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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.

Yes, a drip edge is necessary on a metal roof, according to the International Residential Code (IRC). Drip edge flashing prevents water from dripping onto and behind your fascia board, which prevents the board from rotting and reduces the risk of water damage behind it. On gable ends, you can either install drip edge flashing or gable-end flashing to avoid the same issues.

A metal roof will last for an average of around 50 years—usually between 40 and 75 years—which is about double the lifespan of an asphalt roof—between 15 and 30 years or 25 years on average. Installing a metal roof is usually more expensive than an asphalt roof, with an average cost of $11,400 compared to the $9,200 for an asphalt roof. However, given that a metal roof costs about 20% more and lasts twice as long, it’s typically well worth the investment and should save you money in the long run.

Installing a metal roof will rarely affect your homeowner’s insurance policy in a negative way, and you might even get a discount on your premium for installing one, depending on your area. Metal roofs can reduce the risk of structural damage from heavy snow, and they stand up better to strong winds and impact, so homeowners in areas that see excessive snowfall or extreme weather may see savings on insurance premiums after installing a metal roof.