When it comes to materials for roofing, homeowners have many different options. These range from asphalt to wood to clay to plastic. Many modern homeowners and contractors have searched for a lighter, higher-performance alternative to old-fashioned asphalt or wood shingles. They are looking toward a material that will be durable, practical, and attractive as well as light enough to sit easily on any structure.

The overwhelming solution to this issue is choosing metal roof panels.

Property owners often worry about roofing materials being too heavy for their structures. They don't want their roofing to compromise the integrity of the building. Metal roofing is the perfect choice in this situation because it is light and doesn't weigh down on the structure of the home or building. Just how heavy are metal roof panels? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about the weight of metal roofing materials.

1. How Much Do Metal Roof Panels Weigh?

The weight of roofing materials is typically measured by the pound per square foot. The total weight of the roof will depend on how large the roof is and how many square feet it includes. Keep in mind that multi-level roofs will be weighed differently. If various roofing sections are held up by different parts of the structure, the weight will be less than that of one large roof held up by the same support materials.

Weight Per Square Foot

Most metal roofing systems weigh about one to two pounds per square foot. The metal gauge and other details of the metal panels will make a difference in the weight of the roof, but all metal roofing is a lightweight option when compared to other roofing materials. The weight of 26-gauge metal roofing is approximately just under one pound per square foot. The weight of 24-gauge metal roofing is about 1.15 pounds. The lower the gauge of the metal, the thicker and heavier the material will be.

Although metal roofing is a lightweight option when it comes to building the roof of a home or other building, it's important to remember that metal is also durable, strong, and long-lasting. Property owners are not giving up durability when choosing the benefit of lighter materials for their roofs. Metal roofs are also strong enough to be walked on and to support heavy snowfall, rain, or debris flying in high winds.

2. Are Metal Roof Panels Heavier Than Shingles?

Metal roofs are almost always lighter than roofs created with shingles. Asphalt is a popular material for roofing shingles, and the weight is typically about 3 to 3.5 pounds per square foot. A textured asphalt shingle may weight as much as five pounds per square foot. Wooden shingles are about 3.5 to 4.5 pounds per square foot.

3. Is a Metal Roof Heavier Than Clay or Concrete?

Metal roofs are definitely lighter than roofing made from clay or concrete. Clay and concrete roofing have been historically popular in warm, dry climates because they will often crack and break in cold temperatures. They tend to absorb water, which causes the material to expand and crack. The major benefit of clay or concrete roofs is that these roofs are highly resistant to fire and flames. Metal roofing offers the same benefit without cracking and splitting.

The weight of a clay roof is typically about 5.5 to 7 pounds per square foot. Concrete roofing tiles can be 8 to 10 pounds per square foot.

4. Is Light, Metal Roofing Easy to Install?

Metal offers all kinds of advantages over other types of roofing, and it's easy to have installed. Because metal roofing comes in sheets or rolls rather than individual shingles, it doesn't require heavy machinery that can destroy landscaping and property.

Metal roofs can be installed without long delays because they are created by attaching interlocking sheets rather than laying individual tiles. And metal roofing systems are often available immediately. When metal sheets do have to be ordered, installation professionals can typically get the materials within a couple of weeks.

5. Why Is a Lightweight Roof the Best Choice? 

The weight of the materials used in a roof is an important consideration when choosing the right roof for a home or building. This is for reasons of safety and decreasing the chance of damage in an emergency. Additionally, it is because the structure of a home will last longer under a roof made with lighter materials. When choosing a roof, you always want to know how much the roof will weigh and what that will mean to the structural integrity of your home.

Structural Integrity

The structural integrity of any home will decline over time. This is because the materials used to build a home, typically pressure-treated lumber, are inclined to break down and shift over time. This process happens at a significantly faster rate under a heavier roof.

The heavier the roof, the faster the structure of the building will move and break down. A lighter roof means that a home or other building will last longer and not be as susceptible to cracks and breakage. A home that is shifting or settling can damage drywall and ceilings as well as structural beams themselves.

Natural Disasters

Damage is especially possible when homes are in the path of a natural disaster like a hurricane or a heavy windstorm. Problems caused by events like these are usually worse for a home with a heavier roof. The same is true of damage sustained in an earthquake, tornado, or any event that causes a building to shake or move.

Another reason a lighter roof is a good choice is that lighter roofing is less likely to collapse in the case of a fire, causing even more damage to occur. And metal roofing is fire resistant, so the benefits in case of a fire are doubled.

6. What Are Other Reasons to Choose a Metal Roof? 

Besides being a lightweight option, there are many additional reasons for a homeowner to choose metal roofing materials. One of the reasons is that energy consumption is significantly decreased with a metal roof. Metal roofing deflects the hot rays of the sun rather than soaking them up. This means that the structure beneath the roof will stay cooler, and less energy will be needed to air-condition the building. This is especially helpful in warmer areas.

Long-Lasting

Metal roofing lasts much longer than more traditional or old-fashioned roofing options. Other roofs may need to be replaced approximately every 20 years, but a metal roof will not need to be replaced for 50 years. Sometimes a metal roof will outlast the rest of the building. Many homeowners love the idea of never having to replace their roofs as long as they own their homes.

Green

Choosing a metal roof is making a positive impact on the environment. Metal roofing is typically made from reused or recycled materials, And metal panels used in roofing are completely recyclable. They won't end up in a landfill, taking up important space and resources. By choosing metal for their roofing needs, homeowners reduce their carbon footprints and help keep the planet healthy.

Aesthetically Pleasing

Another advantage of metal roofing is that it is beautiful and aesthetically flexible. There are many different colors to choose from, so roofing can be made to match the trim of a home or match the other roofing in the neighborhood. The sleek design of metal panels makes metal roofing a good choice for almost any style of home or architecture.

Resistant to Damage

Metal roofs are also resistant to insects, rain, snow, fire, and mold or mildew. They don't flake or break off in high winds, and they don't spark or spread fires. Rodents and bugs cannot chew them and make themselves a nest inside your house.

All of these reasons are important things to consider when choosing a roof, along with the weight of the roofing materials. Metal roofing is clearly the right choice when it comes to a roof that will last a long time and keep a home safe and sound.

Metal roof panels are significantly lighter than other materials often used in roofing, including shingles made of asphalt, wood shingles, or tiles made from clay or concrete. Even though they are lightweight, metal roofs are durable and last longer than most other types of roofs. They are also a greener choice, using fewer resources and being completely recyclable. Further, they protect the home and family from damage caused by insects, rodents, rain, snow, and other bad weather.

For your peace of mind and a beautiful roof, talk to the professionals at Hill Country Metal Roofing Supply today. They have many styles and types of metal roofing in stock and available to be delivered to your job-site. They will bring your roofing supplies quickly and simply, without damage to your property. You and your team will enjoy your beautiful our dedication to making your jobs easier!