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We're considering a metal roof, but isn't it very expensive?

Surprisingly, architectural metal roofs are more affordable than ever. Like all roof materials, metal roof prices can vary greatly, but the gap between a good metal tile or shake roof and a wood or asphalt composition roof isn't nearly as large as it was just a few years ago. And those extra few dollars get you a beautiful, permanent roof that will upgrade the appearance, decrease the maintenance and increase the resale value of your home.

Isn't metal roofing too industrial for a home in a nice neighborhood?

Not at all. This is a misconception about metal roofs that we hear over and over. The reality is that of all materials, metal comes in the biggest variety of colors, shapes and styles. In your very neighborhood, it's likely there are beautiful metal roofs that you've been thinking are shingles or concrete tiles. Truthfully, the benefits of metal (lightweight, permanent, environmentally-friendly) are available in such a wide range of options, you have to see it to believe it. Visit our Products for links to our photo galleries.

How long can I expect my metal roof to last?

A steel roof is a permanent roof system. With little maintenance, it will last as long as your home.

"My wife and I agree that this was one of our best purchases as homeowners. We will never need to purchase another roof."
B. Faso, Minden, NV

Do I have to tear off my old roof to put on a new metal roof?

No. Because metal is one of the lightest roofing materials available, it can go right over most existing roofs with little preparation. That's one of its big advantages. It's light and rigid, making it one of your most desirable options.

Does it really matter what kind of roof I put on my home? Aren't they all the same?

That's like saying all cars are the same. Sure, they all get you from A to B, but reliability, maintenance, appearance, and resale value can be dramatically different from one to the next. If you're interested in long term value, then you should take a careful look at the new variety of beautiful metal roofs as an option to replace your old one.

I've read a lot about metal roofing but a roof contractor I spoke to said he doesn't like them. Why is that?

Many homeowners may be surprised to find that the average roof contractor isn't a good source of information about various types of roof products. Roofers tend to be very good at installing one type of material, and so shy away from others. And really, they wouldn't be acting in the interests of their own business if they promoted something they weren't equipped to handle. f you're interested in something like metal tiles or shingles, make sure you at least speak to someone experienced with and equipped to handle that type of material. Otherwise you won't be getting the whole story. Even the cheapest roof will cost thousands of dollars - so make certain you look at ALL of your options before deciding how best to invest in your home.

Do I have to put on the same type of roof when it's time to have it replaced?

Not at all. Many homeowners are unaware that a roof replacement is a great opportunity to upgrade their home at the same time as they address a major maintenance issue. Since the original roof on many homes is strictly an economic choice for the builder, re-roofing a home is the chance for a homeowner to make his mark by choosing a style and material that will enhance the appearance and value of a home. One of the virtues of metal is that being the lightest and most rigid roof material available, it can be considered for every type of home. Unlike many roof options, if the structure of a roof can support any material, it can support a metal roof, so engineering is not an issue unless there are an excessive number of existing layers, in which case NO material can be installed over top and all of the existing layers should be removed.

Is metal considered a green roofing material?

Yes. Unlike most other options, metal roofs have a significant recycled content. Compare that to asphalt composition shingles, which ultimately end up in landfills!

I've heard a metal roof is incredibly noisy when it rains. Is this true?

Actually, no. The vast majority of people who upgrade their roof to metal are surprised to report just the opposite. Especially from those homeowners who convert from wood shakes, we regularly get comments such as "We can't believe how much quieter our home is when it's raining or windy!"

The coated metal roofs in particular have very low resonance (the property that allows a cymbal to crash, or a bell to ring) and once fastened to the roof structure form a very tight and rigid assembly that often adds stiffness to the entire home. In the words of one customer, "Our home just feels tighter."

"Having just survived our first winter with the new roof, we heard no weather related noise as a result of the roof at all."
B. Watson, Stateline, NV

Will our metal roof make it unbearably hot in the summer or freezing in the winter?

No. Unlike concrete tile or asphalt shingle, which store and transfer heat, metal absorbs and dissipates heat quickly. Air flow under the roof helps prevent the transfer of cold air and reduces freeze thaw cycles in the winter. Results include lower air conditioning and heating costs for your home.

What should I know about fire and metal roofs?

Steel is noncombustible. It is lightweight and will resist premature roof collapse from an internal fire.

What can I expect of metal roofing during high winds?

Metal is the stiffest, hardest, most durable roofing material you can buy. Unlike every other roofing material, a properly installed metal roof will stay on in high winds indefinitely. That's because they're mechanically fastened to the deck or the structure, while other roofs rely on their weight or adhesives, which are certainly inferior systems in extreme winds. There is simply nothing better than a good metal roof. Plus, all of our metal roof systems are tested and will meet or exceed Dade County hurricane specifications, which are the most stringent in the country.

"No question about it, the winds are a serious factor around here. I feel like I don't have to worry about these big sixty or seventy mile an hour windstorms that come through once a winter."
B. Hamilton, Reno, NV

Should I be worried about rust? It is metal, after all!

Not unless you want your roof to rust. Steel processing today is so sophisticated that rust is rarely an issue in a properly installed metal roof.

What if it hails? Will that damage my metal roof?

Large enough hail can damage almost anything, but our metal roofs have the highest hail resistance rating available.

How do metal roofs rate on earthquake safety?

Metal roof panels are lightweight, flexible and structurally sound, making them one of the safest, most durable roof coverings available in earthquake-prone regions. Compare stiff, lightweight metal to conventional asphalt or concrete roofs, which weigh three to 10 times as much or more! Is that what you want hanging over your head in an earthquake?

Is it safe to walk on a metal roof?

Yes, in accordance to manufacturer's instructions. But low-maintenance metal roofs almost eliminate that need. With your metal roof, it is no longer necessary to replace trim and shingles that have blown off or to patch leaks in badly worn areas.

"Once I'm done painting my trim on my house, I don't ever have to go on the roof again."
R. Dittrick, Reno, NV

Will moss, leaves, dirt and debris damage or leave impressions on my metal roof?

No. The smooth surface of metal roofs allows moss, leaves, dirt and debris to wash off a roof naturally when it rains.

My neighbor just put on a "40 year roof." It looks pretty good and if lasts 40 years, isn't that good enough?

Comments like this are heard a thousand times a year by everyone in the roof business. But the problem is, there's nothing of reality in the statement and in fact most asphalt shingle warranties are deceptive at best. Reading the fine print yields little gems of revelation like:

"NO LIMITED WARRANTY ASSURES THAT THE COVERED PRODUCTS WILL LAST THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF THE APPLICABLE WARRANTY PERIOD" (Quoted directly from the Elk shingle warranty).

View a comparison chart between asphalt vs. metal roofing

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