Ask Chris: If Metal Roofs Are So Great, Why Don't All Roofers Recommend Them?

Q: I was speaking to a roofer recommended by a friend because I am going to need to replace my roof soon, and when I asked about a metal roof, he said they were “ugly and expensive.” Why would someone in the business say that if it weren’t true?

A: At the risk of alienating my associates in the industry, I have to say that “roofers” as a group are not a very complete source of information about the industry. The nature of the business is such that it tends to be very segmented. Roofers that work for contractors who roof “average” houses use the same materials over and over again, so when they go on to start their own businesses, they continue doing what they know. It just makes good business sense to invest in men and equipment that specialize in one type of product. So why would a roofer say something flattering about a product or service that is outside of his usual practice? Especially when it might cost him work? It’s just very unlikely that he would, so the comments of the roofer you met are more common than not.

I’m still amazed to this day, after nearly 30 years in the industry how many “insiders” still think metal roofs only come in the long, ribbed panels often seen on commercial buildings. Metal offers the biggest number of styles and options, not the fewest! If you want to get a “big picture” view of the many options available to replace your roof, and features like environmental friendliness, long term performance, beautiful styles are priorities, then you need to do your own homework. Our website features a downloadable free informational booklet that's one place to start, but there are many others. You’re going to spend thousands of dollars replacing your roof – doesn’t it just make sense to research the best possible option before you make such a major purchase? Even a roofer has to agree with that!