Category: Metal Roofing

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Metal Roofing

Metal Roof Heat: Absorbed or Reflected? Here’s the Truth!

Metal is a popular roofing material for many reasons: it’s extremely durable, tends not to worry about rot or infestation, and can protect roofs and homes from heavy snow and ice damming in the colder months. 

But what about the warmer months? If you’ve ever had the pleasure of sitting on a metal bench in a hot summer, you’d know that metal conducts heat better than most materials – and can get very warm if left out in the sun. So, the question is: does a metal roof absorb heat? Or does it reflect it? 

Metal Roof Heat: Will It Heat Up My Home?

The absorption properties of metal are irrelevant in modern day roofing. All roofs built to a modern standard are insulated, so the heat that the material absorbs is not necessarily going to transfer down into the home itself. 

On the contrary, metal roofing lends itself perfectly to specialized coatings that are unfeasible on other materials, such as clay or asphalt, meaning that metal roofs can be built to maximize their reflectivity, and thereby keep buildings cooler than any other roofing material. It’s for that very reason that the EPA champions metal roofs with reflective coatings – also known as cool roofs – to save energy in the hot months. The downside of a metal roof is that it can be more expensive to install than most other materials, may stain with time, and can be more difficult to install; which is why having a roofing contractor you can trust is vital. 

Myths and Misconceptions

Metal roofs are known for many myths and misconceptions, partially because older metal roofs aren’t built to the same standard as modern roof installations, and partially because of a misconception about the properties and benefits of a metal roof, and the different ways the coating of the roof can impact its practical uses and aesthetics. So, let’s delve into a few of these common myths and misconceptions. 

Metal roofs absorb heat and trap it in your home.

We’ve exhaustively discussed and explained why this first myth is wrong, but to recap – reflective coatings on a metal roof minimize heat by relaying the sun’s rays, thus keeping your interiors cool in the hot summer months. 

Metal roofs cause excessive moisture buildup due to condensation.

There is no danger of excessive moisture buildup in a metal roof. Insulation material used underneath the roofing, as well as standard ventilation, prevents any condensation problems. 

Metal roofs contribute to urban heat islands by heating up their surroundings.

In fact, the opposite is true. The EPA recommends metal roofs with high solar reflectance to keep heat away from a building, and explicitly avoid urban heat islands. This reduces the reliance on air-conditioning units during the hotter months of the year, cutting down on emissions and energy usage. 

Metal roofs only make sense in cold climates because they help with heat retention.

Metal roofs reflect heat in the summer, but they also insulate homes like any other good roofing material. They work all year round, and you don’t have to worry about losing any heat during the winter or losing any cool during the summer. 

All metal roofs have the same basic heat-absorbing properties, and the differences between material and finish are only minor.

Different levels of reflectivity in the coating can leave a roof with varying attributes, which can be useful relative to the climate and region the roof is installed in. For instance, cool roofs utilize a special reflective coating to minimize a building’s absorption of heat. Darker metal roofs reflect light less effectively but are often nicer to look at. 

Metal roofs are prone to corrosion, due to their exposure to the elements.

The coating used on all metal roofs leaves them protected against wind and water to a much greater degree than untreated sheet metal. Basic processes, such as galvanization, are used to keep metal roofs from corroding nearly as fast as untreated steel by coating the core material with zinc, or in some proprietary cases, with a mixture of zinc, silicone, and aluminum. This highly limits the material’s reactivity to water and air. It doesn’t do much for its reactivity to salt water, though, making metal roofs a less attractive option along ocean coastlines. 

Metal roofs are heavier than most other roofing materials.

The opposite is true – because metal roofs are such an efficient roofing material, each panel is often thinner and lighter than many other roofing materials, such as clay or slate. Metal roofing isn’t the lightest but is still considered a lightweight roofing material. 

Metal roofs make rain and hail noises much louder!

Your house is more than four walls with a collection of steel plates as a roof. A roof consists of multiple layers of material, including proper insulation to keep interiors cool during the warmer months, and warm during the cooler months. Proper insulation also helps mitigate any amplified sounds and noise concerns. While noise concerns were a greater issue in the past, that’s no longer the case with modern insulation standards. 

Metal roofs can be dangerous to work on in the summer due to their extreme heat.

While it can get hot on any roof during the summer months, metal roofs are not necessarily more dangerous to work on than other roofs due to their reflective coating. That being said, metal roofs can be more slippery than asphalt or stone roofs, so it’s still a good idea to follow safety protocols and wear a harness! 

Metal roofs make a home more susceptible to lightning strikes!

Electricity is famously lazy and will choose the path of least resistance to the ground – as well as the path that’s closest. Your roof isn’t grounded, meaning it won’t give lightning an easy time to ground. Furthermore, research has proven that metal roofs are no more likely to attract lightning than any other material – and because a metal roof is non-combustible, often with the highest degree of fireproofing of any roofing material, it may be one of the safest kinds of roofing materials to have in a lightning storm.  

Conclusion

While metal conducts heat better than stone or clay, reflective surfaces allow metal roofing to come out on top as the most energy-efficient option for hotter climates, by reducing the need for indoor cooling due to the ability to keep interiors from heating up. Understanding the mechanics of the metal roof heat can help you make an informed decision and choose the right roofing material for your home.

Want to know more about your various roofing options? Reach out to Piedmont Roofing today!

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Metal Roofing

Metal Roof Gauge Explained: Finding the Right Thickness for Your Roof

When it comes to choosing a metal roof for your home or commercial property, one crucial factor to consider is the metal roof gauge. The gauge refers to the thickness of the metal used in the roofing material. It plays a significant role in determining the durability, strength, and overall performance of your roof.

