A metal roof offers exceptional durability, energy efficiency, and resistance to extreme weather conditions—qualities that make it an attractive option for homeowners considering a new roof. With superior longevity and sustainability, metal roofing has become a top choice for Arizona homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, long-term roofing solution.
However, despite these advantages, there are also valid drawbacks to consider. Higher roofing costs, potential for denting, and expansion/contraction in extreme temperatures are some factors that may impact your decision.
In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at the pros and cons of metal roofing, focusing on how it performs in Arizona’s harsh climate. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether a metal roof is right for your home, the key advantages and disadvantages, and how to plan for a roof replacement that serves your needs for decades to come.
Why Arizona Homeowners Choose a Metal Roof
If you live in an area with intense heat, monsoon rains, and occasional snowfall—places like Sedona, Prescott, Cottonwood, or Flagstaff—installing a metal roof can be a game-changer.
Arizona’s unique climate puts significant pressure on roofing systems, which is why it’s important for homeowners to explore types of metal that stand up to these demanding weather conditions. Whether you’re building a new home, undertaking a major roof installation, or looking to replace your roof on an older property, metal provides a durable option that often justifies a higher upfront cost.
1. Long Lifespan and Strength
One of the top benefits of metal roofs is their long lifespan. A properly installed steel roofing or aluminum and copper system can last 40–70 years, sometimes even longer.
For residential roofing in Arizona, where sunlight can degrade traditional shingles relatively quickly, that extra longevity can mean fewer replacements over time.
With fewer replacements, you stand to save money in the long run on both materials and labor—an appealing concept for those who plan to stay in their homes for decades.
2. Energy Efficiency and Cooling Costs
Arizona’s scorching summer temperatures often push air conditioning units to their limit. That’s where metal roofs reflect sunlight, helping moderate interior temperatures. Because metal roofing typically has reflective properties, it can reduce heat absorption and cut down on your cooling costs substantially.
If you opt for specialized coatings, that reflectivity gets an even bigger boost, helping you maintain comfortable indoor conditions without overusing your HVAC system.
Over time, the savings on utility bills can improve your return on investment—particularly if you factor in rising energy rates across the state.
3. Eco-Friendliness and Recycled Materials
Another plus is that metal roofing materials are often made from recycled materials and are 100% recyclable after use. Many types of metal roofs incorporate zinc, steel, or aluminum, which can be repurposed instead of winding up in landfills.
This environmentally conscious aspect appeals to those seeking to live more sustainably, aligning with Arizona’s increasing focus on eco-friendly solutions.
4. Minimal Roof Maintenance
A metal roof may also be relatively hassle-free in the context of roof maintenance. Unlike traditional shingles, metal is resistant to issues like rot, mold, and insect infestation.
Plus, it’s less prone to cracking under UV exposure and extreme heat. In fact, with periodic roof inspections and minor touch-ups to the coating or seal, metal roofs can look and perform well for decades, even under Arizona’s intense sunlight and monsoon rains.
This means fewer repairs and less worry over hidden leaks or structural damage.
5. Enhanced Curb Appeal
From standing seam styles to metal shingles that replicate slate or tile, there are different metal looks to suit a broad range of architectural preferences.
Whether your home has a contemporary design or a more rustic Southwestern flair, you can choose from a variety of finishes to match. This curb appeal can translate directly into higher resale value and a standout appearance for your property.
Shingles and metal each have unique aesthetics, but homeowners often find metal’s sleek lines and vibrant colors particularly eye-catching.
Cons of Metal Roofs: Top Disadvantages to Consider
Although metal roofs offer superior strength and longevity, there are genuine disadvantages of a metal roof that can sway certain homeowners toward other roofing materials. Understanding these cons of metal helps ensure you choose a roofing material for your home that meets your needs and budget.
