It’s wise to ask for an itemized bid so that when you are comparing roof replacement costs, you’re truly comparing apples to apples. Below are the factors contractors must consider before producing an accurate metal roofing quote.

How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost?

At Lindus Construction, we generally tell homeowners to expect a quality residential metal roofing system to cost approximately 1.25 to 1.5 times the cost of a comparable asphalt roofing system. The actual price varies based on the size and complexity of the roof, the metal roofing system selected, and the installation requirements of the home.

Roof Size

The surface area of your roof impacts the amount of material needed to re-roof. It also factors in labor costs, because the larger a roof is, the more time installation will take. However, just because your roof has the same amount of squares as a neighbor’s roof doesn’t mean the contractor can bid your roof sight unseen.

Roof Shape & Complexity

Dormers, skylights, sun tunnels, and complex roof angles all increase installation times. This can quickly equate to additional labor charges.

Roof Pitch

The steeper your roof is, the more labor-intensive the installation becomes. This requires additional equipment in order to ensure the safety of the installers. This all adds to the bottom line.

Skylights, Chimneys & Other Roof Features

Skylights, sun tunnels, chimneys, and roof vents can add to the cost of a metal roof because they require additional materials, flashing, and installation time.

Type of Metal Roof

Even if you’ve committed to steel roofing, there can still be a variance in pricing. Steel roofing is available in different gauges, which refers to the thickness of the metal. A lower gauge indicates thicker steel. The gauge and type of metal roofing system selected can affect both the price and performance of the roof.

Metal Roof Installation Method

To lower the initial cost of a metal roof, some contractors may forego shingle tear-off and simply install a new roof over an old one. While permissible in some municipalities, this approach forfeits the ability to inspect a roof deck for rot and other damage.

Is a Metal Roof More Expensive Than Asphalt Shingles?

Yes. At Lindus Construction, we generally estimate that a quality residential metal roofing system costs about 25% to 50% more than a comparable asphalt roofing system. While the upfront investment is higher, homeowners should also consider factors such as longevity, durability, and long-term performance when comparing the two roofing options.

Is a Metal Roof Worth the Higher Cost?

For homeowners planning to stay in their homes long term, a metal roof may be worth the higher upfront investment. Durability, longevity, weather resistance, and reduced need for future roof replacements are all factors to consider when comparing metal roofing with asphalt shingles.

Permit Costs & Contractor Insurance

Permit costs should be factored into the total price of a metal roofing project. Failing to pull a permit when one is required can result in costly problems, including issues with insurance or the future sale of the home.

Be wary of any contractor that dances around the question of whether or not they’ll be pulling a permit for your project. Some contractors carry inadequate insurance coverage or operate without proper coverage in an effort to lower their costs.

This penny wise and pound foolish approach puts homeowners at risk. In this situation, a worker that’s injured on the job could go after the homeowner for medical costs and lost wages due to injury.

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?

A metal roof can have a significantly longer lifespan than traditional asphalt shingles when the roofing system is properly installed and maintained. The specific lifespan depends on the type of metal, installation quality, weather exposure, and other conditions.

Why Metal Roofing Quotes Can Vary

The cost of a metal roof can vary significantly between contractors, even when they are quoting the same home. Differences in metal thickness, roofing system, tear-off, flashing, underlayment, ventilation, roof deck repairs, permits, and installation details can all affect the final price.

Learn More About Our Residential Metal Roofing Installation Process:

Wondering what a metal roof would cost for your home? Contact Lindus Construction to schedule an estimate and compare your roofing options.

For homeowners in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin, your roof can affect how much you pay for insurance. Hail, wind, snow, and fire are common risks here. Because metal roofs hold up better, many insurance companies consider them lower risk.

If you’re considering a metal roof, a professional inspection can help determine whether your home may qualify for insurance savings.

Savvy owners know there are steps they can take to lower their homeowner’s insurance rates.  And if you’re one of those, you may have heard rumors about roofing and its relationship to premium costs.  Well, it’s true that the installation of long-lasting roofing materials can help you save money on home insurance.  That’s because the risk of an insurance company having to cover a roof replacement due to storm damage is minimal.  In fact, insurance companies cover metal roofs and often offer a discount for their installation. Here’s what you need to know.

