When it comes to selecting a roofing material, both fibre cement and metal roofing offer distinct advantages and drawbacks. Understanding their differences can help you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs, budget, and conditions. So, what do you need to know?
Fibre Cement Vs Metal Roofing: The Pros and Cons
Material composition
Fibre cement roofing
Created from a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres, fibre cement roofing is known for its durability and strength. It comes in various forms, including shingles, slates, and tiles.
Metal roofing
Metal roofing is typically made from steel, aluminium, copper, or zinc, although steel tends to be the most popular. It is known for its long lifespan and strong resistance to extreme weather conditions. It’s available in panels, shingles, or tiles.
Durability and lifespan
Fibre cement roofing
Fibre cement is highly durable and can last between 30 to 50 years. It is resistant to fire, rot, and even termites, although the latter isn’t really a problem in the UK! However, fibre cement roofing may be susceptible to cracking in extreme temperature fluctuations. Or when exposed to heavy impacts.
Metal roofing
Most steel roofing sheets come with a warranty of 50 years, so confident are the manufacturers of their performance. Highly resistant to extreme weather conditions, including wind, rain, and hail, they are made to last. But, like fibre cement roofing, they can be damaged by impact. While metal roofs tend not to crack, they can dent. Most metal roofs will also need maintenance to prevent rusting in coastal areas.
Cost
Fibre cement roofing
Fibre cement roofing tends to be more affordable than metal roofing. So, if you’re working to a tight budget or covering a large area, this may be the better option for you.
Metal roofing
Prices vary for metal roofing, with prices being influenced by the sheeting style and thickness. However, the trade-off for the higher price is the enhanced durability. So, you may need to weigh up the overall price in both the longer and shorter term.
Aesthetics
Fibre cement roofing
Fibre cement roofing can have a variety of different finishes. While the most commonly used fibre cement sheets are grey, you can find those that resemble slate, tile, or even wood. This gives you a little more control over the aesthetic of your build.
Metal roofing
Metal roofing comes in a wide choice of styles and colours. The aesthetic is typically contemporary, which won’t work in all scenarios. But the broad colour range and style still provides plenty to choose from.
Energy efficiency
Fibre cement roofing
Fibre cement roofing will always require additional insulation. While some fibre cement tiles have reflective coatings, which can help in reducing heat absorption, you will still require insulation to protect against heat loss.
Metal roofing
Metal roofs can reflect solar heat, which can be valuable in the summer months. However, you will still need insulation to provide year-round temperature regulation.
Installation
Fibre cement roofing
In most cases, fibre cement roofing requires professional installation. This is partly due to its weight, and partly due to the need for specialist tools. Because it is quite a fragile material, the DIY approach can also lead to cracking.
Metal roofing
Metal roofs are typically easier to install. So, if you’re experienced and have access to the right tools and safety equipment, it is possible for you to install a metal roof yourself. However, you will need to pay special attention to joins to avoid future leaks.
Maintenance
Fibre cement roofing
If properly installed, fibre cement roofing requires minimal maintenance. Just keep a look out for any cracks following storms.
Metal roofing
The main maintenance problem with metal roofing is rust. If you buy a coated steel roof, this won’t usually be a problem. However, it’s important to keep your gutters clear to avoid the buildup of standing water.
Both fibre cement and metal roofing offer benefits. The choice of which one is right for your project will probably come down to cost, longevity, and purpose.
If you need guidance finding the right roofing for your needs, get in touch with Southern Sheeting.
