Frequently Asked Questions
About Only Metal Roofs
Answers to the questions homeowners ask most.
A new roof is a big decision. Here, you’ll find straightforward answers about metal roofing, materials, performance, warranties, installation, and what to expect when you choose Only Metal Roofs.
About Only Metal Roofs
Why choose Only Metal Roofs?
Metal roofing isn’t one of our services—it’s all we do. For more than 50 years, Only Metal Roofs has specialized exclusively in metal roofing, giving homeowners access to expert guidance, premium American-made materials, and installation experience that many general roofing contractors simply can’t match. From helping you select the right profile to manufacturing and installing your roof, every step of the process is handled by a team focused solely on metal roofing.
What does "factory direct" mean?
Unlike many roofing contractors who purchase roofing materials from third-party suppliers, Only Metal Roofs manufactures the roofing systems we install. Manufacturing our own products allows us to maintain greater quality control, offer a wider selection of profiles and colors, eliminate unnecessary middlemen, and provide homeowners with direct access to the company responsible for both the product and its installation.
Are your roofing materials made in America?
Yes. Only Metal Roofs uses premium American-made materials selected for their durability, long-term performance, and ability to withstand Florida’s demanding climate. Combined with industry-leading finishes and expert installation, these materials help deliver a roof designed to perform for decades.
What makes your warranties different?
A roof is only as good as the company standing behind it. Every Only Metal Roofs installation includes a 10-year workmanship warranty, a 25-year substrate warranty, and a 35-year finish warranty. Select roofing systems also qualify for Drexel Metals’ exclusive Gold Standard Warranty, which includes enhanced protection for materials, finish, and replacement labor for qualifying finish failures. All warranty programs are backed by Carlisle Companies, a $14+ billion global building products company, giving homeowners confidence that their investment is protected for years to come.
Why do homeowners value direct access to the manufacturer?
Because Only Metal Roofs manufactures and installs the roofing systems we sell, homeowners have a single point of accountability throughout the entire process. Questions can be answered by the people who designed, manufactured, and installed the roof—not by multiple companies pointing fingers at one another.
Why does specializing exclusively in metal roofing matter?
Metal roofing requires specialized product knowledge, installation techniques, and attention to detail. Because metal roofing is all we do, our team understands the nuances of every panel profile, fastening system, substrate, and installation method we offer. That focused expertise helps ensure every roof is installed to perform as designed.
Metal Roofing Basics
How long does a metal roof last?
A professionally installed metal roof can last 60-100 years, depending on the roofing system, material, environment, and maintenance. Many homeowners will replace multiple asphalt shingle roofs during the lifetime of a single quality metal roof, making it one of the best long-term investments you can make in your home.
Are metal roofs noisy when it rains?
No. This is one of the most common misconceptions about metal roofing. Modern metal roofs are installed over a solid roof deck with high-quality underlayment, so most homeowners notice little difference in sound compared to other roofing materials.
Will a metal roof rust?
Modern metal roofing systems are engineered to resist corrosion. Only Metal Roofs offers premium substrates such as Galvalume® steel and aluminum, finished with Kynar 500® PVDF coatings for exceptional durability. Galvalume’s aluminum-zinc alloy provides outstanding corrosion resistance, while Kynar 500® protects against fading, chalking, and Florida’s intense sun, rain, humidity, and coastal conditions. Together, they help your roof resist rust and maintain its appearance for decades.
Do metal roofs attract lightning?
No. Metal roofing does not increase the likelihood of a lightning strike. In fact, because metal is non-combustible, it is one of the safest roofing materials available should lightning strike nearby.
Is a metal roof worth the investment?
While a metal roof typically requires a greater initial investment than asphalt shingles, many homeowners find it provides exceptional long-term value. Its extended lifespan, low maintenance requirements, superior durability, energy efficiency, and long-term warranty protection often make it the most economical roofing solution over the life of the home.
Comparing Roofing Options
Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which is better?
Both roofing systems have their place, but they are designed with different priorities in mind. Asphalt shingles typically have a lower initial cost, while metal roofing is engineered for long-term performance. A quality metal roof offers a significantly longer lifespan, superior weather resistance, lower maintenance requirements, and the potential for improved energy efficiency. For homeowners planning to stay in their home for many years, a metal roof often delivers greater long-term value.
