The National Roofing Contractor’s Association states that the popularity of residential metal roofing has skyrocketed over the last decade. No, it is not that the corrugated tin barn roof look has come into style. The market now includes new types of metal roofs that look great while being durable, light weight, and fire-resistant. Formerly only popular for business and industrial buildings, metal roofs have found a new home…on houses.

Metal roofing materials have a number of other advantages. In addition to those already mentioned, metal roofs are quick to install and great at reflecting the heat from the sun. It is a common misconception that because it is hot on a metal roof it will be hot under the roof. But the metal roof reflects the heat, that is why it it hot above the roof. If it’s hotter on top, it is cooler down below the roof.

Most metal roofs are aluminum and/or steel, but alloys such as copper are as well used. While the new metal roofs can mimic the look of other traditional residential roofing materials, some popular styles retain a decidedly commercial look found by architects to give a home clean lines.

This is the real world and in the real world nothing is perfect. Metal roofs also have negatives which each homeowner must judge in relation to the advantages. Metal roofs are expensive, between $150 and $600 a square (100 square feet). But this expense can be recovered if the homeowner remains in the home for a long time and a metal roof helps save on engineering and structural maintenance of the supporting structure. In a rain storm having a metal roof can be a little like living inside a drum. A metal roof is louder than other types of roofs. But sound deadening insulation helps minimize this noise. Just like it can a car, hail can dent softer metal roofs such as copper and aluminum roofs. Some metal roofs, however, are guaranteed against denting. When planning to walk on the roof for maintenance such as cleaning the gutters, keep in mind that a metal roof tends to be slippery when wet. Some metal finishes can chip and peel, although again they’re generally guaranteed for many years against such marring.

A quick note on lightning for residential metal roofing is, do not be afraid. People assume that because metal conducts electricity a metal roof will attract lightening. This isn’t the case, especially when trees or other objects surrounding the home are higher than the roof. Metal roofs can also be grounded for additional protection.

In this world of worlds in which we live, residential metal roofing is for sure to give, a homeowner a great roofing experience.