Category: Metal Roofing

Categories
Blog Metal Roofing

6 Tips to Prepare Home for Winter

Winter is just around the corner and with winter comes plunging temperatures, shorter days and the often dreaded snow and ice. As the winter season approaches, just like when you get out the hats and coats to prepare yourself for the cold, it is also equally important to prepare home for winter. Now is the best time to install a metal roof and address heating issues and energy leaks to help keep you stay safe, warm and energy-conscious this winter. This checklist will help you get started on the tasks necessary to make your home more comfortable as well as keep your energy costs at bay.

Consider Installing a Metal Roof

One of the most important, yet often overlooked parts of winter preparations for the home is ensuring the roofing system is ready for the freezing temperatures, snow and ice. Ensuring the roof is ready for the winter season is critical. Even a small roof problem can become a major wintertime disaster. While there are many common problems that you can address on your own, hiring a qualified roofing contractor is the best way to ensure a complete inspection of the roof. Winter weather can put several stressors on the roofing system. If the roof is less-than quality materials or older than 20-years, it has a greater chance of experiencing serious damage during the winter, including possible cave-ins. If this is the case and you need a new roof, now is the best time to have it installed. In fact, if you are considering a new roof, talk with your roofing contractor about having a metal roofing system installed. A metal roof last for generations to come. It can also help to significantly lower the cost of heating (and cooling) your home. In the meantime, some things you can do to prepare home for winter.

How to Prepare Your Roof:

  • Clean the gutters. Removing debris from the gutters can drastically reduce the risk of ice dams. Ice dams form when snow on the roof goes through several freezing and melting sequences. As the snow melts, the water travels and freezes when it reaches the eaves. If the roof is not properly vented and the gutters are packed with debris, the ice will build up, causing a dam at the edge. Ice dams can lead to extensive damages to the roofing system.
  • Check the attic for signs of water damage. If there are water stains, it may be a sign of poor roofing insulation and or damages to the roofing system itself.
  • Look for shingles that may be damaged or missing. Granules on the ground or in the gutters are a common sign of thinning shingles.
  • Carefully check the areas around the chimney and roof edges for cracks, deterioration and loose materials.
  • Sweep the roof to remove debris, tree leaves and other items.

Seal the Leaks

In order to prepare home for winter, you must address the leaking seals on your house. Heating costs can put a major dent in your winter budget. But you can reduce the energy use by addressing the cracks and gaps that allow cold air in and warm out. Caulking and weatherstripping are probably the simplest, most effective and least expensive way to reduce energy waste in the winter. Take these steps to properly seal the leaks:

  • Grab a tube of caulk and take a tour of your home, both inside and out, including the attic and the basement.
  • Use caulk to fill gaps and cracks in the foundation, siding and around windows.
  • Add weatherstripping around all windows and doors.
  • For large gaps, use foam sealer, such as around plumbing fixtures and furnace vents.
  • Heated air escapes through the chimney when you leave the fireplace damper open, so remember to shut the flue after the fireplace cools.
  • Electric switches and wall plugs can allow cold air in. Small, foam gaskets that are made to fit behind electrical plates are easy to install and will effectively prevent leaks.
  • Installing a door sweep will stop the cold drafts that enter your home under exterior doors. A door sweep is a piece of plastic or rubber that is attached with a strip of aluminum to the lower edge of the door.

Drafty Windows

The windows play a primary role in keeping the heat in and the cold out. Drafty windows can significantly increase the cost of your energy bills. Along with weather stripping and caulking, consider covering the windows in a thin plastic film. The plastic is attached with double-sided tape and can be easily removed when spring arrives. Another easy way to block out drafts is to install drapes, curtains or shades over the windows. If you have them, install storm windows and don’t forget the windows in the basement and attic.

Prep the Plumbing

To prepare home for winter, also take a look at the plumbing. Plumbing pipes pose a couple of problems during the winter. First, they can freeze and burst, and second they can be large contributor of letting in cold air. Take these steps to prep the plumbing for winter:

  • Insulate all exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas, such as the crawlspace, attic, basement and outside. Use tubular pipe insulation sleeves to cover exposed pipes, including bends and joints, then seal the seams with duct tape.
  • Remove garden hoses that attached to outside faucets and store them for the winter.
  • Drain the water from the outdoor faucets and turn shut-off the valve for outside faucets.
  • Arrange for in-ground sprinkler pipes to be blown out.

