What Are the Downsides of Getting a Metal Roof?

Are you considering getting a metal roof but curious about what kinds of problems they have? Do you want to know if the cons of having a metal roof might mean that it will not meet your needs and preferences?

At RoofSmart, we discuss with each customer the options they have for their roof replacement before each job begins. This includes having an honest conversation about the pros and cons of each type of roofing material so that the customer knows exactly what to expect.

Every roof material has benefits and drawbacks, which is why we believe it’s important to be aware of both before you choose which type of roof you want to buy with your hard-earned money.

This article will explore a series of potential issues that metal roofs have. All of these issues apply to both a standing seam and a stamped metal roof.

In this article, you’ll learn about the problems that metal roofs have. By the end, you’ll be able to decide if a metal roof is still right for you and your roof’s needs based on the cons.

Do metal roofs grow slime and algae?

If your house has trees hanging over it that shed sap frequently, this can cause slime or algae to collect on the roof. This is something that you can clean off yourself, but it can be dangerous because the roof will be very slippery. And, as you spray water on it, it will only get more slippery.

This issue is specific mainly to steel roofs. More expensive options, like copper and zinc, naturally prevent the build-up of algae and other substances on the roof.

Are metal roofs loud?

If anything falls on the roof—like pinecones, branches, or hail—it will be slightly louder than if you had an asphalt roof. Technically, metal roofs are louder, but only by 6 decibels on an insulated roof with a roof deck underneath. So, with a properly insulated roof, you cannot really tell the difference.

But, if you have a thin metal roof with little insulation, then it might be a bit louder than an asphalt roof. We don’t have a lot of hail here in the Seattle area, but we do get plenty of rain. Some people might enjoy the constant sound of rain, others might not enjoy it as much.

How much does a metal roof cost?

Metal roofs are expensive: on average, a metal roof costs around $60,000. This is the price for installing a steel roof on a 3,000-square-foot home.

A metal roof costs about twice as much as an asphalt roof. However, if you choose a different type of metal, the cost can increase significantly. Overall, metal roofs have many advantages, but they are a really big investment.

Will the paint and other protective coatings on a metal roof fade?

Over time, the paint on your steel or aluminum roof can fade. This is a very slow process, but since metal roofs last around 50 years, you will eventually notice a difference. PVDFs, which are higher-grade coatings, take decades to fade, while lower-grade SMP coatings fade more quickly.

You’ll notice that the paint has faded once the roof loses its sheen and starts chalking. Chalking is when the protective coating on your roof breaks down and becomes a white residue. It makes your roof look somewhat white and chalky.

Once you notice chalking, that means that your roof has lost its protection and will be prone to rusting. However, this is a decades-long process.

Not all types of metal roofs need a protective coating. But, steel (and aluminum) roofs, which are by far the most common type of metal roof, do need them. Steel roofs need that protective coating to keep them from rusting.

Do metal roofs dent easily?

Metal roofs are generally a stronger barrier to have on the outside of your home than most other types of roof materials. They help protect your roof from damage, but sometimes they can get dented during that process.

Some types of metal roofs are stronger than others, but depending on the type of debris that hits them, all types of metal roofs can dent. Steel can hold up well under hail or small debris, but it will get dented from a large tree branch falling on it. Repairing it will be expensive.

Copper roofs are a softer metal and they are more easily prone to denting. This is important to keep in mind if you are considering getting a copper roof because they are incredibly expensive to install and repair.

Why is it expensive and difficult to repair a metal roof?

A standard standing seam metal roof is made of long panels that are custom-made to be the exact length of your roof.

So, if one of the panels gets damaged, it can be a hassle to replace because the roofing contractor will need to order another panel and then refit the entire panel into its spot on the roof. Custom-ordering a panel is also expensive and can take a lot of time.

Installing and repairing metal roofs also requires a higher level of expertise. Not all roofers are trained in metal roof installation, so it can be harder to find a contractor who can help you with your repair.

Are metal roofs prone to rusting near the ocean?

Steel roofs are vulnerable to rusting in any environment without a protective coating. This is especially an issue for anyone who lives near the ocean. Steel is not a good roofing material to use if you live in the Puget Sound area.

If you want a metal roof near the ocean, you’ll want to choose metals that are naturally resistant to corrosion: aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.

Is getting a metal roof worth it?

While metal roofs offer durability and longevity, they also come with potential drawbacks like noise, higher costs, and difficulty with maintenance issues. They also can be difficult to repair and might not be ideal for those who want an affordable roof for their oceanfront property.

However, to fully assess the value of a metal roof, it’s essential to weigh these cons against the benefits to determine if a metal roof aligns with your specific needs and environment.

To learn more about the benefits of a metal roof, check out our article “Is a Metal Roof Right for Me?”. This will help you determine how well the benefits of a metal roof align with your needs and preferences for your roof.

Interested in learning more about the pros and cons that are specific to each type of metal roof option? Read our article “6 Types of Metal Roof Materials: Pros, Cons, and Costs” to see which one is right for you.