What Are The Pros And Cons Of Metal Roofing?

The next article in this series will focus on metal roofing. Metal roofing has been around for quite some time, and it has steadily gained popularity among homeowners due to its long lifespan, durability, and few maintenance needs. However, there are a few drawbacks to using this material for your roof, so you should weigh all of your options before settling on one.

Metal Roofing Material Varieties

Although a steel roof is generally the first thing that springs to mind when you hear the phrase "metal roof," the term actually encompasses a far broader category of roofing materials.

Your current environment will heavily influence the first crucial decision you make as you weigh your options: the type of material you employ. For instance, an aluminium roof is great for preventing corrosion in salty and coastal environments, but it may not last nearly as long as other options. Steel, copper, and zinc are all viable options for metal roofing, but each has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Copper Roofs

Copper roofing, used for centuries all throughout the world, is commonly considered the "grandfather" of all metal roofing. Copper, when stored properly, has a very long lifespan and can easily last over 200 years. Copper roofs are great for eco-friendly people because they may be recycled in their entirety.

Copper's high malleability makes it one of the most sound-absorbing types of metal for roofing. In contrast, modern roofing practises advocate for the use of appropriate substrates and insulation to maintain the same level of noise reduction from precipitation, such as rain or hail.

Because of its fragility, copper roofing is not recommended for use in regions that frequently experience hail storms.

Hailing stones are harder than copper, hence the latter is easily dented by the former. When compared to a roof made of a harder metal, which would be harmed more by puncturing than by denting if subjected to sufficiently large hailstones, the roof's performance is enhanced. The roof's aesthetic value, however, has been diminished.

When compared to other metal roofing options, copper roofs are the Range Rovers of the roofing world. This exemplifies one of the potential drawbacks of copper.

Similarly to the Range Rover, it has a hefty price tag, and it may be more than you need to complete the work at hand.

Another of copper's many flaws is that it expands and contracts in reaction to temperature variations, which may be both annoying and potentially dangerous. This is avoidable by picking the right shingle or panel, but it's still something to think about seriously.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of an Aluminum Roof

When compared to copper, aluminium may be thought of as the "Dune Buggy" of roofing materials.

Just a moment, please. Let's begin with a Volkswagen Beetle that's had its top, doors, and other extraneous parts removed. Putting in a roll cage and strengthening the suspension will protect the vehicle's key systems from the corrosive effects of salt spray.

If you fit it with suitable sand tyres, you can drive it along the beach. Now you own the car that perfectly represents the strength and resistance to corrosion that an aluminium roof provides.

If you live near the water, you should definitely choose an aluminized aluminium metal roof. The corrosion caused by sea water is far less of a problem for aluminium roofs than it is for other metals. This distinguishing feature is mostly responsible for the observed phenomenon.

Aluminum responds rapidly to changes in the surrounding atmosphere. One prevalent myth is that an aluminium roof can never rust. This is a fair assessment of aluminum's reputation.

This lightning-fast response is what makes it so sturdy and safe. Aluminum roofs corrode when exposed to air, forming an oxide coating. This layer prevents further rusting and corrosion of the metal underneath.

This method is comparable to the one used for A606 Weathering Steel, but it is significantly faster and provides much more robust protection.

Coatings are commonly applied to aluminium roofs before installation since the natural patina that aluminium develops over time is usually not acceptable from an aesthetic standpoint.

Similar to copper, one of aluminum's possible downsides is that it may be expensive. As a result of its superior corrosion protection capabilities, this alternative option is substantially more expensive than its aluminum-coated counterparts.

As a commodity, aluminum's price range for a roof can go up and down depending on supply and demand. This metal's price ranges from that of steel to that of copper, but it typically sits in the middle. In order to save money, aluminium is often utilised in much thinner gauges than steel.

Although the strength-to-weight ratio of aluminium roofing material is better than that of steel, panels may be too thin for their context. Roofing materials can be severely harmed when subjected to the aforementioned strains in addition to those posed by other environmental factors, such as high winds, hail, or other forms of precipitation.

The forces from the environment must be taken into account when planning the layout of an aluminium roof.

When Considering a Zinc Roof, What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks?

Who here remembers the original Humvee? An inexpensive machine with unmatched durability and dependability, capable of taking you anywhere in the world. Everything else you need to know about zinc has already been mentioned.

