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When choosing a metal roof, consider not only the area of the roof but also the thickness of the panel, known as the gauge. Common roofing gauge sizes for metal roofs are 24-gauge and 26-gauge. The smaller the gauge size, the thicker the roof. Usually, a thicker gauge is ideal if your house is in an area that sees a lot of rain, snow, or hail, as it will be less likely to dent.

Moss grows in dark areas of roofs, including in corners and gutters. If left alone, it can grow under roofing and cause permanent damage. Here’s how to remove moss from metal roofs: 

• Soak the moss to soften it

• Scrub it away with a soft-bristled brush, or pick it off with your hands (be sure to wear gloves)

• Use a moss remover that’s compatible with metal roofing, following the manufacturer’s directions

• Remove dead moss and rinse the roof thoroughly

• Prevent future moss growth by trimming branches, cleaning gutters, and attaching zinc strips to moss-prone areas

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.

Asphalt shingle roofs are more likely to leak than metal roofs because they are more prone to uplift and damage from extreme weather, moss growth, and ice dams. Asphalt shingles also lose shingle grit over time, which decreases their waterproofing qualities. Metal is a more resilient material that will stand up better to strong winds and heavy precipitation, ultimately leading to a lower risk of leaking. As such, metal roofs add to home value with a higher ROI than asphalt roofs in most cases.