Choosing the right roofing materials is important in any building project. There are a lot of options available to you: stone, wood, clay, bricks, metal, and plastic, among others. Each of these choices has different pros and cons that can make your choice an even tougher one to make.
We’ll narrow your choices down to two options: metal roof installation and plastic or polycarbonate roofing. Both are durable materials and are readily available. These comparisons are for you to make a more informed decision, but at the end of the day, the choice will still be based on your preference and taste.
Which One is Better: Metal Roofing or Plastic Roofing?
How Durable is It?
Both metal and plastic roofing, especially polycarbonate sheets, are durable and long-lasting. They can withstand a great amount of pressure and impact and do well in extreme weather conditions.
However, if steel roofing is exposed to a tremendous amount of heat and cold, leading to constant expansion and contraction, it may deteriorate at a faster pace compared to plastic roofing, which requires minimal maintenance. Under normal weather conditions, though, they both perform equally well.
How Easy is it to Install?
It’s a tie. Both materials have no clear advantage over the other when it comes to ease of installation. As both materials are lightweight, they can be easily installed as a brand new installation or a replacement roofing system.
They can both be installed over an existing roofing system without the need to take out the existing roof. They are also fairly simple to clean and remain to be two of the roofing materials today that are so easy to maintain.
How Much Does it Cost?
Steel and polycarbonate roofing prices differ from one another, depending on several factors like material quality and thickness.
Generally, plastic roofing is cheaper compared to its other counterparts like metal, clay, and asphalt shingles. Metal sheets, on the other hand, may initially cost a bit more than its competition, but has economic rewards in the long run. It is an energy-efficient material that gives homeowners and building occupants better winter insulation, saving you up to 40% in HVAC costs.
What Will it Be Used For?
The purpose for which the roof will be used is also a main consideration. The choice for the right roofing material is dependent on the type of structure you are building. Greenhouses and conservatories can greatly utilize polycarbonate roofing sheets compared to metal installations. On the other hand, metal roofing installations can be used on almost any type of structure.
Is it Sustainable?
Fortunately, both polycarbonate and metal roofing, especially those made from recycled or repurposed material, are environment-friendly materials. Plastic sheets have a translucent quality that lets natural daylight in, while metal sheets provide great insulation for houses and other structures.
Although plastic may seem economical and durable, a good quality metal sheet will always outlast a plastic one. Metal roofs are the better choice if you wish to upgrade or replace your roofing system. However, as mentioned, it will still depend on your preference and your budget.
We have presented some of each material’s advantages. The choice is yours. If you’re still clueless, many experts are available whom you can ask for advice.