Zinc is a great metal since it develops a patina over time that helps conceals surface flaws while still preserving its strength for over a century.

Zinc's natural properties, such as its malleability and the ease with which it can be moulded into a number of unique shapes, make it a popular choice for use in commercial projects. The tendency of zinc to chalk with time is not typically seen as a desirable property, but it may be cleaned up and, to some extent, controlled.

Even while the Humvee was not exactly what one would call a "green vehicle," zinc may be considered one of the greenest metals available for roofing.

When compared to other metals used for roofing, zinc has a lower melting point. Due to its lower melting point, zinc requires as little as one-fourth of the energy required to prepare steel or copper for use as a building material. Zinc, unlike Copper or Steel, can be recycled in its entirety and is commonly found for sale at local markets, making it a much more eco-friendly material.

For aesthetic purposes, the chalking effect is undesirable, and the cost of zinc is a major detriment. The metal zinc is quite pricey. It's not uncommon to hear people compare copper with zinc. Zinc, like copper, requires expert installation to fully realise its potential as a building material.

Zinc, like most other bare metals, will patina into a blue-gray colour if it is not painted over. Most often encountered in areas with consistent water flow, this leaves behind an unappealing chalk residue and is generally considered undesirable. Like copper, zinc is a soft metal that can be damaged by hail or high winds, depending on the panel or shingle's construction.

Ask Yourself: Would A Metal Roof Be The Best Option For You?

When the cost of maintaining your current roof becomes prohibitive, it may be time to consider upgrading to a metal roof. Having a metal roof comes with a number of benefits, but it also has a few drawbacks. The article examines the benefits and drawbacks of metal roofing.

The Metal Roofing Is Easy on the Back

Depending on its profile and sheet thickness, metal roofing can weigh anywhere from one to three pounds per square foot. It's one of the least heavy options for roof construction. Here is a breakdown of how much certain roofing materials usually weigh:

• Traditional asphalt shingles weigh in at a range from 2.2 to 3.5 pounds per square foot.
• Textured asphalt architectural shingles, weighing 3.5 to 5 lbs/sq ft
• Wooden shingles and shakes have a square foot weight of 3.5 to 4.5 pounds.
• Tiles with a density of between 5.5 and 10 lb/ft2 (clay or concrete)

Metal roofing's light weight results in considerable savings during the planning and building phases of a project. For instance, due to metal roofing's light weight, the amount of roof support components can often be reduced, if not eliminated entirely, when constructing a new home or an addition.

Pros Of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing lasts a very long time and can withstand severe weather.

In our opinion, the greatest benefit of metal roofing is the longevity of its use. Most homeowners prefer metal roofing when it's time to instal a new roof or replace an old one. The right amount of care over the years may keep the roof in great shape, protecting your belongings from the elements for up to 70 years.

Metal roofing comes with a 50-year warranty from several manufacturers, while traditional roofing materials often come with a 20-year warranty.

Metal roofing is extremely durable and can withstand the weather conditions that occur in your area. This includes wind speeds of up to 119 mph. It contains a coating that inhibits rusting, so it won't corrode or crack, and it won't crack even if it does.

In terms of environmental impact, metal roofing is among the best options.

Since petroleum is used to make conventional shingles, fossil fuels are consumed throughout the manufacturing process. In addition, they need to be replaced every 20–30 years, leading to the annual dumping of 20 billion pounds of shingles in landfills.

Metal roofs are better for the environment than those constructed of other materials since they can be recycled completely once their useful life is up.

Roofing made of metal is more cost-effective than other materials.

Metal roofing's reflective properties make it an effective cost-cutting measure for year-round heating and cooling. Due to the fact that it does not absorb solar heat but rather reflects it, you can reduce your cooling costs by as much as 25 percent.

The capacity of metal roofing to reflect the sun's rays is a significant benefit that can help homeowners save money and be comfortable year-round.

Roofing Made From Metal Is Very Modern

New innovations in roofing materials have made it so that your metal roof need not have the traditional look of corrugated tin. A large variety of materials are available for your selection. Included in this group are metals including galvanised steel, copper, zinc, tin, and aluminium.

On top of that, you can alter your metal roof's shape, colour, and finish to suit your preferences. In comparison to what could be made with regular asphalt shingles, the variety presented here is astounding.

