Are Metal Roofs in Florida a Smart Choice?

The first concern of a homeowner while choosing a roofing material should be the weather of the locality. As the roof of a home is ever exposed to the mercy of the elements, one should evaluate the potential impact of the weather on it. So, when you think of roofing material for Florida homes, you should consider the scorching hot summer, the continual storms, and the extreme weather conditions. You need a material that can withstand all these atrocities of weather.

Popular roofing materials in the area are asphalt shingles, clay tiles, and metal. Asphalt shingles are the least expensive material and highly affordable. However, it has very poor resistance to the above-said aspects of the Floridian weather. Clay tiles are too brittle to withstand the impact of the heavy and bulky debris that is flown around in storms and hurricanes. Concrete tiles can take a lot of punishment, but you’ll need an extra sturdy roof structure because of their heavy weight. So there remains the metal roof.

The metal roof has its share of pros and cons too. All the same, the pros outweigh the cons. This blog examines the pros and cons of the metal roof and their suitability for the Floridian weather. 

Pros

1. Low Maintenance

Metal roofs need little or no regular roofing maintenance. The only maintenance activity needed is after exceptionally windy weather it will serve well to sweep off the debris accumulation on the roof and in the gutters. Additionally, but optionally, periodic painting will help you to preserve your roof's beauty.

2. Durability

A metal roof can last a lifetime as it stays functional for more than 70 yrs if properly maintained. It is considered a robust roofing material. A metal roof is also completely fire-resistant.

3. Weather Resistant

Metal sheets are impervious to the effects of the rain. They will not rot or be soaked, meaning they do not provide a favorable breeding ground for mold and mildew. It is usually rust proof, and a coat of paint will further ensure its rust resistance.

When it comes to withstanding the strong storms, metal roofs are superior. They are screwed to the frame firmly, so they are unyielding to strong winds. Furthermore, flying debris will at the most dent the metal sheets, but will not break the roofing so water will not be able to get in. 

The heat of the sun does not buckle or curl metal sheets. They stay intact even after the hottest of summers.

4. Energy Efficient

The metal sheets are smooth and shiny, so they almost completely reflect the sun’s rays off its surface. So during summers, the interior of your home remains cool. Similarly, it will not allow the inside heat to escape during winter, making your living space warm and cozy. This automatic heat regulation results in a considerable reduction in your energy bills. 

5. Green Aspect

The metal sheets are made of recycled steel and aluminum and are completely recyclable. So, like asphalt shingles or clay tiles, it will not end up in landfills. Like asphalt shingles, its manufacture does not involve the use of fossil fuel products. Consequently, it helps you to reduce your carbon footprint on the planet.

6. Aesthetics

Metal roofs are eye candies. The designer metal roofing sheets come in a wide range of colors and shapes. Apart from the plain metal sheets, they have the option to come aesthetically shaped with tile-like resemblance. 

Cons

Like everything else on earth, a metal roof also has a few disadvantages.

1. Noise

The most common complaint against a metal roof is that it is noisy during the rain. If you use proper muffler strategies, it is not an issue.

2. Dent

Dents are likely to develop when heavy debris is flown onto the metal roof. However, it is not easily broken or pierced so water damage is unlikely.

3. Cost

The upfront high cost often discourages homeowners from choosing metal roofs. However, the absence of maintenance costs and the high longevity of the metal roof make it cost-effective in the long run. It becomes a worthwhile investment over time.

So, considering the pros and cons of the metal roof, it is evident that the pros outweigh the cons, making the metal roof a smart choice in Florida.

Here are Some Other Articles Related to Your Search:

• What Are The Benefits of Installing Metal Roofing for Your Property
• Stone Coated Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles