Tag: metal roof

Standing seam metal roofs offer you a sustainable roofing solution, providing durability, fire resistance, and low maintenance. They are energy-efficient and insulate your home. They are often made using recycled metals and can be recycled once again when removed. Although you may find yourself paying more upfront for the cost of a metal roof, the long-term savings and environmental benefits prove it is a smart investment. 

When it comes to choosing a new roof for your home, there are many factors to consider. You want something that is durable and reliable, easy to care for, and long-lasting. Yet, you want to be an eco-conscious consumer and choose a roof that is going to be good for the environment, too. 

Is the combination even possible? 

This article explores standing seam metal roofs and what makes them a sustainable roofing solution. 

Standing Seam Metal Roofs are a Sustainable Solution

Standing seam metal roofs have interlocking panels that give you a flat area in the middle with raised vertical seams on both sides. It is sleek and aesthetically pleasing — especially since it comes in many different colors. 

Aside from looking great, these metal roofs are built to last. But that is just one of the many reasons they are considered a sustainable solution. Let’s take a look at all the others.

Durability

You want a roof that you can depend on for years to come rather than one that will deteriorate as it experiences strong storms and various types of harsh weather. 

Standing seam metal roofs are durable. They have an average lifespan between 30 and 50 years which means you may not even have to worry about replacing your roof for the rest of your life. Not only is this convenient, but it means you will use fewer resources over time — and that’s better for the environment. 

Fire-Resistant

A fire can devastate a home. Knowing that you have a roof over your head that is highly fire-resistant can bring you peace of mind. Metal is naturally non-combustible which means it will not spread flames and it can prevent it from catching on fire in the first place. 

This eco-friendly trait can keep fires from spreading and bringing destruction to other areas around the home. 

Energy-Efficient

Metal roofs are highly energy-efficient. They reflect solar radiation, reducing the heat that is absorbed into your home. During the summer months, the temperature inside will remain cooler without your AC unit having to work too hard. And when the temperature drops, the metal roof will keep the heat inside your living space. 

The result? Lower energy bills and the satisfaction of a lower carbon footprint. 

Recyclable

Metals are recyclable without losing their qualities. Your new metal roof likely came from recycled metal that has been revitalized and transformed into your standing seam metal roof. And when the time comes to replace your roof at the end of its lifespan, you will be able to recycle it again! 

You protect the environment by keeping the landfills clear and by reducing the need for mining more of these finite resources.

Cost-Effective

While the money you spend doesn’t necessarily contribute to the sustainability of a roof, it does play a role in your decision-making. 

Many long-term benefits come with standing seam metal roofs that you can enjoy for years. The upfront cost is typically higher, but you get a durable, low-maintenance roof that will save you money. Think about it— it won’t need to be replaced as often and it is less likely to need repairs or extensive maintenance. 

Installation

Believe it or not, the installation of metal roofs can also contribute to their sustainability. As long as they are properly installed, they will perform as they are intended to for as long as possible. 

The emissions cost for transporting the goods to your home for installation is lower because the metal is so much lighter than other types of roofing material. It also doesn’t require the use of dangerous toxins in the process. And perhaps the best part is that, in some instances, metal roofs can be placed over existing roofs. This can save time, money, and energy. 

Low Maintenance

Finally, one of the deciding factors in choosing a standing seam metal roof as a sustainable solution is that it is very low maintenance. It is not going to take up much of your time to ensure that it remains in the best condition. Unlike many other types of roofs, these will not require routine resealing or painting to continue looking their very best. 

To maintain your metal roof, you will want to remove debris and buildup of things like leaves, twigs, and dirt. Ensure that your gutters are clear, too. Take the time to regularly inspect the metal to check for any signs of damage or loose fasteners.

It is always a good idea to hire professionals to handle the care and maintenance of your roof. They will be able to inspect it, make repairs, and even apply sealant as a preventative measure. Investing in this will ensure you can continue to reap the benefits of your sustainable roof for years down the road. 

Sustainable Roofing Solutions in Virginia

Sustainable roofing is something you can feel good about. The best part is that not only does it benefit the environment, but it benefits you, too. Don’t settle for anything less than the best. 

Are metal roofs not your thing? Choose from others, including rubber roofing, shingles, slate roofing, and more. Find what works best for you aesthetically and functionally. 

If you are in Fairfax, Winchester, or anywhere in between, schedule an appointment for a free estimate with Piedmont Roofing. We have been setting the standard for happy roofing customers in the local areas throughout Virginia since 1977.