Modern metal roofing is available in hundreds of colours and can be tailored to fit any building's aesthetic needs, while asphalt is limited to just twenty. Aluminum and steel are both popular choices for residential metal roofing due to their ability to faithfully keep protective coatings.

Standing seam structure, which consists of vertically ribbed panels, is the most popular choice among homeowners who choose to instal a metal roof.

However, there is a plethora of design options for such roofs. If you like a more traditional design, you can choose options that mimic clay tiles, slate, or wood. This is a nice option in place of standing seams if aesthetics are a concern.

A metal roof on your home shouldn't be too flashy or distracting. It can instead be disguised into appearing to be any other material.

A wide array of multi-layer factory finishes can be applied to make a product appear great and last a very long time.

Cons Of Metal Roofing

The Noise Produced by Metal Roofs

Many people find comfort in the rhythmic patter of rain on a metal roof. However, this may be a disadvantage for you, depending on your personal tastes.

Professional roofers can instal extra insulation and sheathing on your roof to minimise the amount of rain noise that carries inside if you find it bothersome because it echoes off your metal roof. However, this will increase the cost because it will increase the size of the roof.

Dents on metal roofs are easy to come by.

Your home's roof is the structure's first line of defence. Damage from hail is more common on metal roofs than on homes with asphalt shingles.

That doesn't mean the quality is any less, but it could mean your metal roof needs attention more often. To avoid wasting time and money, you should have an expert come to the location to complete the work.

A Metal Roof Will Cost You More Money.

Metal roofing can be costly to instal. Metal roofing materials are typically more expensive, and only a roofing company with experience installing metal roofs should attempt to do the job.

High-end metals may be ten times more expensive than asphalt shingles, despite the fact that the price is comparable to other premium commodities.

In these cases, the price of labour and installation may exceed the total cost of alternative roofing materials and the necessary equipment by a large margin.

Without a doubt, homeowners will be able to recoup their initial investment and more. However, if you pick asphalt over metal for your shingles, you may have to pay for new shingles and roof care more often. Before commencing any home improvement project, make sure to select reputable roofing experts who specialise in metal.

Metal Roofs: Can They Be Installed Over Asphalt Shingles?

Metal roofing can be put directly on top of asphalt shingles if the shingles and the decking underneath are in good shape, level, and free of decay. Make sure you verify both the local regulations and the manufacturer's guidelines before moving on.

Tearing off the old roof gives you a clean slate on which to build. The new roof may be installed directly over the level, sound sheathing. There are, nevertheless, certain advantages to maintaining the existing roof. Consider how it:

• Lowers the amount spent on labour and waste disposal during roof replacement.
• maintains an extra insulating barrier, enhancing thermal efficiency.
• Keep your home and yard as undisturbed as possible over the project's duration.
• Offers more protection from outside noise during blizzards

Putting on a metal roof is a quick process.

Metal roofing is available as single shingles or in portions of several shingles ranging in width from 12 to 36 inches. Sheets with standing seams typically available in six, eight, ten, twelve, fourteen, and sixteen foot widths and lengths. Custom sizing is also available.

It won't take long for a skilled handyman to set these up. If your roof is being removed in advance of a storm, and the installation process can be shortened by one or two days, that will be a huge benefit. Saving time and effort during roof installation can result in a large financial gain.

Metal Roofs Are Fireproof

Buildings with metal roofs often have a Class A fire rating because metal roofing materials cannot be ignited (the most fire-resistant rating). Consequently, any stray sparks or embers won't be able to start a fire.

Keep in mind, though, that the overall classification of a roof depends in part on the materials beneath its surface, any of which could catch fire in extremely high temperatures.

This is why most metal roofs get a lower Class C rating than other metal roofs when they are put over combustible materials like wood shingles. (See "Metal Roofing Drawbacks" for a discussion of potential problems in the event of a house fire.)

Low-slope Roofs Are Suitable For Metal Roofing Panels.

Most metal roofing materials are leak-proof and can be installed on flat roofs. A minimum pitch of 3 in 12 is recommended for a roof covered in metal shingles, which means the roof rises by 3 inches for every 12 feet along its length. On the other hand, standing-seam roofing can be erected on slopes as low as 1 in 12 and as steep as 2 in 12 in some cases.

