Did you know that a metal roof not only lasts longer than asphalt shingles, it also saves you money? Don’t take my word for it, listen to the experts!
When you're planning out the cost of a big-ticket item, do you only consider the initial cost, or do you include all the lifetime fees like maintenance, check-ups, and eventually, replacement costs?
If you ask me, all those fees eventually have to be paid, so they should be included in the calculation - and that's how I know that a metal roof isn't nearly as expensive as it looks at first. I talked to some local experts, from Apex Restoration & Roofing, to get the low-down on the long-term costs, which roofing is best, and why - and we looked at all the numbers.
If you're looking for the one-line answer, this is it: While a metal roof will cost you more to install, you'll save big in repairs, removals, and new roof installations over the next 70 or 80 years. A metal roof is an investment that can do more than keep out the rain, it can save you money, and even raise your property value.
I probably don't need to tell you that sometimes you need to spend money to save money.
That's the idea with metal roofing, you spend a little more upfront to get a stronger, more durable product, and then you save money for the next 80 years, because let's be honest... a metal roof isn't going to need too many repairs, and it should last for a pretty long time.
Let's break it down. When compared to traditional roofing options, such as tiles or asphalt shingles, metal sheeting can cost significantly more to install. However, it is also known to last more than twice as long as most other materials, often with lower maintenance fees.
That isn't to say that metal roofing doesn't need maintenance, it does - it's just a lot more durable than shingles.
Over the course of your roof’s full lifespan, this can help significantly reduce the overall costs, and they can be reduced further with regularly scheduled maintenance. The local experts I spoke to recommend two professional inspections per year, one in the spring and one in the fall, to help find and fix the earliest signs of wear and tear.
Here's the real benefit of a metal roof. With regular inspections and prompt maintenance, they can last up to 70 years or longer, as compared to only 20 or 30 years for asphalt shingles. That means in some scenarios, you could replace asphalt shingles up to 4 times, before your metal roof would need replacing.
To make it even better, the metal material will still be fully recyclable at the end of its lifespan, unlike shingles, which can be recycled in some areas, but often still end up in a landfill.
In some cases, you can even save money on the installation by having your new metal roof installed directly over your old shingles - but you should ask an expert, before assuming that's an option.
Before you make a decision, do the smart thing, and talk to an expert.
A top-notch local roofing company will offer comprehensive inspections and cost analysis, as well as free quotes for new installations.
They can help you to understand all of the material and style options, and the full benefits each offers over time. They can even set you up with a pre-scheduled inspection and maintenance plan, so you can forget about your roof, and they'll keep it in tip-top shape.
Everyone needs a new roof, someday... unless they've got a metal roof that's rated for 70+ years. Those roofs will last a lifetime, and even increase your property value.