Conclusion

Standing seam metal roofs are your sustainable roofing solution. They are energy efficient, recyclable, low maintenance, long-lasting, and so much more. They are the roof that will give you peace of mind today and in the future. 

Metal roof accents can boost your home’s value as they complement the rest of your roof. They offer durability and longevity and are very low maintenance, too. Metal roof accents can increase your curb appeal while decreasing your utility bills. Perhaps the best part is that you can choose the style, material, and color of this stunning and functional addition. 

Are you interested in boosting your home’s value but don’t know where to start? A metal roof accent is a great option. Not only will it give you great curb appeal, but it comes with practical benefits, too. 

Those who have invested know that the ROI is worth it. Perhaps it is time you do, too. Here is how a metal roof accent can boost your home’s value. 

What is a Metal Roof Accent?

A metal panel roof can provide a home with enhanced aesthetics as well as provide a level of strong protection. But getting a new roof isn’t for everyone at every moment — especially if your home’s roof is still in good shape. 

That doesn’t mean you can’t make a little change to get a whole new look. Sometimes it takes just accenting a piece of your roof to stand out and look as though your home got a makeover. 

A metal roof accent provides you with a unique appearance. As its name suggests, this involves getting a new roof for part of your property — not the whole thing. For instance, covering the front porch overhang or bay window with a metal roof while leaving the rest of your shingle roof untouched. 

It’s bold and stunning.

Benefits of Investing in an Accent

Metal roofs are trending – and for good reason. Not only will adding a metal roof accent boost your home’s value, but it also comes with many practical benefits, too. 

• Durability. Metal is strong and capable of standing up to many extreme outdoor elements. They do not damage easily and will continue to maintain their beautiful appearance. 

• Lifespan. These roofs can last up to five times longer than a traditional roof. 
• Low Maintenance. You don’t have to worry about putting in any extra work to maintain it. 

While that’s only a few of the long list of benefits, the more you learn about metal roofs, the more you see why they are growing in popularity — even if only as an accent.

How Metal Roof Accents Boost Your Home’s Value

So, you know that metal roof accents can come with quite a few advantages, but how does that impact your home’s value? When it looks great, lasts a long time, and saves energy, you can expect that your value will increase. 

Curb Appeal

You have many unique options when it comes to your roof. You get to choose the material, the color, the texture, and more. When used as an accent, it can enhance the aesthetics and stand out. Just be sure to create your accent in a way that complements the rest of your home. 

From the street, your metal roof will shine and add the pizazz you were missing. And it will make your home more attractive to potential buyers. 

Longevity

The average timespan for a traditional asphalt roof is 12 to 20 years. The average lifespan for a metal roof is 70 years. When you talk about putting this on your roof as an accent — consider it something that will stick around awhile. 

This is one less worry and offers a nice return on your investment. 

Energy Efficiency

Another reason metal roof accents make your home more appealing is that they offer energy efficiency. They work to keep the outside elements out of your home, including the temperatures. During the summer, the home will stay cooler and during the winter, it will stay warmer. Regardless of where you place this addition, you are sure to see the savings on the utility bill. 

Sustainability goes hand-in-hand with energy efficiency and these roofs don’t disappoint. The metal can be recycled and used over and over again. All of this adds value to your property. 

Roofing Factors to Consider

When it comes to choosing your metal roof accent, you have a few factors to consider to make it your own. 

Style 

Find the right accent for your home to complement its appearance. Where can you place your metal roof where it will stand out and make the boldest statement? Take a close look at the architecture and discover the perfect placement. 

Material

Metal roofs are metal — most commonly found in steel and aluminum. You have a choice of the metal you want for yours so it is always a good idea to talk to roofing professionals to determine the best option for you. 

Color

Have you thought about what color that would fit well with the rest of your roof? There is a rainbow of colors available for metal roofs. What will look best? 

As you consider all of the details you’d like your metal roof accent to have, you want to take the time to ensure you are working with the right roofing company. You want someone with a great reputation and the expertise to get the job done properly. 

Enhance Your Homes with Piedmont Roofing

Adding metal roof accents to your home will only look as good as the skill of the roofing crew. With Piedmont Roofing, you can always expect a fantastic finish. 

We take the time to get to know your vision. We can offer you choices and metal roofing solutions while answering any questions you may have. 

Contact us today for a free estimate. Serving Warren, Fairfax, Winchester, Leesburg, and many other areas throughout Virginia.

Conclusion

If you are ready to make a change to your home, make it one that will leave a lasting impression. This addition to your roof can add a touch of color and texture to certain areas of your architecture while blending beautifully with the rest of your roof. 