Heating Maintenance

The ideal way to ensure your heating system is ready for winter is to have a professional inspection before it’s time to turn the furnace on. Scheduling routine inspections and maintenance for the furnace, chimney, fireplace and venting system will ensure they are in good working order and if necessary, repairs can be made sooner, rather than later. Replace the air filter once a month to prevent the heating system from working harder than it needs to and it will use less energy. This is also the perfect time to replace the batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Reverse the switch on the ceiling fans so they blow upward, toward the ceiling. Make sure to open all of the heating vents and remove items, such as furniture that is blocking the vents.

Check the Insulation

Large amounts of heat can be lost through floors, walls and ceilings, so one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce heating costs is to insulate the attic, especially in older homes. Make sure to apply weatherstripping to attic windows, caulk small openings and use spray foam to fill in large gaps, such as around vents. Poor insulation in the attic can also lead to severe water damage from roof leaks.

Don’t let a winter blizzard catch you off-guard. Ensuring that you prepare home for winter means your family will be warm, safe and comfortable. Remember when preparing your home, it is also important to prepare for an emergency, such as a power outage. So, always have a fully stocked emergency kit that includes a flashlight, batteries, blankets, water and non-perishable food. Also, make sure to rotate seasonal equipment in the garage to ensure shovels, snow blowers and sleds are easily accessed.

Worried about preparing your home for winter? Let us know any questions or concerns you have in the comments below!

 

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

Metal Roofing Materials Offer Your Building the Best Protection

The roof of your building should last for years and keep you safe from the elements. When you need to replace or upgrade the roof, you may wonder what kind of material is best for this purpose. Metal roofing materials continue to prove their durability, making it an increasingly popular choice with home and business owners. You may find that it is right for you after discovering the benefits it can offer.

Durability of Metal Roofing Materials

One of the foremost characteristics of metal roofing materials are the ability to last for years. A metal roof can last upwards of a decade or longer. It withstands all weather elements without needing to be repaired. It also retains its shape and does not warp, bend, peel, or crack like asphalt, wood, or foam.

Weather Resistance

When you want a roof that will hold up in all sorts of weather, you may be served well with a metal roof because of its weather-resistance. As noted, metal withstands even the wildest of weather without succumbing to high winds, hail, heavy snow and rain, or intense heat.

Rooftops that have or wood or asphalt shingles typically need repairing after thunderstorms, windstorms, heavy rains, and other inclement weather. However, a well-crafted metal roof can survive these weather events and others that normally would damage roofs made from other materials.

You may hesitate still because you believe that metal will absorb heat and make your home hot during the summertime. Today’s metal roofs reflect heat. This helps the interior of your home stay cool during hot weather. This cool roofing material is well-suited for a variety of weather conditions.

Aesthetics

When you think of a metal roof, you may think of a barn with a rusted tin rooftop or a shed with a shiny aluminum rooftop. However, metal roofing materials for commercial and residential buildings are far different. They’re from a more visually appealing and stronger material.

The metal used for commercial or residential roofing will not rust like tin. It also comes in a variety of colors that you can match to the exterior of your building.

Metal roofs are designed to be as aesthetic as they are practical and durable. Many people initially do not know that the material is metal.

Affordability

Another quality that home and business owners appreciate about metal roofing is its affordability. Unlike some materials like wood or ceramic tile, metal roofing is more cost effective. You can roof your building with metal at a fraction of what it would cost if you were to choose ceramic, wood, or other more expensive materials.

Further, many insurers prefer metal roofing because it is fire resistant. Insurance companies know that they may get their money’s worth out of insuring a building with a metal roof than one from less fire resistant materials.

