Metal roofs have become increasingly popular in Gainesville and North Central Florida over the last 10-20 years. Many of the reasons cited for the trend include their durability, maintenance, energy efficiency, and value. It’s true that metal roofs last longer in Florida’s harsh climate compared to other roof types like asphalt shingle. However, are metal roofs always best? Read on to learn when it’s best to install a metal roof and when another roof type might be more appropriate.
When Are Metal Roofs Best and When Is a Different Roof Type More Appropriate?
The answer to this question depends on variables like budget, your home’s location, and the surrounding environment.
When Are Metal Roofs Best?
Metal roofs are always best when they’re installed on a home with full sun exposure. One of the greatest characteristics of metal roofs is their energy efficiency. They have tremendous insulating properties and also direct much of the sun’s heat energy away from the home. With Florida’s long, hot summers, metal roofs help homeowners cut down on cooling costs. Therefore, homes that are in open fields away from trees are ideal candidates for metal roofs.
Florida is prone to strong winds from frequent inclement weather – especially near the coast. Homes that are located in areas prone to frequent high winds benefit from the strength that metal roofs provide. Unlike asphalt shingles and other commonly used materials, metal roofing can withstand strong winds and heavy rains. . They’re able to last 2-3 times longer than shingles, even in harsh environments.
When Should You Avoid Installing a Metal Roof?
Many Florida homeowners are under the impression that metal roofs are always best. However, there are cases when the cost of a metal roof outweighs the benefits. Gainesville, FL is recognized as a Tree City every year by The Arbor Day Foundation. This is a great accolade for the city. However, a dense tree canopy minimizes the benefits of metal roofs for Gainesville homeowners.
If you live in a neighborhood with a dense tree concentration (e.g., every neighborhood in Gainesville), you’re not going to get the most out of a new metal roof. If your home is shaded, the felt benefits from the energy-efficient characteristics of metal roofs are negligible. Additionally, falling limbs and branches will cause dents and dings on the roof surface.
Maintaining metal roofs in a tree-dense environment is also more challenging than asphalt shingles. For example, most new asphalt shingles contain anti-microbial properties and require less maintenance in shaded locations underneath trees. Metal roofs, on the other hand, require regular cleaning once or twice a year to maintain their appearance. They’re also prone to unsightly green and black stains when homes are underneath trees.
Lastly, if you choose exposed fastener metal roofing, you’ll need to change the screws out about every 10-15 years because the screws are prone to rust. Many homeowners choose exposed fastener over standing seam metal roofing because of its lower cost. However, even in these cases, spending more on a metal roof over an asphalt shingle roof wouldn’t be worth the extra cost.
Since Metal Roofs Aren’t Always Best, McFall Can Help You Determine What’s Right for You
Working with McFall, a devoted local roofing contractor, ensures you receive the utmost knowledge and expertise needed to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that last.
McFall Roofing in Gainesville, FL knows that metal roofs aren’t always the best. Our experienced team can help you determine what type of roof is ideal for your home based on your budget and the surrounding environment.
Contact us today to get started on your residential roofing project!