When done right, there is no denying that metal roof accents can boost your home’s value.

Yes, metal roofs can fade over time due to exposure to UV rays, moisture, and environmental factors. The extent of fading depends on the color, paint quality, and finish. Lighter, matte colors with high-quality paint systems like PVDF are less prone to noticeable fading, helping maintain the roof’s appearance longer.

There are lots of things you need to consider if you are looking at having a metal roof installed. That includes things like price, lifespan, style, and more. If you are considering a metal roof, you may have seen some reports that they tend to fade over time.

You are making a serious investment in your home when it comes to installing a metal roof, so you want to know whether it will fade after you install it. Is this something you need to be aware of, and what can be done to prevent it?

Do Metal Roofs Fade Over Time?

So, firstly, is that metal roof going to start fading as soon as you have it installed on your home? While that color you picked is vibrant and exciting when it’s first put in place, that may not be the case later down the line. 

Like all roofing materials, metal roofing is subject to some amount of fading over its lifespan. The main culprit for this is UV rays. Over the years, those UV rays will beat down on your roof and eventually break up the pigments that make the color so vibrant.

That’s not the only culprit for fading though. There are other factors depending on where you live, which include things like moisture in the air, salt there if you live on the coast, pollution, and much more besides.

Also, keep in mind that the environment around your home will affect how evenly the roof fades, too. For example, if there is a lot of shade on the back half of your home, the back half of your roof will fade less than the front.

Is A Metal Roof Always Going To Fade?

For those considering installing a metal roof, this sounds somewhat worrying. Is it a forgone conclusion that any metal roof will fade over time?

Like everything in life, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye. There are a lot of factors that will affect how that roof fades. These include the following:

Sunshine in your area: How sunny your local area is will affect how much your metal roof fades. If you get a lot of hot weather and sun, then that fading will happen more quickly.

This does not mean that cloudier and cooler areas do not experience fading either. Even if you don’t get a lot of direct sunshine, those UV rays are still making their way to your roof, and will enact some fading over time.

The color shade you choose: One of the best things about metal roofs is the fact you can have them installed in almost any color that you can imagine. While you should be considering the curb appeal and aesthetics when you pick color, you should also consider how that color will fade over time. 

For example, if you go for a lighter color, it will fade less than a darker, more vibrant color. Picking a shade like gray or white will ensure you see a lot less fading than you would with a shade like red or blue.

Color finish: It’s not just the color itself that you need to consider when you are picking out your metal roof, but the finish of the color as well. You will see you have plenty of choice between both glossy and matte colors, and both have their benefits. 

When it comes to colour fading, you will see that matte colors are a lot less prone to fading than glossy ones. Because of this, matte colors are becoming more and more popular for metal roofs. You can find a wide variety of different matte colors available, allowing you to reduce the likelihood of fading while getting the right color for your home. 

Type of paint: There are multiple different types of paint that can be used on metal roofs, and again the type of paint you use will affect how much it fades over time. The two biggest types of paints used right now are SMP and PVDF, and currently PVDF works a lot better at resisting fading over time. 

This is thanks to the pigmentation used in this paint, as well as the bonds used in the structure of the paints to resist UV radiation. SMP paint on the other hand is less resistant to fading, thanks to the polyester used in it. The polyester will absorb UV rays over time, and this is what breaks the paint apart and leads to fading.

How To Pick The Right Color To Avoid Color Fade

Now you know all of the above, you will want to make a choice for your home that reduces the amount of paint fading on your roof as much as possible. It is important to note that you cannot avoid some amounts of fading on all metal roofs, no matter what it is made of or painted with. If you are located on the coast, you get excessive sun exposure, or excessive moisture, then fading is always going to happen. However, you can absolutely take some measures to reduce that fading.

For example, you can pick a color that comes in a matte finish, and is a lighter shade so fading will be much more minimal over time. This is perfect for someone who is looking to improve the curb appeal of the home, or just keep the roof looking new and in good condition for as long as possible.

This is something to consider when you are choosing the color for your roof. If you have a colour in mind, think about whether it meets the criteria for less noticeable fading. If maintaining the color of your roof is important to you, and the color you are thinking of will not meet this criteria, it is always worth picking another color instead.

All metal roofs will experience some amount of fading over time, thanks to UV rays and other environmental issues. By picking the right color in the right paint system, you can reduce the effects of fading over time on your roof.

