A comprehensive guide for Asheville homeowners on selecting a qualified metal roofing contractor, covering essential qualifications, interview questions, and how to evaluate proposals for your Western NC home.
_______________________________
How to Choose the Best Metal Roofing Company in Asheville, NC: Complete Selection Guide
Investing in a metal roof for your Asheville home is a significant decision that will impact your property for decades to come. With Western North Carolina’s unpredictable mountain weather—from heavy snow loads to summer storms—selecting the right contractor can mean the difference between a roof that lasts 50+ years and one that develops problems within months.
But how do you cut through the marketing claims to find a truly qualified metal roofing specialist in Asheville? This guide walks you through exactly what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to evaluate metal roofing contractors to make a confident decision.
Whether you’re building new or replacing an aging roof, these insights will help you protect what matters most—your home and your investment.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- Why Choosing the Right Metal Roofing Contractor Matters
- Essential Qualifications for Metal Roofing Contractors in NC
- Understanding Metal Roofing Specialization vs. General Roofing
- 15 Critical Questions to Ask Metal Roofing Companies
- Evaluating Metal Roofing Proposals and Estimates
- Verifying Contractor References and Past Metal Roofing Projects
- Understanding Metal Roofing Warranties and Workmanship Guarantees
- Red Flags to Avoid When Selecting a Metal Roofing Contractor
- The Importance of Local Asheville Metal Roofing Expertise
- Why Lane Roofing is Asheville’s Trusted Metal Roofing Company
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choosing the Right Metal Roofing Contractor Matters
Metal roofing is a whole different ball game compared to traditional asphalt shingles. It’s a specialized field that requires specific skills, tools, and expertise—especially in Western North Carolina’s challenging mountain environment.
When you choose the right metal roofing contractor in Asheville, you’re not just paying for materials and labor. You’re investing in:
Long-Term Roof Performance
A properly installed metal roof can last 40-70 years with minimal maintenance. But cut corners on installation, and you might face issues within the first few years. Even small mistakes—like using the wrong fasteners or improperly sealing penetrations—can lead to leaks and damage that compromise your roof’s integrity.
Western NC’s freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rainfall, and occasional snow loads put extra stress on roofing systems. A contractor who understands these local challenges will install your metal roof with the proper techniques to handle our unique climate.
Warranty Validity
Many homeowners don’t realize that improper installation often voids manufacturer warranties. Metal roofing systems typically come with impressive 30-50 year material warranties, but these can become worthless if installation guidelines aren’t followed precisely.
Reputable Asheville metal roofing contractors will be certified by the manufacturers they work with, ensuring your warranty remains valid. They’ll also offer their own workmanship guarantee to protect your investment further.
Investment Protection
Metal roofing costs more upfront than asphalt shingles but offers tremendous value over its lifetime. The right contractor will help you maximize this investment by:
Installing a system appropriate for your specific home’s needs and our local climate, recommending the right type of metal roofing for your budget and aesthetic preferences, and ensuring proper ventilation and insulation to maximize energy efficiency in our variable mountain climate.
The cost difference between a mediocre and excellent metal roof installation might seem small in percentage terms, but the long-term consequences can be massive. Choosing based solely on price often leads to regrets, while selecting a qualified Asheville metal roofing specialist protects your home for decades.
Essential Qualifications for Metal Roofing Contractors in NC
Before you even consider a metal roofing company for your Asheville home, verify they meet these essential qualifications. These aren’t just “nice-to-haves”—they’re must-haves for any legitimate metal roofing contractor in North Carolina.
North Carolina Licensing Requirements
In North Carolina, roofing contractors must have the appropriate license to perform work over $30,000 in value. For most full metal roof installations, this means they need a General Contractor License with a Building classification.
Ask for the contractor’s license number and verify it through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. A properly licensed contractor has demonstrated competence through testing and meets ongoing requirements for insurance and business practices.
For specialty metal roofing work under $30,000, contractors may operate with just a business license, but they should still carry proper insurance. However, be cautious of companies operating just under this threshold to avoid licensing requirements.
