According to the National Roofing Contractor's Association

the popularity of residential metal roofing has skyrocketed over the last decade. Is it that the corrugated tin barn look has come into style, or did pixies and elves with metal roof stocks skew the results? No. The market now includes new types of metal roofs that look great while being durable, light weight, and fire-resistant. Once mostly used for business and industrial buildings, metal roofs have found a new home...on houses.

There are other advantages to metal roofs. In addition to those already mentioned, metal roofs are quick to install and great at reflecting the heat from the sun. It's a common misconception that because it's hot on a metal roof it will be hot under the roof. But the metal roof reflects the heat, that's why it's hot above the roof. If it's hotter on top, it's cooler down below the roof.

Most metal roofs are aluminum and/or steel, but copper and other alloys are also used. While the new metal roofs can mimic the look of other traditional residential roofing materials, some architects stick to a commercial look because of its clean lines.

Surely its not all peaches and cream for metal roofs. Metal roofs have drawbacks which each homeowner must evaluate in relation to the advantages. At about $150-$600 per 100 square feet, a metal roof is expensive. but unless the plan is to sell within a few years this cost will be recovered in the long run, and a metal roof helps save on engineering and structural maintenance of the supporting structure. Anyone who wants to know what life is like inside a drum can live in a house with a metal roof during a rain storm. A metal roof can be much louder than other types of roofs. Using sound deadening insulation can help minimize the extra noise of a metal roof. Metal roofs, particularly aluminum and copper materials, are soft and prone to denting from hail stones. Some metal roofs, however, are guaranteed against denting. Metal roofs can also be slippery when wet, something to keep in mind for gutter cleaning, inspection, or other maintenance that requires walking on the roof. Some metal finishes can chip and peel, although again they're generally guaranteed for many years against such marring.

Don't be worried about lightning strikes with metal roofs. People assume that because metal conducts electricity a metal roof will attract lightening. This isn't the case, particularly when trees or other objects surrounding the home are higher than the roof. Metal roofs can also be grounded for extra protection.

In this world of worlds in which we live, residential metal roofing is sure to give, a homeowner a great roofing experience.