HOAs and Metal Roofs
For over 100 years, metal roofing has been used in the industrial sector. It’s been used in places like barns, warehouses, and factories. Metal roofing is a sensible choice because it’s durable and lasts a long time. In the past, however, it wasn’t used for residential properties, because it was believed that they didn’t have the right aesthetics. That has changed in recent years, however. Thanks to the introduction of stone-coated metal roofing, homeowners can now enjoy the longevity of a metal roof, without sacrificing any beauty or design versatility.
Today, metal roofs are highly popular with homeowners. In fact, metal is now the most popular roofing material in America, and the demand increases each year. Despite this, some HOAs (homeowners associations) still cling to the outdated idea that metal roofs don’t have the right look for their community. You may want to check the CC&Rs (covenants, conditions, and restrictions) of your HOA. If they ban metal roofs, it’s usually because the HOA is simply not aware of stone-coated metal roofing. If this is the case, you may be able to convince your HOA to allow a metal roof that’s stone-coated.
The CC&Rs of some HOAs outlaw metal roofing simply for aesthetic reasons. Often a community is built around specific architectural themes or designs, and the HOA wants to preserve those. The feeling is that metal roofing looks too ‘industrial’. It would stand out, lowering the home’s curb appeal and falling short of the community’s design standards. In some communities, roof design is a key component of the aesthetic. Mediterranean-themed areas, for example, are known for a specific tile roof design. Obviously, an industrial-looking metal roof would not fit here.
A stone-coated metal roof, however, can easily be made to fit any aesthetic. HOAs just often aren’t aware of this. Often simply showing the HOA some pictures of what a modern metal roof looks like is enough to convince them. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words! For the best pictures, speak to a local contractor in your area. They’d likely be proud to show you a gallery of past works.
Metal Roofing Facts to Share
When speaking to your HOA about a metal roof, here are some facts you can share, that they may not be aware of:
- In general, metal roofing can raise the resale value of a home by up to 6%.
- Metal roofs are 100% recyclable, and many are made from recycled materials. Asphalt roofs, however, often end up in landfills when they’ve reached their end of life.
- Metal roofs last a very long time—often two to three times as long as a roof made of traditional materials such as asphalt shingles.
- Metal roofs are treated to resist rust and oxidization in humid or moist climates.
- Metal roofs can have the roof deck reinforced, to help it better withstand earthquakes.
- Metal roofs can stand up to multiple freeze and thaw cycles, as they are non-porous.
- Many insurance companies offer discounts on homes with metal roofs (check with your insurance company).
- Metal roofs require virtually no maintenance, unlike traditional roofs which require regular maintenance to function well.
- Metal roofs are highly energy efficient, reflecting heat away from the home. This lets homeowners save up to 25% on air conditioning costs.
- Metal roofs are highly durable, able to withstand extreme hail, fire, and even many hurricanes and tornadoes.
HOAs and Rain Gutters
If your home is under an HOA, you’ll need approval before doing repairs and renovations to your home, and that includes rain gutters. Many HOAs require this work to be done by a licensed contractor, so it’s unlikely you’d be able to do to the work yourself.
Before starting your project, you’ll also need to obtain any necessary permits. Work with your contractor and make sure they understand the HOA rules and regulations, so that your project can be completed within their guidelines. After the project is finished, the HOA will likely check it to make sure it fits within their standards.
Getting approval for rain gutter repair or replacement can vary from one HOA to another. Speak to your HOA’s board of directors for information on how to get started. In most cases, you’ll need to give the board a proposal, including the project details, timelines, photos of the proposed project, and the person or company that will do the work.
Conclusion
Be careful! If you break the rules in the CC&Rs, you may receive a fine, or the HOA may take legal action against you. While it may seem like a lot of legwork, in the long run it’s best to get the information and have the job done properly, with your HOA firmly on board with the project.