Why Metal Roofs Are a Smart Choice on the Gulf Coast. Meredith Amon

Posted by Meredith Folger Amon on Saturday, September 13th, 2025  8:56am.



WHY METAL ROOFS ARE A SMART CHOICE ON THE GULF COAST

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon.


Living on the Gulf Coast, and especially here on Ono Island, our homes face constant exposure to salt air, humidity, strong sun, and hurricane-season storms. One of the smartest investments I see homeowners make is choosing a metal roof.  I’ve seen firsthand how the right roofing choice can mean the difference between peace of mind and costly repairs.


Metal Roofs Gulf Coast Ono Island


Durability in a Coastal Climate

Metal roofs generally last 20–50 years, which is two to three times longer than a traditional asphalt shingle roof. With proper care—such as keeping the roof clean, checking for debris, and replacing screws or fasteners every 5–10 years—they can easily protect a home for decades. In our hurricane-prone environment, many of my neighbors on Ono Island have chosen metal for its wind resistance, often rated to withstand gusts up to 140–160 mph.


Insulation, Ventilation, and R-Values

A roofing system is only as good as its insulation and ventilation. On the Gulf Coast, we deal with intense summer heat and high humidity. A properly installed metal roof with an insulated attic and correct ventilation can:

When combined with reflective coatings, a metal roof can lower cooling costs by up to 25%, which homeowners really notice during peak summer months.


Advantages of Metal Roofs on the Gulf Coast

  1. Hurricane Resistance
    Metal roofing panels are often installed with interlocking seams, reducing the risk of wind uplift during tropical storms.

  2. Fire Resistance
    A metal roof won’t ignite from lightning strikes or embers, adding another layer of protection in storm-prone areas.

  3. Energy Efficiency
    Reflective coatings reduce heat absorption, keeping homes cooler and reducing reliance on air conditioning.

  4. Low Maintenance
    Aside from routine checks and occasional screw replacement, metal roofs require far less upkeep than shingles.

  5. Resale Value
    On Ono Island and throughout Orange Beach, buyers are increasingly drawn to homes with metal roofs because of their strength, longevity, and insurance benefits.


Cost of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are an investment. On the Gulf Coast, the cost usually ranges from $8 to $14 per square foot installed, depending on the type of metal (galvalume, aluminum, or standing seam). For an average 2,500 sq. ft. home, that translates to $20,000–$35,000. While that may seem steep compared to shingles, the longer lifespan, reduced insurance premiums, and energy savings often offset the difference over time.


My Perspective on Ono Island

On Ono Island, where salt air and storms are part of everyday life, I’ve seen metal roofs outperform shingles time and time again. A neighbor once told me, “After Hurricane Sally, my only repair was tightening a few screws. My neighbors with shingles weren’t as lucky.” That kind of peace of mind is invaluable.


FeatureMetal RoofAsphalt Shingle Roof
Lifespan 20–50 years with proper maintenance 15–25 years
Hurricane Resistance Rated up to 140–160 mph winds; interlocking panels resist uplift Shingles can lift or blow off in high winds
Energy Efficiency Reflective coatings reduce heat absorption; can lower cooling costs by 20–25% Absorbs more heat, raises attic temps, higher cooling costs
Maintenance Minimal: occasional screw tightening and inspections Higher: moss, algae, and frequent shingle replacement
Fire Resistance Non-combustible, lightning and ember resistant More vulnerable to fire
Insurance Benefits Often lower premiums due to durability Standard rates, sometimes higher in coastal zones
Cost $8–$14 per sq. ft. installed ($20K–$35K for avg. 2,500 sq. ft. home) $4–$7 per sq. ft. installed ($10K–$18K for same home)
Resale Value Strong selling point; buyers value durability and efficiency Neutral — buyers may plan to replace sooner

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering building new or replacing your roof, a metal roofing system with proper insulation and ventilation is one of the smartest long-term investments you can make on the Gulf Coast. Not only does it protect your home, but it also adds value, improves efficiency, and provides reassurance during hurricane season.