You have a variety of choices in materials when it comes to roofing your home or business. When you want a material that will last for a decade or more as well as one that looks visually appealing, you may consider the advantages of metal roofing materials. This material has proven to stand up well against a variety of weather elements. It comes at a cost that many people find easy to afford.

 

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

Metal Roof Maintenance for Fall

Metal is the longest lasting type of roofing material, and your new roof can last up to fifty years with proper care. While metal roofs require far less maintenance than those made with other materials, you will need to do metal roof maintenance to make sure it stays in top condition. As you prepare your home for fall, be sure to add these items to your to-do list. These metal roof maintenance tips will ensure your roof is ready for the cooler, wetter weather.

Metal Roof Maintenance Tips

Maintenance is an important part in any roof. After summer, every homeowner will want to utilize these metal roof maintenance tips to ensure your roof stays protective all year long.

Trim Back Tree Branches

The landscaping around your home plays a big role in how long your metal roof lasts. While metal is durable, heavy branches resting on it will weaken its structural integrity. Limbs blowing in the breeze can leave deep scratches. At the end of summer, make sure to trim all of your tree branches back at least three feet from your property. This will also ensure that rodents cannot gain access to any wooden areas around your metal roof.

Inspect Your Snow Guards

Roof snow guard systems are one of those things you rarely think about, but they save you from property damage and personal injuries that can occur if snow slides off your roof. Before winter storms arrive, take the time to make sure your snow guards are still in place and intact. This way, you can avoid a snow avalanche the first time heavy snow falls.

Check the Paint

The paint on your metal roof helps protect it from the elements. A quality paint job adds to its aesthetic appeal. Over time, however, exposure to sunshine, hail and foot traffic can all damage the paint and leave your roof vulnerable to the elements. Ideally, metal roofs should be painted before the weather turns frigid. During this annual metal roof maintenance, you should do an inspection. Doing an inspection now will allow you enough time to get it painted before the colder months.

Remove Accumulated Debris

Over time, fallen branches and leaves can build up on your roof. It is important to remove this before it gets wet or begins to rot since this can damage the materials used on your roof. Reaching the debris is the biggest challenge property owner’s face; especially since it is important to minimize foot traffic on your roof’s metal. Therefore, using a long brush to cover more distance is the best way to remove debris. If you choose to use a water sprayer, make sure to aim the hose away from the bottom of your roof since that can also lead to damage.

Clean Out the Gutters

Metal roofs are designed to allow the water to run off and into your gutters. When those gutters get clogged, your roof can no longer drain properly. Wet, soggy leaves and standing water can rest against the sides of your metal roof and lead to pooling. When this occurs, your metal roof will become susceptible to corrosion that destroys its ability to protect the rest of your home.

Metal roof maintenance requires far less work than other types of roofing materials. When it comes to protecting your roof, focus on removing anything that may rest against it and cause scrapes or corrosion. By trimming branches, clearing out fallen leaves and checking for minor damage that needs prompt repair, you can avoid major roofing work and protect your home’s value.

 

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

4 Metal Roofing Benefits

When it comes to roofing materials, there is a wide variety of materials to choose from, but metal roofing is quickly becoming one of the most popular options. When roofing your home the materials used must provide beauty to the exterior of your home as well as be durable enough to withstand the elements. There is a vast array of metal roofing benefits, including the durability, design options and the cost effectiveness.

Here are the four most common metal roofing benefits to consider for your next roofing project.

Fire Resistant

Unlike some roofing materials, such as shingle and cedar roofs, a metal roof is naturally resistant to fire. This is one of the most important metal roofing benefits because it can save your home from potential fires. The metal is contracts and expands in high levels of heat. Although some roofing materials, such as ceramic tiles are made to be fire retardant, this type of roofing is typically more expensive than metal and it is much heavier. Ceramic tiles are also prone to cracking and/or chipping during high winds. A metal roof withstands the heat as well as high winds.

Cost Effective

Another one of the most popular metal roofing benefits is the cost effectiveness in the long run. The cost may seem slightly higher than other roofing materials, however, the overall value outweighs the cost. The life-span of a metal roof is significantly longer than other material options. For example, asphalt typically needs replaced about every 10 years. A metal roof, can typically last a minimum of 50 years. A shingle roof will needs replacing about 4-5 times more often than the installation of one metal roof.

