Roofing Materials

[pamsabear]

After a year of patching my roof here and there, it is time for it to be replaced. We are considering two kinds of roofing materials: asphalt shingles and metal roofing sheets.

More and more of the home owners in my neighborhood are getting metal roofs. I think it's a very good look for Florida and last much longer than the asphalt shingles.

Is one more economical than the other? Anyone up to date on the costs of these materials?

Pam

[DM]

After a year of patching my roof here and there, it is time for it to be replaced. We are considering two kinds of roofing materials: asphalt shingles and metal roofing sheets.

More and more of the home owners in my neighborhood are getting metal roofs. I think it's a very good look for Florida and last much longer than the asphalt shingles.

Is one more economical than the other? Anyone up to date on the costs of these materials?

Pam

Are we talking about sheet steel, or steel shingles?

If it's "sheet" steel, then it depends on what steel is used? If it's a standing seam, ok... BUT, if it's pole barn siding/steel, no thanks!

DM

[MooseToo]

Are we talking about sheet steel, or steel shingles?

If it's "sheet" steel, then it depends on what steel is used? If it's a standing seam, ok... BUT, if it's pole barn siding/steel, no thanks!

DM

why ? just curious -

[DM]

Because where i live, i've helped too many folks tear that pole barn steel off, when the roof get's older, and starts leaking. There are many reasons why they leak, but one of the biggest is the rubber washers break down, and start letting moisture in.

Some do get away with using it, on VERY steep pitched roofs, but i'm talking the normal 4/12 and 5/12 roofs.

I'd use it "if" i got it for FREE, and needed it for a shed that it didn't matter if it leaked, but NOT on any other kind of roof.

DM

[Joe]

If your roof deck is in good shape, You can build up a metal roof over your existing roof, it goes up quick so you save on labour. It also helps cool down your house, thanks to the space between the old roof and the sheet metal. Check your local building code if its permit

[NCLee]

Pam, when we replaced the shingles on our roof a couple of years ago, there was a huge difference in the cost of replacing the shingles and putting on a metal roof instead.

I would have liked to have gone with metal roofing, but it just wasn't in our budget.

My best suggestion is to get estimates for both from contractors in your area. They'll know your local building codes and the availability in your area of the various materials. Plus, they will be aware of any special situations that may apply to your roof. (Amount of valley flashing and/or rubber membrane that you may need, for example.)

Lee