With multiple roofing options such as asphalt shingles, wood and slate available in the market, metal roofs are becoming a popular choice for many residential roofing projects. After proving their worth by protecting schools, factories, and large establishments, metal roofs are being modified and designed for Canadian homeowners. In this edition of the Roofing Report, you will find all the information you need to make a decision in favor of or against metal roofs.
What is a Metal Roof?
Metal roofs are a modern type of roofing system made from metal tiles, panels and other metal pieces. They are mostly made from aluminium, copper and zinc. These metals are long lasting, provide protection from corrosion and are also water resistant. Based on the quality of the metal roofing material and style you choose, their value will change.
Advantages of Installing a Metal Roof
Available in Different Colours
While you can’t literally paint the sky above your head, you can get close to it by painting your metal roof in any colour of your choice. This is a great option if you purchase a home with a metal roof and don’t love the colour of it. Simply hire a professional roofing company to repaint it for you.
Alternatively, if you’re installing a new metal roof on your home, you can decide which colour fits your home’s colour palette best. Choosing precoloured metal sheets is more cost effective and time saving. However, you always have the option of repainting if you change your mind a few years later.
Easy Installation
Whether you have an old shingled roof or a new plywood panel, installing a new metal roofing system is easier compared to others. Metal tiles or panels are lightweight so it becomes easy to transport them up on the roof. Your roofing contractor will identify the particular secure points and nail the new roofing material above the old roof. As long as the old roof is not rotted, corroded or has accumulated mold and mildew, you can install a new metal roof over the existing one.
Energy Efficient
Metal roofs are considered environmentally friendly as they are energy efficient. The pigments in their material have reflective properties that help the house maintain its core temperature. Contrary to common knowledge, metal roof pigments reflect solar energy rather than emitting it. This stops the roof from getting hot and you don’t have to turn the air conditioning on full power to keep cool indoors.
Its reflective properties also keep monthly utility bills down by almost 25%. However, it all depends on the quality and type of metal roof you choose. Talk to your roofing expert to discuss your options to get a more energy-efficient roof above your head.
Insurance Friendly
Installing a metal roof ensures that you will get a good deal on your home insurance. This is because metal roofs are made from recycled materials and are energy efficient. These two clauses will help to bring your Canadian home insurance premium down by significant margins. Metal roofs are also better protectors from snow and rain, they are long-lasting and environmentally friendly which adds in the insurance benefits. So, if you plan on getting a metal roof, call your insurance provider after you discuss the roof installation details with a local roofer.
Long-Lasting
The main reason for many Canadian homeowners to choose a metal roof is its long-lasting quality and durability. With its super strength to withstand extreme weather conditions, metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years! If you’re a new homeowner, then a new metal roof can last for two generations and with regular maintenance, maybe three!
Disadvantages of Installing a Metal Roof
Cost
Metal roofs are one of the most expensive options compared to asphalt shingles, wood and slate roofs. This is because they are manufactured from recycled materials, are highly durable and can offer you insurance benefits. Based on the size of your roof and the quality of materials you choose, it can add to the installation cost as well. Though it is costly, given all the advantages, roofers across Canada believe that it’s a wise investment choice.
You can refer to the metal roof installation, repair and replacement costs in the chart below for major Canadian cities.
| City Name | Average Cost | Minimum Cost | Maximum Cost |
| Barrie | $13,727 | $9,000 | $20,000 |
| Calgary | $19,640 | $500 | $40,000 |
| Edmonton | $25,814 | $10,000 | $50,000 |
| Halifax | $30,000 | $30,000 | $30,000 |
| Hamilton | $18,799 | $1,293 | $40,000 |
| Oshawa | $15,738 | $5,000 | $23,000 |
| Ottawa | $19,583 | $700 | $48,000 |
| Toronto | $12,079 | $600 | $30,000 |
| Vancouver | $19,252 | $300 | $40,000 |
*Based on 131 verified reviews as of February 2021
Noisy During Rain
If you live in a city like Vancouver where it rains constantly, then getting a metal roof might not be the best option. While you can add extra insulation to your roof and walls to minimize the noise, it will increase your final budget. Many metal roof manufacturers are coming up with metal panels that minimize the audio intensity. Your roofer will be better able to guide you to choose the right metal roof type for minimal rain noise.
Can Become Dented
Metal roofs are strong and durable as they are made from copper, zinc and/or aluminum. They are made to withstand strong winds between 140 to 180mph. However, they can be dented by trees or other big structures falling on them. Some roofs are also not safe to walk on. Unlike asphalt shingles and wood roofs, even walking on some types of metal roofs can dent them. Fixing the dent on your roof can be equally difficult and expensive.
After carefully considering all the pros and cons of metal roofs, we can safely say that they have more advantages considering their longevity, durability and insurance benefits. Though they are costly, they have their long-term benefits as well. Get in touch with a local roofer and ask for a custom quote to get a new, shiny, custom-coloured metal roof over your head.
