How to Save Money With A Metal Roof

Metal roofing is a great choice for residential homes because, while it is a relatively heavy investment up front, you will save money on energy costs throughout the long life of the roof. You will also save on maintenance, repairs, and roof replacement as compared to having an asphalt shingle roof.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with internet access
• Phone book
• Reading glasses if necessary
• Telephone

1. 
   Residential Metal Roofing can improve the appearance of your home, increase the resale value, and provide valuable protection from the elements.

   Research metal roof companies in your area. You can do this online or using the phone book. You'll want to find a company that specializes in residential metal roofing to be sure you're going to get the most up-to-date and technologically advanced product that's on the market. You can also count on a specialist to make sure the metal roof installation goes as smoothly and as quickly as possible.
   
   These are all qualities that can ensure the metal roof will perform well over its lifetime and is energy efficient to save you money.

2. 
   Invest in the best metal roofing materials available to ensure your investment will be protected AND save you money over the life of the roof.

   Find out what materials are used in the company's metal roofing system. Do they use galvanized steel or galvalume steel? What kind of paint or finish do they use? Is it Polyester, Polyester Silicone, or Fluropolymer (i.e. Kynar or Hylar)?
   
   Both Polyester and Polyester Silicone meet the Metal Construction Association (MCA) criteria for Standard Performance while the Kynar finish meets the MCA criteria for Premium Performance. Kynar offers the most flexibility and ability to maintain color.
   
   The paint finish is an essential element to any metal roofing system and the quality will have a direct effect on the energy saving qualities of your metal roof. A high quality paint finish will also provide the best aesthetic appearance and the best protection for your home.

3. 
   Even black metal roof paint can be Energy Star(R) Qualified. Be sure to comfirm that your metal roof system falls under the guidelines of the Energy Star(R) program to save you money in energy costs.

   Find out if the metal roofing system is Energy Star(R) qualified. The Energy Star(R) Program is a part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. They have a series of guidelines for metal roofing products to help you know that your metal roof will use less energy, save you money, and help protect the environment. Ask the metal roofing companies you are interviewing if their product is Energy Star(R) qualified.

Tips & Warnings

• Look at a portfolio of the metal roofing company's work and, if possible, try to drive around to see live examples of their roofing jobs. Also, read customer testimonials and see if you can contact any of their past customers for a referral.
• Do your research. Don't necessarily go with the cheapest option. Remember, you want to save money over the long haul so you'll want to make sure your metal roof is constructed from the highest performing materials and is professionally installed by metal roofing specialists.
• Be sure to discuss with the roofing company any unique elements to your roof to try to get the most accurate estimate. You'll want to avoid any last minute surprises in the cost of the roof.
• Find out about the warranties that come with your metal roof. There are metal roof systems that come with limited Lifetime Warranties. Just be sure to find out what the limits are.
• Beware of lowball metal roofing estimates. One of the biggest advantages to having a metal roof for your home is that it should last a lifetime with low maintenance and without having to be replaced. If you purchase a low-quality metal roof system, you might find yourself with necessary repairs not far down the road or you may not save as much in your heating and cooling bills as you could have with high quality materials.

Resources

• Advanced Metal Roofing
• Metal Roof Colors
• MetalMan Roofing Systems
• Metal Roofing Alliance
• National Roofing Contractors Association
• Energy Star(R) Qualified Roof Products