Over the past decade, metal roofing has seen a tremendous surge in popularity. If you are aware of the benefits of the metal roofing, this popularity will come as no surprise. Metal roofing is long-lasting, energy efficient and visually appealing. However, if you are considering changing your roof or installing a new one, remember it is often a once in a lifetime investment. Before you begin roofing your home, there are numerous things you need to think about including material, style, installation and cost. When considering the different options, metal roofing does prove far more advantageous than traditional roofing shingles. Nevertheless, here are a few points to think through before finalising your decision.

Materials
When it comes to metal roofing, there are several types of metals to choose from. While aluminium and steel are the most commonly used metal roofing materials, copper and zinc are used in some instances as well.

Steel
Steel metal roofing sheets come in three variations – galvanised, galvalume and colour coated steel. Steel is among the most commonly used metal roofing materials. And with good reason. Steel metal roofing (both galvanised steel and alu-zinc) comes with long-term durability, numerous colours, high strength and incredible corrosion resistance. This means a metal roof made of steel would be the best fit for any style or theme and will fully complement your home. At Dura Roof we provide both superior quality colour coated sheets as well as alu-zinc sheets.

Copper
Copper roofs are among the longest lasting metal roofing materials and can last close to 100 years. It is a soft material, making it much quieter. This means you won’t be subjected to a deafening sound during heavy rains. However, bear in mind that copper is a lot more expensive than steel roofing and with time it will acquire a patina. While some people find the transitioning hue attractive, many dislike it. So take your taste, and that of
your family’s into consideration if you are thinking of getting a copper roof.

Zinc
Zinc roofs form their own protective layer with time which helps protect it from rust, wind, scratching and cracking. Zinc metal roofing can last between 60 to 100 years.

Style
Steel roofing is available in two styles – colour coated sheets and galvalume or galvanised sheets. The galvanised and galvalume sheets come in their natural steel colour, while colour coated sheets come in any colour of your choice. Metal roofing sheets are usually available in more than 100 different colours, while standard shingles cover only about 15 to 20 different colours. Dura Roof offers colour coated sheets in a wide range of colours to choose from that will match your home’s style. Dura Lume’s alu-zinc sheets come in their natural steel colour for those looking for simplicity. With our natural and colour coated sheets, you can instantly up the style quotient of your property! Don’t forget to check out our blog on different roof styles to find one that will match your requirements.

Cost
One of the biggest misconceptions about metal roofing is its cost. A new metal roof will cost you two to three times the amount a traditional asphalt roof would cost you. While metal roofing will cost more than other roofing materials, bear in mind that it can outlast traditional roofs and requires the bare minimum in terms of maintenance. Metal roofs, thus, will save you a lot more money in the long run.

Installation
If you are considering metal roofing, be sure to hire a contractor who is comfortable working with the material. One of the most significant advantages of metal roofing is that it weighs only half of what asphalt does. Not to mention, unlike other roofing materials, you can install a metal roof over an existing one. While metal roofs are extremely easy to install and can be done as a DIY project, it is advisable to take the help of a professional. Metal roofing contractors will have the right experience, tools and know-how to install your metal roof minimising problems in the future. Check out our blog on how to avoid hiring the wrong roofing contractor before you proceed with installing your metal roof.

Maintenance
Good news! Metal roofs are extremely resistant to rust, mildew, rot and insects and will outlast asphalt shingles and other roofing materials. While metal roofs require very little maintenance, you need to exercise caution when it comes to a few things. This includes clearing out debris from the gutters, trimming tree branches that hit the metal and damage its finish. Since copper and aluminium are softer than steel, they are more likely to dent. Be
careful if you plan on mixing metals – as different materials react when in contact with each other. This also includes mixing between your roof and gutters, chimneys, trim and fasteners.
Metal roofing does offer you a ton of benefits, but there are many things you need to think through before settling on metal roofing. You can reach out to the experts at Dura Roof for all your roofing queries.