Is It the Right Move for Your Home? Let’s Break It Down.
Metal roofing has come a long way from the old barn-style panels of the past. These days, more and more homeowners in Nebraska and Iowa are considering metal roofs as a modern, durable, and energy-efficient upgrade.
But is a metal roof the right choice for your home?
At Watertight Roofing, we install both asphalt and metal roofing systems—and we want to make sure you understand the real pros and cons before you invest.
✅ The Pros of a Metal Roof
🔩 1. Incredible Durability
Metal roofing can last 40 to 70 years, depending on the material. It resists cracking, shrinking, and eroding—plus it holds up to hail, snow, wind, and fire.
💨 2. Storm Resistance
Living in the Midwest means dealing with hail, high winds, and heavy storms. Metal roofing is often rated for up to 140 mph winds and holds up better in severe weather than most shingles.
🔥 3. Fire & Lightning Resistant
Metal doesn’t ignite, which can be an extra layer of protection during dry seasons or lightning strikes.
☀️ 4. Energy Efficiency
Metal reflects solar heat, reducing cooling costs by 10–25% in the summer. That’s a big plus during Nebraska’s and Iowa’s hot months.
🧼 5. Low Maintenance
Once it’s installed, a metal roof requires little upkeep. It won’t warp, split, or mold—and snow tends to slide off easily in winter.
🎨 6. Modern Appearance
Today’s metal roofs come in a wide variety of colors and profiles—some even mimic traditional shingles or shake. It’s not just for farmhouses anymore!
❌ The Cons of a Metal Roof
💰 1. Higher Upfront Cost
Metal roofs typically cost more upfront than asphalt shingles—sometimes 2–3x more, depending on the system. But they can pay off in durability and long-term savings.
🔊 2. Noise During Rain or Hail
Without proper insulation or underlayment, metal roofs can be louder during heavy rain or hail—but a professional install usually solves this.
🧰 3. Complex Repairs
While metal roofs are strong, if a section is damaged, repairs can be more complex than replacing a few shingles.
🧲 4. Can Dent (in some cases)
Very large hail or falling tree limbs can leave dents on certain types of metal roofing—though some systems are designed to resist impact.
🏡 Is a Metal Roof Right for Your Home?
Here’s when a metal roof makes sense:
✅ You want long-term durability
✅ Your area is prone to hail and wind
✅ You plan to stay in your home for 20+ years
✅ You like the modern or custom look
✅ You’re looking for energy savings
And here’s when asphalt might be a better fit:
✅ You’re on a tight budget
✅ You plan to sell in the next few years
✅ You want to match the look of surrounding homes
💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve had multiple roof replacements from hail in the past 10–15 years, a metal upgrade could actually save you money over time.
🛠 Need Help Weighing the Options?
That’s what we’re here for.
At Watertight Roofing, we offer:
✅ Free, no-contact roof inspections
✅ Expert advice on asphalt vs. metal systems
✅ Certified installation of both roofing types
✅ Storm damage inspections & insurance help
📞 Call 402-870-0255 or schedule your free consultation here
We’ll help you decide what works best—and make sure it’s Done Right. Done Tight.