In this article, we will explain the metal roof gauge and guide you through the process of finding the right thickness for your roof.

1. Understanding Metal Roof Gauge

Before diving into the specifics, let’s understand what metal roof gauge means. The gauge number indicates the thickness of the metal sheet, and it inversely correlates with the thickness of the metal. In other words, the higher the gauge number, the thinner the metal sheet, and vice versa. For instance, a 22-gauge metal sheet is thicker and more robust than a 29-gauge metal sheet.

2. Why Does Metal Roof Gauge Matter?

Metal roof gauge matters because it directly influences the performance and longevity of your roof. Choosing the right gauge can mean the difference between a roof that lasts for decades and one that requires frequent repairs and replacements.

3. Benefits of a Thicker Gauge

  • Enhanced Durability

Thicker gauges offer increased durability and resistance to external elements, such as hail, heavy snow loads, and falling debris. They are less prone to denting or bending, ensuring that your roof maintains its pristine appearance for years to come.

  • Improved Wind Resistance

A thicker gauge metal roof provides better wind resistance, making it an excellent choice for properties in areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, or strong windstorms.

  • Longer Lifespan

A thicker gauge metal roof can have a significantly longer lifespan than thinner alternatives. Investing in a thicker gauge initially may save you money in the long run as you’ll be less likely to face premature roof replacement costs.

4. Considerations for Choosing the Right Gauge

  • Location and Climate

Consider the climate and location of your property. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as frequent storms, heavy snow, or high winds, opting for a thicker gauge would be a wise choice.

  • Roof Slope

The slope of your roof affects how water and debris flow off the surface. Steeper roofs shed water and debris more effectively, reducing the risk of accumulation and potential damage. For roofs with a steep slope, a slightly thinner gauge might suffice.

  • Budget

Of course, budget is an essential factor for any roofing project. Thicker gauge metal tends to be more expensive due to its increased material and manufacturing costs. While it offers significant benefits, you must find a balance between your budget and the desired level of performance.

5. How to Choose the Right Gauge

  • Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure about which metal roof gauge to choose, it’s best to consult with a professional metal roofing contractor. They can assess your property’s specific needs, consider local climate conditions, and recommend the ideal gauge for your roof.

  • Research Warranties

Metal roofing manufacturers often offer warranties based on gauge thickness. Thicker gauges might come with longer warranties due to their superior durability. Take the time to research and compare warranties to make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Choosing the right metal roof gauge is a critical step in ensuring the long-term performance and durability of your roof. Thicker gauges offer enhanced durability, improved wind resistance, and a longer lifespan, but they can come at a higher cost. Factors such as your property’s location, climate, roof slope, and budget all play a role in determining the ideal gauge for your roof.

When in doubt, seek advice from a professional roofing contractor and consider the warranties offered by different manufacturers. With the right metal roof gauge, you can rest assured that your property will be well-protected and that your investment will stand the test of time.

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Warren, Middleburg, Winchester, or Leesburg, we’ll be happy to help you with your gutter and roofing needs.

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Metal Roofing Residential Roofing

Pick Your Choice Out Of These Metal Roofing Designs

When considering what kind of roof to install on your home, you’ll see that there are so many choices. For many people, a metal roof is going to be the best choice for their home. Once you pick a metal roof, though, you’ll see that there are several different types of metal roofing designs that you can choose from.

Here are the most common metal roofing designs and why you should consider them. 

Metal Roofing Designs 

There are so many metal roofing designs out there it’s hard to know which one would be right for you. Here are some of the most popular right now, so you can consider whether they’re the right ones for you. 

Standing Seam Roofs

This is the most common metal roofing system that you’ll see on most homes that use metal roofs. The name ‘standing seam’ refers to the seams between the roof panels as they are raised and create a lip. 

They are popular because these seams help weatherproof the roof really well. As they are sealed together when installed, water can’t get into the seams and so your roof is secured from leaks. Also, as you’re not using shingles or similar products, wind can’t pull up the roofing panels and expose your roof to the weather. 

As these roof panels are available in an array of metals and colors, you’ll be able to find one that matches your home and complements it perfectly. While some people worry that a metal roof will look too industrial, you’ll quickly see that this isn’t the case. 

Tile Look Metal Roofs

Another key benefit of a metal roof is that they can be made to look like almost any other material. For example, it’s easy to find metal roof panels that have been molded to resemble clay roof tiles. 

When they are on your roof, it’s almost impossible to tell the difference, and you’ll be able to enjoy the look without the drawbacks of clay tiles. For example, a metal roof will be much lighter than tiles, so your roof won’t need to be reinforced when you have it installed. 

Shake Look Metal Roofs

This is another good example of a metal roof being made to look like another roofing material. Shakes are always perfect for bringing a more rustic look to your home, but they have a variety of downsides. In some states, you’ll see that legally, you won’t even be able to install them. If you can install them, they run the risk of wood rot if not maintained properly, and they are a real fire hazard. 

Instead, by using metal panels shaped like shakes, you’ll get the look you want without the issues. Just like the tile looks like metal roofs, you can’t tell the difference from the ground, and because it’s metal, you’ll have a lot less maintenance to do on the roof to keep it in good condition.

Slate Look Metal Roofing

Another example of metal roofs mimicking other roofing styles is the slate look roof. Real slate is beautiful and a great roofing material, but it also has its downsides. It’s an expensive method to use, and again is going to be very heavy on your roof. 