Metal Roof vs. Tile Roof: Which is better for Florida?
Both metal and concrete tile roofs perform well in Florida, but they do so differently. Metal roofing is lighter, often more energy efficient, and generally easier to maintain. Unlike concrete tile, which absorbs heat during the day and slowly releases it after sunset, reflective metal roofing sheds heat quickly once the sun goes down. Combined with premium cool-roof finishes, this can help reduce heat transfer into the home during Florida’s hottest months.
Standing Seam vs. Exposed Fastener: What's the difference?
The primary difference is how the panels are secured to the roof.
Standing seam roofing uses concealed fasteners hidden beneath raised seams, creating a clean architectural appearance while protecting the fasteners from direct exposure to the weather. This design provides exceptional weather resistance and minimizes long-term maintenance.
Exposed fastener roofing uses visible fasteners that secure each panel directly to the roof deck. These systems offer outstanding durability and value, making them an excellent choice for many residential, agricultural, and commercial applications.
Nail Strip vs. Snap Lock: Which should I choose?
Both systems feature concealed fasteners and deliver the clean appearance homeowners expect from standing seam roofing, but they are designed for different applications.
Nail Strip panels utilize an integrated fastening flange that eliminates the need for separate clips, resulting in a simplified installation and outstanding value.
Snap Lock panels use concealed clips and an interlocking seam that snaps into place without mechanical seaming. This design provides greater structural performance, enhanced weather resistance, and a broader selection of panel profiles, seam heights, and architectural styles.
Your home’s design, roof geometry, and performance requirements will help determine which system is the best fit.
Snap Lock vs. Mechanically Seamed: Which is better?
Both systems provide exceptional long-term performance, but mechanically seamed roofing represents the highest level of standing seam technology.
Snap Lock systems are engineered for outstanding weather resistance, durability, and ease of installation while allowing for thermal movement.
Mechanically Seamed systems are mechanically locked together after installation, creating one of the most weathertight roofing systems available. Because of this positive mechanical seam, they are often the preferred choice for low-slope applications and projects where maximum weather resistance and structural performance are required.
Concealed Fasteners vs. Exposed Fasteners: Why does it matter?
Fastener location plays an important role in both the appearance and long-term performance of a metal roof.
With concealed fastener systems, the fasteners are protected beneath the roof panels, shielding them from direct exposure to sun, rain, and the elements. This creates a cleaner appearance while reducing maintenance and enhancing long-term weather resistance.
With exposed fastener systems, the fasteners remain visible and are designed to provide reliable, cost-effective performance. Like any exposed component, they should be periodically inspected as part of normal roof maintenance to help ensure continued performance over time.
Roofing Profiles & Systems
What is the difference between standing seam and exposed fastener roofing?
The primary difference is how the roof panels are attached.
Standing seam roofing features concealed fasteners hidden beneath raised seams, creating a clean, uninterrupted appearance while protecting the fasteners from the weather. These systems are designed for exceptional durability, weather resistance, and long-term performance.
Exposed fastener roofing uses visible fasteners to secure each panel directly to the roof deck. It offers dependable performance, excellent value, and is a popular choice for many residential, agricultural, and commercial applications.
Both systems are engineered to provide lasting protection. The right choice depends on your home’s design, budget, and performance goals.
What is a standing seam roof?
Standing seam roofing is considered the premium metal roofing system because of its clean architectural appearance and exceptional long-term performance. The vertical panels are connected by raised seams that conceal the fasteners beneath the surface, protecting them from the elements while creating crisp, modern lines. Standing seam roofs are available in Nail Strip, Snap Lock, and Mechanically Seamed profiles, allowing homeowners to choose the system that best fits their home’s design and performance requirements.
What is a nail strip roof panel?
Nail Strip panels combine the clean appearance of standing seam roofing with a simplified installation process. An integrated fastening flange eliminates the need for separate clips while maintaining concealed fasteners for a sleek finished appearance.
Available in both 1-inch and 1½-inch seam heights, Nail Strip systems provide outstanding durability, weather protection, and value, making them an excellent choice for many residential applications.
