(316) 927-2233Choosing a new roof is a big decision. It’s not just about looks—it’s about durability, protection, and long-term value. If you’re considering metal roofing, you might be asking: how long do metal roofs last? That’s a smart question, especially in a place like Wichita, where storms, high winds, and hail can wear a roof down over time.
The good news? Metal roofs hold up better than most materials. When installed correctly and properly maintained, they outperform asphalt shingles by decades. Some metal roofs remain intact and functional for 50 years or more. Others can stretch their lifespan beyond a century. But longevity depends on several factors, including the type of metal, installation quality, and the local climate.
Let’s break the details down so you can find the best option for your home.
Why More Homeowners Are Switching Over to Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is gaining popularity for a reason—it outperforms traditional materials in several key areas. If you’re looking for something that lasts longer, withstands harsh weather, and requires less maintenance, metal might be the perfect solution.
Here’s why people are making the switch:
- It lasts 2–3 times longer than asphalt shingles
- It reflects sunlight, bringing cooling costs down in summer
- It resists fire, rot, mold, and insect damage
- It can take high winds, heavy rain, and even hail
- It’s an eco-friendly choice, as manufacturers incorporate recyclable materials into its production
That’s a lot of benefits. But exactly how long can you expect a metal roof to last? That depends on a few key factors.
The Lifespan of a Metal Roof: What to Expect
Most metal roofs retain their structural integrity between 40 and 70 years, depending on the material and maintenance. Some even push their durability past 100 years, making them one of the longest-lasting roofing options available.
How Different Types of Metal Roofs Compare
Not all metal roofs are the same. The type of metal you select plays a big role in how long your roof will last.
Steel Roofing (40–70 Years)
Steel is one of the most common choices for metal roofing. It’s strong, affordable, and designed to handle severe weather. Galvanized and Galvalume coatings protect it from rust, helping extend its lifespan.
Aluminum Roofing (50+ Years)
Aluminum naturally fights off rust, making it a great choice for homes in humid or wet environments. It’s lightweight yet durable, often lasting 50 years or more with minimal upkeep.
Copper Roofing (70–100+ Years)
Copper is the premium choice. It’s beautiful, incredibly durable, and only gets better with age. Over time, it develops a unique patina that prevents corrosion from breaking it down. Some copper roofs have lasted more than 100 years.
Zinc Roofing (80–100+ Years)
Like copper, zinc forms a natural patina that seals imperfections and prevents corrosion. It’s one of the longest-lasting roofing materials available, though it’s less common in residential homes.
What Impacts the Lifespan of a Metal Roof?
Even the best roofing materials won’t retain their value if they aren’t installed correctly. Several factors influence how long your metal roof will stand up to Wichita’s climate.
Professional Installation Matters
A well-installed roof lasts. A poorly installed one fails—sometimes much sooner than expected. Proper fasteners, underlayment, and ventilation all help metal roofing maintain its durability over time. If any of these elements are overlooked, they can reduce its lifespan. That’s why choosing an experienced roofing contractor is critical.
Wichita’s Weather and How It Affects Metal Roofing
- Hail and Storms – Metal roofs handle hail well, but large hailstones can leave dents in thinner panels. Thicker gauge metal holds damage at bay.
- Strong Winds – Properly secured metal panels can endure wind speeds up to 140 mph. That’s stronger than most hurricanes.
- Extreme Temperature Changes – Metal expands and contracts with temperature shifts. A good installation takes that movement into account, preventing long-term stress on the panels.
Protective Coatings and Finishes
Modern metal roofs come with protective coatings to block rust, fading, and corrosion. These coatings make a big difference in durability.
- Galvanized Steel – Coated in zinc to prevent rust from developing
- Galvalume Steel – A mix of aluminum and zinc for added protection
- PVDF Paint Finishes – High-performance coatings that stop fading and chalking from degrading the material
Routine Maintenance Keeps Your Roof in Top Shape
One of the best things about metal roofing is that it doesn’t require much maintenance. Still, a little upkeep goes a long way.
- Check for loose fasteners and minor sealant issues
- Clear debris from gutters and valleys
- Inspect for scratches or small corrosion spots and fix them early
Simple inspections can prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs.
How Rhoden Roofing LLC Helps You Get the Most from Your Metal Roof
Choosing the right roofing contractor makes all the difference. At Rhoden Roofing LLC, we specialize in metal roofing and understand the unique challenges that come with Wichita’s climate.
Expert Installation by Certified Professionals
We follow strict installation standards to make sure your metal roof lasts as long as possible. Every detail matters—from the fasteners we use to the underlayment we install underneath. A properly installed roof will serve you well for decades.
High-Quality Materials with Industry-Leading Warranties
We use premium metal roofing products from trusted manufacturers. Whether you prefer steel, aluminum, or copper, we supply materials that provide maximum durability and energy efficiency.
Storm-Resistant Roofing Solutions
Wichita’s storms can be unpredictable, but your roof shouldn’t be. We offer impact-resistant panels and protective coatings to help your metal roof withstand hail, wind, and heavy rain.
Routine Inspections and Maintenance Plans
A little maintenance adds years to the lifespan of your roof. Our team can establish an inspection schedule to point out small issues before they become major problems. This extends your roof’s longevity and protects your investment.
Is a Metal Roof Worth the Investment?
The answer is simple: yes. While metal roofs cost more upfront than traditional shingles, they protect your home for a significantly longer time. Instead of replacing an asphalt roof every 20 years, a metal roof can maintain its strength for 50+ years or more. That adds up to thousands of dollars in savings over time.
Recap of the Key Benefits
- Lasts 2–3 times longer than asphalt shingles
- Energy-efficient, lowering cooling costs
- Resistant to fire, mold, and pests
- Withstands extreme weather conditions
- Adds long-term value to your home
Thinking About a Metal Roof? Let’s Talk
A new roof is a big investment, but it’s one that pays off—especially if you choose metal. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, durable solution, our team at Rhoden Roofing LLC is ready to help.
Give us a call at 316-927-2233 to set up a consultation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you find the best metal roof for your home or business. Let’s make this the last roof you ever need.
