Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about Metal Roofs? We have the answers! Please review the Questions below to learn more.
Q: Is metal roofing good for the environment?
A: Metal roofing is made from approximately 25% recycled materials and is 100% recyclable at the end of its life. Also, due to its light weight, we may be able to install our Metal roofing over the top of your existing roof, eliminating the problem of disposing of used shingles.
Q: Can I reduce my homeowner’s insurance with a metal roof?
A: Because metal roofs are non-combustible, they are given a Class A fire rating, which is the best. This can translate into a reduction on your homeowner’s rate.
Q: How can I tell if my roof is at the end of its life?
A: A visual roof inspection is very simple and can be done without climbing on the roof. Shingles that are curling on the ends, exposed nails and missing granules are all signs your roof may need to be replaced. Also look for parts of the roof that look as if the are sagging.
You can look at the eves of your home. Rotten wood along the eves may be sign that water is leaking through the roof.
You can also inspect your roof from the inside of the home. Look for brown staining on the ceilings. If the home has an attic, look for dark spots on the wood decking on the attic ceiling. This may be a sign that water has penetrated into the under decking of the roof. If this is occurring, the decking may also need to be replaced.
Q: Aren’t metal roofs noisy?
A: Not really. Metal roofing doesn’t increase the sound in your home during rainstorms. You will continue to hear about the same as with a shingle roof. The panel is separated from the underlayment and that from the decking. Each distinct layer has air between it and the next which will dampen noise.
Q: How do I know that I need a new roof?
A: You should start looking to replace a shingle roof within the first 12-15 years of its life. Although shingles are guaranteed for longer, they usually will fail within that life expectancy. In any case, most insurance companies want to see shingles replaced every 15 years. With metal, they’ll allow 50 years!
Q: What is the life expectancy of a metal roof?
A: A quality metal roof that is properly installed should last the lifetime of the owner. In fact, because metal withstands so many elements including high winds and rain, metal roofing is known for its attractive life cycle.
Q: How well do Metal Roofing Systems stand up to the Elements?
A: Properly installed metal roofing will withstand inclement weather (high winds, hail, snow and rain) better than any other roofing material. Metal easily sheds snow and ice and does not absorb water which can lead to cracking and rotting in the freeze-thaw cycling of the other months. In addition, metal does not burn, rot, warp, split or crack and is impervious to termites and pests.
In testing, Metal Roofing Systems have withstood winds up to 200 MPH and have historically survived hurricanes and wind storms when other materials have failed.
Our Metal Roofing Systems have been approved in the Coastal Zones of the Miami-Dade metropolitan area, which are some of the toughest codes in the United States.
Q: What does Metal Roofing weight compared to other roofing materials?
A: Metal Roofing weighs from .7 to 1.3 lbs per square foot, depending on the gauge and configuration. Shingles average 2 to 2.5 lbs per square foot. Clay tile weighs approximately 10 lbs per square foot. Less weight on the roof translates to less stress on the trusses.
Q: Am I limited in the choices of colors with a Metal Roof?
A: There are currently over 20 colors to choose from.
Q: Does my old roof have to be removed first?
A: Because of the light weight of Metal Roofing Systems, we can in most cases install our roof over the existing roof. This brings significant savings in time and labor and it eliminates the growing disposal problem associated with used shingles.
Q: Why should I choose Prestige Metal Roofing® to install my roof?
A: You should choose us because we are specialists with over 30 years’ experience in residential metal roofing. We choose to do one thing and do it well. Well enough to offer the longest warranties in the industry.
Q: Will having a metal roof increase the likelihood that my home will be hit by lightning?
A: No. Lightning usually strikes the highest point, no matter what type of surface. Since a metal roof is non-combustible you may see a decrease in the damage due to a lightning strike.
Q: Will a Metal Roof decrease my heating and cooling costs?
A: According to industry testing, metal roofing can reduce heat in your attic by up to 50 degrees. That can lead to savings and our customers routinely save between 20%-30% off their summertime cooling costs. In some cases, it’s even higher, up to 40%. Since heating acts opposite, the roof doesn’t affect your costs, though many customers remark that their homes are warmer in the winter with their new roof.
Q: Doesn’t Metal Roofing cost more than shingle or other materials?
A: The initial cost of a Metal Roofing system may be higher than shingles.However, the cost/benefit ratio over the life of the roof is superior to that of a shingle system and far superior to shake, slate or tile.