PRODUCT OVERVIEW:
It's Not Like the Metal Roofing of the Past

Years ago, it wasn't unusual to see metal roofs installed on commercial buildings, and, of course, you saw it often on the older residential houses. It has now become the most economical and therefore popular choice when a developer has to roof a large amount of homes in a development. Take developments like Bloubergsands, Atlantic Beach and homes in the Melkbos area – most are metal roofs.

As the years passed, tiles and other materials became more popular on roofs than using sheets of metal. They were easier to install, plus, tiles were available in a wider variety of colors and styles.

Trends come and go, and metal roofs are making their way back on the South African residential roofing scene.  Metal sheets have caught up with tiles. They are now available in many colors and styles too. In fact, if you prefer the look of tiles on your house, you can buy metal roofing that looks just like tiles!

The metal roofing of today has caught up with tiles in looks, but it has actually surpassed the former in the "durability" category. A metal roof can last up to fifty years or more depending on the product, area and application methods. Metal roofs of today have weatherproof screws with plastic washers under the heads. These weatherproof screws have replaced the nails that were once used.

Since a metal roof can last for five decades or more, you could realistically install only one roof on your home!   Besides being more durable, a metal roof is virtually maintenance free. This type of covering resists wind, rain, snow, hail, and ice.  

PRICE COMPARISONS

What about price comparison? Tiles are almost always more expensive than metal roofing material. The most common materials used for metal roofs are Aluminium and steel. The reason is that these are more affordable than copper and stainless steel. The latter two are more durable, but they are about 30-45% more expensive.

A metal roof is cheaper to install than a tiled roof by about 30% (depending on your product choice), but with tiles there are other costs to consider. For example, tiles, no matter if they are made from asbestos or fiberglass, both absorb the heat of the sun. A metal roof, on the other hand, actually reflects the sun's rays. Therefore, depending on the climate you live in, a metal roof can save you high energy bills in the warm months when you cool your home.

If you're looking for a roof to have installed on your home that requires virtually no maintenance and it lasts for decades, then a metal roof might be the answer for you. There are a variety of shapes, textures, colors, and finishes that will make your house look great!

MAINTENENACE
Your roof requires hosing down periodically, especially if you are in a leafy area and have large build-up of debris on your roof. Debris in turn starts to rot, causing blocked drains and sheets to start rusting after prolonged exposure.