Metal roofing, including steel roofing, is surging in popularity for both commercial and residential properties, recently reaching double-digit market share growth. At the same time, though most homes still have more traditional asphalt shingle roofs, the market share for shingles has decreased in recent years. There are many reasons for this shift in preference, one of the main being that metal roofing is very durable and now has more aesthetic options that more closely mimic shingles.
Steel Roofing vs. Shingles
Because choosing a roof is a big investment with long-term implications, you want to be sure to carefully consider your options and weigh the pros and cons of each. There are several aspects to consider:
Appearance: Asphalt shingle roofs remain the most common choice for homes. They have a more traditional look, which can be a plus if that is the style you’re after. Steel roofing has a more modern, unique look – so it can definitely help make your home stand out from the rest! Now, there are many more aesthetic options for steel roofing, from larger, more industrial sheets to shingle-like tiles. There are many different finishes and colors to choose from as well. Really, when it comes to appearance, it depends on your personal preference and the style of your home.
Variety: Historically, shingles have offered the greatest variety of styles and colors, but now that people are getting more and more creative with metal roofing, there is an increasingly wide variety available. There are many types of metal roofing to consider: tin, steel, aluminum, copper, zinc and seam standing metal. Next, there are many different cuts, colors and finishes to explore.
Cost: One of the main reasons people choose shingles over metal roofing is the fact that it is typically less expensive to purchase and install compared to metal roofing. It is also easier to install shingles on your own if you are looking to save on installation costs. However, when you consider long term maintenance, repair and replacement costs, paying more up front for metal roofing may be a smarter financial decision in the long run.
Life expectancy: Metal roofing definitely takes the cake when it comes to durability and life expectancy. Steel roofing is one of the most durable types of metal roofing available. It is waterproof and fire resistant, meaning less wear and tear over time. However, metal roofing can dent from fallen branches or other objects, and if not finished properly, can corrode or rust over time. Standard varieties of shingles are more susceptible to rot and water damage than metal roofing and are not always fire-proof. While most roofs last 20-30 years, high-quality, metal roofing is considered a lifetime investment, meaning you will likely not have to replace the roofing in your lifetime.
Environmental considerations: More and more people are choosing metal roofing to make their homes more ecologically friendly and reduce their carbon footprint. Steel roofing is extremely energy efficient; metal roofing can help keep your home cool and reduce your energy consumption, especially if you live in a warm climate . Additionally, metal roofing is recyclable and usually made from recycled materials, while shingles typically contain toxic materials and ultimately end up in landfills.
Return on investment: Due to its uniqueness, durability and efficiency, metal roofing can raise the resale value of your home. As shingles are still found on most residential homes, they are less likely to add value to your property.
Taking all these factors into consideration, it’s easy to see why metal roofing, including steel roofing, is becoming a more popular choice.
Finding Steel Roofing Contractors
If you’re looking for steel roofing contractors, you’ll want to find a company that specializes in metal roofing. You’ll need a contractor with plenty of experience installing metal roofing, because if the installation is done incorrectly a metal roof can develop leaks, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair or replace down the road.
It’s a good idea to talk to several contractors before hiring one. That way you can compare credentials, quotes and find the best fit for you. Be wary of any overly-low quotes – your roof is a big investment and you don’t want to make the decision solely on which contractor offers the cheapest price. Ask contractors to break down the estimates clearly and walk you through them, so that there are no surprise costs down the line. Next, be sure to research credentials – ask to see their license and proof of insurance and check them against the specific laws in your state. It’s a good idea to read reviews from past customers and ask for photos of completed projects. Finally, be sure to ask plenty of questions before making your decision!
How Much Does Steel Roofing Cost?
Standard steel roofing can cost anywhere between $75 to $350 per roofing square depending on the style and whether it is galvanized or not. Stainless steel is more expensive, typically costing between $400 and $1,200 per roofing square, depending on the style and whether it is in tile or sheet form. Be sure to budget for installation costs as well, not just materials. Keep in mind that installation costs also vary depending on the material and style. For example, on average, metal shingles are 20% cheaper to install compared to standing seam metal roofing.
Colorado Steel Roofing – Denver, CO & Beyond!
At Rocky Mountain Roofing & Exteriors, we offer roofing, siding, painting and window contracting services to meet all your home exterior needs. Our professional, experienced Colorado roofing company can handle many different types of projects and can help in every step to avoid you having to hire multiple contractors for different needs. We have a 98% satisfaction rate across 3,000 customers, so you can feel confident that you are making a great, long-term investment with your new or improved roof. If you are based in Colorado and are interested to learn more about steel roofing or any other roofing options, consider contacting us for a free estimate today!