Does A Metal Roof Always Lower Your Insurance?

Bear in mind that metal roof insurance may not be lower than other roofing materials.  However, companies like Progressive do consider the type of roof material you have and admit that there is often a metal roof insurance discount.  Before you pull the trigger on a new roof installation, verify how much a metal roof saves on insurance with your agent.

Homeowners Insurance And Metal Roofs

There are many reasons a new metal roof may qualify for an insurance discount. In the Upper Midwest, insurers often look at several key factors. Here are the most cited:

Longevity

Metal roofs can last 50 years or more. This makes them more appealing than cedar shake roofs, which have limited lifespans.  Metal roofing also has warranties that state they will not warp, crack, chip, or peel.

Durability

A home’s roof is exposed to the elements year-round. Metal roofing holds up well in extreme heat and cold. Its design allows it to shed rain, snow, and ice dams, and it also resists high winds.

Metal roofing has the highest possible impact-resistance rating, which makes metal roofs unlikely to suffer hail damage.

This durability matters in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Hailstorms and freeze-thaw cycles are common here.

Bonus read: Find A Roofing Contractor to Help with Your Hail Damage Roof Insurance Claim

Fire Resistance

Another way a metal roof can lower your insurance is through fire resistance.  This material won’t combust under fire, and while over time, it can melt, but few fires are hot enough to make this happen.  If you’re considering a metal roof, opt for one that has a Class A rating, which is the best fire protection.

Myths About Metal Roofs

Even after finding out the answer to whether a metal roof can lower the cost of home insurance is “yes,” some homeowners are still deterred because of metal roofing myths and online misinformation.

One common misconception is that metal is louder than asphalt roofing. In fact, if there is proper attic insulation, a metal roof can prevent loud noises, even during storms.

Another common misconception is that metal roofs are more likely than other materials to encounter a lightning strike. This is not true. If a lightning strike does happen, a metal roof is less likely to ignite than cedar shake or asphalt roofing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Roofs and Insurance

Do Insurance Companies in Minnesota Offer Discounts for Metal Roofs?

Many insurance companies in Minnesota see metal roofs as lower risk. Discounts vary by provider. Durability, fire resistance, and hail resistance often play a role.

How Much Can a Metal Roof Lower Insurance Premiums?

Insurance savings depend on the provider and the roof installed. Some homeowners see small discounts. Others save over time because metal roofs last longer and lead to fewer claims.

Does Installation Quality Affect Insurance Discounts?

Yes. Proper installation matters. Insurance companies review roof age and installation records.

A Final Word On Metal Roof Insurance

To learn more about homeowners insurance and metal roofs, it’s wise to consult your agent. They can guide you on the roofing criteria needed to lower your insurance rates. Your insurance agent can also provide details regarding a metal roof insurance discount and give names of reputable roofers.

If you’re looking for a reliable roofing contractor, we have decades of experience along with offering a lifetime workmanship guarantee. If any of our installations fail, rest assured, the replacement will be covered at no cost to you.  Learn why many homeowners choose Lindus Construction for their metal roof installations and contact us today if you have any questions.

Facts About Metal Roofs for Twin Cities Homes

Noise

A metal roof installed over an open frame, absent of sheeting and insulation will create a louder space.  This application is often used in pole barns. However, on homes, when metal roofs are installed by a reputable contractor, noise is not of concern because the correct levels of insulation and underlayment are being utilized.  In addition, metal roofs on residential homes are fastened to the roof deck, not open rafters, which also creates a sound barrier.

Lightning Strike Potential

Extensive research by the Metal Construction Association has repeatedly demonstrated that metal roofs do not have a higher probability of being struck by lightning, when compared to other materials.  In fact, the biggest determinants of whether a structure will be struck by lighting include factors such as weather patterns, size of the building, and the topography of the general area.

Durability

In many cases, metal roofs provide the potential for insurance discounts because they lower the likelihood that you will have a hail damage roof insurance claim due to their dependability.  Even more impressive is metal roofing’s ability to hold up to fire, wind, snow, and ice.

