Where There's Metal, There's Mettle

Most people don't realize how many roofing options exist until it comes time to replace one. Should I go with shingles or metal? The best way to answer that question is to seek the advice of a reputable roofing contractor who will show you the ropes of roofing.

If it appears metal roofing is the best option for you, your contractor likely recognizes how you will benefit from this roofing material versus traditional shingles or even ceramic tiling. Metal roofing is showing up more and more on residences, and in South Florida, where a chance of rain always seems to be in the forecast, some folks find that pitter-patter very relaxing.

While this fringe benefit is a welcome plus, it's likely not the logical reason a contractor will recommend a metal roof. Instead, they have considered the advantages of metal roofing, which include:

• Durability
• Efficiency
• Ease of installation
• Seamless design

These are the most common advantages of metal roofing. And within these pluses are such features as reflectivity. In this situation, the roof reflects the sun, decreasing the amount of heat transferred into the attic. And if there's less heat in the attic, the easier it is on your air conditioning system.

Do Metal Roofs Leak More Than Shingles Or Flat Roofs?

The short answer is, they shouldn't leak more, and the key to a watertight seal lies in the installation and, most recently, the availability of standing seam metal roofs. This method employs a series of interlocking metal panels that snugly fit into a system of fairly wide, flat metal panels with vertical ribs on the ends.

There are no exposed fasteners or seams, so the roof is leak-free and virtually maintenance-free. And if you happen to have a roofline with a minimum pitch, you're not looking at the same expense that comes with metal roofs that go up where there is a steep pitch.

Also contributing to the effectiveness of a metal roof is its ability to drain rainwater. The surface of the metal sheet is hard and smooth, so water naturally runs off.

Metal Roofs Are Not Only Safe; They Are Environmentally Friendly

As mentioned above, most homeowners don't have all the facts when it comes to roof construction. Myths abound about rust, leaks, and even whether metal roofs attract lightning (they don't!).

If you decide on a metal roof, you are going with one of the safest roof options available. Did you know that metal roofs are:

• Fire-resistant
• Mold- and moss-proof
• Solar friendly
• Eco-friendly
• 100% recyclable (after its life is up)

Panela Roofing is one such roofing contractor you can turn to when it comes time to install a metal roof.