Chat｜The Roof Problem

In my neighborhood, most houses have traditional shingle rooftops. But in recent years, as more roofing options have become available, we've started seeing a few neighbors switch to metal roofs. To be honest, I have mixed feelings about it.

​A metal roof resists hail better, which we often deal with in our area. In fact, we've already had to replace our own roof twice in the past ten years because of hail damage. With that said, I expect that switching to iron might lower insurance premiums. However,  this option  comes with several trade-offs:

• First, they can become a lightning magnet.
• Second, they require constant sealing and maintenance to prevent leaks, especially around the screws and seams. 
• Third, they're expensive and require highly skilled professionals for the Installation. 
• Fourth, it will be very noisy when it is raining and has fewer shields against the heat during summer.

Is switching to iron a good idea? Honestly, no. Sometimes, the simplest and most proven option is best. Another neighbor who tried iron roofing had a nightmare of an experience. The sealing failed and caused leaking. They eventually had to tear it all down and switch to a rubber-based system. People say the whole mess cost them over $60,000. That's the price of being the first — and it's not a small one.

When it comes to home improvement decisions, one of my friend's neighbors keeps making impractical choices. A while back, they installed solar panels on their roof — but when the next hailstorm hit and everyone was getting new shingles, they didn't replace theirs. Why? Because removing and reinstalling the solar panels would have cost them over $5,000. Now, years later, their roof is leaking, and they have no choice but to make the change — including the panels. The savings from solar power? Likely all gone. Now, he plans to change to a metal roof! 

Being innovative is fine, but when it comes to the roof over your head, practicality often wins.