Metal roofing has an interesting history, and the movement to its use in residential homes is obvious. Here are some fascinating facts about the history of metal roofing.
- Copper Sheets and plates were used to cover Christ Church in Philadelphia, where many Declaration of Independence signers are buried.
- Nassau Hall at Princeton University was where George Washington was congratulated for winning the Revolutionary War. After a fire in 1802, the roof restoration was done with sheet metal.
- Monticello, the plantation owned by Thomas Jefferson, had tinplate iron roofing. This building was also built in 1802.
- S. Mint in New Orleans had a galvanized, corrugated iron roof installed in 1857. This was one of the first metal roofs in the southern United States. Today this building is part of the Louisiana State Museum.
Metal roofing had a slow start in the 19th Century, but has been gaining popularity as an “install it and forget it” type of roofing material for residential homes. Listed below are the pros of this type of roofing system.
Pros Of Metal Roofing
Longevity
Metallic roofing can span 40 to 70 years depending on the material used. This becomes an excellent investment as the homeowner may never have to replace the roof again in their lifetime. The more traditional roofing material, asphalt shingles, must be replaced appropriately every 20 years.
Durability
If the installation process is done correctly, metal roofing can sustain winds up to 120 mph. Considering that Arkansas is part of “Tornado Alley” and has an average of 39 tornados per year, metal is a sound decision. Metal roofing is also a wise choice to protect from fire and pests.
Energy Efficiency
Metal is excellent at reflecting much of the sun’s heat and energy. This can result in a 10 – 25% reduction in energy usage. That is great for your budget!
Low Maintenance
As mentioned above, metal is an “install it and forget it” roofing system. Dirt and grime will naturally slide off the panels keeping it clean and looking great. A simple routine inspection can be helpful to fix any scratches and dents.
Environmentally Friendly
Considering the longevity of a metal roofing system, there aren’t many roofs needing replacements. If, however, a roofing system does need to be replaced, the metal can be used for many other items. The metal does not end up clogging the landfills.
As with all things, there are a few cons. Let’s look at them briefly.
Affordability
Metal roofing can be two to three times more expensive than asphalt shingles when discussing the costs of installation. However, in the long run, investing in a metal roof makes sense if the homeowner intends to stay in the home for many years.
Noise Factor
Some homeowners complain of noise during rainstorms due to the rain or hail hitting the roof. One easy solution is to add more attic insulation to dull out the sound. This will also aid in lower energy bills!
Hard to Repair
Metal roofing can be a challenge if repairs need to be made. However, working with a knowledgeable roofing contractor who understands metal roofing is to your advantage.
Hostetler Roofing in ArkLaTex is just that company! We have been servicing roofing needs in the area for over 39 years! We are the leading metal roofing company and can provide you with the same service we would expect from others. We provide services rooted in honesty, integrity, and accountability. We are confident you will be thrilled with the quality of the systems we offer.