Asphalt or shingles cannot be used on a roof with a slope steeper than 3 in 12 (or 4 in 12 in rare cases), whereas tile needs a slope of 4 in 12 or steeper.

Snow And Rain Can Easily Be Shed By Metal.

Metal roofing is nearly impermeable to precipitation like rain and snow due to the interlocking panels and the rough, slippery surfaces. It's worth noting that metal roofing's deeper tones warm up rapidly in the sun, hastening the melting of snow.

Cons and Misconceptions of Metal Roofs

Metal roofing provides many advantages, but there are also some drawbacks to think about. It is important to distinguish between the myths and the actual difficulties of utilising metal roofing, as metal roofing manufacturers have, for the most part, updated their products to solve or eliminate a major number of these problems.

Metal roofs: noisy or not?

When a heavy rain or hailstorm hits, the noise level under a thick slate or tile roof is likely to increase compared to that under a roof constructed of other materials. Conversely, the idea that noise can be an annoyance may be more fiction than reality. It depends on how the building is put together.

High-quality materials, such as structural barriers to soften the drumming effect, sound-dampening insulation, and thick plywood sheathing, and, if at all possible, an attic between the roof and the rooms in your home can all help to minimise noise levels.

It's not fair that metal roofing is noisier than asphalt or wood shingles, both of which are far thinner. Hail and rain can puncture a thin membrane, it's a fact of life.

Do Metal Roofs Invite Thunderstorms?

This is a typical misunderstanding. Metal can transmit energy, thus many people assume it must attract electricity.

Trees and other tall things near metal roofs are more likely to be struck by lightning than the roofs themselves, according to historical records. All metal roofs should have the same grounding done by a lightning protection company.

A metal roof has a much lower danger of catching fire from a lightning strike because the energy is dissipated.

A Dent in the Metal

In any case, if a golf ball were to strike your car, it would likely sustain damage. However, if you live in a place like Texas where golf ball-sized hail is common, you should expect your metal roof to sustain dents from the hail. This is especially true if the material used to make your roof is malleable, like aluminium or copper.

If you reside in an area where huge hail is common, you should choose a roofing material that is impervious to dents. Metal roofing shakes or shingles, or another roofing material with a pattern or ribbed structure, would be another option. Always go with 24 or 26 gauge steel if you need something long-lasting.

You Should Avoid Walking On Metal Roofs

A plumber may need to snake out a vent pipe, or a chimney sweep may require access to the chimney flue, both of which necessitate walking on the roof even if it is not leaking. It's possible that you'll have to traverse the roof in such a scenario.

Generally speaking, metal roofs necessitate a high degree of caution when traversed on foot, both to minimise injury to the roofing material and denting, and to prevent a fall from the roof.

Some metal roofs are safe for foot traffic, but this is not the case for all. Denting caused by foot traffic depends on the object's construction and the way it was originally made. Walking on metal when it's wet can be very hazardous due to the material's slick nature.

Paint on some painted metal roofs can peel, chip, fade, scratch, or chalk, despite the fact that most high-quality products have at least a 30-year guarantee. Furthermore, certain kinds, especially those with a surface consisting of granulated stone, may become worn by foot traffic.

It is important that the panels and the roof are handled carefully during installation to avoid damage to either. In contrast to more traditional roofing, some metal shingle systems can be installed from above without the need for any walking.

It Can Be Challenging to Make Changes to Panels

Metal roofing materials installed in large panels are more difficult to replace if they become damaged than individual shingles. You may also have a hard time locating replacement parts if you decide to make changes to your home ten or twenty years from now.

There is no failsafe method of installation.

A trained specialist with experience working with metal should be hired to instal a metal roof. Metal roofing requires much less skill and knowledge to instal correctly than asphalt shingles, wood shingles, or any of the other common roofing materials.

When installing a metal roof, care must be taken to avoid leaks. Significant problems, like as leaks and dampness on the surface beneath it, can arise if it isn't.

Metal roofing manufacturers and distributors often require their products to be installed by licenced professionals who have taken and passed a series of classes taught by the company.

Exposed fasteners on roof panels increase the likelihood of a botched installation. If screws are installed through the roof's flat surfaces rather than the ridges, rainwater can seep in via the holes. The water from the roof doing this is a natural occurrence.

Thus, very powerful washes are needed to form a seal around screw heads. If you choose this type of roofing, it is crucial that you follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter.