Winter Temperatures

A common misnomer about metal roofs is that they are uncommonly cold in the winter months. In actuality, the amount and caliber of attic insulation and ventilation is the factor that plays heaviest into a roof’s winter surface temperature.

Learn More About the Installation of a Metal Roof:

Eco-Friendliness

For homeowners looking to lower their carbon footprint, metal roofs can be an excellent choice.  They can have a lifespan of 50 years and are comprised of recycled steel and aluminum.  Metal roofs are usually coated with treatments that are designed to ward off moss and fungus.  This forgoes the need for chemical treatments that are not environmentally friendly.

Weight

The heavier a roof is, the more stress it places on a home’s foundation.  Luckily for homeowners opting for metal, this roofing material comes in as one of the lightest roofing materials offered.

Contact us today to get started on your next roof replacement project.

This allows them to have a deep understanding of the material they’re working with and affords us the ability to offer a lifetime workmanship guarantee.  In short, if any of the products we install ever fail prematurely due to an installation error, we’ll correct the situation free of charge.

This guarantee even extends to projects as substantial as residential metal roofing.  Ever wondered what goes into the installation of a metal roof?  Here’s what you need to know!

Manufacturing Process

The metal roofs our company installs are made of custom-fabricated metal for the property in the exact measurements needed.  This approach eliminates problematic seams which can lead to roof leaks due to water infiltration caused by wind driven rain or snow.  24 gauge steel is utilized because of its thickness, ensuring a lifespan of 50 years.

Removal of Old Roof

While some municipalities allow a metal roof to be placed on top of asphalt shingles, we advise against this approach, as it adds unnecessary weight to the structure of your home.  The failure to remove pre-existing shingles also forfeits the ability for your roofing contractor to inspect the roof deck of your home and replace any rotten boards.

This Cedar Shake Roof in Northern Wisconsin Was Transformed With Metal Roofing:

Underlayment & Clips

After inspecting the roof deck to make sure it is free of rot, a combination of underlayment and ice and water shield are meticulously placed.  When used in tandem, these components ensure that if water were ever able to penetrate the roof, it would not cause leaking within the home.  Floating clips are screwed to the roof.  Their purpose is to prevent rippling in the roofing panels as they expand and contact in response to temperature changes.  The fasteners that keep the metal roofing in place are concealed in order to create a truly seamless design.

Roof Valley

On a roof, the valley area is one of the most vulnerable spots for leaks and preventative measures must be taken.  On each project, we install 4’x10’ sheets of steel on the roof valley.  This measure acts as a second line of defense.  Should water get behind the valley, it must still penetrate the piece of steel that was installed in addition to the metal roofing in that area.

Maintenance

Metal roofs are virtually maintenance-free, offering the ultimate peace of mind to homeowners.  By their design, they shed snow and ice.  There is little worry of the algae growth that can occur on asphalt roofs.

Learn More About Our Residential Metal Roofing Installation Process:

Contact us today to get started installing a metal roof on your Twin Cities home.

In recent times, metal roofs have become a popular choice for homeowners for reasons we’ll discuss in the article below.

1. Life Expectancy

One of the biggest perks of metal roofing is its long life expectancy.  Depending on the metal roof you select, it can last 50 years or more, quite possibly making it the last roof you’ll ever have to buy.  The longevity of the metal roof also increases your home’s value.

2. Painting Capabilities

Not sure that you want the same look on your home for the next 50 years?  Not to worry-metal roofing can be repainted.

3. Insurance Discounts

A steel roof is the most fire safe roof because it is classified as a noncombustible roof with the highest rating given.  Because of this, some insurance companies offer discounts because of the increased fire protection a metal roof offers.  Metal roofs have the highest impact resistance and hail rating, another reason you may be eligible for an insurance discount.

4. Eco-Friendly

Homeowners that select metal roofs also likely enjoy the fact that metal roofs are from recycled steel and aluminum material and are 100% recyclable.

5. Noise Resistance

A common misconception is that metal roofing is loud.  This is true with barns and sheds where the metal is visible to the interior.  In a home, your attic and insulation serve as sound barriers making it no less noisy than traditional roofing systems.

6. Durability

A metal roof won’t rot, crack or split; it is much more resistant to nature’s elements than traditional roofing systems.

7. Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs have coatings that prevent 75-80% of the sun’s energy from being absorbed into the roof.  They can reduce roof surface temperatures by 60-70°.  Because of their reflectivity, a metal roof can save a homeowner up to 40% on their energy bills.

8. Sheds Snow & Ice

Because of its surface, a metal roof is not a collection site for snow and ice in the winter months; this means that homeowners who choose metal roofing systems do not have to deal with ice dams during harsh winters.

9. Lightweight

Metal roofs weigh 1/3 less than asphalt roofing, meaning that your home will be under less stress holding your roof up.

Learn More About our Metal Roofing Process:

For more information about our metal roof installation services, contact us today. Our team of roofing professionals is ready to serve you.

Since 1979, Lindus Construction has been assisting homeowners in Western Wisconsin, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and beyond with interior and exterior projects.  With over 150 employees, we are deeply committed to proving excellent customer service and products guaranteed to last a lifetime.  Our corporate headquarters continue to remain in the hometown of the family that founded us over 40 years ago.  From day one, we have offered a lifetime workmanship guarantee stipulating that if any of our installations fail due to subpar workmanship, the replacement is covered at no cost to the homeowner.  This continues to be the reason why our organization receives national awards and excellent customer reviews.

Homeowners can rest assured that whether they choose to partner with us for roof installation, gutter replacement, and more, their house will be treated with the utmost care by both the second and third generations of the Lindus family, who handle the organization’s day-to-day operations.

Advantages Of Residential Metal Roofing

There are many reasons why homeowners in our area opt for residential metal roofing including the material’s durability, particularly during the harsh winters and the sweltering summers that are a regular occurrence in the Twin Cities.  Because of the thick protection it provides to homes, many insurance companies offer discounts for their installation.  This is because it is very difficult for metal to be damaged by hail, wind, snow, and ice dams.

The Environmental Impacts

For homeowners that are environmentally conscious, it is reassuring to know that metal roofing for residential installations can often have a lifespan of 50 years.  In addition, a metal roof replacement is often coated with treatments that ward off the formation of algae, moss, and fungus.  This prevents the future need for the use of chemical sprays that can be damaging to the environment.

Replacement Colors

Residential and commercial metal roofing is offered in a variety of attractive colors.  Lighter metal colors can make a home appear taller than it is.  In addition, a lighter colored metal roof can be beneficial for keeping a home cooler during the summer months.  A darker color can overwhelm the other architectural features of a home.  However, if insulation and ventilation best practices are utilized to ensure the proper levels of each are implemented, there is not a concern of a roof’s contributing to an overly hot home.

Request Your Metal Roof Estimate

We take a personalized approach to every residential metal roofing project.  Each roof estimate begins with a visit to your home by one of our experts to evaluate the condition of your current roof installation.  Our approach is to educate homeowners in and around the Twin Cities area and provide a metal roof estimate that clearly communicates the differences between metal roofing facts and misconceptions.

In addition to taking measurements and verifying the quality of your home insulation, we provide an up-close look at the materials and colors we provide.  Contact us for your complimentary estimate today.

What Should I Know About Home Insulation Services?

Homeowners often think of insulation when they consider ways to improve home energy efficiency.  However, home insulation should be done in tandem with attic air sealing.  Attic air sealing is the process of eliminating air leaks from reaching the attic, which can help maintain a consistent temperature throughout a home.  In addition, proper levels of attic ventilation are needed in order for ice dam prevention.  If an insulation contractor is only offering to add additional home insulation in order to improve home energy efficiency, they are likely not getting to the root of issues a homeowner may be experiencing.  It’s a good sign if the insulation contractor services you are working with are using diagnostic tools throughout your home to get a better understanding of its building envelope.

What’s The Best Type Of Home Insulation For New Construction?

When interviewing insulation contractor services, it’s important to understand the types of home insulation they suggest and why.  In most cases, the best approach an insulation contractor can take is to apply 2 ½ inches of spray foam insulation as the vapor barrier.  Next cellulose insulation can be applied to get the attic to R-60.  With the proper attic air chutes and a ridge venting system, the home’s energy efficiency can be maximized.  Ridge vents are preferable because they are installed at the very peak of the roof and allow an attic’s hot air to exit.  The goal of home insulation and ventilation is to create a temperature in the attic that is like the outdoors.  This is the best way for ice dam prevention to occur.