What is a snap lock roof panel?
Snap Lock panels feature concealed fasteners and a continuous interlocking seam that snaps securely into place without requiring mechanical seaming. The clip system allows for natural thermal movement while maintaining exceptional structural performance and weather resistance.
Available in multiple seam heights and panel widths, Snap Lock roofing offers one of the most versatile standing seam solutions, combining architectural beauty with outstanding long-term durability.
What is a mechanically seamed roof panel?
Mechanically Seamed roofing represents the highest level of standing seam performance. After installation, adjoining panels are mechanically locked together to create one of the most weathertight roofing systems available.
Because of its exceptional structural strength and weather resistance, mechanically seamed roofing is often selected for demanding residential applications, low-slope roofs, and projects requiring maximum long-term performance.
What is a 5V metal roof?
The 5V profile is a classic exposed-fastener roofing system recognized for its timeless Florida and coastal appearance. Its distinctive rib pattern has been a favorite on homes throughout Florida for decades, blending traditional style with dependable performance. Because it is fastened directly to the roof deck, the 5V profile also delivers exceptional wind resistance—making it one of the most affordable metal roofing options without compromising durability or weather protection.
What is an R-Panel roof?
R-Panel is a versatile exposed-fastener roofing system valued for its strength, durability, and cost-effective performance. Its deeper rib profile provides excellent structural integrity while delivering a clean, functional appearance.
Although commonly used on agricultural and commercial buildings, R-Panel is also well suited for rural residential applications where durability, value, and long-term performance are top priorities.
Which roofing profile is best for my home?
There isn’t a single “best” profile—only the one that’s best for your home.
The right roofing system depends on several factors, including your home’s architectural style, roof slope, location, performance expectations, and budget. Some homeowners prefer the clean, contemporary appearance of standing seam roofing, while others are drawn to the traditional character and value of a 5V profile.
At Only Metal Roofs, we’ll help you compare your options and recommend the roofing system that best complements your home while meeting your performance goals and budget.
Energy Efficiency & Cooling Costs
Are metal roofs energy efficient?
Yes.
Metal roofing is one of the most energy-efficient roofing options available, particularly in Florida’s climate. Premium metal roofing systems reflect a significant amount of the sun’s radiant heat, helping reduce attic temperatures and decreasing the workload on your air conditioning system. Combined with proper attic ventilation and insulation, a metal roof can contribute to improved year-round energy performance.
Can a metal roof reduce my cooling costs?
Yes.
Many homeowners experience lower cooling costs after installing a reflective metal roof. The amount of savings depends on several factors, including your roof color, attic insulation, ventilation, home size, and local climate.
Because metal roofing reflects solar heat instead of absorbing and storing it, your air conditioning system may not have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature—particularly during Florida’s hottest months.
Are metal roofs more energy efficient than concrete tile roofs?
Yes.
While both roofing systems perform well in Florida, they manage heat differently. Concrete tile absorbs heat throughout the day and gradually releases that stored heat well into the evening. Reflective metal roofing sheds heat much more quickly once the sun goes down, helping reduce the amount of heat transferred into the attic overnight.
For many Florida homeowners, that difference can contribute to lower cooling demands during the summer.
Does roof color affect energy performance?
Yes.
Roof color plays an important role in how much solar heat a roof absorbs.
Lighter colors generally reflect more solar energy than darker colors. However, modern premium metal roofing finishes use advanced cool-roof technology that allows many darker colors to perform significantly better than traditional roofing materials.
When selecting a roof color, homeowners no longer have to choose between appearance and performance. Today’s premium finishes provide attractive color options while still delivering excellent energy efficiency.
Is a bronze color metal roof still energy efficient?
Yes.
This is one of the most common questions we receive. Although lighter colors generally reflect more sunlight, today’s premium bronze finishes utilize infrared-reflective cool-roof pigments that help reduce heat absorption far more effectively than traditional dark roofing materials.
For homeowners who prefer the rich appearance of bronze, these advanced finishes provide an excellent balance of architectural style and energy performance.
What is Kynar 500®?
Kynar 500® is a premium PVDF paint system used on high-quality metal roofing.
