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Steel vs Aluminium Roof: Which One is Better?
The long ongoing debate of Steel vs Aluminium roofs often puts the customer in dilemma regarding what the right choice is. As a customer, it is required to know the pros and cons of both types of roofing materials available.
Steel roof installation offers longevity because steel roofs can last longer and are highly durable. Due to this, they possess a lifespan of 30 to 50 years. They are lightweight, easy to install, and can be molded into different shapes with ease.
Aluminum roof installation is highly resistant to rust and prevents heat penetration which makes them the ideal fit for homes near coastal areas.
There is a long ongoing debate about what is the best option when it comes to roofing material. And metal roofs have seen a spectacular rise in popularity. Their ability to last longer and better durability in comparison to traditional materials like wood makes them the first choice of roofing contractors and customers alike.
Out of the different types of roofing materials available, Steel and Aluminium are the standouts. Let us dig deeper to find out which one suits you better.
Steel Roofing
Steel roofs are also called “forever roofs” because they are safe, recyclable, and can last longer than other materials used for roofing. Steel roofing represents the basic form of a metal roofing system. They are lightweight and can be easily shaped into different styles without any compromise in their true strength.
Steel roof installation is usually supplied with a color finish which makes them look better from the outside. They are a much-needed update to the traditional asphalt roofs because they offer much better weather tolerance and durability. They have an average lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
Aluminium Roofing
For the customers looking for a premium alternative to steel roofs, the answer lies with aluminum roofs for the home. The cost of aluminum roofing is slightly higher than the price of a basic steel roof as it comes with its own set of benefits.
Aluminum is a non-ferrous material, meaning it will never succumb to rusting. This makes aluminum roofs resistant to humidity and heavy rains. Hence, aluminum roof installation is the perfect fit for coastal areas.
Apart from being lighter and easy to install, aluminum doesn’t retain as much heat as other roofing materials. Being more flexible than steel, it can be configured into complex designs with ease.
Which is Better Steel or Aluminum Roofing?
There is only one factor that can settle this ongoing debate; it depends on your needs.
If fast installation and versatility are on your mind, then steel roofs are the best option for you. Not only do they provide resistance against moss and fungus, but steel roofs are also fire resistant with a Class-A fire rating. But it should be kept in mind that they are not the ideal choice for a saltwater environment.
Aluminum roofing, on the other hand, is well known for its durability and lightweight. It offers higher reflectivity which means lower heat penetration into your homes. It is highly resistant to rusting too. This is what makes aluminum roofs for homes an ideal choice for homes near coastal areas.
What are the Cons of Having a Steel or Aluminum Roof?
Despite the numerous advantages, there are some cons of having a steel or aluminum roof too.
- Affordability: The price of having a metal roof installed is usually 2 to 3 times more than the cost of other traditional roof materials. The average lifespan of a metal roof is much longer. As the investment you have to make is significant, the decision makes sense only if you are planning to stay in the same place for a longer period.
- Noisiness: During a hailstorm or heavy rainfall, metal roofs make a lot of noise which can be very annoying if the bad weather persists for long. A solution to this can be adding insulation but that is bound to increase the cost.
- Expansion and contraction: Residential metal roofs are designed to expand and contract as the temperature varies. However, the fasteners used have varying lifespans. Due to the variations in climate, the washers and screws used during installation may degrade and get dislodged due to exposure.
- Performance: The problem of water accumulation on the roof can occur due to poor installation or repair. This can cause serious damage. If the roofing contractor uses low-grade metals, things can go from bad to worse very quickly.
Also Read: What are the Benefits of Choosing Metal Roof for Homes?
Conclusion
Metal roofs are an excellent choice for homeowners. Both steel and aluminum roofs have qualities of their own. As a customer, you should consider them both before finalizing the kind of roof that fits your requirements.
Our professional team at SR1 Roofing helps you with the best of our abilities to make the right decision for the best roof choice for your home.