The Metal's Expansion and Contraction

The metal expands and contracts as the temperature rises and falls. The roof may appear to be wavy on really hot days, and the fasteners may loosen over time as a result. Most modern fixes for metal roofs use flexibly attached components because of this problem.

Troublesome for Firefighters

However, metal roofs are not the ideal option for fighting fires that start within a property, even though they are effective against fires that are spreading from the outside, such as when sparks or embers are floating through the air.

In the event of a major house fire, firefighters may need to break through the roof to reach the flames. However, if the house has a metal roof, this could be a far more difficult and time-consuming undertaking.

Conclusion

The next article in this series will focus on metal roofing. Metal roofing has been around for quite some time. Copper, when stored properly, has a very long lifespan and can easily last over 200 years. Because of its fragility, copper roofing is not recommended for use in regions that frequently experience hail storms. Aluminum may be thought of as the "Dune Buggy" of roofing materials.

The corrosion caused by sea water is far less of a problem for aluminium roofs than it is for other metals. This metal's price range for a roof can go up and down depending on supply and demand. Zinc is a great metal since it develops a patina over time that helps conceals surface flaws while still preserving its strength for over a century. The tendency of zinc to chalk with time is not typically seen as a desirable property, but it may be cleaned up. Most homeowners prefer metal roofing when it's time to instal a new roof or replace an old one.

Metal roofing comes with a 50-year warranty from several manufacturers. Fossil fuels are consumed throughout the manufacturing process of traditional shingles and tiles. Roofing made of metal is more cost-effective than other materials. Reflective properties make it an effective cost-cutting measure for year-round heating and cooling. Metal roofs are better for the environment since they can be recycled completely once their useful life is up.

Metal roofing materials are typically more expensive. Damage from hail is more common on metal roofs than on homes with asphalt shingles. Professional roofers can instal extra insulation and sheathing on your roof to minimise rain noise inside if you find it bothersome because it echoes off your metal roof. Metal roofing is nearly impermeable to precipitation like rain and snow. Standing-seam roofing can be erected on slopes as low as 1 in 12 or as steep as 2 in 12.

Most metal roofing materials are leak-proof and can be installed on flat roofs. Metal roofing manufacturers have updated their products to solve or eliminate a major number of these problems. It's not fair that metal roofing is noisier than asphalt or wood shingles, both of which are far thinner. Hail and rain can puncture a thin membrane, it's a fact of life. When installing a metal roof, care must be taken to avoid leaks and dampness on the surface beneath it.

Walking on metal when it's wet can be very hazardous due to its slick nature. Metal roofing materials installed in large panels are more difficult to replace if they become damaged. If screws are installed through the roof's flat surfaces rather than the ridges, rainwater can seep in via the holes. Metal expands and contracts as the temperature rises and falls. Metal roofs are not the ideal option for fighting fires that start within a property.

