Longevity and Versatility of Cladding

Why do we choose metal?  There are a few different reasons.  Over the years, different siding types have come and gone.  We used to use siding containing asbestos before we learned that it was not safe.  Likewise, wood siding was once extremely common and is still occasionally used today but very rarely as it requires extensive maintenance in order to prevent deterioration.  There are other options such as cement board (commonly referred to as “Hardie board”), stucco, or vinyl… but the long and short of it is that these do not last nearly as long as metal.

Metal is a clear choice for many building owners because not only is it safe to use, it also lasts indefinitely and is extremely durable in our extreme climate.  Metal roofing and siding has multiple coats of baked on finish that is designed to withstand sun, rain, snow, hale, and any other crazy weather we have here in Canada.  Especially in our windy province of Manitoba, metal roofing and siding is the go-to for protecting structures.  Whereas shingles can blow off quite easily in gusting winds, metal roofing is not going anywhere!

One thing we like to say is that metal will outlast us when it comes to roofing and siding.  Customers should be able to live in their homes without worrying about replacing materials every few years.  One of the myths of metal roofing is that the fasteners will begin to leak over the years but properly installed fasteners will last the lifetime of their roof.  Exposed fasteners now have a neoprene washer that expands and contracts as the roof heats and cools.  As we mentioned – a professionally installed metal roof will last indefinitely.  So long as the installer does not over torque their fasteners, they will do what they are designed to do!

Other cladding options such as stucco or vinyl cannot withstand the huge changes in our climate.  Over time, these siding materials will fade and even crack.  They are also both susceptible to dents and chips should something unexpected hit up against it.  While we have nothing bad to say about Hardie Board (we actually source it as well), it offers a different design element and cannot be used for roofing!

Does metal increase your property value?  Absolutely!  If you were to google this you might receive mixed messages but research does show that metal roofing and siding has many benefits for any building owner. 

Whereas shingles, vinyl siding, wood siding, etc. would require replacing after 15, 20, 25 years, metal is meant to last 50+ years!  Shingles often appear to be the better option because they are more affordable up front, but even a 30 year shingle tends to last closer to 20 years because of extreme climate changes.  Taking inflation into consideration, having to replace shingles every 20 years roughly, they actually become the more expensive option.

Many home inspectors and realtors acknowledge that metal offers a higher protection for any home and take into consideration the overall value that metal holds in the longevity of it.  Key points include:

• damage resistant
• fire resistant
• environmentally responsible
• low maintenance
• lower insurance premiums (for most insurance companies)

We could go on about the added benefits of steel roofing and siding so we will touch on some of these other points in future blog posts!  Check back soon to learn more!