With a metal version of a slate roof, you don’t have to worry about the weight because it’s so much lighter. Plus, you’ll still get the look with a lower price tag. 

Corrugated Metal Roofing

This style of roofing is what you may be thinking of when it comes to metal roofing, as you’ll think of an industrial look when you consider it. However, it can also be made for residential homes and look great. 

Corrugated metal roofing is made by dipping roof panels in zinc and then folding the material to create patterns and ridges. This process makes the roofing panels stronger, which allows you to get an ever longer lifespan from your new roof. 

Benefits Of Metal Roofing

These have been just a few of the different metal roofing designs that you can choose from right now for your home. If these haven’t been enough to persuade you to go with metal roofing, there are lots of other benefits to having a metal roof installed. 

  • Longevity: One of the biggest reasons why people choose metal roofs for their homes is their lifespan. When well cared for, they can last for easily up to 70 years. That makes them one of the longer-lasting roofing materials on the market. When you compare that to asphalt shingles, one of the most popular roofing materials out there, you’ll see these only last up to 25 years on average. As such, it makes it worth the time and money to replace your roof with a metal roof instead. 
  • Ease of maintenance: You’ll need to take care of your metal roof in order to get it to last as long as possible. The good news here is, it’s not hard to take care of at all. As a metal roof can take wind speeds of up to 140 mph and many metals are impact resistant, there’s less work you’ll have to do to keep your roof in top condition. 
  • Environmental factors: When considering an eco-friendly roofing replacement, a metal roof is often the way to go. You’ll see that they’re often made with recycled metals, and when you’re ready to replace them, they’ll be recycled again. 
  • Energy efficiency: Something you may not realize about metal roofs is that they are highly energy efficient, too. As they can reflect a lot of UV light and so avoid the heat, that stops your home from getting warmer in the hotter months of the year. That allows you to cut your home cooling costs by a lot. 

Conclusion

There are a lot of reasons why you’d want to consider installing a metal roof on your home. If you pick the right design, you can get all the benefits of a metal roof while still getting the look you want too. If this sounds to you, talk to your local roofer today. 

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your gutter and roofing needs.

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Commercial Metal Roofing

Commercial Metal Roof Repair: Causes And Why Hire Professionals

Metal roofs have long been the gold standard for businesses, as they offer so many benefits over other roofing types. Like any roofing type though, there’s always a chance that the roof will develop issues over time. 

As a business owner, it’s important that you know how to spot these issues quickly. The sooner they can be handled, the easier, and more cost effective, the repairs will be. Here’s everything you need to know about commercial metal roof repair. 

The Benefits Of Commercial Metal Roofs

There are a lot of reasons why you’ll be using metal roofs on your commercial buildings. Firstly, they’re incredibly long lasting, with some roofs lasting up to 70 years with the proper care. Plus, that maintenance will be less intensive than with other roofing types. You won’t need to do as much to keep it in top condition and protecting your building. 

One of the biggest reasons why businesses use metal roofs is because of their Class A fire rating. With the maximum rating of fire resistance, you know your roof is safe if fire were to ever break out. This is especially important if your business is located in an area that’s prone to wildfires. 

With all this in mind, you’ll see that even metal roofs have problems from time to time. What should you be looking out for?

Common Repair Work Needed On Metal Roofs

When do you need commercial metal roof repair? Here are some of the most common causes of damage that you need to be aware of. 

Water build up: Like any roof, water is the main enemy of a metal roof. A metal roof does have increased resistance against water thanks to the way that they’re manufactured. As they’re made in large sheets rather than individual tiles, there are less potential entry points for water. 

However, even so, water can make its way in if the right conditions are met. For example, if there are blockages in your gutters, then that allows water to overflow back onto the roof and eventually cause leaks. In winter, this also leads to ice dams. 

It could also be because the roof wasn’t installed or designed to properly handle water. If the design doesn’t feature enough drainage, or if it hasn’t been installed by experts, then those leaks can happen. 

Aging: This is a reason why your roof is starting to sag, or leak. While a metal roof can last a long time, they cannot last forever. At some point the roof will be too old to continue keeping the elements out. 

This is why it’s important to know how old your roof is. If you’re doing more and more repair work to keep the roof in decent condition, then you may find it’s more cost effective to replace the roof than repair it. An expert roofer will be able to tell you whether that will be the case. 

Vulnerable areas beginning to leak: There are several areas on a commercial metal roof that are vulnerable to the elements. These include things like the vents, any piping going through the roof, roof lights, HVAC units, and gas lines. 

As these items all sit on or go through the roof, they represent areas that water could get in through. If you’re starting to see leaking around these areas, that’s a sign that the sealant around them is breaking down. 

Damaged roof flashings: Your roof flashings are the metal strips that are used to seal two sections of roof. For example, you’ll see flashing around the roof edges, and skylights. These are essential to the health of your roof as they’ll keep water out, but just like everything else will wear out over time. 

If you’re seeing leaks in areas under the flashing, that’s a sign that it’s worn or broken. You will need a roofer to check the damage and repair the flashing as needed. 

Poor maintenance: There’s a lot of damage that can happen to a metal roof thanks to the elements, but most of the time the damage will happen because it’s not well maintained. 

This doesn’t mean that you need to be up on the roof mending any issues as they happen. Typically, it’s a good idea to inspect the roof twice a year, and call a roofer to check on it. They will be able to diagnose issues fast and fix them before they get worse. 