If you’d like to explore Gulf Coast homes with metal roofs—or learn about adding one to your property—visit www.searchthegulf.com. I’d be happy to share trusted local contractors and my personal recommendations.


Contact Meredith Amon Gulf Coast Realtor
#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere

Search Coastal Alabama Homes and Real Estate For Sale

Sort by:
27580 Canal Road Unit 1408, Orange Beach

$695,000

27580 Canal Road Unit 1408, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,308 SqFt Residential MLS® # 383476

BHGRE Platinum Properties

27580 Canal Road Unit 1406, Orange Beach

$694,000

27580 Canal Road Unit 1406, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,308 SqFt Residential MLS® # 383697

Mobile Bay Realty Main: 251-230-7555

24038 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 803, Orange Beach

$694,000

↓ $5,000

24038 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 803, Orange Beach

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,250 SqFt Residential MLS® # 377186

eXp Realty Southern Branch PHONE: 251-923-7902

1796 W Beach Boulevard Unit D Phase 3, Gulf Shores

$690,000

1796 W Beach Boulevard Unit D Phase 3, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 3 Baths 1,200 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384839

RE/MAX of Gulf Shores

28760 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 404 S, Orange Beach

$690,000

↓ $9,000

28760 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 404 S, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,158 SqFt Residential MLS® # 355035

RE/MAX of Orange Beach PHONE: 251-533-6677

26800 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 809, Orange Beach

$689,900

↓ $10,090

26800 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 809, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,064 SqFt Residential MLS® # 372906

MarMac Real Estate Coastal PHONE: 251-753-5787

15132 Itea Drive, Foley

$689,500

↓ $5,000

15132 Itea Drive, Foley

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,629 SqFt Residential MLS® # 380599

EXP REALTY,LLC PHONE: 603-205-5889

29250 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 103, Orange Beach

$689,000

↓ $35,000

29250 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 103, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,450 SqFt Residential MLS® # 364942

RE/MAX Paradise

27008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 702, Orange Beach

$689,000

27008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 702, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,064 SqFt Residential MLS® # 381280

Signature Properties

6096 Sawgrass Circle, Gulf Shores

$689,000

6096 Sawgrass Circle, Gulf Shores

4 Beds 2 Baths 1,720 SqFt Residential MLS® # 383915

eXp Realty Southern Branch PHONE: 513-325-0499

20 West Gate, Orange Beach

$688,000

↓ $1,000

20 West Gate, Orange Beach

2 Beds 3 Baths 1,240 SqFt Residential MLS® # 380002

Keller Williams AGC Realty - Orange Beach PHONE: 251-923-8390

New
27501 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 407, Orange Beach

$685,000

27501 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 407, Orange Beach

2 Beds 3 Baths 1,527 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386539

Bellator Real Estate, LLC Fair PHONE: 251-463-1398


Meredith Amon Gulf CoastNew Construction Meredith Amon Gulf CoastNew Construction
How to Build Equity with New Construction on the Gulf Coast
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 18, 2025

How to Build Equity with New Construction on the Gulf Coast


How to Build Equity with New Construction on the Gulf Coast

Along the Gulf Coast, building a home isn’t just about creating a place to live—it’s about crafting equity from the ground up. I’ve spent years helping investors and homeowners turn land into legacy.  In markets like Orange Beach and Ono…

Lagoon-Front Home with Deeded Gulf Access | 2780 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 17, 2025

Lagoon-Front Home with Deeded Gulf Access | 2780 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores

30532 Ono North Loop West New Construction Home For Sale Ono Island
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 17, 2025

30532 Ono North Loop West New Construction Home For Sale Ono Island

Gulf Coast Market Notes: Contract Assignments, 1031 Tactics, and Local Moves
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 17, 2025

Gulf Coast Market Notes: Contract Assignments, 1031 Tactics, and Local Moves


Signup is free and takes only a few seconds

Ask A Question or Sign Up To See New Real Estate Listings Before Your Competition

When it comes to finding the home of your dreams in a fast-paced market, knowing about new listings as soon as they are available is part of our competitive advantage.Sign up to see new listings in an area or specific community. Contact Meredith with any questions you may have.

Provide a valid email address.
Newsletter consent