“My neighbor’s old felt roof is still holding up, so maybe install really is the key.”
I keep seeing this too—some of the oldest roofs around here (I’m on the coast in Maine) are just basic materials, but they were put on with real care. I do think install matters way more than people realize. That said, I switched to a green roof system last year (sedum mats over a membrane), and so far zero rust or leaks, plus it keeps the upstairs cooler. Not cheap, but honestly less hassle with salt air.
That’s interesting about the green roof—never actually seen one in person up here, but I’ve read they’re supposed to be really good for insulation. I’m curious, did you have to reinforce your roof structure for the extra weight? I’ve heard that’s a thing with sedum mats, especially if you get a lot of snow on top of it in winter.
About the install vs. materials debate, I keep going back and forth. My uncle’s place has the original rolled roofing from the 70s and it’s still watertight, but he’s super picky about flashing and always re-seals around the chimney every couple years. Meanwhile, my neighbor put on a fancy standing seam metal roof five years ago and already has rust spots near the ridge. Makes me wonder if it’s just the salt air or if something got missed during install—maybe a scratch in the coating or fasteners that weren’t stainless?
Anyone else notice certain metals hold up better than others? I’ve seen some aluminum roofs look almost new after a decade, but galvanized steel seems to pit pretty fast here. Is copper worth the price for coastal spots, or is it overkill? I’d love to hear what people are actually using that lasts—sometimes it feels like every house on my street has tried something different.
Also, does anyone do regular rinsing of their roof to get rid of salt buildup? Or is that just not practical with pitched roofs? I keep hearing mixed things about whether it actually helps or just wastes water.
- Definitely agree about install making a huge difference. I’ve seen metal roofs go bad quick if the fasteners aren’t right or if there’s a scratch in the finish—salt air finds any weak spot.
- Aluminum seems to hold up best around here (I’m on the coast too). Galvanized steel just doesn’t last, especially near the water. Copper looks amazing but yeah, the price is wild. Maybe worth it for a forever home?
- I’ve tried rinsing my own roof a couple times after storms, but honestly, with a steep pitch it’s not easy or super safe. Not sure it made much difference either.
- Maintenance like checking flashing and re-sealing seems to matter more than anything else. The folks who stay on top of that stuff always have fewer problems, no matter what material they use.