Why Use Professionals For Commercial Metal Roof Repair

If you’ve seen any of the above problems on your metal roof, then you’ll need to get them fixed as soon as possible. It’s tempting to try and handle them yourself, especially if you’re a small business. However, it’s always better to have a professional handle it.

Here’s why:

Expert repairs: When you hire a professional, they’ll be able to spot damage much faster, and put it right. As someone who isn’t in the trade, you may not be able to carry out the repairs to the same standard, or worse, make it worse than it was before. 

Safety first: Repairing roofs is a dangerous job. Expert roofers have the training and the equipment needed to make it safe. When you leave the job to them, you’ll ensure that everyone involved in the repair is as safe as can be. 

Proper maintenance: If you’re following the procedure of having your roof inspected every two years by a professional, then you’ll be able to reap the benefits of doing so. That expert can catch any issues quickly, and they’ll be able to do a fully expert repair that will keep your roof going for its entire lifespan. 

Conclusion

A metal roof can experience issues over time, just like any other roof. If you’re looking out for the warning signs of damage, and calling the experts to handle it when you do see it, then you’ll keep your roof in top condition. This way, you’ll get the full lifespan and value from your metal roof. 

Categories
Metal Roofing

What Is The Weight Of Metal Roofing?

What is the weight of metal roofing?

There are lots of things that you need to take into consideration when you’re considering a new roof for your home. One thing that’s critical is the weight that your roof structure can support. The amount of weight that every building can hold is different, so if you’re considering a metal roof, you’ll need to know how much that will weigh. Will your roof be able to support it?

The Average Weight Of Metal Roofs

When calculating the weight of a metal roof, it’s important to consider that it can actually be made from a range of different metals. As such, this is going to affect the weight of the roof. If you’re thinking of a metal roof for your home, you’ll want to consider what type of metal you’d want first. 

The weight of each roof type will vary depending on several factors, but there are averages for each metal. As such, you’ll need to check these before making a decision:

  • 1×1 piece of flat aluminum: 0.20 lbs per foot
  • 1×1 piece of flat steel: 0.57 lbs per foot
  • 1×1 piece of flat stainless steel: 0.59 lbs per foot
  • 1×1 piece of flat copper: 0.66 lbs per foot

You may have noticed that tin hasn’t been included here, and that’s because a pure tin roof is not something that actually exists. If you’ve seen a roof referred to as being made of tin, it’s actually made of galvanized steel, which means the steel has been coated with zinc. In the past, some roofs were made of sheet iron that was coated with tin, but these roofs are no longer made. 

Calculating The Weight Of A Metal Roof

With these numbers in mind, you can calculate how much a metal roof would weigh on your home. If you want the numbers for your roof, you just need to calculate the weight of the material by the area of your roof in square feet.

As an example, the average square footage of an American roof is 17,000 square feet. Using this example, we can work out the weight like so:

  • Aluminum: 0.20 lbs x 17,000 feet = 3,400 lbs
  • Steel: 0.57 lbs x 17,000 feet = 9,690 lbs
  • Stainless steel: 0.59 lbs x 17,000 feet = 10,030 lbs
  • Copper: 0.66 lbs x 17,000 feet = 11,220 lbs

It’s important to remember that these are just averages, and you’ll need to know the square footage of your roof in order to get the correct weight. If you don’t know that number, that’s not a problem as there are online calculators that can help you work this out. 

How To Pick The Right Roofing For You

Now that you have these results, you’ll need to use them in order to pick the best metal roof dependent on its weight. However, the weight won’t be the only thing that you have to consider. You’ll need to balance other considerations too, and you’ll then be able to pick the right metal roof for your needs.

For example, based on the above calculations, you’ll see that aluminum is the lightest metal when it comes to roofing. For many, that may feel like the obvious choice for your roof. When you’re considering aluminum, though, you’ll need to consider that it’s a more expensive metal than others on the market. If price is a concern, then you’ll want to look into other options. 

Coated steel has become a popular choice as it’s more cost-effective than other metals. It may be a little heavier, but you’ll get more for your money with it. At the same time, though, you’ll need to consider that the coating on steel can wear away over time. That leaves the steel vulnerable to corrosion, and that will considerably shorten the lifespan of your roof. 

You’ll need to do your research about the different roofing types available to you, and then make a decision on which one will be the best one for you and your home. This decision should include the weight of the roof, and whether your home’s structure can support it. 

Other Reasons To Consider A Metal Roof

As you’ve seen above, you can get metal roofs that are lightweight and put little stress on the structure of your home. You’ll also find that there are lots of other benefits to having a metal roof, too. These include:

Longevity: One of the biggest benefits of a metal roof is that you can have it last for decades if it’s cared for correctly. In some cases, those roofs will last for up to 70 years, so you’ll most likely never have to replace it again in your lifetime. 

High fire resistance: If you live in an area at risk of wildfires, then this is a huge benefit for you. A metal roof will have a Class A fire resistance rating, the highest there is. That means that you’ll not need to worry about the roof catching fire if flaming debris lands on it. 

Environmentally friendly: If you’re looking to replace your roof in a more eco-friendly way, then you should be looking into metal roofs. They’re typically made with a large percentage of recycled metal, and you’ll be able to recycle the metal once you replace it, rather than sending it to a landfill. 

Energy efficiency: Here’s a benefit that you may not have thought of. When you have a metal roof installed, you’ll see that it’s capable of reflecting a lot of heat that comes from the sun. That keeps your home cooler and allows you to drastically reduce your energy bills in the process. 

