Everything You Need to Know About Metal from the Top San Antonio Roofer
While asphalt shingles continue to lead the way in terms of popularity, homeowners are increasingly turning to metal roofing for their roof replacement projects. Long seen as an option exclusively for industrial and commercial buildings, metal roofing makes an ideal solution for homes. As the leading metal roofer in San Antonio, we’ve seen firsthand how a metal roof can transform and protect a home for decades!
If you’re considering a metal roof for your home, chances are you have some questions. The Dolan Roofing & Construction team has put together a complete guide to metal roofing in San Antonio, including information on metal types, advantages, and other considerations from your favorite local roofer.
Why Choose Metal Roofing? 
Metal roofing has been used in industrial settings due to its superior performance across numerous dimensions. For homeowners, many of these benefits certainly apply, including:
- Greater durability – Metal roofing is highly resistant to damage of all kinds, including hail and impact damage, wind damage, fire damage, and weathering.
- Impressive longevity – Metal roofs last longer than nearly every other roof type, typically from 40–70 years or longer. This makes them an excellent long-term investment, as you won’t have to replace your roof again for decades—if ever.
- Environmentally friendly – Metal roofing is readily recyclable, and in many cases metal roofing products are made from previously recycled metals. In addition, metal roofing systems insulate your home effectively and coated metal roofs (or “cool roofs”) can reflect heat during San Antonio’s hottest days.
- Flexible styles – One reason why metal was confined to commercial roofing is due to its more rugged, industrial appearance. Now, however, metal roofing is available in a wide range of styles, including tiles and other materials made to emulate residential roofing looks in a host of colors.
Metal Roof Systems
Our team at Dolan Roofing commonly works with both standing seam and R-panel metal roofing systems, which tend to be the most commonly used. As the top metal roofer in San Antonio, we have extensive experience installing both of these common types of metal roof.
Standing Seam
Standing seam roofs are superior in quality, require little ongoing maintenance, and have no exposed fasteners that must be monitored and maintained. This means standing seam also provides a seamless, modern look for your home while protecting against moisture intrusion and storm damage.
R-Panel Roofs
As an alternative to standing seam, many homeowners opt for R-panel. These roofs carry a significantly lower upfront cost but have higher maintenance demands over the life of the roof. Overall, R-panel makes an ideal option for those who want the metal look but at a lower upfront cost than standing seam.
What Types of Metal Are Available?
When it comes to the metals used for roofing, each metal carries distinct advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consult with your roofer to determine which will be most suitable for your home. Here are the most common metals used in roofing.
- Aluminum – Lightweight yet incredibly durable and strong, aluminum makes an ideal choice as a roofing material. Aluminum roofing is relatively easy to install, which can reduce labor costs, while being readily formed into various styles.
- Copper – Copper is a roofing material that dates back centuries, and for good reason. Copper is highly resistant to all forms of corrosion, and as these roofs age they take on an iconic green appearance that lends a unique look to your home. These roofs are among the most durable, yet also relatively costly.
- Steel – Steel is synonymous with strength, and steel roofing is perfect for making your home nearly invulnerable to roof storm damage. Steel is highly efficient, easily recycled, and lends slightly more protection than aluminum overall.
Is Metal Roofing Right for Me?
While metal roofing is supremely durable, sustainable, and long-lasting, it is also a significant upfront investment. Many homeowners feel that the long-term cost benefits—the reduced need for repairs, maintenance, and replacements—more than make up for this difference.
As San Antonio’s most trusted roofer, our team at Dolan Roofing aims to help homeowners make the best choice for their home—whether it’s metal or another high-quality roofing material like tile. We can help evaluate your needs and your budget to make recommendations. And if you choose metal for your roof, Dolan Roofing is the ideal metal roofer to complete your San Antonio roof replacement.
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