When most homeowners think about their roofs, they think of asphalt shingles. And that’s not surprising. Asphalt shingles remain the most common roofing choice for homes across the U.S. However, the demand for asphalt shingles has actually decreased in recent years. There are many reasons for this, but one major factor is the rising demand for metal roofing.
Today’s homeowners appreciate having a choice in the materials used for their roof. At Neal Strickland Roofing, we’re happy to present homeowners with a wide variety of metal roofing colors and styles that are designed to give their home the modern look they desire, with a product that is designed to stand the test of time.
We won’t deny that roofs are expensive. Most new metal roofs cost $30,000 or more. That’s no small chunk of change. But here’s the thing. Not all materials can truly last the length of time that homeowners expect.
On average, an asphalt shingle roof in Florida will last about 15 to 25 years. That’s not all that long, especially for homeowners who have found their forever home and hope to stay there for many years to come. What homeowner wants to spend that kind of money two or three times over the years they live in their home?
That’s why metal roofing can be such a worthwhile investment. While the upfront cost can be a bit more per square foot, metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. So, if your home has a metal roof, you may never need to replace it during your lifetime. And if you upgrade to a metal roof, chances are that it’s going to last as long as you need it to.
If you live in Florida, you already know our weather can be tough on a roof. And we’re talking about far more than hurricane season. Your roof spends every day exposed to conditions that can wear down roofing materials over time, including the following:
This is one reason metal roofing has become an appealing choice for Florida homeowners. When properly installed, metal roofing resists wind and moisture well. Of course, no roofing material is hurricane-proof. The roofing system you choose and how it is installed both affect how well your roof handles Florida’s harsh weather.
Can we take just a moment to reflect on Florida’s heat? It gets hot here. Really hot. And that heat can be really hard on traditional asphalt roofing.
But here’s the good news: some metal roofing products can reflect more of the sun’s energy rather than absorbing it. Reflective finishes and coatings can add to this benefit, helping reduce the amount of heat the roof absorbs throughout the day. With less heat absorbed at the surface, less heat may transfer toward the attic and the rooms below.
Of course, your roof is only part of the equation. Insulation, ventilation, roof color, finish, and your home’s construction can all affect indoor temperatures and cooling needs. Still, in a state where the sun works overtime, heat performance gives homeowners one more reason to consider metal roofing when it’s time for a new roof.
All metal roofs require some care and attention. But metal roofs are typically far easier to maintain than other roofing choices, and this is one of the big reasons that homeowners reach out to us asking about metal roofing options.
Caring for a metal roof typically only requires the following:
Please know that maintenance needs can vary depending on the type of metal roof you have, too. For example, exposed-fastener systems may require more frequent checks of fasteners and washers than standing seam systems, where the fasteners are concealed beneath the panels.
More and more homeowners are realizing that a metal roof isn’t limited to a barn, outbuilding, or commercial facility. And metal roofs won’t make your home look like one of those builds either.
We offer a wide variety of residential panel profiles, standing seam systems, colors, and finishes. This means you can find the roof style you want without ending up with a result you don’t want.
As we shared earlier, metal roofing does come with a higher upfront cost than more traditional roofing choices.
But the initial price is only one factor. Homeowners should also think about how long the roof is expected to last, its maintenance needs, energy performance, and whether they may need another roof replacement while living in the home.
Metal roofing won’t always be the less expensive choice over time. Your budget, the specific roofing products you’re comparing, your home, and how long you plan to live there can all influence whether the higher upfront investment makes sense for you.
This all begs one important question: Is a metal roof right for your home?
If you have a Florida home and need a new roof, we want you to explore all your options. If you think it’s time for an upgrade, reach out to our team at Neal Strickland Roofing. We’ll be happy to discuss what we offer and partner with you to find the best solution for your home. Contact us today.