Save on Energy Costs

One of the most beneficial reasons to consider installing a metal roof is the savings you have in heating and cooling costs. Metal reflects a large amount of the sun’s energy. This will help you save money on the cost of electricity to heat and cool your home. Metal roofing can often save homeowners as much as 40 percent on their cooling costs. Your home will feel much cooler, because the metal re-emits as much as 90 percent of the solar radiation. In most situations, a metal roof can be installed directly over your existing shingle roof, which will save you money on the cost of a tear-off, as well as provide an added layer of insulation. Another way you may save money is in on the cost of your home insurance, because many insurance providers offer a discount for homeowners with a metal roof.

Design Options

There are several types of metal to choose from for roofing. Each type comes with its own metal roofing benefits. The most popular metals are tin, aluminum and copper. Tin is typically on smaller roofs, such as a small overhang roof or a shed. It is the least expensive, but it may be prone to rust and corrosion. This is especially true if one doesn’t maintain it. Aluminum is suitable for any structure. It is lightweight, durable and resistant to corrosion. Copper roofing is popular for the aesthetic beauty it provides. It is often more expensive than aluminum, but it requires very little maintenance. A metal roof can also be designed to look like other roofing materials, such as wood, stone or clay tiles for a fraction of the cost of these materials and it provides more durable protection.

Since metal roofing is made with recycled metal, it is environmentally friendly. And you can do your part for the environment by recycling it in the future.

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

What Are The Benefits Metal Roof Panels?

There are many roofing materials available. However, metal roof panels are preferred by many homeowners. There are a number of benefits that can be reaped from having metal roof panels.

Many homeowners agree that metal roofing can be a great option for their house, especially in windy, rainy, and snowy locations.

Below is a list of some of the most popular benefits.

Longevity

Because a roof can be an expensive investment, people want it to last as long as possible. A metal roof that is cared for properly can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Furthermore, metal roof panels are extremely durable. In fact, they can withstand winds up to 140 miles per hour. They are also impact-resistant.

Unlike many other types of roofs, metal roofs do not require a lot of maintenance. However, it is wise to periodically inspect these types of roofs in order to make sure no repairs are necessary.

Fire Resistant

Metal roof panels have received a Class A fire rating. A Class A fire rating means that the material is most resistant to fire. Metal roofs are also non-combustible. However, it is important to note that if you are applying a metal roof over a combustible material, such as wood shingles, then it will have a lower fire rating.

Energy Efficient Option

Even though a metal roof can be expensive, it can actually help you save money. One of the ways that a roof can help you save money is by reducing solar heat gain during the summer time. This will help you keep your home cooler so that you will be able to rely on your air conditioner less. In fact, you can cut your cooling costs by anywhere from 10 to 25 percent by getting metal roof panels.

Environmentally-Friendly Option

If you are looking for a roofing option that is environmentally-friendly, then you will definitely benefit from getting a metal roof. Metal roofing is typically made out of 25 to 95 percent recycled material. As a homeowner, you can also recycle your own metal roof once you no longer need it.

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

4 Reasons to Choose Metal Roofing Panels

The roof is one of the most important components of your home. It is responsible for keeping your family and your personal belongings protected from the elements. Neglecting the roof can cause serious damages to the structure of your home. It can also pose a health risk, should mold and mildew occur from a leaking roof. If you are considering replacing the roof on your home, you will have several roofing materials to choose from, including metal roofing panels.

Why Choose Metal Roofing Panels?

Metal has become a popular choice in roofing materials because of the number of benefits it provides. There are many benefits of metal roofing panels, which we discuss below.

Maintenance and Longevity

One of the best benefits of choosing metal roofing panels is the low maintenance requirements. There is little to no maintenance required and a metal roof can last 50 years or longer, even in the harshest weather conditions. Metal roofing panels are unable to grow mold, so it maintains the aesthetic appeal without the need to routinely clean it.

