How Long Do Metal Roofs Last and How Durable Are They?
December 16, 2022 | By Mike Gonet | Filed under: Blog
Exploring the Durability and Longevity of Metal Roofing
One of the most prominent benefits of a metal roof is its ability to withstand the test of time. Not only are metal roofs aesthetically pleasing, but they are also a cost-effective roofing material, as their durability and strength allow them to stand firm in the face of harsh weather conditions and conventional wear and tear, making them the only roof you’ll ever need!
The Lifespan of a Metal Roof
Most metal roofing materials will last between 40-70 years, if not more. While the metal roofing panels allow a metal roof to stand firm in the face of adversity, several other contributing factors can add to or reduce time from your metal roof’s lifespan.
Copper and Zinc
Copper and zinc are two materials that surpass the average lifespan of metal roofs. These materials have been noted to last for hundreds of years, as they were used for many historical buildings that are still standing today.
The Average Lifespan of Other Roofing Materials
Part of the reason metal roofing’s lifespan is so impressive is that it nearly doubles the lifespan of other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, which only last around 15-30 years. Many other roofing materials do not hold a torch to metal roofing’s ability to resist environmental pressures. Asphalt roofing, for instance, tends to warp and buckle under climate pressure.
Contributing Factors to a Metal Roof’s Lifespan
Several contributing factors can make or break a metal roof’s lengthy lifespan. These factors include the weather conditions in your region, the maintenance of the metal roof, the color of your roof, the pitch height, and how well the metal roofing was installed.
• Weather Conditions: Metal roofing remains reliable in a variety of different climates. However, the frequency of harsh weather may contribute to wear and tear, which ultimately affects the lifespan. Metal roofs in a warmer climate that experience less snow and ice may last longer than a metal roof in Massachusetts, with heavy snowfall and challenging weather.
• Maintenance: Metal roofing panels are low maintenance, which is another attractive benefit of choosing this type of roofing for your home. Once the roof is installed, there is almost zero maintenance to keep it performing and looking beautiful. The only task a homeowner with a metal roof will face is to ensure the gutters are cleared of debris and functioning correctly, and that the roof is inspected annually.
• Installation: The most critical component of your metal roof’s longevity is the installation. Proper installation is the key to a long-lasting roof. A faulty installation job opens the door for problems such as leaks, cracks, and other harmful elements that will deteriorate your roof. Therefore, it’s essential to work with a reliable metal roofing contractor.
• Color: You may be surprised to find out that the color of your roof plays a role in how long your roof will last. Darker roofs absorb more heat, whereas a lighter roof reflects heat and lowers the indoor temperature. Darker roofs tend not to last as long unless they are adequately coated.
• Slope: Steeper metal roofs drain water more efficiently than small sloped metal roofs, allowing them to avoid water pooling. When water pools on a roof, it can speed up the deterioration of the roof, as the material soaks up the water and begins to weaken.
What Makes Metal Roofs Stronger Than Other Materials?
While weather, maintenance, and installation play a role in determining a metal roof’s longevity, they have the added advantage of being naturally more robust than other roofing materials. Metal roofs are durable, pest-resistant, and made of a secure system of rigid components that allow them to be unparalleled when it comes to longevity.
• Durability: Metal roofs take durability to the next level. They are a strong material that will not fail even under intense winds, extreme rain, or heavy snowfall. They are a popular home addition, as you can trust they will perform in any climate.
• Critter Deterring: Certain roofing materials, such as wood shingles and shakes, may attract critters to your home, especially during the cooler months. Metal roofing does the opposite, as it actually deters pests from infiltrating your home.
• A Full-stack System: Metal roofs are full-stack systems made up of high-performing, innovative elements such as clip systems, fasteners, and other advanced features, enabling homeowners to get optimal performance from their metal roofing systems.
A Roofing System You Can Rely On
Metal roofing is an excellent roofing material for homeowners interested in a roofing system that they can rely on for years to come. The durability, strength, longevity, and curb appeal are unmatched features that make a metal roof a reliable choice.
Choose a Metal Roof for Your Home
For over 20 years, Classic Metal Roofs has been supplying homeowners in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island with exceptional metal roofing solutions that enhance the safety and value of their homes. If you’re interested in metal roofing panels for your new or pre-existing roof, contact our metal roofing contractors today to discuss your project!
