Although roof repair is always best left to the professionals, knowing more about various metal roofing materials is a good step in becoming a more well-rounded property owner. There are four main types of metal roofing and there are several pros and cons to be aware of.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

1. Aluminum

Aluminum represents the highest level of durability and strength of all metal roofing materials. Its resistance to salt corrosion is thanks to its reactive properties. When aluminum is exposed to oxygen, it creates a layer of sealant that helps protect it from environmental decay.

Despites its relative strength, however, aluminum does have downsides. Its natural patina isn’t commonly seen as aesthetically pleasing, it’s expensive compared to other forms of aluminum coating, and high winds or severe weather can be detrimental to its typically thin design.

2. Copper

With a possible lifespan of more than 200 years, copper has been a fixture in the metal roofing world for centuries. Copper roofs are completely recyclable, making them an excellence eco-friendly choice, and the metal’s softness makes it very quiet.

That softness, however, makes it susceptible to environmental damage such as hail. Copper also reacts to increases and decreases in temperature by expanding and contracting, possibly causing construction issues—it is also quite expensive to have installed.

3. Steel

Steel is the most utilitarian of all metal roofing materials. Because it is recycled in such high quantities around the globe, steel roofs are eco-friendly options. It comes in three main types—galvanized, weathering, and galvalume—and is very affordable. While some types of steel roofing are prone to scratching, the material is fairly resistant to harsh conditions and well-suited for a wide variety of environments.

4. Zinc

Because of its low melting point, zinc needs just a quarter of the energy used in processing copper and steel. Other than being a green metal roofing material, zinc’s patina “heals” scratches over time and gives the substance a typical lifespan of more than 100 years.

That same patina, however, contributes to a blue/grey color that some may find unappealing when unpainted. Zinc’s softness also makes it easily damaged by hail or strong winds.

Choosing a metal roofing material involves weighing several different pros and cons. But before making any decisions, contacting roofing professionals will help narrow down the ideal option, leading to a beautiful and long-lasting roof.

 

Action Roofing Services has proudly provided roofing repair to the Anchorage, AK, area for more than 35 years. The company’s experienced crew approaches each installation or maintenance project with focus, dedication, and honesty. For more information, call (907) 677-6969 or visit the website.