Metal Roofing Manufacturer Certifications
Quality metal roofing contractors don’t just claim expertise—they prove it through manufacturer certifications. These certifications show that the contractor:
Has completed specific training on installing that manufacturer’s metal roofing systems, understands proper installation techniques required by the manufacturer, and can offer enhanced warranty options often only available through certified installers.
Major metal roofing manufacturers like Sheffield Metals, McElroy Metal, and MBCI have certification programs for contractors. Ask which manufacturers have certified the contractor and request proof of these certifications.
Certification requirements often include ongoing education, which means certified contractors stay up-to-date on the latest metal roofing technologies and installation methods.
Insurance Coverage Standards
Never work with a roofing contractor who can’t provide proof of adequate insurance coverage. For metal roofing in Asheville, contractors should carry:
General liability insurance (minimum $1 million) that covers property damage or injuries related to the roofing work, workers’ compensation insurance for all employees (protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property), and business insurance that demonstrates financial stability.
Request certificates of insurance directly from the contractor’s insurance provider, not just from the contractor themselves. This prevents working with contractors who have let their coverage lapse.
Remember that inadequate insurance doesn’t just put the contractor at risk—it puts you, the homeowner, at risk too. If an uninsured worker falls from your roof or if improperly installed flashing causes water damage to your home’s interior, you could be left covering the costs if the contractor lacks proper insurance.
Understanding Metal Roofing Specialization vs. General Roofing
Not all roofing contractors are created equal when it comes to metal roof installation. Many Asheville roofers primarily install asphalt shingles and treat metal roofing as a sideline service. This approach often leads to subpar results and frustrated homeowners.
Why Metal Roofing Requires Specialized Knowledge
Metal roofing systems differ fundamentally from asphalt shingles in both materials and installation techniques. A contractor experienced in metal roofing understands:
The unique expansion and contraction properties of metal in Western North Carolina’s temperature swings, proper handling techniques to prevent oil canning and surface damage, specialized cutting and fastening methods that prevent future leaks, and appropriate underlayment and ventilation systems specifically for metal roofs.
Metal roofing also involves working with specialized tools like metal shears, folding tools, and seamers that general roofers may not own or have mastered. Without this specialized equipment, corners get cut, and quality suffers.
Signs of True Metal Roofing Expertise
When evaluating Asheville contractors, look for these indicators of genuine metal roofing specialization:
A substantial portfolio of completed metal roofing projects specifically in the Asheville area, detailed knowledge about different metal roofing styles (standing seam, metal shingles, exposed fastener panels) and when each is appropriate, and the ability to clearly explain metal-specific concerns like proper ventilation, snow retention systems, and lightning protection.
True specialists can discuss the pros and cons of different metal types (steel, aluminum, copper, zinc) and coating systems (Kynar 500/Hylar 5000, acrylic, stone-coated) for our specific climate. They should explain why certain choices make more sense for homes in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Questions That Reveal Specialization
To determine if a contractor truly specializes in metal roofing, ask:
“What percentage of your business is metal roofing versus asphalt shingles?” – Specialists will typically have at least 50% of their business in metal.
“How do you handle roof penetrations and flashing on a standing seam metal roof?” – Specialists will explain detailed waterproofing methods specific to metal.
“What underlayment systems do you recommend for metal roofing in Asheville’s climate?” – Experts will discuss high-temperature underlayments and moisture barriers designed specifically for metal.
“How do you address potential condensation issues with metal roofing in our climate?” – Specialists understand the importance of proper ventilation and vapor barriers specific to Western NC’s humidity levels.
Remember, installing metal roofing isn’t just a variation of shingle installation—it’s a completely different skill set. A contractor who treats metal as “just another roofing material” rather than a specialty isn’t equipped to deliver the performance and longevity you’re paying for.
15 Critical Questions to Ask Metal Roofing Companies
When interviewing potential metal roofing contractors in Asheville, asking the right questions can reveal their competence, reliability, and suitability for your project. Here are 15 essential questions that go beyond basic inquiries to help you make an informed decision.
Experience and Expertise
1. “How many years have you been installing metal roofs specifically, and what percentage of your business focuses on metal versus other roofing materials?”