What Kind Of Home Insulation Should I Use Vaulted Roof Replacement?

The first step in this roof installation process is to take off the roof deck and remove the roof insulation.  That area should be filled with spray foam insulation.  The area must then be re-decked.  It is important that the shingles are not exposed to too much heat escape, or the longevity of the roof replacement can be compromised.

What Type Of Roof Replacement Is Best?

Not all roofing contractors use the same quality of shingles.  GAF offers asphalt shingles that are accompanied with a 50-year, non-prorated warranty on labor and materials.  It is important to know that not all roofing companies can offer this type of warranty or installation.  That’s because they can only be offered on the highest quality roof installation materials.  Many times, shingles that qualify for the 50-year, non-prorated roof replacement are Class 4 impact-resistant shingles.  Examples of these types of shingles include GAF Glenwood and Timberline® AS II Shingles.  A Class 4 impact rating means that the shingles are designed to hold up against hail damage roof repair.     

See A Completed Roof Installation Project:

What Type of Gutter Guards Are The Best For Metal Roofs?

LeafGuard® Gutters work well with metal roofing. That’s because the home gutter system is shaped to discourage anything except liquid water from entering the gutter drainage system.  In the winter months, snow often exits a metal roof in sheets.  With ordinary open gutter systems, large amounts of snow exiting a metal roof can pull off the gutter protection systems and soffit and fascia installation.  LeafGuard® Gutters are accompanied with a lifetime warranty that stipulates if the system is ever damaged or pulls loose due to snow or ice, the gutter installation will be replaced or fixed free of charge.

Listen To The Entire Roof Installation & Insulation Video Here:

Understanding Home Ventilation, Insulation, & Air Leaks

Many times, when homeowners are experiencing inadequate insulation and ventilation they wrongly assume and blame their home’s entry doors and windows for drafts in their home.  Quality home insulation contractors look at the overall residence to understand the building’s envelope.  That’s because if the home’s attic is an issue and it’s leaking warm air, the home’s interior warm air is rising.  The more air that leaves through a home’s attic, the more the home will try and equalize the pressure through its windows and doors, especially if they are already leaking air.

Ice Dam Formation & Using Insulation Installation To Combat It

An ice dam normally occurs when heat loss occurs in the interior of a home and is able to make its way up to the roof deck causing the snow to melt until it gets to a point on the roof deck where the heat is no longer present.  When that happens, the water refreezes.  Over time, it refreezes enough that the water becomes trapped and unable to exit the roof.  The longer the water can sit, the greater the opportunity for a roof leak to occur.  This can cause the need for insulation to be replaced and can create an environment for attic mold to form.

One of the architectural styles that’s prone to ice dam damage is story and a half homes.  In story and half homes, the upper level has angled ceilings with knee walls.  These features make it difficult to properly ventilate and install insulation because heat loss is common.  To fully correct the situation, it’s best to remove all of the current insulation and add spray foam to the top of the roof deck and install a metal roof.  This approach discourages the risk of  ice dam formation because a thermal break is created, causing snow to exit the roof before it has a chance to melt.  Heat cables should be used on a last resort basis because they are not a permanent ice dam solution.

Watch Spray Foam Insulation Being Installed By The Experts of Lindus Construction:

Air Sealing Is A Core Piece Of Attic Ventilation & Insulation Projects

A critical component of most home ventilation and insulation projects should be attic air sealing.  In this process, spray foam insulation is installed in the attic on the rim, top plate, and perforations.  The attic access is also sealed off to prevent air leakage.  Out of all of the improvements you can make to your home, air sealing an attic offers a great return on investment in terms of energy savings.

Seamless Gutters Help Flow Water Away From Your Home Before It Can Refreeze

For homeowners with a metal roof, it’s important to select a gutter system that is sturdy enough to handle heavy snow and ice falling off the roof.  While gutters aren’t the root cause of ice dams, they help excess water flow (after the snow melts) away from your home. Keep in mind ice dam build up occurs from melted snow that refreezes. Therefore, many homeowners select LeafGuard® Brand Gutters over open style gutters.  LeafGuard® Brand Gutters are one-piece, seamless, and guaranteed never to clog or we’ll offer you a complimentary cleaning.  Not only can open style gutters be ripped off a home from ice and snow, but the soffits can as well.  Even more frustrating is that not all insurance companies will cover this type of damage.

