Resources and Services
Consumer Guides
Install or Replace Metal Roof
Metal roofing is usually manufactured in steel, copper, aluminum or stainless steel. It can be coated in a many different types and colors of paint and other coatings, making it as beautiful as it is durable. Modern metal roofing frequently carry warrantees of 50 years.
Metal roofing, which is manufactured and installed as panels, generally breaks down in two groups: structural and architectural. Traditional standing seam metal roofs, commonly seen in commercial applications such as fast food restaurants, are examples of structural panels.
Architectural panels, which can mimic the look of tile, shakes, shingles or slate when installed, have increased the use of metal roofing in the residential market.
Several new types of seaming methods, styles and colors have been developed to offer homeowners a wide range of prices as well as aesthetic choices. There are many styles and colors available that blend in with existing shingle colors. However, local building codes and neighborhood bylaws should be addressed when considering metal roofing.
Metal roofing offers the following advantages:
Because it does not warp, split or crack and is impervious to mildew, rot, termites and pests, a metal roofing system is virtually maintenance free over the life of the roof.
Properly installed metal roofing systems will withstand inclement weather, including high winds, hail, snow and rain better than any other roofing material. Metal easily sheds snow and ice and does not absorb water that causes cracking and rotting in the freeze-thaw cycling in other materials. In testing, metal systems have withstood winds up to 200 mph, and have historically survived hurricanes and wind storms when other materials have failed.
Most metal roofing systems carry fire ratings that can reduce a homeowner’s overall insurance rates.
Its light weight often allows metal roofing to be installed over the top of existing roofs, bringing significant savings in time and labor in addition to eliminating the growing disposal problem associated with shingles.
Although the initial cost of metal roof systems may be higher than shingles, the cost/benefit ratio over the life of the roof is superior to shake, slate, or tiles. When the finish eventually deteriorates over many years, it’s often possible to repaint the roof instead of replacing the panels.
More Popular Entries
Additions & Remodels
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Easy Financing Options for Remodeling
Basement Remodeling Basics
Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors
House Buying Mistakes
Mortgage Hints
Personal Home Inspections
Appliances
Installing Appliances
Selecting Major Appliances
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers
Taking the Mystery Out of Kitchen Design
Appraisals
Tip: Improvement Value vs. Appraisal
Carpentry & Cabinets
Tip: Dealing with Dryrot
Cabinet Options
Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops
Cleaning Services
Tip: Pet Odors
Clean Fireplace
Musty Smell in Attic
Concrete, Brick & Stone
Concrete Injection Leveling Can Repair Flatwork
Tip: Repair Concrete Flatwork
Retaining Walls
Consumer Guides
Wall and Ceiling Cleaning
How to Hire a Plumber
Upgrade for the Future
Design Ideas
The Restful Retreat
Fabric Window Awnings
Spruce Up Your Interior with Paint
Electrical, Telephone & Data
Saving On Electrical Repairs
“Install Switches, Outlets and Fixtures”
Upgrade for the Future
Expert Advice
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Remodeling/Room Addition Project
Paint Over Paneling
Flooring
Carpet Care In Depth
Tip: Repairing Vinyl Flooring
Choosing the Best Carpet for Your Home
Handyman Services
Simple Repair
Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Checklist: Fall Maintenance
Heating & Cooling
Tip: Programmable Thermostats Can Save Money
Environmentally Friendly Solar Heat
Checklist: Cleaning the Air in Your Home
Home Construction
Getting Design Help for Remodeling or a New Home
Remodeling/Room Addition Project
Water Damage in Bathroom
Landscape, Decks & Fences
Different Styles of Landscaping
The Right Barn or Shed For You
Picket Fences Add Charm
Moving & Storage
Some Assembly Required
Preparing a House for Sale
Stowing it Away: Where to Put It
Other Services
Customized Hot Tubs
Pool Heaters
Organize Your Garage for Approaching Messy Weather
Painting & Staining
Lead Paint Common Sense
The Basics of Interior Painting
Checklist: Interior Paint Prep
Plumbing
Tip: Saving Money on Plumbing
Installation of Various Sump Pumps
The Basics of Sump Pumps
Quick Tips
Tip: Roof Leaks
Tip: Shutter Basics
Checklist: Protect Your House from Fire
Roofing, Siding & Gutters
Clean Gutters
Wood Shingle Siding
Helpful Roofing Terms
SP Feature Article
The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services
Walls & Ceilings
Tip: Prepping Before Wallpapering
Acoustic Ceiling Cleaning
Wall and Ceiling Cleaning
Windows & Doors
Install Window Screen
Tip: Repair Window Hardware
Choosing Replacement Windows