1. Higher Roofing Costs
A new roof using metal can be more expensive than asphalt shingles. The cost of metal ranges widely depending on the type of metal roof, thickness, finish, and labor involved. Thicker steel roofing or zinc panels can be pricier than simpler options.
While metal can definitely help you save money in the long run through energy efficiency and fewer replacements, the initial investment can be a disadvantage for homeowners on a tighter budget.
2. Noise from Rain and Falling Branches
One of the biggest complaints about metal roofs is the sound of rain or hail during storms.
Although many people actually enjoy this acoustic effect, those who are noise-sensitive might find it jarring. Installing additional insulation or underlayment helps muffle the sound of rain, but these extra steps add to the overall cost.
3. Dent and Damage Risks
While metal roofing is durable, it can still dent under significant impact, such as falling branches or large hailstones. Thicker panels or stronger alloys reduce this risk, but no roof is 100% damage-proof.
If you live in an area with frequent hail, you’ll want to factor in the potential for occasional dings—particularly if you choose a softer alloy like aluminum or copper.
4. Complex Installation
Any roof installation can be complicated, but metal roofs demand particular expertise. From handling specialized seams to layering the right underlayment, it’s vital to find roofing companies or a roofing contractor who knows how to install metal roofs properly.
An inexperienced crew can create leak more than shingles if they fail to handle expansion seams or flashing correctly, leading to moisture infiltration and frustration for the homeowner.
5. Expansion and Contraction
Arizona’s temperature swings—like daytime highs of 100°F or more and nighttime lows that can dip significantly—can cause metal roof panels to shift over time. Proper installation, including allowance for expansion and contraction, is critical to avoid warping, loose fasteners, or leak points.
If you have a subpar install, the panels could shift enough to create small gaps or stress on seams, reducing the roof’s lifespan.
Short Comparison: Asphalt Shingle vs. Metal Roof
When looking at different roofing materials, many homeowners consider asphalt shingle options, often referred to as traditional asphalt shingles, versus metal roofs. Although we want to focus primarily on metal, it’s worth addressing key distinctions to help you make an informed decision.
- Cost: Asphalt shingle roof installations generally cost less upfront, making them a budget-friendly alternative. A metal roof typically has a higher initial price tag but may even out over time due to lower roof maintenance costs.
- Lifespan: Shingle roofing typically lasts 15–30 years, whereas metal can last 40 years or more when installed correctly.
- Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect sun and heat more effectively, often reducing cooling loads in hot climates.
- Aesthetics: Shingles are widely used and familiar, but metal can offer a more modern or distinct appearance, improving curb appeal.
Because we’re focusing on the pros and cons of metal, the key takeaway is that asphalt roofing can be a simpler, lower-cost route, but metal often offers long-term benefits that shingles can’t match.
Different Metal Roof Materials to Explore
In Arizona, homeowners have numerous types of metal to consider, each with unique pros and cons:
- Steel Roofing: Tough and commonly used for residential roofing due to its long lifespan and impact resistance. Steel is often galvanized or coated for extra corrosion protection.
- Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and good at reflecting heat. It can be more prone to dents if not thick enough.
- Copper: Eye-catching and highly durable, but among the most expensive metals. Copper develops a natural patina over time, which some homeowners find attractive.
- Zinc: Corrosion-resistant and often features unique self-healing properties for scratches. Like copper, zinc is more premium in cost.
Consulting a roofing contractor helps you determine which metal best suits your home’s climate, design, and long-term budget goals.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Installing a New Metal Roof
By now, you’re aware of the benefits of metal roofs—long lifespan, minimal maintenance, high energy efficiency, and strong performance in weather conditions. You also know about some of the disadvantages of a metal roof, such as elevated costs and the potential for denting.
Balancing these advantages and disadvantages will help you decide if the roof may serve your long-term vision for your property.
Considering Roofing Costs and Return on Investment
The roofing costs tied to metal vary based on your home’s size, the type of metal roof chosen, and local labor rates. While you can expect to pay more upfront, that added expense often translates into better return on investment down the line—particularly in Arizona, where intense sun and heavy monsoons push typical roofs to their limit.