Content Summary

1. The next article in this series will focus on metal roofing.
2. However, there are a few drawbacks to using this material for your roof, so you should weigh all of your options before settling on one.
3. Your current environment will heavily influence the first crucial decision you make as you weigh your options: the type of material you employ.
4. Steel, copper, and zinc are all viable options for metal roofing, but each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
5. When compared to other metal roofing options, copper roofs are the Range Rovers of the roofing world.
6. The Benefits and Drawbacks of an Aluminum RoofWhen compared to copper, aluminium may be thought of as the "Dune Buggy" of roofing materials.
7. Let's begin with a Volkswagen Beetle that's had its top, doors, and other extraneous parts removed.
8. Now you own the car that perfectly represents the strength and resistance to corrosion that an aluminium roof provides.
9. If you live near the water, you should definitely choose an aluminized aluminium metal roof.
10. The corrosion caused by sea water is far less of a problem for aluminium roofs than it is for other metals.
11. One prevalent myth is that an aluminium roof can never rust.
12. Similar to copper, one of aluminum's possible downsides is that it may be expensive.
13. As a commodity, aluminum's price range for a roof can go up and down depending on supply and demand.
14. Although the strength-to-weight ratio of aluminium roofing material is better than that of steel, panels may be too thin for their context.
15. The forces from the environment must be taken into account when planning the layout of an aluminium roof.
16. Even while the Humvee was not exactly what one would call a "green vehicle," zinc may be considered one of the greenest metals available for roofing.
17. When compared to other metals used for roofing, zinc has a lower melting point.
18. The metal zinc is quite pricey.
19. Ask Yourself: Would A Metal Roof Be The Best Option For You?When the cost of maintaining your current roof becomes prohibitive, it may be time to consider upgrading to a metal roof.
20. Having a metal roof comes with a number of benefits, but it also has a few drawbacks.
21. The article examines the benefits and drawbacks of metal roofing.
22. The Metal Roofing Is Easy on the BackDepending on its profile and sheet thickness, metal roofing can weigh anywhere from one to three pounds per square foot.
23. It's one of the least heavy options for roof construction.
24. In our opinion, the greatest benefit of metal roofing is the longevity of its use.
25. Most homeowners prefer metal roofing when it's time to instal a new roof or replace an old one.
26. Metal roofing is extremely durable and can withstand the weather conditions that occur in your area.
27. Roofing made of metal is more cost-effective than other materials.
28. Metal roofing's reflective properties make it an effective cost-cutting measure for year-round heating and cooling.
29. A large variety of materials are available for your selection.
30. On top of that, you can alter your metal roof's shape, colour, and finish to suit your preferences.
31. However, there is a plethora of design options for such roofs.
32. A metal roof on your home shouldn't be too flashy or distracting.
33. Dents on metal roofs are easy to come by.
34. Your home's roof is the structure's first line of defence.
35. Metal roofing can be costly to instal.
36. Metal roofing materials are typically more expensive, and only a roofing company with experience installing metal roofs should attempt to do the job.
37. However, if you pick asphalt over metal for your shingles, you may have to pay for new shingles and roof care more often.
38. Before commencing any home improvement project, make sure to select reputable roofing experts who specialise in metal.
39. Tearing off the old roof gives you a clean slate on which to build.
40. The new roof may be installed directly over the level, sound sheathing.
41. It won't take long for a skilled handyman to set these up.
42. If your roof is being removed in advance of a storm, and the installation process can be shortened by one or two days, that will be a huge benefit.
43. Metal Roofs Are FireproofBuildings with metal roofs often have a Class A fire rating because metal roofing materials cannot be ignited (the most fire-resistant rating).
44. Most metal roofing materials are leak-proof and can be installed on flat roofs.
45. On the other hand, standing-seam roofing can be erected on slopes as low as 1 in 12 and as steep as 2 in 12 in some cases.
46. Metal roofing provides many advantages, but there are also some drawbacks to think about.
47. It is important to distinguish between the myths and the actual difficulties of utilising metal roofing, as metal roofing manufacturers have, for the most part, updated their products to solve or eliminate a major number of these problems.
48. However, if you live in a place like Texas where golf ball-sized hail is common, you should expect your metal roof to sustain dents from the hail.
49. If you reside in an area where huge hail is common, you should choose a roofing material that is impervious to dents.
50. A plumber may need to snake out a vent pipe, or a chimney sweep may require access to the chimney flue, both of which necessitate walking on the roof even if it is not leaking.
51. Generally speaking, metal roofs necessitate a high degree of caution when traversed on foot, both to minimise injury to the roofing material and denting, and to prevent a fall from the roof.
52. Some metal roofs are safe for foot traffic, but this is not the case for all.
53. There is no failsafe method of installation.
54. A trained specialist with experience working with metal should be hired to instal a metal roof.
55. When installing a metal roof, care must be taken to avoid leaks.
56. Exposed fasteners on roof panels increase the likelihood of a botched installation.
57. If screws are installed through the roof's flat surfaces rather than the ridges, rainwater can seep in via the holes.
58. The water from the roof doing this is a natural occurrence.
59. Thus, very powerful washes are needed to form a seal around screw heads.
60. If you choose this type of roofing, it is crucial that you follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter.
61. The roof may appear to be wavy on really hot days, and the fasteners may loosen over time as a result.
62. Most modern fixes for metal roofs use flexibly attached components because of this problem.
63. Troublesome for FirefightersHowever, metal roofs are not the ideal option for fighting fires that start within a property, even though they are effective against fires that are spreading from the outside, such as when sparks or embers are floating through the air.
64. In the event of a major house fire, firefighters may need to break through the roof to reach the flames.
65. However, if the house has a metal roof, this could be a far more difficult and time-consuming undertaking