How Long Will My Metal Roof Last?
When it comes to longevity, it’s hard to beat today’s metal roofing systems. The long life of these roofs is one of the main reasons people go with metal when it’s time to add a new roof. How long a metal roof will last is a big factor to look at in making your decision, but also take into consideration what a given roof could cost you over its lifespan.
The lifespan of a metal roof
It’s common for metal roofing systems to come with warranties of 35 or 40 years. The truth is, metal roofs commonly outlast their warranties by 10 or more years.
Metal is a strong material, highly resistant to damage from hail, winds, extreme temperatures, fires and other elements that can affect how long a roof lasts. For this reason, you should expect many decades of outstanding service from a new, properly installed metal roof.
Roof repairs
Because of the strength and stability of metal roofing materials, you won’t need to engage in a regular schedule of roof repairs like you do with traditional asphalt, clay tile and other roofing products.
Roof repair is expensive, and it adds up over the life of a roof. Lightning strikes, driving hailstorms, water damage, powerful winds and much more can cause serious damage to most types of roofs. With a sturdy metal roof, these are issues that won’t cost you money over and over again.
In case of fire
In the unlikely event of a house fire, a metal roof will not combust and cave in the way most other roofs will. During a fire, a traditional asphalt roof significantly increases the danger and potential for destruction if it catches fire. A prolonged fire can damage metal, but it won’t engulf the roof and set it ablaze.
Metal roof maintenance
While metal roofs are ultra-strong and long-lasting, it doesn’t mean that some maintenance won’t be required. However, if the roofing material you purchase includes the various coatings (anti-rust, reflectivity, waterproofing, anti-corrosion and the like) offered by metal roofing manufacturers, maintenance should be minimal over the roof’s lifespan. Fixing loose seams and fasteners is a common maintenance task owners of metal roofs must arrange for. This job is very important in keeping the roof sound and preventing water leaks and wind damage.
Heat-reduction – another factor in metal roofs
A final consideration in the value/longevity of a metal roof is the special reflective coating that can be applied to your roof. This coating is able to reflect up to 87% of the sun’s heat, meaning your home’s interior will stay much cooler in the summer and require less use of your AC system. Most roofing materials do just the opposite: they attract and retain heat, which you have to deal with by keeping the air conditioner on for longer periods during the hot months.
As you can see, when we talk about how long a metal roof will last, we’re looking at many factors that affect what happens during the roof’s lifespan. If you’d like to know more about the many advantages and benefits of modern metal roofing, Advanced Aluminum of Lakeland, FL, is here to help.
We manufacture top-grade metal roofing products used by leading contractors throughout the Lakeland region. Speak with an expert today at (863) 648-5787.