Once disregarded as only for farms, aluminum roofing is making a comeback. Find out more on aluminum roofing prices and the pros and cons of the material.

Aluminum roofing prices. Photo by tombothetominator on Flickr. If you're planning on installing aluminum roofing, prices are just one piece of the equation. To fully understand the pros and cons of installation, you'll need to consider other roofing costs, including roof repair, what kind of roofing warranty you'll purchase, and how aluminum roofing prices differ from ones made from other materials.

Asphalt roofing has been the most popular roofing type for years, but aluminum roofing is gaining a footing in the industry. When people used to mention metal or aluminum roofs, images of tin roofs and barn-style structures immediately leapt to mind. Today, people are attracted to aluminum for its good looks and because it's available in attractive textures and colors.

aluminum roofing

Pros

In spite of the continued popularity of traditional asphalt shingles, aluminum roofing has many positive features. Some aluminum roofing benefits include the following:

  • The aluminum material makes the roof particularly resistant to things like high winds, extreme temperatures, excessive water, mildew, rot and insects.
  • It is lightweight, with most varieties netting out at around 150 pounds per 100 square feet, or square.
  • Thanks to the fact that aluminum-roofing material is sold in sheets or multi-shingle sections, it's extremely easy to install for experienced roofing contractors. This can be extremely beneficial if you need to build the roof in a hurry to save costs or to replace a damaged one.
  • Has a Class A fire rating because they're classified as virtually noncombustible, making them pretty fire-resistant.
  • An excellent heat conductor since they reflect heat from the sun, cutting down on the heat from intense sun.
  • Aluminum roofing is easily installed on homes that have minimal roof pitch.
  • A roofing warranty is probably one of the last things an aluminum roof owner needs to think about because a properly installed roof can last as long as the house is standing. A typical aluminum roofing warranty ranges from 20 to 50 years.

Cons and prices

While the above factors make aluminum roofing a very attractive choice for homeowners, there are some cons that you should consider:

  • The initial cost is very expensive, making that a factor for some people. Like other top-of-the-line materials, aluminum roofing can cost you anywhere from $150 to $600 per square foot. On the upside, yourroofinginitial investment will last you for many years.
  • Some people are irritated by the sound of rain pounding down on an aluminum roof. While others may find it homey. It boils down to personal preference.
  • Aluminum can dent. If you live an area of frequent hailstorms, then this factor is a consideration.
  • Aluminum can expand and contract as it warms and cools. So you'll need to install fastening systems that are built to accommodate this movement.
  • There's no proof that metal roofs get struck by lightning more than other types of roofs. You can install a lightning rod if you're worried.

Aluminum roofing prices seem to be one of the biggest obstacles to getting an aluminum roof installed. Check out QualitySmith to find information regarding finding a contractor that can help with getting a roofing estimate. When it comes to roofing, cost shouldn't be the only factor.