Weight of Metal Roofing Conclusion

One of the best benefits of metal roofs is that they’re a lot more lightweight than other roofing materials out there. As such, if you’re concerned about the weight of a new roof, then you’ll want to look into a metal roof for your home. Use the tips here to calculate the weight of your home, and you’ll see just how lightweight they can be.

If you would like more information, contact the professionals at Piedmont Roofing today!

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs.

Categories
Metal Roofing Residential Roofing

Why Choose Metal Roofs As The Ultimate Wind Resistant Roof Design

When considering what material you should use for your new roof, there are lots of things that you need to take into consideration. For example, if your area sees a lot of high winds, then you need to install a roof that can stand up to them. Why choose a metal roof in this instance? Here’s why they’re the ultimate wind resistant roof design. 

Metal Vs. Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingle roofs are a very common choice for roofing. They’re highly affordable, and it’s very easy to find a roofer that can install it for you. While they do have their benefits, there are some times when they aren’t going to be the right option for you as a homeowner. 

If you live in an area prone to high winds, then you’ll see that asphalt shingles can very easily be pulled away from your roof. The more shingles you lose, the more gaps there are that will allow water to get into your roof and start causing damage. 

Now, you can easily replace shingles when needed, and that’s a simple repair depending on where you live. If you’re seeing regular high winds, though, that’s a lot of repairs that you’ll have to do to the roof. That’s why many homeowners now are using metal roofs instead. 

Metal Roofs In Wind Uplift Tests

You can tell that metal roofs are the best for resisting high winds, as they have been tested to see just how much they can take. In wind uplift tests, a securely installed metal roof can withstand winds of up to 140 mph. In some cases, that number can go up to 180mph. 

That’s highly impressive, as that’s higher than the wind speeds in even some of the worst storms in recent memory. For example, Hurricane Michael capped out at 155mph in 2018. That shows you just how reliable a metal roof can be. 

The Wind Resistant Roof Design

What is it about a metal roof that makes it so wind resistant? There are several reasons why they’re a good option:

Strong attachment methods: A metal roof will be attached to your roof using a variety of methods, such as hidden fasteners, exposed fasteners, and stamped fasteners among others. What they all have in common is that they securely hold the roof down on the roof deck, ensuring that most winds won’t be able to pull the metal up. 

You’ll also see that a lot of metal roofs are secured using two different methods, both fasteners and clips. As there are double the fasteners holding it down, that creates more security against the wind. 

Interlocking systems: During installation, the roof panels on a metal roof are interlocked. This keeps the metal down close to the deck of the roof, and that leaves very little space for wind to get in underneath and cause problems. 

This can be improved further by using sealing tape at the eaves, ridges, and hips. That creates more resistance against wind, keeping that roof where it’s supposed to be. 

Proper installation: Like all roofs, a metal roof will be able to perform at its best when it’s installed correctly. When you take the time to research and find the best roofer for metal roofs in your area, you’ll be sure that your roof will be securely installed and going nowhere. 

Metal Roofs And Natural Disasters

It’s not just high winds that a metal roof can protect you against, either. You’ll see that they’re excellent protection against earthquakes and fires, too. 

In the case of an earthquake, a metal roof is safer as it’s lighter than other roofing methods. Because of this,  it generates smaller inertial forces when subjected to earthquakes. That will help it stay in place and protect you in such an event. 

They’re a very good choice for living in areas prone to wildfires, too. Metal roofs have a Class A fire resistance rating, the highest they can get. If any debris catches fire and lands on the roof, such as branches, then you’ll see the roof will resist fire capably. 

Other Benefits Of Metal Roofs

While a roof that’s highly wind resistant is a massive plus, it’s not the only benefit that you’ll experience with a metal roof. Here are a few more reasons why you’ll want to consider having one installed:

High fire rating: As mentioned above, a metal roof has a high fire rating. You know that when installed, it should resist fires that break out in or around your home, making the structure safer. 

Longevity: While a metal roof does cost more than other types out there, they also tend to drastically outlast them too. On average, a metal roof should last around 50 years, depending on how well you take care of it. As such, once you’ve replaced your roof with a metal roof, you shouldn’t have to replace it again in your lifetime. 

Can be installed quickly: Another key benefit of a metal roof is that it can be installed very quickly, especially compared to other roofing methods. That allows you to get the process over and done with faster, so you experience less disruption in your home. 

Reflect heat and save on energy bills: If your climate is hotter than average, a metal roof will save you a lot on your energy bills. This is because a metal roof is able to reflect a lot of heat, rather than absorb it. That helps keep your home cooler and allows you to use less energy to keep it cool. 

Great at shedding snow and rain: On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you get a lot of snow and rain where you live then metal roofs are perfect for your home. They easily shed it, so water doesn’t get a chance to enter the roof. 

There are lots of reasons why you should have a metal roof installed. One of the top reasons is that a metal roof easily resists high winds and stays in place.

If you would like more information, contact the professionals at Piedmont Roofing today!

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs.

Categories
Home Improvement Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Proper Metal Roof Cleaning: Why Hire The Experts To Do The Job

Metal roofs are becoming highly popular with homeowners across the USA, as they offer a wide variety of benefits. One of the biggest benefits to a metal roof is that they can last for decades when they’re well taken care of. 

That’s very tempting for homeowners that want to install a roof and never have to worry about paying for one again. However, they need to find the best way to take care of that roof, to ensure that it stays in that top condition for years. What do you need to do to clean that roof, and why should you get the experts to do it?

The Importance Of General Maintenance

Firstly, you need to think about why you should be maintaining your metal roof in the first place. Since it’s above you and you’re not always looking at it, it’s so easy to forget about it. However, your roof needs the same care that the rest of your house does. There are several reasons why you should have it inspected and maintained regularly:

To prolong the life of your roof: Metal roofs are prone to less problems, thanks to there being less potential entry points for water, and the materials being tougher than others out there. Nevertheless, it can still be subject to issues over time. 

When you’re regularly maintaining the roof, you’ll be able to find these problems before they get worse, and put them right. That ensures you don’t run the risk of needing a new roof prematurely. 

To avoid specific issues with your metal roof: There are several issues that can occur with your metal roof, if it isn’t properly taken care of. They can range from leaks to denting, scratching, rust, and more. Again, if you catch these issues quickly they won’t be as difficult to put right. Find them too late, and you could be looking at a whole new roof installation to fix it. 

To keep the roof looking good: Finally, you want your roof to look as good as it did the day it was installed. When you’re doing regular checks, you can ensure that this is the case for your roof. 

How To Clean A Metal Roof

Cleaning a metal roof is the first step in making it look as good as it can be. Here’s how you can do it safely and effectively: 

Clean at the right intervals for your climate: First, you need to know when you should be cleaning your roof. This will very much depend on where you live, and the climate you have. If you live in a milder climate, then you’ll only need to clean the roof every 12 – 18 months. If you live in a harsher climate, for example in Florida where you have higher temperatures, you’ll want to clean it more than once a year depending on dirt and growth build up on the roof. 

Start with the gutters: A good place to start when cleaning your roof is the gutters. This is especially important if your roof is overhung by trees. Winds and rain can wash debris into the gutters, potentially blocking them. If left for long enough, that’ll stop water from making its way into the drains, washing water back up over the roof and causing leaks and ice dams. 

To clean them out, you’ll just need to scoop out any debris you find into a garbage bag. Once the gutters are clear, you can add a gutter guard to stop debris falling in. It’s also a good idea to consider pruning or removing trees that are near the roof too, to limit the debris too. 

Clean off surface dirt and growth: Once the gutters are done, the surface of the roof is next. Over a year, you can see things like mildew and algae set in, as well as stains, dirt, and other issues. The good news is that it’s quite easy to remove. 

There are several specific metal roof cleaning solutions that you can buy to clean the surface and get it looking new. It’s important that you use the right solution, as that will ensure that no damage is accidentally done to the roof’s surface as you work. 

Check for debris on the surface: In the cleaning process, you should be looking for debris that’s sitting on the roof itself. Sticks and branches may seem harmless to a metal roof, but when they’re left there they can lead to scratches and scuffing. When damage is done to the surface, that allows corrosion to happen underneath. 

As such, make sure that all debris is removed when you’re cleaning. Check for spots where debris can stuck, such as in valleys, where they can’t easily slide off. 

Should You Hire A Professional?

While you can clean your roof yourself, it’s very much recommended that you hire a professional to handle the job for you. 

Firstly, it’s much better for you in terms of safety. Being on your roof is inherently dangerous thanks to the height, so you want to keep your feet on the ground. A professional will have all the safety equipment needed, plus the insurance, to ensure they can carry out the job safely. 

They can also perform an inspection on your roof, when they’re up there. As they’re the experts, they’ll be able to spot potential problems much more easily than you can. As they can be spotted at an earlier stage, they’ll be a lot cheaper and easier to fix. 

Also, they will know the right materials to use to clean your roof. That will ensure that it gets as clean as possible, without any potential damage. 

Keeping your metal roof clean is an important step when it comes to maintaining it. With a clean roof, you’ll be able to avoid a lot of issues and spot other issues quickly. Having a professional handle the cleaning keeps you safe, and ensures that your roof is well taken care of. 

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs.

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Metal Roofing

Metal Roof Color Choices: What’s The Best One For Your Home?

Ready to have a new metal roof installed on your home? They come with a huge range of benefits, so they’re a great option for many homeowners. One of these benefits is that metal can be made in almost any color that you can think of. As such, you have a massive range of metal roof color choices open to you. 

Because that range is so huge, it becomes difficult to decide exactly what color you want for your metal roof. Not to worry, though, as this guide will help you find just the right color and help your roof blend in with the rest of your home. 

Check With Your HOA

When picking a roof color, the first thing to do is check with your HOA if you have one. They will have restrictions on the type of roof that you install, and that means that sometimes they’ll ban metal roofs in general. As such, you need to check these rules before you book to have your new roof installed. 

If you have the go ahead to install a metal roof, the next thing you need to think about is the color. There are often restrictions on the specific color that you can use on your roof, so that’s going to narrow down your options quite a bit. 

HOAs often restrict certain colors as they don’t want the metal roof to look too industrial or don’t want the roof to go against the look of other roofs in the area. If you live in a historic property or in a landmark district, there may also be limitations on color to ensure it blends in with surrounding buildings too. 

Think About Your Own Preference

If there aren’t any limitations on the color, you can choose for your metal roof, where do you start? The best place is with your own personal preferences. After all, it’s your roof and your home, so your roof can be any color that you want it to be. 

So firstly, think about what colors you think would look good on your home. What do you want to see every day when you stand outside your home? As so many colors are available, you should be able to get the shade that you want. 

Pick Complementary Colors

When it comes to metal roof color choices and picking out the best one, a very good idea is to look at the surrounding architecture. That can show you what color to pick, as you’ll want to go with a color that complements what’s already there. 

For example, check out the doors and window frames, siding, railings, exterior trim, and more. What color are they? What colors would go with them? If you’re not entirely sure what color to go with, your roofer can always offer recommendations. 

If you do have your heart set on a particular color, you can make it blend in with your home by choosing new colors for the rest of the building. Painting the doors and window frames the same color as your new roof, for example, will help the new color work.

Match Up With The Neighborhood

It’s more than likely that your home was built in the same style as the homes around it. If you don’t know where to start when choosing a color, take a look around the neighborhood. You’ll see that most homes use the same color for their roofs. 

As such, you can make choosing easy by picking a color that’s similar to those homes around you. This is always a good option if you want your home to blend in. Plus, it also helps when you’re getting a metal roof when there aren’t many metal roofs in the area. 

Consider Your Location

Where your home is located will also affect what color you get for your new metal roof. If you live in a forested area, for example, then you’ll see a lot of new roofs being installed in an earth tone, such as a bronze, gray or evergreen finish. 

If you live in a more tropical climate, though, you’ll see that the roofs here are often brighter and more eye catching. Think bright blues, coppers, and greens. 

Again, you can take a look around the neighborhood to see what others are using for their roofs. There are lots of different options, so something here should work for you. 

Pick According To Your Home’s Style

Something else that affects the color of your metal roof is the architectural style of your home as a whole. The roof color is often dictated by the style, so you can use this as a guide. Here are some examples of common home architectural styles in the US and the roof colors they use. 

  • Ranch: You’ll often see roofs on ranch homes use dark bronzes, charcoal grays, and white.
  • Cape Cod: With these homes, you’ll see their roofs are often bronze, slate gray, or sandstone in color. 
  • Modern: A modern home will typically use blacks, whites, and grays on its roofs. 
  • Craftsman: A Craftsman home will often use grays, tans, or slate blue as a roof color. 

Light And UV Reflective Properties

Finally, something you need to think about when it comes to roof color is how it reflects light. This is especially important if you live in a warmer climate. The color of the roof affects how much light and heat is absorbed by the roof and transferred into your home. The more heat absorbed, the more you’ll be spending on your energy bills to keep your home cool.

If you pick a lighter color for your roof, then that will help it reflect UV rays and therefore keep heat out of your home. That’s something that you’ll want to consider when picking out a roof color. 

Metal Roof Color Choices: Which One Fits Your Home Best?

There’s a lot that goes into picking a good roof color. With this guide, you’ll be able to find a color that suits your home and gives your new metal roof just the right look for your home’s style and neighborhood.

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs.

Categories
Metal Roofing

The Importance Of Metal Roof Insulation

There are many reasons you’ll consider having a metal roof installed in your home. They offer great longevity, are great at resisting leaks, and are very easy to maintain. If you are considering having a metal roof installed, then you’ll need to consider having it insulated, too. Here’s why it’s so important, especially for metal roofs. 

What Metal Roof Insulation Does

While it’s especially important for metal roofs, you can have roof insulation installed on any roof that you get. The insulation is material that’s designed to prevent the transfer of heat. Rather than allowing heat from your home to travel up into the attic and out through the roof, it keeps it in your home instead. 

As well as preventing heat loss, it also dampens sound. This will mostly help stop the sound of rain hitting your roof from being loud inside your home. That’s something that a lot of homeowners will worry about, especially when they have a metal roof installed. 

The Importance Of Metal Roof Insulation

With all this in mind, why is it so important that you have your metal roof insulated? There are a lot of reasons why you’ll want to have this done when you have the roof installed. Here are just a few reasons that you should consider:

Reducing noise: When you think of a metal roof, you often think about the noise that rain makes on it inside a building. You most likely think of it being rather loud, and worry about what it would be like in your home. 

While many will tell you that metal roofs are noisy by default, that isn’t actually the case. The key is to insulate the roof after it has been installed. If you’ve ever been under a noisy metal roof while it’s raining, the roof won’t have been insulated. 

Insulation helps as it absorbs that noise when the rain starts to come down. That works, along with other components of your roof such as the underlayment and decking. As such, you don’t have to worry about the noise with a metal roof at all. 

Saving on your energy bills: Money is always going to be a concern when it comes to your roof. Having a metal roof installed isn’t the cheapest option out there, so you’ll be looking for other ways to save cash. The good news is that if you have the roof properly insulated, you will save money on your bills in the long run. 

That’s because insulation will help regulate the temperature of your home overall. As heated or cooled air can’t escape through the roof, you’re not spending longer trying to keep the temperature stable and so you will need to use your HVAC less. The less you use it, the less you’ll be spending on those utility bills. 

Saving the environment: On a similar topic to saving money, today’s homeowners are more aware of the impact their homes have on the environment. Having a new roof installed is always going to impact the environment, but metal roofs are often a good choice. That’s because they’re often made from at least partly recycled materials, and once you do need to replace them, the materials can be recycled again. 

As well as this, if you’re insulating the roof, you’ll see you can use much less energy overall in heating and cooling your home. When you do this, you’ll be able to not only reduce the bills but reduce the use of fossil fuels to do so. 

Prevent ice dams on your roof: Ice dams are something that you really want to avoid on your roof, as they can lead to a lot of damage. They happen when snow on the roof starts to melt and then makes its way to the edge. As it’s colder at the edge, it refreezes and causes a blockage. That stops snow and water from getting off the roof, and eventually will lead to leaks over time. If not caught quickly enough, that will create a big repair bill for you. 

Typically, ice dams happen because the heat from your home is rising through your roof, allowing the snow to melt. Since the edge of your roof won’t be as warm, that’s why it’s refreezing. That’s something that you can avoid with proper insulation. As the insulation stops heat from rising, it won’t allow the snow to melt as quickly and so will avoid ice dams forming. 

Reduce humidity: Finally, one of the best ways to reduce the humidity in your attic is to have good insulation installed. This is something you’ll want to do, as moisture build up is the no. 1 enemy of your roof. If the humidity builds, its leads to rot, mold, mildew, and more. These all endanger the roof structure and will lead to significant repairs being needed if left long enough. 

When you have proper insulation in that metal roof, that will stop the moisture levels from getting too high. As such, it’s going to drastically reduce the amount of maintenance you need to do, as well as reduce the chances of damage to the roof structure. Paired with proper roof ventilation, it’ll work well here. 

Getting Your Roof Insulated

As you’re having a metal roof installed, you’ll want to talk to your roofer about insulation. Any good roofer will want to insulate the roof themselves or pass you on to a trusted insulation company to get the job done. 

Make sure you do ask about this at the planning stages of your new roof. When you do so, you’ll be able to properly protect your investment and keep it going for the long haul. 

You can see that there are so many reasons why you’ll want to have your new metal roof insulated. With the right insulation, you’ll prevent sound, reduce your energy bills, and keep the roof in better condition for longer. Have your new roof insulated at the same time, and you’ll start reaping the rewards right away. 

If you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs.

Categories
Metal Roofing

Are Metal Roofs Noisy When It Rains Or Hails?

There are so many reasons why you may want to consider getting a metal roof installed in your home. The problem is there are often some issues that you may think they have. One of the biggest worries homeowners have is that of rain. So are metal roofs noisy? Let’s see what happens when it rains on a metal roof and how it will affect your home. 

Are Metal Roofs Noisy In The Rain?

If you’ve ever been in a building with a metal roof, such as a garage or pole building, you may well have heard the rain on them. Even if you’re just getting a light shower, it makes a large din when standing underneath it. As such, you may wonder why people have metal roofs installed in their homes. Aren’t they going to have to deal with that noise every time there’s wet weather?

While this is true with these kinds of roofs, residential metal roofs are installed slightly differently. When these roofs are installed, they will first have a plywood deck and insulation. These are key things that make the roof more effective against the elements and actually dampen the sound of rain. 

Some homeowners may consider installing their metal roof over the existing shingle roof. They may have this done for several reasons, such as saving money on roof replacement. An unexpected benefit is that the shingles will add another sound barrier between the roof and your home that will muffle the sound further. 

If you’re under a residential metal roof when it rains or hails, you’ll hear that the rain is as loud as it would be under a shingle or tile roof. You may be surprised to hear that, but it’s true. 

Benefits Of Metal Roofing

So, you can see that a metal roof can be installed on a residential home without worrying about the sound of rain drowning everything else out when you’re under it. There are many other benefits to a metal roof, too, so you’ll want to consider them. 

Longevity

One of the best things about metal roofs is how long they last. Several reasons exist, such as the installed panels’ design and the metal’s hardiness. Because of this, you’ll see that the roof will last for up to 70 years with the right care. 

That’s very tempting for a homeowner, as essentially, once you have the roof installed, you’ll never have to worry about it again for as long as you live there. Roof replacements get expensive, so only having to do the job once is something you’ll like with metal roofs. 

Superb water resistance

Water is the number one enemy of any roof. If it manages to get in, it can cause all sorts of havoc. That includes water leaks in your home, stains, wood rot in the timbers, and more. If it gets bad enough, it can lead to you needing to replace the roof entirely. That will be costly, so you want to avoid this. 

Metal roofs are a good choice if you want to keep water out of your roof. As a material, metal is non permeable, and they’re protected by coatings that make them water resistant for longer. You’ll also see that they’re installed in large sheets, ensuring that there are fewer seams that water can get in through. With advanced seam connecting technology, though, it’s unlikely that this will happen. 

Highly fire resistant

Another massive benefit of a metal roof is that they’re one of the most fire resistant roof types. In fact, they get a Class A fire rating, the highest rating you can get. That’s something that will give you a lot of peace of mind. Should you live in an area prone to wildfires, or even if something burning gets blown onto your roof, you know that it won’t catch fire and be dangerous to the rest of your home. 

Environmentally friendly

Here’s a benefit of metal roofs that you may not have realized. Metal roofs are one of the most economically friendly ways to replace your roof. That’s because they typically have up to 95% recycled content in them, helping cut down on emissions when they’re being made. They also are recyclable when they come to the end of their life, so you won’t see them end up in a landfill, much like shingles do. 

Energy efficiency

Related to the above point, a metal roof will typically be much more energy efficient than other roofs. The metal will reflect a lot of sunlight rather than absorb it. That ensures that you will get less heat into your home, so you won’t need to spend as much on cooling your energy bills. 

This is improved further when the roof is insulated when installed. As well as muffling the sound of rain, it will keep heated or cooled air in your home rather than letting it escape. You’ll also see that it helps stop the formation of ice dams in winter. 

What To Consider When Getting A Metal Roof

You’ll want to have a metal roof installed on your home for many reasons. Thanks to the installation requirements, you will need to consider that metal roofs are more expensive than other types. They’ll also need the right fasteners to cope with expanding and contracting the metal throughout the year. In many cases, though, it’s worth the cost, as a metal roof offers many benefits. 

Final Thought

As you can see, metal roofs aren’t actually noisier than other roofing materials on the market. It’s all about how the roof is installed and the insulation between the roof itself and your home. 

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