Chris Says... The So-Called Metal Roofing Niche

I heard metal roofing referred to as a “niche” market by a homeowner recently. Funny to think that the preeminent roof material for high-end architectural projects and estate homes for centuries should now be considered a “niche.” However, it makes sense if you think of the state of the roofing market today. For the past 60 or 70 years the emphasis in building has been low cost. Consequently the vast majority of roofers have become “shinglers.” Since asphalt shingles account for well over half of all roofs sold, it makes sense that the average roofer has little experience with anything else. Any owner of a home or building asking such a roofer about any other roof material would certainly get a response characterizing most all other material as “expensive,” or “exotic,” or a “niche” product. This is to be expected given their experience.

If a homeowner truly wants a complete view of their roofing options, they best use the internet or at least a good cross-section of expertise from local roofers, otherwise they will be viewing a very narrow segment of the industry and miss many options that will enhance their building.