Look for contractors with at least 5+ years of dedicated metal roofing experience in Western North Carolina. Be wary of those who mainly install asphalt shingles and only occasionally do metal.
2. “What types of metal roofing systems do you install, and which would you recommend for my home and why?”
A knowledgeable contractor should explain the differences between standing seam, exposed fastener, and metal shingle systems, along with material options (steel, aluminum, etc.) and why certain choices make sense for your specific Asheville home.
3. “Can you show me examples of metal roofs you’ve installed in the Asheville area that have been in place for at least 3-5 years?”
Long-term performance matters more than a roof’s appearance right after installation. Seeing older projects lets you evaluate how the contractor’s work holds up to Western NC’s weather challenges.
Installation Practices
4. “Will you remove my existing roof completely, and what steps do you take to inspect and repair the decking before installing the new metal roof?”
Quality contractors should remove old roofing to inspect the decking thoroughly, not just install over existing shingles. They should explain their process for dealing with any rot or damage found.
5. “How do you handle roof penetrations, valleys, and flashing to ensure they remain watertight?”
These are common failure points on metal roofs. The contractor should describe specific techniques and materials used to prevent leaks at these critical junctures.
6. “What type of underlayment do you use with metal roofing, and why?”
Look for contractors who use synthetic high-temperature underlayments specifically designed for metal roofing, not standard felt paper. They should explain why their choice is appropriate for Asheville’s climate.
Warranties and Guarantees
7. “What manufacturer warranties come with the metal roofing system you’re proposing, and what specifically do they cover?”
Understand the difference between finish warranties (typically 25-45 years) and substrate warranties, as well as what might void these protections.
8. “What workmanship warranty do you provide, for how long, and what exactly does it cover?”
Quality Asheville contractors should offer at least a 5-year workmanship warranty, with 10+ years being preferable. Get specifics about what’s covered and what isn’t.
9. “If a leak develops, what is your response time and process for repairs?”
This reveals their commitment to customer service. The best contractors guarantee quick response times, especially important in Western NC’s rainy seasons.
Business Practices
10. “Who will actually be installing my roof—your employees or subcontractors?”
Many companies use subcontractors, which isn’t necessarily bad, but you should know who’s responsible for quality control and whether they’re properly insured.
11. “Will a project manager or supervisor be on-site during the installation?”
Quality oversight makes a huge difference in installation quality. The best contractors have experienced supervision throughout the project.
12. “What steps do you take to protect my property during installation?”
They should detail measures for protecting landscaping, collecting metal scraps (which can rust and stain), and preventing damage to gutters and siding.
Payment and Timeline
13. “What is your payment schedule, and do you require full payment before completion?”
Be wary of contractors requiring full payment upfront. A reasonable deposit (20-30%) with progress payments or payment upon satisfactory completion is standard practice.
14. “How long will my metal roof installation take, and what happens if there are weather delays?”
Get a realistic timeline and understand how they handle the inevitable weather disruptions we face in the mountains.
15. “If I’m not satisfied with some aspect of the installation, what is your process for addressing my concerns?”
Their answer reveals their commitment to customer satisfaction and their confidence in their work quality.
A contractor who struggles to answer these questions clearly or becomes defensive may not have the expertise your metal roofing project requires. The best Asheville metal roofing specialists will appreciate these thorough questions and use them as an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and professionalism.
Evaluating Metal Roofing Proposals and Estimates
When you start receiving proposals from Asheville metal roofing contractors, knowing how to properly evaluate them can save you thousands of dollars and years of headaches. Here’s how to compare apples to apples and identify both value and red flags.
Anatomy of a Complete Metal Roofing Proposal
A quality metal roofing proposal for your Asheville home should include:
Detailed scope of work specifying exactly what will be done—from tear-off to clean-up, complete material specifications including the exact type, gauge, and finish of metal being used, brand names of underlayment, fasteners, and accessory components, and clear explanation of how penetrations, valleys, and problem areas will be handled.
The proposal should also include a projected timeline with start and completion dates, payment terms and schedule, copies of insurance certificates and license information, and warranty documentation for both materials and workmanship.
