Metal Roofing in Semi-Arid Climates

Semi-arid climates exist in several regions of the U.S. including the Great Plains, Texas, New Mexico and parts of Nevada, Washington and Oregon. This climate type exists between desert and humid climate zones, and so the regions around these areas experience very different weather. Weather in semi-arid climate zones is characterized by its extreme temperature range. As those in these regions know Winter temperatures can drop below zero (Fahrenheit) and Summer temperatures can reach the lower 100's. Precipitation varies widely depending on the exact region, but most can expect about  10-20 inches of rain annually. Rain is very unpredictable in these regions, as exhibited by the Colorado floods experience in late September, 2013.

Knowledge of your climate zone is important when deciding on what type of roofing material you will choose for your home. Some roofing materials are designed specifically for the weather experienced in a specific region and because of this it should be avoided in opposite climate zones. Homeowners in semi-arid regions really need to be ready for all types of weather- snow, flooding rains and hot dry periods. Roofing materials used in this region need to be able to put up with the extremes of each seasons, and metal is a great option. Metal roofing has outstanding durability and withstands all environmental pressures-- perfect for these crazy climates.

Metal roofing materials have been very popular in cool climates due to the way snow and ice fall easily from them, but not until more recently have roofing contractors in semi-arid regions started to use them on new roof installation projects. There are many benefits to using this excellent roofing material. In the dry, hot Summer season, metal roofing reflects the sun saving homeowners hundreds of dollars in energy costs to cool their homes. More common materials absorb around 70% of the sun's radiation which increases the internal temperature of the home, and drastically increases the cost of running cooling systems. Also, the metal materials are able to withstand the Sun's UV rays without degrading like asphalt shingles do. Metal roofing can last up to 50 years with little to no annual maintenance.



Along with the energy saving benefits, metal roofing also adds to the curb appeal of a home. This roofing material increases the value of the home because of the low-maintenance and longevity of the material. Unlike metal roofs from many years back, today's roofing systems come in countless designs and colors-- they are very attractive. There is really a roof system for any style home. Now with all these benefits, metal roofs do come at a higher initial cost than other roof systems; however, because these roofs are so long lasting, require so little maintenance, and save you so much money in energy cost, metal roofing is actually the better investment in the long-term.