Weather Resistant

Unlike asphalt shingles that can be ripped away in high winds or break down due to high UV exposure, metal is not easily ripped away and it does not break down. Environmental elements, such as snow and rain can wreck havoc on asphalt shingles, especially when the moisture is allowed to sit on the shingles. Metal is resistant to high winds, snow, rain and heat. Melting snow and rain simple run off of the metal as opposed to puddling, which can damage the structure of your home.

Energy Efficient & Environmentally Friendly

The majority of metal roofs is treated with a specialized paint that reflects the heat of the rays of the sun. This makes a metal roof incredibly energy efficient, even in the hot summer months. It is common for many people to think that metal is not a very eco friendly roof, but the truth is, it is one of the most environmentally friendly materials used. The metal used for roofing materials is typically recycled metal and if you ever decide to replace the roof, the metal can be recycled again.

Increased Home Value

A metal roof can add significant value to your home. Because of the ease of maintenance and the longevity of the metal, a prospective home buyer knows they don’t have to worry about replacing the roof immediately after purchasing the home. Metal roofing panels may also help save money on your homeowners insurance, because it is fire resistant.

A metal roof can also be installed to resemble other traditional materials, such as cedar shake, asphalt shingles or tile. Metal roofing panels are available in a number of beautiful colors and styles, and can enhance the look of any style or age home.

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

3 Reasons to Consider Metal Roof Installation

If you are considering hiring a roofing company for metal roof installation, there are many things you should think about. The popularity of metal roofing products has increased rapidly over the previous years. This is because there are many benefits to choosing this type of roofing material. Despite the fact that metal is still not quite as popular as other materials, it can be a favorable, and money-saving alternative for many homeowners. Here are some reasons to consider metal roof installation.

Life Expectancy

Proper metal roof installation has a remarkably long lifespan. It is resistant to many of the issues that plague other roofing types. Any roofing company will tell you that it is not uncommon for a high-quality metal roof to outlive the structure itself, even with little maintenance. Metal roofs also provide superior protection against adverse weather conditions, fire, mildew, and mold. In terms of roofs, they also provide some of the best protection against water damage as well.

Weight

Compared to other roofing products, metal is relatively lightweight. This means that metal roofing can be installed on top of an existing structure without the need for a complete removal. This saves you money since there is no need to totally demolish the existing roof. Before you contact a roofing company, you should remember that even though metal is lightweight, it can still provide the same degree of protection as other materials.

Ease of Metal Roof Installation

Metal roofing products come in multi-shingle sections with fairly large panels. This means that your roof can be installed in a shorter time than you would typically expect. Metal roofs are infamously simple to install, and can be quickly applied in the event that your roof sustains severe damage after a storm.

Final Thoughts

In short, a metal roof can be a great alternative for many homeowners. An established roofing contractor can easily install your roof in a relatively short period of time. Homeowners hoping to save money on roofing costs should definitely consider purchasing a metal roof.

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

Three Benefits of Metal Roofing Supplies

Most consumers do not know very much about metal roofing supplies. This is because most homes are use asphalt or cement shingles. These roofing materials are cheap and widely available so they have been historically used on a many homes. Metal roofing supplies have many advantages over asphalt or cement shingles. This is due to its basic design and long lasting quality. This post will outline three benefits of metal roofing supplies over other commonly used roofing materials.

Fewer Seams and High Strength

Metal roofing materials are designed to be long sheets of channeled metal that run from the top of the roof to the bottom. Compared to individual shingles, which each have seams, metal roofing supplies’ lack of seams. This basic design can protect your home from water entry. As asphalt shingles expose to heat, rain, and snow, the outer mineral deposits erode from the surface, requiring replacement. Metal shingles are sealed and are known across the industry as a more durable, long-lasting material.

Lower Heat Retention

Metal roofing supplies can be painted a host of different colors. This includes lighter colors that help the roof not absorb as much heat. This quality of roofing material is solar reflectance and thermal emittance. Especially in warm climates, a cooler roof will reflect the heat from the house and help to maintain a lower internal building temperature. Thus a metal roof can help you save money on your electric bill and help you protect the environment.