Engineered for exceptional durability, it helps resist fading, chalking, peeling, and weathering caused by years of exposure to intense sunlight, heat, humidity, and coastal conditions. It also helps maintain the roof’s appearance and color for decades, making it one of the industry’s most trusted architectural finishes.
What are cool-roof pigments?
Cool-roof pigments are advanced pigments incorporated into Kynar 500® PVDF coatings that reflect infrared heat while maintaining the roof’s desired color. Unlike conventional coatings that absorb more solar heat, Kynar 500® PVDF coatings with cool-roof pigments help reduce roof surface temperatures, improve energy efficiency, and lower cooling demands—especially in Florida’s warm, sunny climate.
Does the white underside of a metal roof make it cooler?
No.
The white coating applied to the underside of many metal roofing panels is commonly referred to as a backer coat or wash coat. Its primary purpose is to protect the panel during manufacturing and installation while helping resist corrosion caused by condensation.
The roof’s energy performance comes from the exterior finish, the reflective pigments in the paint system, the roofing profile, and the overall installation—not from the color of the panel’s underside.
What is an air gap and why does it matter?
Some standing seam roofing systems are installed using clips that create space between the roof panel and the roof deck.
This air gap allows heat to dissipate more effectively and promotes natural airflow beneath the panels, reducing heat transfer into the home. Combined with reflective finishes and proper attic ventilation, this design contributes to the outstanding energy performance of premium standing seam roofing systems.
Installation & Project Process
How long does installation take?
Every roofing project is unique, but most residential installations are completed in approximately one week or less, depending on the size and complexity of the roof, weather conditions, and the roofing system selected.
Before installation begins, our team carefully plans each project to help ensure an efficient installation while maintaining the quality and attention to detail Only Metal Roofs is known for.
Can a metal roof be installed over my existing roof?
In some situations, yes. Building codes may allow a metal roof to be installed over an existing roofing system, depending on the condition of the roof and local code requirements.
However, Only Metal Roofs generally recommends a complete tear-off. Removing the existing roof allows us to inspect the roof deck, identify and correct any hidden issues, and ensure the new roofing system is installed over a solid foundation.
In addition, many insurance companies do not consider a roof-over installation to be a new roof, which may affect future insurance benefits.
Do metal roofs expand and contract?
Yes.
Like all metal products, metal roofing naturally expands and contracts as temperatures change throughout the day and across the seasons. That’s why modern metal roofing systems are engineered to accommodate thermal movement.
Depending on the roofing profile, specialized clips, fastening systems, and installation methods allow the panels to move naturally while maintaining long-term structural integrity and weather resistance.
How much maintenance does a metal roof require?
One of the advantages of metal roofing is its low maintenance requirements.
Periodic inspections, keeping the roof free of debris, and addressing any issues promptly will help maximize the life and performance of the roofing system. Exposed fastener roofs should also have their fasteners inspected periodically as part of routine maintenance.
Can solar panels be installed on a metal roof?
Standing seam metal roofing systems are often considered one of the best roofing options for solar installations because many mounting systems can be attached directly to the standing seams without penetrating the roof panels.
This helps preserve the roof’s weather-tight integrity while making future installation and maintenance of the solar system more straightforward.
Will my daily routine be disrupted during installation?
Installing a new roof is an active construction project, so homeowners should expect some noise and activity during the installation process.
Our crews work efficiently to minimize disruption, maintain a safe job site, and keep homeowners informed throughout the project. In most cases, homeowners are able to remain in their homes while the work is being completed.
Materials & Warranties
What materials are available?
Only Metal Roofs offers a variety of premium roofing materials to meet different architectural styles, performance requirements, and budgets. Depending on the roofing profile selected, systems may be available in Galvalume® steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. During your consultation, we’ll help you choose the material that’s best suited for your home’s location, design, and long-term performance goals.
What is Galvalume®?
Galvalume® is a premium steel substrate coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy that provides exceptional corrosion resistance and long-term durability. Its multi-layer protective coating helps shield the steel from corrosion, while the zinc component provides sacrificial protection at cut edges and minor scratches, helping extend the life of the roofing system.
For many homeowners, Galvalume® offers an outstanding combination of strength, durability, and long-term value.
Why is aluminum popular in Florida?