If a proposal is vague or missing these elements, the contractor may be leaving room for cutting corners or using lower-quality materials than discussed.
Understanding Price Differences
When comparing proposals with significant price differences, look for:
Metal quality and thickness differences: A 24-gauge steel panel costs more than 29-gauge but offers substantially better performance in Asheville’s climate. Coating quality variations: Premium Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 finishes cost more than standard polyester coatings but provide dramatically better color retention and chalk resistance over time.
Also look for installation method differences: Hand-seamed panels versus machine-seamed panels affect long-term performance. Underlayment quality: Synthetic high-temperature underlayments cost more than felt paper but provide crucial additional protection.
The scope may also differ: Is one contractor including gutter replacement or ventilation improvements while another isn’t? Or are they planning to install over existing shingles rather than doing a complete tear-off?
Remember that the lowest bid often excludes important elements or uses lower-quality materials. With metal roofing in Western NC’s challenging climate, these differences can dramatically impact performance.
Red Flags in Pricing and Proposals
Watch out for these warning signs when reviewing proposals:
Unusually low bids (15%+ below other quotes) often indicate corners will be cut somewhere—usually in material quality or installation thoroughness. Vague material specifications that don’t name specific products, gauges, or finishes give contractors room to substitute cheaper materials later.
Large upfront deposits (more than 30-40% of the total) may signal cash flow problems or, worse, a potential scam. Missing or inadequate warranty information, particularly regarding workmanship, suggests the contractor may not stand behind their work.
Generic proposals that don’t address the specific challenges or needs of your Asheville home indicate a lack of thoroughness and attention to detail that will likely carry over into the installation itself.
Questions to Ask About Proposals
If something in the proposal is unclear or concerning, don’t hesitate to ask:
“Can you explain the specific advantages of the metal roofing system you’re proposing for my home?”
“How did you calculate the ventilation needs for my roof, and what improvements are included?”
“What exactly is included in your clean-up process, and how do you ensure no metal shards remain on my property?”
“Can you break down why your proposal differs in price from others I’ve received?”
Quality Asheville metal roofing contractors will welcome these questions and use them as an opportunity to demonstrate the value they provide, not just defend their pricing.
Verifying Contractor References and Past Metal Roofing Projects
Even the most impressive proposal means little if the contractor can’t deliver quality workmanship. Checking references and reviewing past work is your best protection against hiring an unqualified metal roofing contractor in Asheville.
Effective Reference Checking
When a metal roofing contractor provides references, go beyond simply calling to ask if the customer was satisfied. Dig deeper with questions like:
“How long ago was your metal roof installed, and have you experienced any issues since then?” Recent installations haven’t been tested by multiple seasons of Western NC weather.
“Did the project stay on budget, or were there unexpected costs added during the process?” This reveals the contractor’s transparency and estimating accuracy.
“How did the crew handle cleanup, and did they respect your property?” Metal roofing installation creates debris that can damage landscaping and leave dangerous metal shards.
“If you needed a repair after installation, how responsive was the company?” This tests their commitment to customer service after receiving payment.
“Did the project manager or owner remain involved throughout the installation?” This reveals whether supervision promises were kept.
“Is there anything you wish had been done differently?” This open-ended question often reveals insights the previous questions didn’t capture.
Ask for references from projects completed at least 2-3 years ago to evaluate how the work holds up over time, which is especially important in Asheville’s varied climate conditions.
Visiting Completed Metal Roofing Projects
While photos help, nothing beats seeing completed metal roofing projects in person. Ask if the contractor can provide addresses of nearby completed jobs you can drive by, or even better, arrange to speak with homeowners directly.
When evaluating completed projects, look for:
Clean, straight panel lines without waviness or oil-canning, precise trim work around edges, chimneys, and valleys, uniform appearance without panel color variations, and neat, consistent fastener patterns on exposed fastener systems.
Also check for visible attention to detail at transition points where roof meets walls or other roof sections, proper overhang at eaves with clean drip edge installation, and appropriate placement of snow retention systems if installed (important in higher elevation areas around Asheville).
Remember that issues visible from the ground likely indicate bigger problems in less visible areas.
Verifying Online Reputation
In addition to provided references, research the contractor’s broader reputation:
Check the BBB rating and complaint history for the business. Look for patterns in complaints rather than isolated incidents.
Read Google, Yelp, and Facebook reviews, paying attention to comments about long-term performance and how the company handles any problems that arise.
Search the contractor’s name along with terms like “complaint,” “lawsuit,” or “problem” to uncover issues they haven’t disclosed.
Check with the North Carolina Licensing Board to ensure the contractor has a clean record without disciplinary actions.
Visit local Asheville home improvement forums or community groups to ask for feedback from neighbors who may have worked with the contractor.
Remember that online reviews can sometimes be manipulated, so look for detailed reviews that describe specific aspects of the work rather than vague praise or complaints. The most telling reviews often discuss how the contractor handled problems that arose during or after installation.
Understanding Metal Roofing Warranties and Workmanship Guarantees
Metal roofing systems typically come with impressive-sounding warranties, but the details matter tremendously. Understanding what’s covered, what isn’t, and how to keep your warranty valid is crucial for protecting your Asheville home’s investment.
Types of Metal Roofing Warranties
Metal roofing warranties typically fall into three categories:
Finish/Paint Warranties cover the metal’s coating against chalking, fading, and peeling. Premium finishes like Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 (PVDF) typically offer 25-40 year warranties, while standard polyester coatings might only carry 10-15 year coverage. These are particularly important in Asheville’s high-UV mountain environment.
Substrate Warranties cover the metal itself against perforation, rust, and structural failure. These typically range from 20-50 years depending on the material and coating quality. Aluminum systems often carry longer warranties than steel in our potentially damp mountain climate.
Workmanship Warranties cover the actual installation and are provided by the contractor, not the manufacturer. These typically range from 1-10 years, with quality Asheville contractors offering at least 5 years of coverage.
Manufacturer warranties generally cover only the material itself, not labor costs for repair or replacement. Some premium metal roofing systems offer “non-prorated” coverage for a certain period, while others reduce coverage based on the roof’s age.
Workmanship Guarantees: What to Look For
The contractor’s workmanship warranty is often more likely to come into play than the manufacturer warranty, as most roof issues stem from installation errors rather than material defects. A quality workmanship guarantee should:
Clearly state the coverage period (5-10 years is standard for reputable Asheville metal roofing contractors), specifically include labor costs for repairs or replacement if issues arise, and cover common installation-related issues like leaks at penetrations, fastener problems, and flashing failures.
The warranty should explain the claim process and response timeline, remain valid even if the property changes ownership during the coverage period, and be provided in writing, not just verbally promised.
Ask who will honor the warranty if the company changes ownership or goes out of business. Some contractors participate in warranty programs backed by third parties to protect customers even if the original company is no longer operating.
Keeping Your Warranty Valid
Metal roofing warranties come with conditions that, if not met, can void your coverage. Common requirements include:
Installation must be performed by a manufacturer-certified or approved contractor. Improper installation techniques can void even the material warranty.
Regular maintenance must be performed, including clearing debris, checking fasteners, and addressing minor issues before they become major problems.
Modifications or repairs must be performed by authorized contractors. DIY repairs or hiring non-approved contractors for work can void remaining warranty coverage.
Proper ventilation must be maintained in the attic/roof system. Poor ventilation leading to condensation issues can void warranties.
Documentation of the original installation and any subsequent maintenance or repairs should be kept. Without this paper trail, proving warranty claims can be difficult.
Ask potential contractors to explain exactly what would void both the manufacturer’s warranty and their workmanship guarantee. Their willingness to discuss these details often reveals their integrity and confidence in their work quality.
Remember that the strongest warranty is only as good as the company backing it. A long warranty from a new, unproven company may be worth less than a shorter warranty from an established Asheville contractor with a proven track record of honoring their commitments.
Red Flags to Avoid When Selecting a Metal Roofing Contractor
Even in Asheville’s generally reputable business community, not all metal roofing contractors operate with the same level of professionalism and expertise. Recognizing these warning signs can save you from costly mistakes and future headaches.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Quality metal roofing contractors don’t need to use pressure to close sales. Be wary of:
Limited-time offers or “today only” pricing designed to rush your decision, contractors who “just happened to be in the neighborhood” and noticed issues with your roof, dramatically dropping prices when you hesitate or mention getting other estimates, and salespeople who try to create fear about your current roof’s condition without solid evidence.
Professional Asheville metal roofing contractors understand that a metal roof is a significant investment deserving thoughtful consideration. They’ll provide information, answer questions, and give you time to make an informed decision without applying pressure.
Unusually Low Bids and Price Red Flags
Be suspicious of contractors whose bids are significantly lower (15%+ less) than other estimates. This usually indicates corners will be cut in ways that aren’t immediately obvious:
Using thinner gauge metal that won’t perform well in Western NC’s climate, installing over existing shingles instead of doing a proper tear-off, skipping critical components like proper underlayment or ice-and-water shield, or planning to use a minimally trained crew without proper supervision.
Other pricing red flags include large upfront deposits (more than 30-40%), cash-only deals with no written contract, and vague specifications that don’t detail exactly what materials will be used.
Inadequate Insurance and Licensing
Never work with a contractor who can’t or won’t provide proof of proper insurance and licensing. This creates enormous liability risk for you as the homeowner. Specific red flags include:
Reluctance to provide insurance certificates or asking you to sign liability waivers, inability to provide a North Carolina contractor license number for jobs over $30,000, certificates that show minimal coverage amounts below industry standards, and insurance documents that aren’t current or are in a different company name.
Remember that legitimate Asheville contractors have nothing to hide when it comes to their qualifications and will readily provide documentation proving their legitimacy.
Lack of Local Presence and History
Be cautious of “storm chasers” and companies without established roots in Western North Carolina:
Companies with no physical address in the Asheville area or with only P.O. boxes, contractors who can’t provide local references from metal roofing projects completed years ago (not just recent work), businesses with very recent establishment dates, especially following major storms, and companies whose phone numbers have out-of-state area codes.
Local, established companies have reputations to protect and are more likely to stand behind their work for years to come. They also understand the specific challenges of installing metal roofing in our mountain environment.
Communication Red Flags
How a contractor communicates during the estimation process often reflects how they’ll handle the actual project:
Delayed responses to calls or emails suggest they’ll be equally unresponsive during your project, vague answers to specific technical questions may indicate lack of expertise, unwillingness to put promises in writing points to potential accountability issues, and defensiveness when asked reasonable questions about their experience or process is a serious warning sign.
Professional metal roofing contractors welcome questions as opportunities to demonstrate their expertise and establish trust. If you feel uncomfortable during the estimation process, trust your instincts—things rarely improve once work begins and money has changed hands.
The Importance of Local Asheville Metal Roofing Expertise
When it comes to metal roofing in Western North Carolina, local knowledge isn’t just a minor advantage—it’s often the difference between a roof that performs flawlessly for decades and one that develops problems within years. Here’s why choosing a contractor with deep Asheville-area experience matters so much.
Understanding Western North Carolina’s Unique Climate Challenges
Asheville and the surrounding mountain communities face weather conditions that demand specific roofing approaches:
Significant temperature fluctuations—from below freezing to 80+ degrees—cause more expansion and contraction in metal roofing than in many other regions. This requires proper fastening techniques and expansion allowances that many out-of-area contractors might not fully appreciate.
Higher elevation areas around Asheville receive more UV exposure, which can accelerate fading and chalking of lower-quality metal finishes. Local experts recommend appropriate coating systems for our specific elevation and exposure conditions.
Microclimates throughout the mountains mean homes just miles apart may face dramatically different snow loads, wind patterns, and moisture conditions. Experienced local contractors understand these variations and adjust installation approaches accordingly.
Heavy rainfall periods (Western NC receives 40-50+ inches annually) demand meticulous attention to weatherproofing details around penetrations, valleys, and transitions. Local contractors have learned through experience exactly which techniques hold up over decades of our rain patterns.
Navigating Local Building Codes and Regulations
Building codes and permit requirements vary significantly between Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, and other Western NC counties. Local contractors understand:
County-specific wind resistance requirements that affect fastening patterns and material choices, varying requirements for ice-and-water shield application in our freeze-prone region, and local historic district restrictions that may impact metal roofing choices in certain Asheville neighborhoods.
Local contractors have established relationships with area building officials, which often streamlines the permitting and inspection process. They know exactly what documentation and specifications different jurisdictions require.
When code interpretations are needed (as they often are with complex roofing projects), local contractors with established reputations can more effectively communicate with officials to resolve questions.
Knowledge of Regional Architectural Styles
Western North Carolina features diverse architectural styles that benefit from different metal roofing approaches:
Historic Asheville homes often require specific metal profiles and finishes to maintain period-appropriate appearances while delivering modern performance. Craftsman bungalows, Victorian homes, mountain modern designs, and rustic cabins each present unique considerations for metal roof installation.
Local contractors understand which metal roofing styles complement different Asheville-area architectural traditions and can provide relevant local examples of similar homes.
Many local homes have undergone multiple additions over decades, creating complex roof lines that require specialized knowledge to properly integrate new metal roofing systems. Experienced local contractors have seen these challenges before and developed proven solutions.
Local Supplier Relationships and Material Availability
Established Asheville area contractors have developed strong relationships with regional suppliers, providing advantages like:
Quicker access to materials when supply chain issues arise, better understanding of which products perform best in our specific climate based on local supplier feedback and regional data, and often more competitive pricing through established volume purchasing arrangements.
If warranty issues or material defects ever emerge, local contractors with strong supplier relationships can typically address these problems more quickly and effectively than out-of-area companies.
When you choose a contractor with deep local roots, you’re not just hiring someone who understands metal roofing—you’re hiring someone who understands metal roofing specifically for the unique demands of Western North Carolina homes. This specialized knowledge pays dividends throughout your roof’s decades-long lifespan.
Why Lane Roofing is Asheville’s Trusted Metal Roofing Company
After carefully evaluating Asheville’s metal roofing contractors against the criteria outlined in this guide, Lane Roofing and Restoration consistently stands out as a premier specialist for metal roofing projects throughout Western North Carolina. Here’s why homeowners repeatedly choose Lane Roofing for their metal roofing needs:
Dedicated Local Expertise
Unlike national chains or general contractors who treat metal as just another roofing option, Lane Roofing brings specialized knowledge specifically tailored to Asheville homes:
As a locally-owned Asheville business, Lane Roofing understands the unique challenges our mountain homes face—from heavy rains to occasional snow loads to intense UV exposure at higher elevations.
The company’s extensive experience throughout Buncombe, Henderson, and surrounding counties means they’ve encountered virtually every architectural style and roofing challenge common to our region.
Their team stays current with Western North Carolina building codes and requirements, ensuring installations meet or exceed local standards—particularly important for metal roofing, where proper installation is critical to long-term performance.
Superior Workmanship Standards
Lane Roofing’s commitment to quality installation sets them apart in Asheville’s metal roofing market:
Their crews are specifically trained in metal roofing installation techniques, not just general roofing, ensuring they understand the precise requirements for successful metal roof performance.
Every project receives meticulous attention to critical details like proper fastening, expansion allowances, and weathertight transitions at valleys, ridges, and penetrations.
The company uses only premium installation components—from high-temperature underlayments to specialized fasteners to proper ventilation systems—that complement quality metal roofing materials.
Lane Roofing’s 10-year workmanship warranty exceeds industry standards and demonstrates their confidence in their installation quality. This warranty protects homeowners against installation-related issues long after the project is complete.
Metal Roofing Material Expertise
Lane Roofing works with a wide range of premium metal roofing systems, allowing them to recommend the ideal solution for each home’s specific needs:
Standing seam metal roofing with concealed fastener systems that maximize weathertight performance and clean aesthetics, metal shingle systems that combine traditional looks with modern performance, and exposed fastener corrugated or R-panel systems that offer excellent value without sacrificing quality.
The company offers various metal options including Galvalume steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc, with expert guidance on which material best suits each home’s location, architectural style, and budget considerations.
Lane Roofing’s team can explain the practical differences between various finish options—from premium Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 coatings to stone-coated finishes—helping homeowners make informed decisions about long-term appearance and performance.
Transparent, Honest Business Practices
Lane Roofing’s approach to customer relationships reflects their commitment to integrity:
Detailed, thorough estimates that clearly specify all materials, labor, and components—no vague allowances or hidden costs that surprise homeowners later.
Honest assessments of existing roof conditions without using scare tactics or pressure to sell unnecessary replacements. They’ll tell you when repairs are sufficient rather than pushing for full replacement when it isn’t needed.
Clear communication throughout projects, with responsive customer service and project management that keeps homeowners informed at every stage.
Proper licensing, full insurance coverage, and manufacturer certifications that protect homeowners and ensure warranty validity—all readily provided upon request.
By combining specialized metal roofing expertise with genuine commitment to customer satisfaction, Lane Roofing has earned its reputation as Asheville’s go-to contractor for quality metal roofing projects. Their dedication to doing things right the first time means homeowners enjoy decades of trouble-free performance from their metal roofing investments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Roofing in Asheville
How much more does metal roofing cost compared to asphalt shingles in Asheville?
Metal roofing typically costs 2-3 times more than basic asphalt shingles initially. In Asheville, expect to pay $12-25+ per square foot for quality metal roofing installation, depending on the specific metal type, profile, and complexity of your roof. However, when considering the 40-70 year lifespan of metal versus 15-25 years for asphalt, metal often provides better long-term value despite the higher upfront investment.
How does metal roofing perform in Asheville’s varying weather conditions?
Metal roofing excels in Western North Carolina’s climate. It sheds snow effectively (important in higher elevations), resists wind damage better than asphalt shingles, and withstands our heavy rain seasons without degradation. Quality metal roofs are also designed to handle the significant temperature fluctuations we experience in the mountains, which can cause other roofing materials to deteriorate more quickly.
Will a metal roof be noisy when it rains?
This is a common misconception. Properly installed metal roofing with solid decking, quality underlayment, and proper insulation is no noisier than other roofing materials during rain. The structure between the roof and living space (attic, insulation, ceiling) absorbs sound. Some Asheville homeowners actually prefer the subtle ambient sound of rain on their metal roofs, but it’s typically quite modest in modern installations.
How long will it take to install a metal roof on my Asheville home?
Most residential metal roof installations in Asheville take 1-2 weeks, depending on roof size, complexity, and weather conditions. Simpler roofs with good access might be completed in as little as 3-5 days, while complex projects with multiple roof planes, dormers, or challenging access may take longer. Western NC’s afternoon thunderstorm patterns in summer can sometimes extend timelines.
Can a metal roof be installed over my existing shingles?
While technically possible in some cases, quality metal roofing contractors in Asheville generally recommend complete removal of existing roofing. This allows inspection of the decking for damage, proper underlayment installation, and addresses potential issues with adding weight to the structure. Complete removal also provides the best foundation for a long-lasting metal roof installation and often helps satisfy warranty requirements.
Protect Your Asheville Home with the Right Metal Roofing Contractor
Selecting the right metal roofing contractor isn’t just about finding someone who can install metal panels—it’s about partnering with experts who understand the unique challenges Western North Carolina homes face and have the specialized knowledge to address them properly.
A quality metal roof installed by experienced professionals will protect your Asheville home for decades, standing up to our mountain climate while adding value and curb appeal to your property. But this long-term performance depends entirely on making the right contractor choice now.
By following the guidelines in this selection guide—verifying qualifications, asking the right questions, comparing proposals carefully, and checking references and past work—you can approach your metal roofing project with confidence.
Lane Roofing and Restoration brings the specialized metal roofing expertise Asheville homeowners need, with local knowledge, superior workmanship standards, and honest business practices that have earned them a reputation as Western NC’s trusted metal roofing specialist.
Ready to discuss your Asheville home’s metal roofing needs? Contact Lane Roofing today at (828) 490-1830 for a comprehensive roof inspection and detailed estimate from Western North Carolina’s metal roofing experts.