Metal roofing has dominated the industrial sector for over a century. Warehouses, barns, factories, and other industrial properties have long benefited from the durability and longevity that only metal roofing can provide.
But only in recent decades have words like "elegant" and "sophisticated" appeared in the same sentence as "metal roofing.”
This is because industrial metal roofing–such as aluminum, standing seam, and corrugated roofs–lacked the style and design versatility needed for residential properties.
When stone-coated metal roofing was introduced in 1957, it bridged the gap between industrial durability and architectural beauty. Homeowners could benefit from the strength of metal roofing without sacrificing style.
Since its debut, metal roofs have surged in popularity and are now the second most popular roofing material in the U.S.
Despite the growing demand, some Homeowners Associations (HOAs) still hold on to outdated beliefs that metal roofs are “too industrial” for their communities.
If your HOA’s CC&Rs or Architectural Guidelines still ban metal roofs, it’s likely due to a lack of awareness about the aesthetic appeal of stone-coated metal roofing.
The good news? Persuading your HOA to approve a stone-coated metal roof is often easier than you think.
Even better, DECRA’s customer service team has decades of experience working with both homeowners and HOAs, and we have the resources to help your HOA see that a stone-coated metal roof is the perfect fit for your home–and your community.
Here’s what you need to know to get approval.
Why Some HOAs Prohibit Metal Roofs
The primary reason some HOAs prohibit metal roofs is rooted in concerns over aesthetics and the desire to preserve the established architectural style of the community.
Historically, many HOAs rejected metal roofs simply because they were associated with an industrial look, which didn't align with the residential design themes of many neighborhoods. Before stone-coated metal roofing was introduced, most metal roofs were viewed as having a utilitarian appearance, which didn’t mesh well with the traditional styles found in many suburban communities.
For example, a steel or aluminum roof would appear out of place in a neighborhood of stately Victorian homes, where intricate detailing and historical charm are paramount. Similarly, in Mediterranean-style communities, where terracotta or clay tile roofs are a defining feature, the sleek, industrial look of metal roofing would seem jarring and mismatched.
However, this perception has dramatically shifted with the advent of stone-coated metal roofing, which blends the durability and performance of metal with the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing materials. Today, stone-coated metal roofs can mimic the appearance of everything from classic asphalt shingles to elegant clay tiles, making them a more flexible and visually compatible option for a wide range of architectural styles.
The key to overcoming an HOA’s reluctance often lies in educating them about the versatility and design options available with stone-coated metal roofing. Once the HOA understands that these roofs can preserve—or even enhance—the look and feel of the community, they are far more likely to approve your request.
By presenting the many benefits of stone-coated metal roofing, you can help shift the perspective of your HOA and encourage a more open-minded approach to modern roofing options.
Here are some value resources to share with your HOA:
- DECRA's Metal Roofing Gallery: Share the link to browse real-life examples of both commercial and residential properties featuring DECRA profiles. It’s an excellent way to identify homes with similar styles to those in your community.
- Free Visualization: Upload a photo of your home to receive a free visualization. A DECRA Metal Roofing Advisor will assist in selecting a profile and color, showing you how it will look on your home—and how it complements the homes around you.
- Color Chart: Share this color chart with your HOA. It allows them to quickly review your options and approve or deny specific profiles and colors.
- HOA Flyer: Hand out this flyer detailing all the benefits of stone-coated metal roofing for HOAs.
These tools will help present your case and guide your HOA toward a favorable decision.
Benefits of Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity, but they also come with ROI-boosting features that benefit both homeowners and their communities.
To start, it’s helpful to let your HOA know that metal roofs can increase a home’s resale value by up to 6% compared to asphalt shingles.
Additional benefits include:
- Lifespan: Metal roofs last two to three times longer than traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles, which need to be replaced every 12 years or so.
- Performance: As one of the most durable roofing materials on the market, metal roofs are engineered for extreme weather, including:
- Hail: DECRA roofs carry the highest Class 4 rating for hail impact and are warrantied for hailstones up to 2.5” in diameter.
- Fire: As a non-combustible material, metal roofs have the highest-possible Class 4 fire rating. Here’s more information on fire ratings for roofs.
- Hurricanes, Tornadoes and High Winds: DECRA roofs are approved for use in high-velocity hurricane zones and warrantied for winds up to 120 miles per hour.
- Earthquakes: When paired with reinforced decking, metal roofs add structural stability in seismic zones like Costa Rica.
- Salt Air and Humidity: Metal roofs are resistant to rust and corrosion, even in coastal and humid environments.
- Snow and Ice: Metal roofs are lightweight and non-porous, making them ideal for wintry climates and resistant to freeze-thaw cycles.
- Insurance Discounts: Many insurance providers now require inspections on roofs 20 years or older before renewing coverage. Modern metal roofs, however, often qualify for discounts because of their proven durability.
- Low-Maintenance: Unlike asphalt shingles and wood shakes, which need regular upkeep, metal roofs require little-to-no maintenance.
- Energy-Efficiency: Metal reflects heat away from the home, reducing cooling costs by up to 25%. They’re also compatible with solar panels.
- Environmentally-Friendly: Metal roofs are 100% recyclable at the end of their life cycle.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: A strong warranty speaks to product confidence. DECRA roofs come standard with a comprehensive Lifetime Limited Warranty that’s transferable to a new homeowner during the first 20 years.
For more information, share these helpful resources on stone-coated metal roofing with your HOA:
- 10 Things to Know About Metal Roofing: A quick overview of the key benefits and features of metal roofing.
- What is Stone-Coated Metal Roofing?: A deeper dive into how stone-coated metal roofing offers the design flexibility to match any home style.
- Stone-Coated Metal Roofing for Every Style: A closer look at the styles, textures, and colors available to complement any architectural design.
- Enhance Curb Appeal and Home Value with DECRA: Explores how DECRA roofs increase both curb appeal and return on investment.
HOA-Friendly DECRA Metal Roofing
DECRA’s stone-coated metal roofing products are crafted to elevate your home’s curb appeal while complementing the overall aesthetic of your community. When it’s time to replace your roof and replicate the look of traditional materials, choose DECRA. With unmatched design versatility, you’ll never have to compromise between strength and style. To get started, request your complimentary sample today!
Editor's Note: This blog was originally published in May 2022, but has been updated with relevant information.
