(123)456 7890 [email protected]

Metal or steel roofs, the right choice

Why would anyone in their right mind spend double or even triple the cost of an asphalt roof on a metal roof? On the surface it seems like a waste of money and many asphalt roofing companies are very good at making the case for asphalt. In fact, the only logical and valid reason for making the decision to purchase an asphalt roof over a permanent one is money. If money is not available and financing is not an option, the initially cheaper asphalt roof will have to suffice. While asphalt roofing is definitely less expensive in the long run, it will cost many thousands of dollars more since roof replacements will be needed every 8 to 10 years.

People should be aware that the insurance industry has gotten so burned up in recent years due to the rapid deterioration of asphalt shingles that most have set their own standards. Asphalt shingles used to be asbestos based and a 25 year old shingle would last 25 years. Today’s asphalt shingles have a fiberglass base and do not withstand the rigors of the Canadian or Northern climate. Even 50 year old asphalt shingles, which cost a small fortune, on a 6/12 pitched roof and less will deteriorate in 8 to 10 years. Unaware of the changes in quality, the insurance industry was left with the bag when water began to seep under woodwork and often into home interiors. When they realized the fact, they introduced requirements for vapor barriers to cover the entire roof prior to installation instead of the three feet of ice and water barrier required by code. Only reputable roofers stick to this, while shoddy bottoms continue to do an unacceptable and inferior job. From time to time, a person will see a roofing company that covers the entire roof with a vapor barrier, which begs the question why. Why would they go to all the extra expenses for no reason?

When looking at the financial choice between asphalt and metal, if the comparison is made between a properly done asphalt roof and a high-quality metal roof, the difference will be about twice that or a little more. Doing the math and understanding, there is no asphalt roof that will not realistically last more than 10 years. Some people think they get more life out of their roofs, but in reality a 10 year old asphalt roof not only looks terrible, but on the south side, where the sun is hot, it will have deteriorated to the point of compromise. They were sold a 25 or 35 year old shingle and they didn’t read the fine print on the warranty they prorated to the point where after 8 years the warranty was practically worthless.

Most high-quality metal roofs come with a 50-year non-prorated transferable warranty. During the warranty period, 5 to 6 asphalt roofs would be required. If a metal roof costs twice as much, then the math would be, say, $10,000.00 [asphalt]and $20,000 [metal]. Within 10 years a new asphalt roof will be required. $10,000.00 with 3% inflation becomes $13,000.00. The asphalt has now cost $23,000.00 while the metal has remained at $20,000.00, except it hasn’t. All high-quality metal roofs have heat and UV reflective coatings, which means they reduce energy costs because the air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard. These roofs will save up to 25% on electricity bills. Assuming $500.00 saved each year for 10 years, that would be $5000.00, making the actual cost of the metal roof $15,000.00. In ten years, the savings is $5000.00 with 40 years remaining on the non-prorated warranty. At least four asphalt roofs will be needed plus $13,000.00 becomes $17,000.00, $17,000.00 becomes $21,000.00 etc. all this money was essentially flushed down the toilet. The amount is staggering. The asphalt roofing industry maintains a continual residual income from gullible consumers who choose not to look at the facts.

All major metal roofing companies offer open-loan financing that can be repaid without penalty at any time. Some even offer deferred payments that allow 6 to 12 months before the first payment is due. Most loans will be for more than 10 or 15 years, resulting in a small, manageable payment, usually with no down payment. People who choose this option can have a new permanent roof without using any of their savings. Asphalt roofing companies, on the other hand, don’t offer financing for the simple truth that the roof won’t last as long as the loan.

So why would a person in their right mind spend the extra money to buy a metal roof?

1/ It will be the last roofing decision you will have to make while living in your home.

2/ They will save thousands of dollars just like the subsequent owners of the house.

3/ The house will be more comfortable, the rooms upstairs will be cooler and energy bills will be lower.

4/ In many cases, the insurance will go down.

5/ Curb appeal will be greatly improved immediately and will continue to perform for decades.

6/ You never have to worry about ice, water or bugs, [racoon] damage.

There are other reasons for making the decision, such as the urban heat effect, climate change, recycling, etc., but the logic is irrefutable. Not all metal roofs are created equal and all the benefits listed here do not apply to most. Only the highest quality roofing can make these claims. When making a decision, the last factor to consider is price. Arm yourself with the facts to ensure a satisfying conclusion.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *