If you're like many people on Vancouver Island, you probably hear the words "metal roof" and immediately think of those old, long-form metal roofs that you see on barns and country houses. If so, you're likely missing out on one of the most stylish – and best-suited – roofing materials for Vancouver Island.

Permanent metal roofs, the most popular type of which is known as Ironwood shake , strike a desirable balance between beauty, durability and affordability.

Permanent metal is the least expensive roofing material that can be accurately said to be, well, permanent. (Pricier options include aluminum, rubber shake and slate). In fact, on Vancouver Island, most permanent metal roofs come with an actual lifetime warranty, plus a workmanship warranty that's twice as long as most others on the market.

Unlike many other roofing warranties, these ones are not pro-rated, which means the warranty on your permanent metal roof will cover the full cost of a new roof as long as it's in effect.

Unlike cedar and concrete tile roofs, which can fade, crack and attract moss when neglected, permanent metal roofs seem to last forever without any maintenance.

Today's permanent metal roofs add curb appeal and lasting value to any home, and most people would be hard-pressed to distinguish them from the concrete tile roofs that commonly top new homes in affluent neighbourhoods.

Although Ironwood shake is the most popular style of permanent metal roof, other options include profiles that replicate the look and feel of European tile and even slate.

Finally, and contrary to what many homeowners assume about metal roofs, rain or hail falling on a permanent metal roof is no louder than on any other roofing material.

Although a permanent metal roof costs about 10 per cent more than a high quality cedar roof, that difference is quickly recuperated after only a few years because a permanent metal roof requires no maintenance.

Even concrete tile, which is similarly priced and has several comparable benefits, doesn't measure up. Concrete is much heavier, making it dangerous in an earthquake. It also requires routine maintenance to prevent cracking and pitting and doesn't hold its beauty for nearly as long as permanent metal.

When you consider the money you'll save with a permanent roof versus replacing your roof in anywhere from a few years to a couple of decades (or reducing the sale price of your home to accommodate a new roof for the buyers), that 10 per cent premium looks more and more insignificant.

Environmental benefits further secure permanent metal's spot as the best roofing material for Vancouver Island. Your great-grandchildren will thank you for having one installed. Heck, they'll probably still be living under it!