The problem with most roof coverings is they’re not that durable, and they don’t last very long. Mid-grade asphalt shingles and real wood shakes only last between 15 and 25 years if correctly installed and regularly maintained. Even so-called ’50-year shingles’ usually only last 25-40 years. (By the way, the ’50-year’ label refers to the manufacturer’s warranty and not the expected lifespan of the shingles.)
What’s more, traditional asphalt shingles, even white ones, are not energy-efficient. In fact, they’re among the least energy-efficient roofs available today. That’s because they don’t reflect as much heat as other roofs.
Wood is also highly susceptible to insects, fire, and rot. Rock slate and concrete tiles are highly durable and last a long time, but they’re extremely heavy, and most homes require additional structural changes to support them.
The solution is standing seam. There are many benefits of a standing seam roof. They often last 70 years or more when correctly installed and maintained. They last so long because they’re highly resistant to things like hail, insects, rot, and strong winds. Standing seam roofs are also highly energy-efficient, saving you money on your utility bill. They’re also recyclable in our area, unlike common asphalt shingles.
Benefit #1: Energy Efficient
A big benefit of standing seam is energy efficiency. No other roof covering reflects as much heat as standing seam. As a result, they help to lower your utility bill, thus saving you money. In fact, studies show that an attic under a standing-seam roof is 20º cooler than one under a regular asphalt shingle roof. A cooler attic means a cooler home.
Benefit #2: Longevity
A standing seam roof lasts longer because it’s more durable than other roofs. Traditional shingles have a fiberglass base. Standing seam is metal. Metal is more durable than fiberglass and resists hail much better. A standing seam roof is installed with screws. Most roofs are installed with nails. Screws have better holding power than nails, so they resist strong winds better. Wood shingles and shakes are highly susceptible to rot, and insects are attracted to them. Metal doesn’t rot, and insects aren’t attracted to metal.
Benefit #3: Fewer Re-Roofs
A less commonly known benefit of standing seam is that you have to go through fewer re-roofs with one. With most roofs, because they only last on average 25 years, they’re being replaced about every 25 years. As homeowners, you’re being inconvenienced with the re-roofing process roughly every 25 years. Under a standing seam roof, you’re not.
Benefit #4: Recyclable
Standing seam roofs are also recyclable in our area, unlike traditional asphalt shingles. When we remove a worn-out asphalt shingle roof, we have to take it to the nearest landfill. When we eventually remove a worn-out standing seam roof, we deliver it to the nearest metal recycling facility.
The Bottom Line
The primary benefits of a standing seam roof include energy efficiency, durability, and longevity. If you want to save money and have a more durable, longer-lasting roof, ask us whether a new standing seam roof is right for you. We’re happy to come to you and discuss your re-roofing options and provide a free, no-obligation estimate.