Top reasons to choose a metal roof for your home or commercial property in Florida

There are many options when it comes to roofing materials. Some of the most common roofing materials are asphalt shingles, tile, TPO and gravel. One of the most asked about materials here at Industrial Commercial Roofing is metal. We think a metal roof is a great choice for Florida roofs. Here are some of the top reasons we think choosing a metal roof makes sense:

Reason #1: Durability of a metal roof. Guaranteed to last?

Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting. At the top of the list of metal roofing “pros,” the material’s long lifespan is why most homeowners and business owners make the switch in either a re-roofing or new construction. Indeed, a recent McGraw-Hill survey found that 26 percent of homeowners cited longevity as their primary reason for investing in metal and another 22 percent said they were swayed by its strength.

A properly installed metal roof typically will last as long as the house, with an expected lifespan of 40 to 70 years and, often, a 30- to 50-year manufacturer’s warranty to boot. (By contrast, traditional asphalt roofing typically lasts 12 to 20 years. Metal roofing systems are by far the most popular form of roofing on commercial buildings. Metal roofs in one fashion or another have been around since biblical times but did not become the dominant system until about forty or fifty years ago when new materials made metal roofing systems more economical.

The most popular materials used in modern buildings include:

• Corrugated galvanized steel
• Blend of zinc, aluminum and silicon-coated steel
• Standing Seam Metal – a rolled product sold in various widths
• Metal Sheets – painted or stone coated
• Stainless steel – for extra harsh conditions
• Copper – still a popular alternative for spires, flashings, and gutters on commercial buildings, copper has definitely stood the test of time as a roofing material
• Aluminum – the most popular modern roofing system, aluminum typically lasts for at least 30 years, is lightweight, resists corrosion, and has a high level of reflectivity.

Reason #2: Aesthetics. Metal roofs look great.

Now you can choose from tin, zinc, aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel, in a dizzying array of colors, finishes, and even shapes! Their variety surpasses that of the much more conventional asphalt shingle. While asphalt might offer 15 to 20 color choices, modern metal roofing comes in more than 100 different colors, including standard, premium, and custom hues. Steel and aluminum, the two most common metals used in residential roofing, are both designed to hold paint finishes well. When applying to a commercial roof, in my opinion, it gives a sleek modern look when choosing the right metal. metal shingles are manufactured to resemble wood shakes, slate or clay tiles, or any other number of designs. The metal doesn’t have to stand out like a sore thumb to do its job; rather, it can mimic nearly any look using multiple-layer factory finishes that ensure that the appearance is not only beautiful but long-lasting and durable.

Reason #3: Value. Metal roofs are expensive but worth it.

The many years of service that a metal roof promises come at a high cost. This material can run from $120 to $900 per 100 square feet (or one “square” of material), according to Home Advisor’s Guide to Roofing Costs. Though this range is comparable to the costs of other premium roofing products, higher-end metals run as much as 10 times the cost of asphalt shingles. Then, not only do materials come with high price tags, but the installation labor is also more expensive than what you’d pay for other types of roofing because of the specialized training, knowledge, tools, and equipment it entails. That’s not to say that owners won’t recoup money on your initial investment, though. While you might have to pay for replacing a conventional asphalt shingle roof several times over the lifespan of your home, a high-quality metal roof could very likely be the last roof your home or business will ever need.

It’s as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” Money spent on the installation of a metal roof can be recouped from the savings in monthly cooling and heating costs thanks to this type of roof’s reflective properties. Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat instead of absorbing it, which—year-round, but especially during the long days of summer—can reduce cooling costs by as much as 25 percent, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance.

Reason #4: Maintenance. Metal roofing is very durable.

The copper roof of St. Mary’s Cathedral in Hildesheim, installed in 1280 A.D., still survives and many roofs on Renaissance era castles are still in place.

Although more expensive than asphalt and build up roofs (BUR), metal roofs are easier to clean and maintain their appearance over time. Manufacturers of metal roofing systems pre-coat the metal with almost any color imaginable. Later, when the roof shows signs of aging, metal roof coatings can extend the life of the roof and the building.

Like all metals, the metals used in roofing systems can rust and corrode over time and may cause interference for radio and cellular reception. Building owners and facilities managers should regularly inspect for damage and clean commercial roof at least once per year. That why we suggest a maintenance plan with our clients to ensure extending the life of the roof with yearly maintenance plans.

Reason #5: Safety. Metal roofs stand up to wind.

Thanks to the material’s unique durability, you can count on it to withstand the elements—including gusts of wind up to 140 miles per hour.

Reason #6: Environmental friendliness. The only roofing material that can be recycled.

Metal roofs are environmentally friendly. For starters, they consist of at least 25 percent recycled materials and are 100 percent recyclable themselves. (Steel roofing can be recycled repeatedly without loss of strength!) Metal roofing also provides an ideal platform for homeowners who want to embark various eco-conscious initiatives, including solar panels and systems for harvesting rainwater. Finally, in some re-roofing projects, a metal roof is so light—roughly one-third the weight of asphalt—that it can be installed directly overtop asphalt shingles without overburdening the roof’s structural support. This strategic move saves the effort and sheer waste of ripping off the old roofing and sending it to a landfill

Reason #7: Metal roof repairs can be inexpensive.

Whether a metal roofing system is new or has been in use for many years, there are many inexpensive options for metal roof repair including painting and metal roof coatings. Call today for a free quote with Industrial Commercial Roofing or use the easy form on our contact page.