Steel roofing shingles are fast gaining popularity, for their durability and strength. Go through this article for a fair idea about this roofing material.
Choosing the right roofing material can be a tough task, as the options are numerous. The market is flooded with different types of roofing shingles and other such materials. The perfect roofing material must be best suited for the style of the house, location, local weather conditions, and your budget. It should be durable and strong.
Nowadays, metal roofing is available in different types, and are getting popular for their durability and strength. They are also fire resistant and lightweight. Metal roofing is available in a wide range of colors and styles too. Earlier, metal roofing was mainly available in ridged (corrugated) versions, but nowadays, shingles made of metal are highly popular.
Features
Nowadays, steel metal roofing shingles are available in different colors and models. You may come across steel shingles that mimic the looks of cedar shingles and slate or clay tiles. The making of a steel roofing shingle involves preparation of a core, which is often made with metals, like aluminum or tin, fiberglass, and plastics.
This core is shaped in a mold, and is then coated with steel powder, either by spraying or dipping. Stone-coated steel roofing shingles are one of the most popular types. In this type of steel shingles, the steel substrate is covered with an UV resistant acrylic polymer, that is embedded with specially graded stone chips. Even the plain ones, and those with a slate or wood finish, are also equally popular.
Pros and Cons
The advantages of this roofing material is its strength and durability. Steel roofing shingles are not vulnerable to mold, insect attack, or decay. They are also not prone to splitting, cracking, and curling. They are highly fire-resistant. Above all, steel roofing shingles are environment friendly, as they can be recycled. You may also install a steel roofing over the existing asphalt shingles, so that you don’t have to worry about disposing off the old ones. Even the maintenance cost is minimal for steel shingles.
Steel roofing shingles are light weight, and make excessive noise during rains. However, if you compare the various aspects of steel shingles and asphalt shingles; the former can be very expensive and pretty difficult to install. Steel roofing shingles can be around two to three times expensive, as compared to the regular asphalt shingles.
It may not be suitable for all weather conditions, especially in locations that are prone to cyclones and hailstorms. While you can try to install these roofing shingles on your own, it has been observed that many people find it difficult to work on the edges. So, it is always better to hire professionals for this purpose.
In short, steel roofing shingles are perfect, as it combines durability with strength and good looks. If you can afford this roofing material, and if it is suited for the climatic conditions in your region, then go ahead. However, it will be better to seek the opinion of an expert, before taking a decision.
