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While there are many benefits to installing a metal roof on your home, there are some downsides, too. Zinc roofs, in particular, are susceptible to corrosion from overly salty air directly near coastal areas. Another potential downside of zinc roofing is that it must be allowed to expand and contract with the weather. This means special attention is necessary to how it's fastened to the home to avoid issues. 

In the metal versus shingle roof debate, aluminum roofing has several advantages. However, aluminum roofing costs more than typical asphalt roofing, so up-front cost is a major downside. Aluminum is also somewhat susceptible to denting, and repairs can be more costly than for other roof types because your roofer will need to replace large panels rather than individual shingles. Aluminum roofs are also noisy in the rain, which some homeowners don’t like.

24-gauge metal is thicker and will stand up better to impact, so it’s a better option for roofs that will see heavy snow and ice accumulation, hail storms, fallen tree debris, and blown debris. It’s a more expensive option, but it’s worth the added cost for roof longevity in extreme climates. If you live in a more moderate climate and don’t have trees overhanging your roof, 26-gauge metal is suitable and is a more affordable option.

The lifespan of a roof patch depends on which materials you use and the severity of the damage. Temporary solutions like tarps or plastic sheets last a few weeks to a few months, while roofing tape or caulk may hold up for a year or two. Permanent patches using roofing cement, flashing, or replacement shingles can last several years as long as they're properly maintained. Regular inspections and touch-ups can extend the patch’s lifespan, but eventually, a full repair or replacement would be needed.