For a long time, asphalt shingles were the only choice when it came to roofing materials for homeowners. Not so much anymore. With the rise of innovative roofing materials, homeowners can choose to install metal roofs at an affordable and competitive rate. In fact, metal roofing is rapidly gaining popularity for its longevity, energy efficiency, and great investment returns. For homeowners who have their eyes on a standing seam metal roof (one of the most popular metal roofing products), here are 7 reasons that will send you into metal mania immediately.

1. Excellent Choice on Low-Pitched Roof

One of the most common reasons homeowners are attracted to standing seam metal roofs is due to the way it compliments low-pitched roofs. Low-pitched roofs are usually either leveled or have relatively low steepness. Having shingles installed on low-pitched roofs not only hinders water runoff, but also causes water to flow back into the shingles. When left untreated, homeowners can face costly roof leaks and other infiltration problems. However, a standing seam metal roof, and its continuous vertical panels, will eliminate all these worries by providing a pathway for water and other natural debris to glide off with great ease.

2. Long Service Life Span

Standing seam metal roofs are made to last. While many metal roofs come with a 30 to 50 year manufacturer warranty, it is common to see metal roofs reaching their 100th service anniversary before retirement.  When it comes to maintenance, some surveys have even suggested that the cost of maintenance ratio for an asphalt roof and a metal roof is, at the very least, 5 to 1.

3. Strong and Durable

Made to outlive asphalt shingles by two to three times longer, the tough and durable standing seam metal roofs are an investment for life. Standing seam metal roofs are impervious to rotting and insect or pest infestation. The continuous vertical panels can also effectively clear any rainwater and other natural elements off your low-pitched roofs. As a result, standing seam metal roofs will never become waterlogged and are immune to drastic weather and temperature changes.

4. Environmentally Smart

Welcomed for their longevity and recyclability, environmentally conscious homeowners are especially happy to know that their roofs are 100 percent recyclable at the end of its house-topping life. Because standing seam metal roofs are toxin-free, they also promote a healthy water cycle by enabling rainwater to glide easily off them without experiencing the common chemical contaminations found in asphalt shingles.

5. Energy Efficient

Stand seam metal roofs, like other metal roofing products, can reflect most of the solar heat and reduce your energy expenditure by up to 30 percent. Classified as “cool roofs†by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the high thermal emittance of metal roofs will help your home stay consistently at 50–60°F (28–33°C) cooler than conventional materials during the dog days of summer.

6. Aesthetics

Featuring an upturned edge on one panel that connects it to an adjacent panel, standing seam metal roofs are widely coveted for their sleek look and modern appeal on both commercial and residential buildings. However, with a myriad of colors and styles available, it is no surprise that homeowners seeking a more classical architectural appeal are using the vertical lines of the roofing panel and other customization options to create a historic look for their homes.

7. Resale Value

The virtually zero maintenance and durable features of standing seam metal roofs make them a coveted asset for any prospective home buyer. As Home Guides.com reports, metal roofs are commonly known to improve the home value by 1 to 6 percent. A study in the Remodeling Home Magazine also finds that “homes renovated with standing-seam metal roofing show a rate of 85.9% cost recouped in the national average with up to 95.5% for homes in the Eastern states.â€

The benefits of standing seam metal roofs are many. While these top seven reasons are extremely compelling, the full benefits of installing a standing seam metal roof are reserved only for the ones who are ready to make a small investment in exchange for a greater return. Are you ready to be one of them?