Metal Roofing Shingles: Right For Your Home

When it's time to replace your roof, whether due to age and deterioration or you simply want to make a change, you have a wide range of choices. The most common type of roofing material is asphalt shingles and many people like the attractive look of this type of roof. Did you know, however, that you can also have a shingle roof that is made out of metal? This article examines this topic.

Description

Most people associate metal roofing with large metal panels that give a roof a smooth and featureless appearance. In recent years, however, manufacturers have started producing metal roofing components that mimic the look of asphalt shingles. These metal shingles give homes a more natural look than the somewhat artificial appearance of metal panels. 

In addition to metal shingles that mimic the look of asphalt shingling, manufacturers also make shingles that replicate the appearance of wood, slate, and tile shingles. So you have a wide range of styles to choose from if you decide that metal shingles are best for your roof.

Materials

Metal roof shingles are made out of many different materials. For example, two of the most common types of metal shingles are made out of aluminum and copper. Steel is also a frequently seen material. Another interesting material for metal shingles is terne. This material is an alloy that combines tin and lead to make a protective coating for a steel base. Zinc shingles are yet another option.

Cost

The cost of metal shingles will vary depending on the material. Aluminum and steel shingles are the cheapest in most cases, while copper is typically the most expensive. For instance, aluminum and steel shingles might cost between $4 to $6.50 per square foot, while copper will run you about $12.50 to 16.50 per square foot. The cost of zinc shingles will generally fall in between the other three materials.

Advantages

Metal shingles not only have a more natural look than other styles of metal roofing but also give you the same benefits as metal roofing as well. Metal shingles, like all metal roofing, have a longer lifespan than asphalt shingles and can last 40 to 70 years compared to the 12 to 20 years of the average asphalt roof. Metal shingles are also energy efficient and can help you reduce your energy cost. 

To learn more about metal roofs and decide if they are right for your home, talk with someone from a residential roofing company in your area.

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