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Metal roofs are dangerous to walk on, even for professionals. Metal shake does offer some texture to help with grip, but metal itself is extremely slippery, especially at a medium to steep pitch, so call in a pro rather than getting up on the roof yourself. They’ll have the necessary safety equipment and experience to avoid injury.

Yes, you can walk on a standing seam roof, but you should avoid stepping on the seams and instead walk on the flat portions. The seams are thin and provide less traction, and they don’t get direct support from the roof decking underneath, so they’re more likely to dent from added weight.

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.

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.