Ease of Customization

If you would like to be able to have more customization options for your home, metal roofing supplies can be a great choice for you. This is because you can select from many different color options for the metal roof sheets to fit your taste and design aesthetic. As mentioned above, make sure to consider a lighter color to help save on your electric bill.

With its durability, energy efficiency, and ease of customization, metal roofing is a perfect option for many homeowners.

 

Categories
Blog Metal Roofing

Why Choose Residential Metal Roofing?

With a variety of roofing options to choose from, you may be wondering what the best type would be for your home. One good choice is residential metal roofing, and when you have a high-quality metal roofing company do the job, you can be assured that your roof will be strong and long lasting. There are several advantages provided by opting for this type of roof that will benefit both you and your home. You will also be able to experience exceptional safety.

Benefits of Residential Metal Roofing

Metal roofing provides a multitude of benefits for homeowners. Because of this, it is gaining in popularity across the country. This is especially true for rainy, wet, and snowy climates. Here are the greatest benefits of residential metal roofing.

Long-lasting

While other types of roofs start to wear away with time, metal roofs are extremely long lasting, usually as long as the building or house when properly installed. They will be successful in sealing out water and withstanding high winds. A metal roofing company will generally give you a warranty on their products for up to 50 years.

Lightweight

At 50 to 150 pounds per square, metal roofs are extremely lightweight compared to typical roofs weighing in at 750 pounds per square. For new houses, this will reduce the amount of roof support needed, and for existing houses, a light roof will assist in preserving the structural integrity.

Save on Energy Costs

Residential metal roofing provides excellent heat conduction. It reflects heat from the sun, thus keeping your home cooler and allowing you to save money that you would have used for air conditioning costs. This provides exceptional energy efficiency.

Fire Resistance and Rain and Snow Shedding

Metal roofs are fire resistant since they are noncombustible. This will provide you and the people in your home with safety. These roofs are also excellent for shedding rain and snow because of the way their design.

Quick and Easy Installation

An experienced metal roofing company will be able to install your roof fast and with ease, as the materials come in lightweight sections or panels. This will provide you with great convenience as the work time will be kept to a minimum.

Categories
Blog Metal Roofing

Improve the Value and Efficiency of Your Home With Metal Roofing Sheets

People looking to restore value to their home with a new roof have a many options when it comes to styles and materials. Homeowners can achieve a look that is both stylish and functional with the use of efficient metal roofing sheets. Since your roof serves as an important line of defense against weather and other environmental elements, durable materials are highly desirable for any home. Featuring special finishes to reflect the sun and insulate against changing temperatures, metal roofing sheets have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners.

Why Use Metal Roofing Sheets?

With attributes to appeal to homeowners concerned with energy costs, appearance or fire safety, it is easy to see why the popularity of metal roofing continues to rise.

Long-Lasting Style and Protection

Metal roofing panels can be cut in long, flat sheets or ridges, offering versatile styling options for your new roof. Standing seam metal roof installations are a popular choice because of their clean, classic lines. In addition to bold colors that will not need to be repainted, metal roofing sheets offer homeowners many additional benefits:

  • Interlocking, weather-resistant panels
  • Solar reflectance exceeding 70%
  • Reduced heat transfer inside homes
  • Resin type paint for long-lasting color
  • Surface discourages accumulation of dirt residue
  • Selection of colors for professional appearance

Good for Mother Earth and Your Wallet

The reduced environmental impact of metal roofing sheets is perhaps one of the most significant attributes distinguishing this type of roofing material from traditional shingles. Use of recycled content helps to reduce the carbon footprint of your home. It also helps to cut energy costs and reduce attic temperatures. Metal is one of the most sustainable types of roofing. This is because of its long life, recyclability and reduced energy costs. In addition, they save you money on your air conditioning bills. The light weight of this product supports lower transportation costs as well.

When you decide to upgrade or replace your existing roof, take a look at metal. Using metal sheets or products gives your home the benefits of restored and lasting value. Standing seam roofs offer a look that is both modern and tasteful. This offers a reliable and efficient home improvement project that will continue to yield returns years after its installation.

Exit mobile version