(ARA) - Choosing the right roofing material for your home can be a mystery for many homeowners. With the number of options available, it has become increasingly difficult to choose.

Over the last few years, residential metal roofing has grown significantly in popularity as many homeowners have learned of its durability, while others have focused on the many styles and colors available. However, there is still a greater number who are trying to unravel the clues.

Tom Black, executive director of the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), answers the most common questions most homeowners have about metal roofing:

Why should a homeowner consider metal roofing?

Metal roofing has many advantages. For example, metal roofs have a lower life cycle cost than most traditional roofing material such as asphalt or cedar and it can withstand severe weather such as hail, snow, high winds as well as fire. It's also available in many styles and colors to fit virtually any home.

What is the overall cost of a metal roof?

Metal roofs can initially cost three to four times more than traditional roofing materials, but homeowners should keep in mind that the typical asphalt or cedar roof requires replacement every 15 years. While asphalt or cedar roofs are initially cheaper, when homeowners consider the cost of a metal roof spread out over a 60-year period, metal is the clear choice.

Do metal roofs come with warranties?

While most premium asphalt roofs will last from 12 to 20 years, metal can last more than 60. That's why you'll find most metal roofing with warranties of about 50 years -- nearly four times more than most other roofing products.

Aren't metal roofs noisy?

Not at all. Metal roofs with solid sheathing and insulation control noise from rain, hail and bad weather just as well as any other roofing material.

How does metal roofing stand up to extreme weather?

Metal roofing is the most durable roofing material available. Whether it's hail, snow, severe winds or even fire, metal roofing protects homeowners from whatever Mother Nature can throw their way. For example, in a hail storm, a metal roof's solid structure prevents dents, dings and other damage hail is known to cause. In fact, homeowners in some areas receive up to a 30 percent reduction in their homeowners insurance for having a metal roof installed.

Will metal roofing help combat the rising cost of energy?

One of the most beneficial aspects of metal roofing is its ability to insulate a home. Not only does metal roofing keep the house comfortable regardless of the weather outside, but it can actually lower air conditioning and heating bills.

Will metal roofing fit with the style of my house and neighborhood?

Definitely! Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles, colors and finishes and is made to look just like other popular types of roofing material including cedar shake, slate, asphalt shingles and clay tiles.

Where can homeowners go for more information on metal roofing?

Homeowners can go to www.metalroofing.com to learn more about metal roofing, view the various styles available and participate in the "Ask the Experts" section.

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Courtesy ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com; e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com

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