A question many homeowners have when looking for roofing material to replace an old worn-out roof is whether or not it is worth it to pay extra for metal roofing.

The way to best answer that is for you to consider all the benefits metal roofing has and compare them against other materials for roofing. One factor is the initial cost for materials, but what is important equally is the lifespan of metal roofing material, cost for maintenance, property values costs benefit, and energy savings.

Yes, it's true that the up-front cost of metal roofing is more than other options such as asphalt.  But when evaluating the cost of roofing, you need to consider much more than the original installation cost.  For instance, what is the cost over its expected life?

You might be amazed to learn metal roofing will last for more than 50 years! During this time period,  wood shake or asphalt shingle roofs will require replacing several times. Compared to all other materials for roofing, metal roofing has a lifespan that is rated the longest.  With the typical asphalt roof lasting around 20 years, you would need to multiple its cost by 2.5 to get a price comparison for a metal roof.  And that's just the installation cost.

Cost of ongoing maintenance and repair is another factor to consider when you're evaluating if metal a roof isworth paying the extra cost. The great news with metal roofs is that they need virtually no maintenance.  Asphalt roofs require replacements of shingles periodically due to weather damage, insect infestation, and deterioration due to age and/or other factors such as sunlight. Metal roofs outperform other roofing materials in weather that is extreme such as hail, and high winds. Metal roofing will not rot, warp, chip, peel, burn, or curl. It is also resistant to damage from insects, mold, and mildew.

Due to steel's properties and premium finishes that are available for metal roofs, homeowners have an added benefit of energy savings, so installation cost can be partially offset by savings on your utility bills.

Also, with an asphalt roof you may need to have the old roof torn off before a new one can be installed.  Metal roofing is so lightweight that in most cases a tear-off isn't needed, which cuts the cost.

Curb appeal and quality of metal roofs are appreciated by even the most finicky of home buyers. When reselling your home, the result of a metal roof is a competitive edge. There have been studies showing the increases in a home’s resale value from a metal roof.

As you're comparing the cost, here are some benefits you should keep in mind when making your decision.  You may not be able to put a price tag on these things, but they provide benefits that other roofing may not.

Some Benefits of Metal Roofs

1. Virtually no maintenance

2. Durable and lightweight

3. Resistant to insects, mold, and mildew

4. Excellent in extreme weather conditions

5. Lifespan of over 50 years

6. Eco-friendly: Metal roofing made from recycled content and also is 100% recyclable, in addition to its outstanding durability. This is good news for our landfills when metal roofs finally reaches the end of their very long lifespan.

Considering a new roof for your home? Contact Quarve Contracting in the Minneapolis area.  We'd love to share with you why we believe every home in the Twin Cities should have a metal roof.  As a licensed MN roofing contractor, we can handle all your roofing needs.