Things You Should Know About Metal Roofing in Raleigh, NC

Though asphalt shingles are still the most popular roofing option in North Carolina, metal roofing has become far more popular in recent years. 

Over the last few decades, developments in the metal roofing industry has allowed for homeowners to have much better looking, and longer lasting metal roofs which has greatly increased their popularity in the more rural areas around Raleigh. 

Metal has also recently been used much more as an accent piece, or over porches, for homes in suburban areas. But if you’re reading this article, you already want to learn more about metal roofing, so let’s get to it! 

In this article, we are going to go over six things you should know about metal roofing in Raleigh, NC. 

Six Things You Should Know About Metal Roof Replacement in Raleigh 

1. What are the Two Main Types of Metal Roofs? 

The two most common varieties of metal roofs are standing seam, and screw-down panel roofs.

Standing seams are considered the higher quality option, and are truthfully the only option for residential metal roofs. Screw-down panel roofs, on the other hand, are a great, more cost-effective option for buildings that aren’t heated, like a detached garage or a barn.  

We’ve gone in depth on these metal roofing options in our article on The Difference Between a Standing Seam and Screw-Down Panel Metal Roof. Essentially, it comes down to the construction of the roof’s ability to allow the metal to expand and contract as it heats and cools. Standing seams are designed with that movement in mind, while screw-down panels will need to be repaired and replaced quickly if they are installed over a heated space like a home. 

For the rest of this article, we will mainly be talking about standing seam roofs, since they are the option most homeowners would be considering. 

2. How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost? 

If you’re seriously considering a metal roof replacement, you need to be prepared to pay some pretty heavy costs up front. The materials required for a metal roofing project are much more difficult to obtain and fabricate than asphalt shingle roofs, so the project can cost two to three times more than an asphalt shingle roof replacement. 

To determine the exact cost for your roof replacement, you’ll need to have an estimate done by a quality roofing contractor. Material prices fluctuate and the size and shape of your roof will greatly affect the final cost. 

As we are about to talk about though, those higher initial prices might end up saving you some hassle, and money, in the long run. 

3. Do Metal Roofs Need Repairs?

Just like any other roof or part of your home, metal roofs will probably need to be repaired at some point. However, high quality standing seam roofs tend to require far fewer repairs than asphalt shingle roofs.  

You’ll need to maintain it like you would any other roof, but that maintenance routine won’t require smaller repairs that asphalt shingle roofs might need. Comparing it to other roofing materials, metal is one of the least needy roofs when it comes to maintenance. 

4. How Long Will a Metal Roof Last?

A standing seam metal roof can last around 50 years, or longer in good conditions, so make sure you get one that you like, because you’ll be seeing it for a while! 

That lifespan is one of the longest you can get for a residential roof, which is why metal roofing is such a popular option for homes that are in more rural locales. 

5. How Does Weather Affect Metal Roofs?

Intense hail affects metal roofing the same way it would an asphalt roof, except it would dent the metal panels instead of breaking off asphalt shingles. The metal is pretty durable, but it is always a good idea to check your roof after hail storms, as the dented metal affects the way moisture builds up on the roof, causing premature rusting. 

Intense wind won’t damage your metal nearly as much as it would an asphalt roof. Most metal roofs have a wind rating of up to 140-mph, while three tab shingles only protect up to 60 mph, and architectural shingles can be rated at up to 130-mph. 

6. How Does a Metal Roof Affect My Day-to-Day Life?

Due to the way metal roofs reflect the sun's heat, instead of absorbing it like asphalt roofs do, they can help reduce your air conditioning costs during the summertime. 

Metal roofs can be a little bit noisier than asphalt shingle roofs, but only in storms, and isn’t too much louder if the roof is properly installed. 

A good thing to note as well, is that some homeowner’s associations won’t allow metal roofs, as a metal roof in a neighborhood full of asphalt shingles would certainly stand out among the rest. So, if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, always check their requirements before getting a replacement. 

Want to Learn More About Metal Roofing in Raleigh?

After reading this, I hope you have a better understanding of metal roofing in the Raleigh area, and how you personally feel about the idea of getting a metal roof. 

If you still have questions about metal roofing, or how to get one installed, reach out to us using the button below! On Tops Roofing has been conducting metal roof replacements in Raleigh and the surrounding areas for over 30 years, so whatever your metal roofing project requires, we are On Top of it!