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How Long Does a Metal Roof Last? A Guide for Homeowners

Rich Walton • Sep 27, 2023

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last? A Guide for Homeowners

In the United States, the share of residential metal roofs has risen from 12% to 17% between 2019 and 2021. Metal roofs are rising in popularity as time goes by.

Whether you're thinking about installing a metal roof for the first time or you're trying to plan for the future, knowing how long a metal roof lasts can be helpful. Metal roofs tend to last significantly longer than shingles do and have exceptional durability and strength.

So how long does a metal roof last? In this guide, we'll tell you what you want to know.


How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?


There are a lot of factors that affect how long a metal roof will last, so it's hard to give an exact answer. Generally speaking, however, a metal roof will last anywhere from 30 years to 80 years.

You'll need to consider the specific type of roof that you have when trying to determine how long it will last. You also need to consider several other factors as well including the installation process, weather conditions, and how well you maintain your metal roof.


Standing Seam vs. Screw-Down Panel Metal Roofs


When determining the lifespan of your metal roof, one of the main things to think about is the type that you have. The two main types are standing seam and screw-down panel metal roofs.

A standing seam metal roof will typically last a bit longer than a screw-down panel metal roof. This type of roof has metal roofing panels that are joined by an underlying seam. They also have vertical trapezoidal legs that work to cover the seam.

A standing seam metal roof will typically last at least 30 years. However if conditions are right and if you take care of your metal roof, it may last as long as 70-80 years instead.

A screw-down panel metal roof is screwed down with exposed screws which hold metal panels to the roof decking. These don't have as much durability as standing seam roofs, so they generally won't last as long. These roofs will typically last between 20 to 30 years.


Factors That Affect Metal Roof Lifespan


There are other factors that can affect how long your metal roof lasts as well. Here's what you should think about:


Metal Roof Coatings


If your particular metal roof has a metal roof coating such as a Kynar 500 finish, then its lifespan may be extended. This type of paint coating can help to protect your roof and add to its durability.

However, keep in mind that this type of coating can only be applied to a standing seam metal roof. It can't be applied to a screw-down panel metal roof.


Quality of Installation


If your home roofing is installed well by professional roofers, it's more likely to have a longer lifespan. In particular, standing seam metal roofs need to be installed with extra care so that they will have the highest level of durability possible.

Be sure that you hire a licensed roofing contractor. A reliable contractor with experience will ensure that the job is done right.


Attic Ventilation


The conditions in your attic can also affect how long your roof lasts. If your attic doesn't have adequate ventilation, the metal on your roof may deteriorate more quickly. Roofing materials could end up expanding and contracting or developing ice dams more easily.

You'll want to avoid moisture damage in the attic. Ensure that your attic is insulated and ventilated properly so that your roof will last as long as possible.


Weather Conditions


The weather that's in your area can also affect how long your roof lasts as well. If your home experiences extreme weather conditions on a regular basis then you may find that your roof doesn't last as long as it could if you lived in an area with very mild weather.

High winds, hail, rain, snow, and high heat can all damage your roof. Keep this in mind when trying to determine how long your roof will last.


Maintenance


The amount of effort you put into maintaining your metal roof will also influence how long it takes before you need to make a replacement. Keeping an eye on your roof and ensuring that any damage is taken care of immediately will help quite a bit.

It's a good idea to trim branches that are nearby and to avoid letting your gutters get clogged. You should always remove debris as soon as you notice any issues.

Generally speaking, you should plan to get your roof inspected at least once a year. This is true whether you have a standing seam roof or a screw-down panel metal roof.

Paying attention to the condition of your roof is well worth it. It can help ensure that you need to make fewer repairs and that more time passes before you need to make a full roof replacement.


Are Metal Roofs Easy to Maintain?


Despite needing to maintain your metal roof to make sure that it lasts as long as possible, metal roofs are relatively low maintenance when compared to other roofing materials. Metal roofs are very resistant to issues and are very durable overall.

Although standing seam roofs are more durable than screw-down panel metal roofs, all types of roofs made from metal are incredibly strong. Metal roofs don't experience problems with the collection of moss and snow doesn't cause any problems either.

