says Ed LaTorre, director of purchasing and estimating at Bob Webb Homes, and homeowners are paying attention to both aspects when opting to cover their homes.
“We are seeing an increase in clients using metal roofing as an accent,” he says. “Our Parade entry homes in Liberty Bluff and Eversole Run both have hip roofs and metal roofing accents.”
Bob Webb has a third show home on Winterberry Drive in Plain City as well.
Metal roofing has multiple advantages that make it an attractive option.
Advantages
Durability
Metal roofs typically have a warranty of 30 to 50-plus years and average lifespan of 50-plus, while copper has an interminable life expectancy, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), respectively.
So while the upfront cost for metal roofs, somewhere from $800-$1,200 per square foot, is pricier than asphalt ($350-$900 per square foot), the material more than makes up for the difference with its long-lasting ability to withstand the elements, replacements and need for repairs over time.
Asphalt, in comparison, has a 20-year life expectancy, according to NAHB.
Metal roofs are noncombustible, meaning fireproof, and have a class-A fire rating, the highest rating given.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends metal roofs in places susceptible to natural disasters. They have superior ability to resist wind damage and extreme weather, both hot and cold.
If installed properly, they are also less susceptible to leaks than other materials, as they are impermeable to both rain and snow. Snow also melts more quickly on dark metal surfaces, encouraging it to shed more quickly.
“We have noticed an increase in demand for metal roofing over the last three to five
years,” says Alyssa Newman, office and marketing manager at Newman Roofing. “Many of our customers share that they are looking for a roofing system that is composed of quality materials that will last a long time and will be hassle-free.”
Environmental Sustainability
Consumers are leaning toward environmentally friendly options when possible, and metal roofing fits into the category for several reasons. Due to its heat reflective and insulative properties, metal is one of the most energy-efficient materials in roofing, with up to 30 percent energy savings costs expected after installation, according to Metal Roofing Alliance.
Metal reflects sunlight away from the infrastructure, keeping the home naturally cooler. Special solar reflective paints can bolster this effect and increase efficiency even further. Cool-metal roofing is a finish that often earns efficiency certification due to its effectiveness, even earning tax incentives in some cases.
Metal roofs are made of recycled material that, at the end of the roof’s life, is 100 percent recyclable. In comparison, asphalt is made from crude oil, and is eventually destined for a landfill.
Aesthetics
Metal roofs come in a variety of different styles and colors.
Vertical seam roofing is an iconic look for metal roofs, but it’s not the only option available to homeowners.
Stamped panel roof tiles are made to look like traditional shingles, and come in many colors and sizes.
“We have installed a variety of colors from red to black to the traditional silver,” Newman says. “As with all roofing materials, there is a trend in popularity for the color black.”
Disadvantages
Cost
The upfront cost is higher for metal roofs compared to asphalt. However, metal roofs’ lifespan is at least twice as long.
Denting
Just like a golf ball can dent the side of a car, large hail has the ability to dent a metal roof. In the frequent likelihood of such weather events, panel and patterned roof tiles offer more durability.
Walkability
It’s not recommended to walk on metal roofs because they can be extremely slippery and may become dented or damaged. This is a disadvantage should someone need access to the roof.
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