Metal roofs are a good match for parts of the Tucson climate. They shed rain quickly, stand up to wind when installed properly, and a light or coated finish reflects a lot of sunlight. They also have their own weak points, mostly at fasteners and seams, so it helps to know what you are buying.
Types of metal roofs
Standing seam
Long panels run from the ridge to the eave, and the seams are raised and locked together. The fasteners are hidden under the seams, so there are no screw holes facing the weather. Standing seam usually costs more but needs less upkeep.
Exposed fastener panels
Ribbed or corrugated panels are screwed through the face into the roof deck. They cost less up front. Each screw has a rubber washer that keeps water out, and those washers dry out and crack in strong sun over time.
Metal shingles and tile profiles
Some metal products are pressed to look like shingles or tile. They suit homes where the look matters but the owner wants a lighter roof.
How metal handles Tucson weather
Sun and heat.
Tucson gets about 3,806 hours of sunshine a year and averages 158 days at 90 F or hotter. Light colors and reflective finishes keep the roof surface cooler than a dark roof. Ask about the finish and how well it holds its color in strong sun.
Expansion and contraction.
Metal grows when it heats up and shrinks when it cools. Panels need clips and fasteners that allow that movement, or the screws work loose and seams open.
Monsoon wind and rain.
A properly fastened metal roof sheds heavy rain fast. Loose panels or trim can lift in high gusts, so edges and ridge caps must be fastened well.
Noise.
Rain on metal can be louder than on tile or shingles, especially without solid decking and insulation underneath.
Common metal roof repairs
- Replacing dried or cracked fastener washers, or the screws themselves.
- Resealing laps and seams.
- Fixing flashing around vents, skylights and rooftop units.
- Refastening trim and ridge caps after a storm.
- Treating scratches before rust starts.
Is metal right for your home?
Metal can go on many pitched roofs and some low slope roofs. On a home built before 1980 (52.5% of Tucson homes), the roofer should check the deck and framing before quoting, and say whether old layers must be removed first. Ask whether a permit is needed and whether the roofer will pull it. The City of Tucson's Planning and Development Services can be reached at (520) 791-5550.
Questions to ask before you choose metal
- Standing seam or exposed fastener, and why?
- What gauge and finish are you quoting?
- What goes under the panels, and is there decking?
- What written warranty covers the installation and the panels?
- What is your Arizona ROC license number?
Common questions
Is a metal roof good for Tucson heat?
A light colored or reflective metal roof stays cooler than a dark roof and sheds monsoon rain well. Proper fastening and room for expansion matter in the heat.
Are metal roofs noisy in monsoon rain?
They can be louder than tile or shingles. Solid decking and attic insulation under the panels cut down the noise a lot.
Can metal go over my existing roof?
Sometimes. It depends on the roof type, its condition and local rules. A roofer will check the deck and tell you whether a tear-off is needed.
Other services
Roof Repair
Monsoon leaks, cracked tile, worn foam, lifted shingles and loose flashing on Tucson roofs.
Roof Coating
Elastomeric, acrylic and silicone recoats for foam and flat roofs under the Tucson sun.
Flat and Foam Roofs
Ponding water, blisters, clogged scuppers and damaged foam on Tucson flat roofs.