If you're building a new home or remodeling the one you've got now, a roof is an important and costly decision. When choosing which type of roof is best for your home, consider cost, durability, appearance, and the expected life of the material. Many people are now considering metal roofs, and they are a perfect choice for many people.

In both appearance and functionality, modern residential metal roofing has improved greatly from the days of their corrugated, "tin shed" appearance. Metal roofs now are more aesthetically pleasing, while retaining all the advantages of the material. Metal roofs are extremely durable, fire resistant, light weight, wind resistant, reflect heat well, and are easier to install. Drawbacks include initial cost, louder noise from rain or hail, poor insulation ability, and easier chipping and denting.

Since metal does not burn except at extreme temperatures, metal types of roofing receive the highest fire retardant rating, which may be an asset in resale value and homeowner's insurance rates as well as the obvious safety issue. Wind resistance is also excellent which has additional appeal in locations vulnerable to high wind exposure, such as hurricanes.

Since metal roofs reflect the heat of the sun, they will reduce the energy required to cool your house during the summer. They have little inherent insulation, but by inserting open space between the metal and the underlying roof, you can get the same effect as you would by adding insulation. Weather-related noise can be reduced by added sound deadening insulating material. Be aware that heat can cause metal to expand and connectors to become loose.

The lightness of metal roofs can reduce construction costs decreasing the amount of support members needed for them. Low weight can also mean that metal roofing can be installed over an existing roof in need of replacement without having to tear it off, saving time and money. Since metal types often come in sheets covering a fairly larger area, installation takes less time. However, large sections may be harder to replace if that becomes necessary and may be hard to match if an addition is built.

Metal roofs cost more than most other roofs, which is the main obstacle to installing them. However, discount metal roofing is available at lower cost. Even if you cannot get a discount, the durability of metal may make it cheaper in the long run. Most roofs made of metal will last for 20 to 50 years, or longer than the house beneath them. Metal becomes a greater bargain if you intend to continue living in the same house for a very long time.