10 Things to Know Before Getting a Metal Roof

A metal roof is a big decision, and most homeowners only make it once. Before getting a metal roof, here are the ten things we’d want any homeowner to know. Each one links to a post that covers it in more detail.

1. Is your roof in good shape underneath?

When we measure your roof, we also do a free attic check. We look at the roof deck, any sagging or soft spots, signs of past leaks and how the attic is vented. If something needs fixing, we’ll include it in your quote. That way, it’s handled before your new roof goes on. Here are the signs you need a new roof, not just a repair, and here’s why venting matters.

2. Tear it off, or go over the shingles?

If the deck is sound, our steel and aluminum shingles can often go over one or two layers of existing shingles. As a result, you save the cost and mess of a tear-off. Standing seam, however, always goes on a bare deck. Here’s how a metal roof over shingles works.

3. How will it be installed?

This is the biggest difference between metal roofs. We install directly on the deck, with panels that lock on all four sides and fasteners hidden out of the weather. In contrast, roofs on battens (strapping) leave gaps that collect moisture and critters, and their exposed screws need maintenance. Here’s more on direct-to-deck vs batten (strapping) roofs.

4. Steel or aluminum?

Armadura steel is our most popular roof, mostly because it’s the most budget-friendly. Aluminum is lighter and never rusts, which makes it a strong choice near water. Both lock on all four sides and use hidden fasteners. Here’s what to ask about the metal itself.

5. Which style suits your home?

Metal roofing isn’t just flat panels anymore. You can choose standing seam for clean, modern lines, a slate look, a cedar-shake look or a traditional shingle. In fact, heritage committees have approved our Rustic cedar-shake and Armadura slate-look profiles. Here’s how a metal roof changes your home’s curb appeal.

6. Where will the snow go?

A metal roof sheds snow. That’s good for your roof, but the snow has to land somewhere. If it could slide onto a door, walkway, driveway or deck, plan for snow guards. Here’s how snow guards work.

7. Will it be noisy or hot?

On a direct-to-deck roof, rain sounds much like it does on asphalt. Metal also reflects more of the sun’s heat than asphalt, so your attic stays cooler in summer. Read more on metal roof noise and keeping your home cooler.

8. How long will it last, and what’s covered?

In Ontario, we typically see asphalt shingles last 9 to 13 years. A metal roof lasts decades longer. Armadura carries a 50-year non-prorated warranty, standing seam a 40-year warranty and Classic Aluminum a lifetime limited warranty. On top of that, we give a 10-year workmanship warranty. Read more on how long a metal roof lasts and how metal roof warranties work.

9. What will it cost?

A metal roof costs more up front than asphalt. However, you won’t be replacing it every 9 to 13 years. When you compare quotes, compare what each one actually includes, not just the bottom line. Read more on what a metal roof costs in Southern Ontario and how to compare metal roofing quotes.

10. Will the company be around in 20 years?

Metal roofing companies come and go, and a workmanship warranty is only as good as the company behind it. We’ve been installing metal roofs in Ontario since 2004. Here’s what to do if your metal roof installer goes out of business.