How Long Will the Average Metal Roof Last?

metal roofing repair

Is Metal Roofing Right For You?

While metal roofing can be extremely durable, it does still have to be taken care of in order to last. However, you might be wondering how long an average metal roof will last! It can be a tough decision when you consider changing roofing material. If you are considering metal roofing for your home or business, keep reading. We will cover the benefits of metal roofing, as well as how to best care for a metal roof.

How will a metal roof stand up to extreme weather conditions?

Metal is an extremely durable roofing material that can withstand hailstorms, high winds, and winter elements. Winds between 140 mph and 155 mph, a metal roof installation is able to withstand better than the popular asphalt shingle roofing.

Metal roof installation is made with materials like aluminum, copper, steel, and other malleable materials that shape easily when under stress. A hailstorm that can damage an asphalt shingle roof may dent a metal roof, but it won’t break the metal.

Ultimately, metal is an incredibly strong material that you can rely on to withstand the toughest of conditions. If you are living in an area that sees a lot of extreme weather conditions, or you just want something that will hold up against massive amounts of snow, consider metal roofing!

What options are available with metal roofing?

A metal roof installation will last a minimum of 50 and requires minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice today. This long-lasting, low-maintenance roofing alternative comes in different options, including:

  • Exposed Fastener Panel Metal Roof Installation Options

This is the most economical metal roofing. The exposed fasteners are where the overlapping panels are directly fastened through the metal facing to the roof deck or roof framing. As the name indicates, the fastener heads are visible, but they are painted to match the metal panels.

A standing seam metal roofing installation system has concealed fastener panels that join metal panels by connecting the raised seams. The seam heights vary between 1 inch to 2 ½ inches tall and snap together. This results in a modern, sleek metal roofing installation that will contract and expand as the temperature changes. This is key in the longer lifespan with minimal wear & tear on the decking.

  • Metal Shingles and Tiles Installation

Metal roof installation with metal shingles or tiles creates an aesthetic curb appeal, looking like the standard asphalt shingles, clay tile, cedar shakes, or slate roofing.

 What are the benefits of metal roofing?

There are several benefits of having a metal roof installation including:

  • Longer Lifespan: A metal roof installation can last up to 70 years or longer depending on the type of metal and the weather. Compared to the maximum average of 20 years that asphalt shingles last, you’ll get 2 to 3 times the lifespan.
  • Durable: With a correct metal roof installation, it can sustain wind gusts of 140mph without cracking. Metal roofing is impact-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and needs minimal maintenance.
  • Safe:  A metal roof installation is fire-resistant.
  • Energy efficient: A metal roof installation is UV reflective, reducing utility costs up to 25%.
  • Environmental: Is a metal roof an environmentally-friendly choice? YES! The materials for a metal roof installation are often 95% recycled metal and is 100% recyclable when removed in 75 years.

What problems can you expect with metal roofing?

A metal roof installation may cause problems in the following areas;

  • Leaking – typically caused by poor metal roof installation.
  • Corrosion – doesn’t start until the metal is near or has reached the expected lifespan.
  • Chalking and/or Fading – caused by resin coating breakdown from UV exposure.
  • Mismatched Metal Materials – caused by the roofing contractor mixing different types of metal.
  • Scratching and Scuffing – can be caused during installation or by foot traffic.
  • Oil Canning – caused by poor metal roof installation process.

Luckily, with proper maintenance and inspections, these issues can be noticed early and remedied quickly. This can leave you with a beautiful metal roof that will last you a lifetime.

Will a metal roof rust or corrode?

If your metal roof installation is bare metal, yes, it will corrode or rust. However, today, metal roofing is usually coated or painted and will withstand oxidation and rusting. If you are worried about a piece of your roof that is exposed and possibly rusting, you can call a professional to take care of the area by sealing or replacing the exposed area.

How do you clean metal roofing?

Contractors that are experienced in metal roof installation will recommend mixing a quarter cup of mild dish soap or car washing soap with one gallon of water. Then, apply the mixture to the metal roof and using a microfiber cloth, soft-bristle brush, or a sponge after the soap mixture has sat for up to 10 minutes.

What kind of maintenance does a metal roof need?

The basic steps of maintenance after your metal roof installation are:

  • Clean annually using the mixture and process described above.
  • Remove ice and snow after winter storms with a brush or long-handled broom.
  • Clean the drains, gutters, and valleys of any debris including leaves, and sticks.
  • Keep tree branches and limbs trimmed away from the roof.
  • Do a monthly visual inspection for damage.
  • Keep minor scratches repaired with a clean cloth and mineral spirits then touch up the paint.
  • Fix loose or separated panel seams.
  • Adjust damaged flashing.
brown metal roofing

In Closing

Many homeowners who consider a metal roof installation ask the same question, “Does a metal roof scratch or dent easily?”. The popular belief and concern is that a metal roof install will be easy to dent or puncture, but, when installed correctly, that is not accurate! It is important to choose a roofing contractor that is experienced in metal roof installation jobs. If you think you want metal roof installation, or you think it might be time to have your metal roof inspected, don’t hesitate to call us at 617-481-1725. Our team of professional metal roof experts would love to talk you through your options.