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Written by: Ask the Expert

Why Metal Roofing is THE Choice for Southern Florida Homeowners

When someone considers how a home keeps cool, the most common thing that comes to mind is air conditioning. But the first real line of defense against the heat is the home’s roof. And a hot day in the life of a good roof should include reflecting – not storing and absorbing – the sun’s rays. You might have thought that shingle is just shingle but there’s actually quite a big difference between the different options, as you can see in this article called 6 Types of Roofing Shingles.

Traditional shingle and even tile roofing materials hold and transfer heat. Most conventional roofing products will hold heat, and even transfer it downward into a structure, while metal roofing will reflect heat upward and away from a building instead. Changing your roof can be difficult if you don’t have the correct supplies to help you take on such a task. So, if you are interested in changing your roof, you may want to check out your local hardware store for all your building needs.

Metal roofing is quickly becoming the most popular type of roofing among South Florida homeowners, and currently accounts for about 10-14% of all re-roofing projects in the United States. They are most popular in Southeastern states, like Florida, where tropical storms are a threat. People do often consider insulating underneath with spray foam roofing, however, for an extra level of security.

There are several reasons why they are growing in popularity. First, homeowners are not as transient as they used to be. More and more homeowners are choosing to stay in their homes as they age. Metal roofing is the most durable of all types of roofing, sometimes lasting up to 30, 40 or even 50 years. Knowing that they probably won’t ever have to replace their roof again gives homeowners real peace of mind, especially when they spent so long considering the different types of commercial roofing services available to them.

Other reasons include the following:

  • Strength & Durability Benefits. Metal roofs are better built to withstand severe weather conditions, as they have the highest wind resistance rating compared to all other types of roofing. Additionally, they do not absorb water and moisture, and will not crack or peel. They are also resistant to mildew, decay and especially rust.
  • Cost Benefits. Initially, metal roofs will usually cost more than other roofing types. But there is a high return on this investment through reduced energy and maintenance costs. Homes with metal roofs can save up to 15% a year on energy costs. Also, homes with metal roofs are known for their higher resale values.
  • Safety Benefits. Those benefits include fire and high-wind resistance, plus the strongest performance of all roof types under severe weather conditions. One of the greatest advantages of metal roofs is that they are fire-resistant.
  • Environmental Benefits. Almost all conventional roofing products are asphalt-based to some degree and are therefore non-recyclable and harmful to the environment. Metal roofing isn’t made with any asphalt material and is 100% recyclable.
  • Energy Efficiency. Metal roofing is a popular choice amongst South Florida homeowners as it reflects a considerable amount of the sun’s energy. This, in turn, may help people save money throughout the life of the roof in respect to energy and cooling costs. If people opt for a highly reflective color of metal, it can allow for up to about 20% reduction in air conditioning operating costs during the summer. Metal roofing can also reduce the homeowner’s insurance.
  • Design Benefits. There are many color choices and design schemes available in metal roofing materials. Metal roofs are available in almost any color, and copper metal brings a special accent to the home design and is a favorite amongst designers and architects.

As a homeowner in South Florida, an investment in metal roofing for your home is definitely the wisest choice you can make.

Istueta Roofing, South Florida’s Most Trusted Roofer Since 1985, can be reached at 305.671.9625 or online at www.istuetaroofing.com.

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Last modified: September 4, 2014