Aluminum is naturally corrosion resistant, making it an excellent choice for Florida’s coastal environments where salt air can accelerate deterioration of other roofing materials.
Because it resists corrosion without relying solely on protective coatings, aluminum is often recommended for homes located near the ocean or other saltwater environments.
What are the benefits of copper roofing?
Copper is one of the most distinctive and durable roofing materials available. In addition to its exceptional longevity, copper naturally develops a beautiful protective patina over time, giving each roof a unique appearance while helping protect the material from the elements.
Copper is often selected for custom homes and architectural projects where appearance and longevity are equally important.
What are the benefits of zinc roofing?
Zinc is valued for its exceptional durability, natural corrosion resistance, and distinctive appearance. As it ages, zinc develops its own protective patina that helps preserve the material while creating the rich, weathered finish many homeowners and architects appreciate.
What is covered by your warranty?
Only Metal Roofs believes your warranty should provide confidence long after the installation is complete.
Every roofing system includes a 10-year workmanship warranty, a 25-year substrate (metal) warranty, and a 35-year finish warranty covering the paint system. Select standing seam roofing systems also qualify for the Gold Standard Warranty, which includes enhanced protection for the roofing system and finish, replacement labor for qualifying finish failures, and lifetime transferability.
During your consultation, we’ll explain the warranty coverage available for your specific roofing system so you understand exactly what is included.
Are your warranties prorated?
No.
Only Metal Roofs offers non-prorated warranty protection on qualifying roofing systems. Unlike warranties that decrease in value over time, non-prorated coverage provides homeowners with stronger long-term protection and greater peace of mind.
Florida Weather & Hurricanes
Are metal roofs a good choice for Florida homes?
Absolutely.
Florida presents unique challenges for any roofing system, including intense sun, high humidity, heavy rainfall, salt air, and hurricane-force winds. Metal roofing is exceptionally well suited to these conditions because it combines outstanding durability, weather resistance, energy efficiency, and long-term performance.
Whether your home is inland or along the coast, a properly designed and installed metal roof provides reliable protection while maintaining its appearance for decades.
How do metal roofs perform during hurricanes?
Metal roofing systems are engineered to perform exceptionally well in severe weather when properly designed and installed.
Only Metal Roofs roofing systems are engineered to comply with the Miami-Dade Building Code and High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) requirements. Standing seam and exposed-fastener systems are tested to meet demanding wind-performance requirements, and many profiles are approved for use in Florida’s most stringent building jurisdictions. Combined with proper installation, they provide one of the strongest and most dependable roofing solutions available for hurricane-prone regions.
Are metal roofs resistant to salt air?
Yes.
Coastal environments can be especially demanding on roofing materials due to constant exposure to salt air and moisture. That’s why Only Metal Roofs offers premium materials such as aluminum and corrosion-resistant Galvalume® substrates, along with high-performance protective finishes engineered to withstand Florida’s coastal conditions.
Selecting the right material for your home’s location is an important part of ensuring long-term performance, and our team will help you choose the best option for your environment.
Can metal roofs withstand high winds?
Yes.
Our roofing systems are engineered and tested to meet demanding wind-load requirements, including Florida’s High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) requirements and applicable Miami-Dade County building standards where required.
Combined with proper engineering and installation, these roofing systems provide exceptional wind performance and are designed to withstand the demanding weather conditions found throughout Florida.
Why are metal roofs popular in coastal communities?
Homeowners in coastal communities value metal roofing because it offers an exceptional combination of durability, weather resistance, energy efficiency, and architectural flexibility.
Whether the goal is to withstand harsh coastal conditions, improve energy performance, or achieve a timeless architectural appearance, metal roofing has become one of the most trusted roofing solutions for waterfront and coastal homes throughout Florida.
Can a metal roof help with homeowners insurance?
Yes.
Many insurance providers recognize the durability and wind resistance of properly installed metal roofing systems. Depending on your insurance carrier, policy, location, and the roofing system selected, installing a metal roof may qualify you for premium discounts or other insurance benefits.
Because every policy is different, we recommend speaking with your insurance provider to determine what savings may be available for your home.
Ready for a Roof That Lasts?
We make it simple to protect your home with Florida’s best metal roofs.
