The Pros And Cons Of Stone Coated Steel Roofing

Have you thought about upgrading your minimum standard asphalt shingled roof, but aren’t sure which roofing material is best for your needs? Stone-coated steel roofing is growing in popularity, so you may be wondering if it is the right choice for your property. At CMR Construction & Roofing, we provide high quality commercial and residential services including roof installation, repair, replacement and inspections for clients across the United States. Are you interested in learning more about stone-coated steel roofing before making the leap? Here are some of the pros and cons, so you can make the best decision for your home or business.

What Is Stone-Coated Steel Roofing and How Is It Different from Conventional Materials?

Stone-coated steel roofing often consists of a 24- or 26-gauge steel core that is manufactured to resist rust. In addition, the steel is coated with a layer of stone which is permanently adhered to the surface of the steel, offering additional durability and design flexibility.

Benefits of Choosing Stone-Coated Steel

Property owners are choosing stone-coated steel roofing materials over conventional alternatives for a variety of reasons including:
Longevity – While asphalt shingles may last 20 years or less, property owners who prioritize maintenance can enjoy their steel roof for up to 70 years before a replacement is required.
Low Maintenance – Stone-coated steel requires very little maintenance, since it is designed to withstand environmental damage and will not curl, crack or bend like asphalt shingles.
Energy Efficient – A metal roof will help to reflect heat from the sun, rather than absorbing it. For this reason, metal roofing can help property owners maintain a desirable indoor temperature, which can decrease energy consumption and lower monthly utility costs.
Beauty – Stone-coated steel comes in a wide variety of colors, textures and styles that can mimic other popular roof materials like shingles, shakes or ceramic tile.
Durability – Metal roofs are extremely durable and can stand up against hail, heavy rainstorms, high winds and fire when compared to alternative options.

Potential Downsides of Stone-Coated Steel Roofing

The two downsides of installing stone-coated steel is the initial cost, and a slight increase of noise during heavy rain or hailstorms. While the expense of installing the roof may be more than a standard shingle roof, the long-term financial benefits outweigh this, since it will last much longer and will require fewer repairs over its lifetime. While some have reported a small increase in noise levels when switching to a steel roof, this can be largely avoided by using barriers between the roof deck and steel materials. Quality attic insulation will also significantly decrease any additional noise.