Recycle and Sustainability Benefits
For those keen on sustainable living, metal’s recycle potential can’t be overlooked. Because metal roofs are often made from recycled materials and can be recycled again at the end of their lifecycle, homeowners significantly reduce the environmental footprint of roof replacements.
Working with a Reputable Roofing Contractor
Selecting one of the top roofing companies in Northern Arizona is key to leveraging metal’s strengths and avoiding pitfalls. A skilled installer ensures sound of rain is minimized through adequate underlayment, addresses potential dent issues, and properly accounts for expansion and contraction. That alone can keep your roof in tip-top shape for decades longer.
When Might a Metal Roof Leak More Than Shingles?
While metal roofs are typically touted as watertight, poor installation or inadequate flashing can lead to issues where a metal roof could leak more than a standard shingle system. Common culprits include:
- Improperly Sealed Seams: If the seams aren’t fastened correctly, water can seep underneath, especially during driving monsoon rains.
- Old or Damaged Coatings: Over time, the protective coating can degrade, leaving underlying metal vulnerable.
- Falling Branches: If large branches or debris hit your roof with enough force, they can create indentations or micro-cracks that develop into leaks later.
However, these scenarios usually arise from mistakes in installation or unaddressed wear and tear—conditions that can affect traditional shingles as well.
Metal Roofing Project Best Practices
A roofing project for a metal system typically includes these crucial steps:
- Roof Inspection: Determine whether your existing deck is sound and identify any damage that must be fixed before installation.
- Choice of Metal Materials: Select the right type of metal roof (steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc) based on your budget, style, and climate concerns.
- Professional Installation: Use experienced pros who understand how to install a metal roof correctly, ensuring expansion gaps, proper flashing, and adequate insulation.
- Final Walkthrough: Inspect the completed roof to confirm that every metal panel is securely sealed and aligned.
Using high-quality metal roofing ensures your roof will stand up to Arizona’s intense elements—monsoon rains, dust storms, and scorching sun—while giving you the best odds of avoiding any disadvantage or leak.
Could a Metal Roof Be Right for Your Home?
If the pros and cons weigh in favor of installing a metal roof, you could be setting yourself up for decades of reduced roof maintenance, fewer replacements, and lower cooling costs. On the flip side, if you can’t justify the higher initial roofing costs or if the possibility of dent damage from storms concerns you, it might not be the best fit right now.
Remember, every homeowner’s goals differ, and the “best” choice depends on factors like budget, personal preference, local climate, and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Ready to Install a Metal Roof in Northern Arizona? Contact Hahn Roofing
At Hahn Roofing, we’ve spent decades serving residential roofing clients across Sedona, Cottonwood, Prescott and beyond. Our team has deep experience in types of roofing—particularly metal—and we understand the finer points of installation, from insulation to the perfect underlayment. We’ll help you determine if this new roof aligns with your priorities, weighing the advantages and disadvantages unique to your property.
- Expert Advice: Unsure which metal is best—steel, aluminum and copper, or zinc? We’ll evaluate your home’s style, environment, and budget.
- Local Knowledge: We know how intense Arizona’s climate can be, and we tailor installations to withstand dust storms, monsoons, and high UV exposure.
- High-Quality Materials: We focus on durable, top-grade metals designed to last for decades—even in harsh conditions.
- Professional Service: Our skilled roofers will ensure a secure install that accounts for expansion and contraction, minimizing future issues.
Have more questions about the pros and cons of metal roofing or disadvantages of a metal roof? Ready to find out whether a metal roof may be your best roof replacement decision? Contact Hahn Roofing today to schedule a consultation. We’ll assess your roof’s specific needs and help you plan the roofing project that offers you the best return on investment—all while providing the outstanding craftsmanship and local expertise you deserve.