You'll need to maintain your roof, get inspections, and make sure that your gutters remain unclogged. However, taking care of a metal roof is fairly easy and is a great choice for a home.


Choosing a Metal Roof


So how long does a metal roof last? By now you should have a better understanding of your metal roof's lifespan.

A metal roof's lifespan will vary based on how well you take care of it, the quality of the installation, weather conditions, and several other factors. However, you can generally expect a metal roof to last anywhere from 30-80 years on average.

Ready to make repairs or replace your residential roof? Contact Garner Roofing to find out more about how we can help meet your needs.


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By Rich Walton • 02 Aug, 2023
When it rains, it pours - especially in California. Homeowners understand the importance of having a reliable gutter system to safeguard their homes from water damage. But, the question often arises - between seamless gutters vs regular gutters, which one is the best choice? The answer depends on various factors like cost, durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. This article will delve into the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of both gutter types to empower you to make an informed decision. Let's protect your home from the effects of torrential downpours with the right gutter system. What Are Regular Gutters? When you look up at most homes' roofs, the gutters you're likely to see are the regular type. These are your standard gutters, typically seen in a shape known as K-style or half-round. Regular gutters, or sectional gutters, come in pieces that connect to span the length of your roof. These sections, made from materials such as vinyl, aluminum, copper, or steel, usually measure around 10 to 20 feet long. Each piece in this type of gutter has a joint where it connects to another. These joints, or seams, are both the strength and potential weakness of regular gutters. Seams can give the system flexibility but also present opportunities for leaks if they are not sealed correctly. Sectional gutters are a common choice among do-it-yourself enthusiasts because their standard lengths and available connectors allow for straightforward assembly. These gutters can also be a more budget-friendly option, depending on the material chosen. Advantages and Disadvantages of Regular Gutters When discussing the types of gutters, the affordability of regular gutters often comes up as a strong advantage. Sectional gutters are generally less expensive than seamless ones, especially if you're looking at vinyl or aluminum options. This cost-effectiveness makes them a popular choice for many homeowners. Another advantage is the ease of installation. With some basic tools and a bit of know-how, installing sectional gutters can become a rewarding DIY project. Lastly, regular gutters come in a wide variety of colors and materials. This variety gives homeowners the freedom to choose gutters that best complement their home's aesthetic. While regular gutters have their perks, they also come with drawbacks. The most significant is the risk of leaks. Over time, the seams where the gutter sections connect can become weak points. If not sealed properly or if the sealant wears off, water can escape. This causes potential damage to your home's exterior or foundation. Maintenance is another factor to consider. Regular gutters are more prone to clogs from leaves, twigs, and other debris. Without regular cleaning , these blockages can lead to water overflow and damage. Finally, regular gutters, especially those made of vinyl, may not withstand extreme weather conditions as well as seamless gutters. Harsh sun exposure, heavy rain, or snow can cause these gutters to crack or warp over time. As a result, they might need to be replaced sooner than their seamless counterparts. What Are Seamless Gutters? Unlike regular gutters, seamless gutters are precisely what their name suggests: gutters without seams. But how is that possible? These gutters are custom-made from a single piece of material, typically aluminum. They're cut to fit the exact length of your home's roofline. The cutting and shaping usually happen on-site, using a special machine brought by the gutter installation team. The only seams in these gutters are at the corners. This makes them less prone to leaks compared to their sectional counterparts. And while the cost for seamless gutters can be higher, their durability and lower maintenance needs often justify the investment. 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If a section gets damaged, you may need to replace the entire gutter length, adding to the expense. Lastly, while they come in various colors, the material options for seamless gutters can be more limited than for regular gutters. Seamless Gutters vs Regular Gutters: Which is Best for Your Home? When considering gutter options for your home, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both seamless and regular gutters have their pros and cons. The best choice largely depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Regular gutters could be a good choice if: You're on a tight budget You don't mind regular maintenance You want a variety of material choices They're also a feasible option if you're a DIY enthusiast who enjoys hands-on home projects. On the other hand, seamless gutters could be your best bet if you're looking for a long-term solution with less maintenance. While the upfront cost can be higher, you may save in the long run by avoiding frequent repairs or replacements. 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By Rich Walton • 22 Jun, 2023