Listen To The Entire Episode Here:

Listen to the Entire Show Here:

Can Decking be Installed in the Winter?

One decking question most homeowners want to know is how late into the winter can decking be installed?  Extreme amounts of snow or temperatures below 10° can cause Twin Cities deck installers to have to stop working.  However, in mild winter conditions, deck installations can occur.  Popular deck footings in Wisconsin and Minnesota are helical screw earth screws.  They can even be installed in the winter if the ground is thawed out by the contractor.  Insulated tarps that absorb heat and reflect heat into the ground can also be used to keep the ground from freezing.

Should I Consider Installing Metal Roofing?

When having a new roof installed on your home, it’s smart to understand the differences between metal roofing and asphalt shingles.  Metal roofing is almost always more expensive than shingle roofing.  However, cost should not be the only factor considered when investing in a new roof.  The home’s architecture should also be considered.  On a log or rustic home, metal roofing can enhance curb appeal.  On other styles of homes, asphalt shingles are a better complement.  Metal roofs can have a longer lifespan than asphalt shingles, but they need to have a new finish applied to keep them looking their best.  In the Midwest, metal roofs can be an attractive option because they reflect the head and shed the snow.  This can keep an attic cooler in the summer months.  Metal roofs, when coupled with proper insulation can also act as a protectant against ice dams on a story and a half home.  Learn why you should choose us for your metal roof installation.

Here’s A Metal Roof Installed By The Craftsmen of Lindus Construction: 

How Does Insulation Improve My Home’s Energy Efficiency?

Upgrading your attic insulation quickly offers payback in terms of reduced energy costs.  This area of the home often leaks the most air.  The most common mistake homeowners make regarding their attic insulation is seeing that they have some and assuming it is enough.  In fact, the amount of insulation is only one component that goes into an energy efficient attic.  Without attic air sealing, energy can be wasted, and ice dams can form.  Air penetrations and air bypasses cause more problems in an attic than the amount of insulation that is present.

Contact us today to get started on your next decking, roofing, or insulation projects.

Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am.  Have your most pressing home improvement questions addressed by calling or texting(715) 473-9338.

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Choosing Your Roofing Material

When picking shingles for your roof, it’s important to understand that manufacturers offer multiple grades of shingles.  Before making a commitment, read the fine print that accompanies the shingle so that you understand the warranty that accompanies them.  As a rule, designer line shingles tend to have the best warranty, most curb appeal, and are the thickest.  Thicker shingles also tend to hold up better against hail and may even be eligible for insurance discounts.  It’s important to note that if gutters are a part of your roofing project, they should be installed after the shingles.  This ensures that the gutters are not damaged during the shingle tear-off process.

Learn More About GAF Glenwood® Shingles: 

Steel is another popular roofing material.  It can be installed on a variety of architectural styles.  It’s worth noting that some homeowners’ associations may restrict the installation of metal roofing.  Prior to having one installed, it’s wise to review the rules specific to your HOA.

Be Prepared for Storm Damage with the Right Insurance

In the event that your roof is damaged by a storm, it’s wise to have purchased insurance from a local independent agent that you have a working relationship with.  These professionals often offer the best customer service and most competitive rates.  Having a reputable contractor that can meet with you and your adjuster to verify that damage has taken place and to what extent can make the claims process much easier.  If a contractor and an adjuster disagree as to whether hail damage has taken place, a second adjuster can be called in.

For homeowners experiencing ice dams on their roof, the installation of heat tape can seem like a good move.  However, they can puncture the roof, leading to leaks.  A better option for stopping the creation of ice dams is upgrading your home’s insulation and ventilation.  A reputable contractor can use diagnostic tools such as blower doors, borescopes, and infrared imaging to determine the best way to create a comfortable and energy efficient home.

Contact us today to get started on your next roofing and insulation projects.

Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am.  Have your most pressing home improvement questions addressed by calling or texting(715) 473-9338.