The average roof can last anywhere from 20 to 100 years, depending on the material . Of course, you'll only enjoy its full life expectancy if you take good care of it! Our roofs spend so much time baking under the hot California sun that inspections and maintenance are the keys to their long lifespans. That's why experts recommend roofing inspections once a year at a minimum. If you've fallen behind on these check-ups, you may be wondering what to expect. When should you schedule them, for example, and what happens when your contractor arrives? Let's take a look at everything you should expect from your roofing inspection. 1. When to Schedule a Roof Inspection The average property owner should schedule a roof inspection at least once a year. However, there are times when it helps to reach out to a contractor more often. If your roof has significant tree coverage, getting inspections twice a year may help. Branches that break off during inclement weather can fall and damage the surface of your roof. In addition, loose leaves and debris can sometimes encourage the growth of mold, algae, and other moisture-loving nuisances. You should also schedule more frequent inspections if you have an older roof. A roof that has reached the midpoint of its expected lifespan may become more vulnerable to weather damage as it continues to age. It's also a good idea to schedule a roof inspection before buying or selling a property. This can help you determine the condition of the roof as you negotiate the property's sale price and contract terms. Last, you should always reach out for an inspection if you've noticed signs of damage. Missing shingles or roof tiles, broken flashing, attic leaks, and holes in the roof membrane are all red flags. The ideal times of year to schedule a roof inspection are spring and fall. 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If you can safely do so, clear away any leaves, twigs, or other debris on your roof before the inspection. This makes it easier for your contractor to make their assessments. 3. The Cost of a Roof Inspection Roof inspection costs here in California range between $400 and $700. The final price tag will vary based on a few factors. First, your roof itself will influence the cost. The square footage, slope, and accessibility of your roof will determine how much time and effort the contractors will have to spend on the job. Larger roofs may call for additional team members, and steep or less accessible may require special safety equipment. Second, you'll pay more for certain types of roof inspections than others. An inspection that uses infrared technology or a camera-equipped drone, for example, will cost more than a traditional inspection. 4. Areas of Inspection Your contractor will often begin your inspection by climbing up to your roof to check for potential damage or problems. However, you might be surprised to learn that roofing contractors won't just check your roof during an inspection! Back on the ground, they may also check any gutters and downspouts on your property. This can help ensure that these systems function as they should. Your roofer may also request access to your attic. Stains, mildew and mold, cracks and holes, water damage, and other common problems are easy to spot on the wood. Your contractor may also take a moisture reading and check your insulation. Your roofer may also check your property's walls or ceilings. This is especially helpful when you or the contractor have noticed a roof leak that may be draining indoors. 5. What Roof Inspectors Look For During your home or commercial roof inspection, contractors are doing a few things at once: Interior Inspection As noted above, your roofer will perform an interior inspection of your property. During this time, they'll check your attic, ceilings, and walls. Material Inspection As your roof ages, its materials may degrade or grow damaged. Your contractor will check for signs of discoloration, water infiltration, cracks, and other damage. They'll check your shingles or tiles as well as your decking, flashing, vents and soffits, and chimney. If you have skylights or other penetrations, they'll inspect those as well. Workmanship Inspection Your roofing inspector will also check the workmanship of your roof. This ensures that installation issues don't cause problems with your roof. Incorrect or lazy techniques can lower the lifespan of even top-quality materials, so your contractor will take note of anything that should be addressed. Structural Inspection The structural integrity of your roofing system is crucial. A structurally sound roof is better able to withstand impacts and damage. During an inspection, a contractor will check for signs of sagging. This may include damaged collar or rafter ties, sagging ceilings or exterior walls, and damaged rafters. Contact Us for Roofing Inspections Now that you know what to expect, it's time to schedule your inspection! Regular roofing inspections can help you protect your roof and even expand its lifespan. With an experienced roofer to check for small problems before they snowball into massive headaches, you may even be able to avoid the need for costly repairs. If you live in Sacramento or the surrounding areas, our expert team here at Garner Roofing would be happy to perform a complete inspection. Licensed since 1991, our contractors have plenty of experience helping property owners protect their roofs from anything the California weather can throw at them. Contact us today for a free estimate.
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