Conclusion

While all metal roofs are subject to some fading over time due to UV rays and environmental factors, selecting the right color, finish, and paint system can help minimize the effects. A lighter, matte color with a high-quality paint system like PVDF will provide more resistance to fading.

If you live in Virginia areas such as Warren, Fairfax, Winchester, or Leesburg, and you’re considering a metal roof installation and want expert guidance on choosing the best options, contact Piedmont Roofing. Their experienced team can help you achieve a durable, long-lasting roof that retains its beauty for years to come.

Reach out to Piedmont Roofing today for a consultation!

There have never been so many options when it comes to roofing materials for your home. That means you have plenty of choice as to which one you use when you have your roof replaced. If you are looking for suitable materials for your home, a metal tile roof is always a great option.

Here is why a metal tile roof offers classic appeal and superior protection for your home.

Long Lasting Roofing Materials

Probably the most significant appeal when it comes to metal roofs is that they are one of the most long-lasting roofing materials available on the market. Depending on the exact metal roof you have installed, it can easily last for up to 70 years before it needs to be entirely replaced. 

The exact time a metal roof will last does depend on several factors, such as how well it was installed, as well as regular maintenance on the part of the homeowner. However, it will still offer much longer before needing to be replaced again, than other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. If you want to have a roof installed and not have to worry about replacement for a long time, then metal roofs are always a good idea.

Lots of Different Aesthetic Options

When some people think of metal roofs, they will probably think of the corrugated metal roofs that are often used on agricultural or commercial buildings. These are designed to be more functional than aesthetic, but if you get a metal tile roof installed on your home, many different aesthetic options make it look fantastic and improve your curb appeal. 

For example, a metal roof can be coated in lots of different colors, so you can choose a color that suits your home and the surrounding neighborhood. You can also get metal roofing sheets that are molded into the shape of different roofing materials. For instance, many homeowners have metal roofs that are molded in the shape of a clay tile roof. These give you the look of these different roofing types but with the benefits of a metal tile roof.

Quick Installation

Having your roof replaced is always going to be an intensive job, and typically the most expensive home improvement job you have done.  For those having their roof replaced, they will often resign themselves to a long and messy period when the roof is being replaced by their roofer. 

One of the benefits of picking a metal roof is the fact that it is one of the quickest roofing materials to install. A lot of this is down to the fact that they come in large sheets that are simply interlocked together and then attached to the roofing deck. This is a much quicker process, so it won’t be that long before your roof is completed, and you can start enjoying the benefits.

Excellent Fire Resistance

There are lots of different things that you need to consider when you are looking at replacing your roof, and some of these will change depending on where you live. For instance, if you live in an area that is prone to wildfires, you need to ensure you are picking a roof that can resist fire. This is why you are seeing so many homeowners in the various going for metal roofs on their homes.

Metal roofs have the highest possible fire resistance rating out there, meaning that if any burning debris makes its way onto the roof, it will not catch fire. This makes them one of the safest options for a roof if you are concerned about wildfires or fire damage in general.

Excellent Weather Resistance

Another good reason to pick a metal roof is because they are highly resistant to the elements as well. A lot of this is thanks to the fact there are less entry points toward water on the roof, due to the large sheets used in construction, and the interlocking nature of them on top of your roof deck. That will help keep water out, and avoid any water issues in your attic or home in general.

Also, a metal roof is going to fare really well against the winds. Unlike asphalt shingles, which can be lifted off by winds, the same cannot be done with a metal roof. If you experience high winds in your area, a metal roof is one of the best options for you.

Minimal Maintenance Needs

No matter what kind of roof you have installed, you are going to have to do some kind of maintenance in order to keep it in the best possible condition. That means regularly inspecting the roof both inside and out, looking for any issues that need to be addressed, and having a roofer come and put them right as soon as you see them. One of the best things about having a metal roof installed is that it requires so little maintenance on your end.

Of course, you do still need to do the inspections to make sure there are no issues to be addressed, but you will find there’s much less to handle after the roof has been installed. Those who are trying to reduce how much wear and tear their roof experiences, they will be glad to hear this.

No Roof Noise From a Good Metal Tile Roof

One reason people may not want a metal roof is because they feel that would be noisy when it rains. This is true when it comes to the corrugated metal roofs used on some buildings, but it’s not true for residential metal roofs. These are installed over insulation and the roof deck, so you will not experience any noise once the roof is installed.

Conclusion

There are so many reasons why a metal tile roof is the right choice for so many homeowners. They offer a long life, minimal maintenance, and an attractive option no matter how you want your roof to look. Talk to your roof for today about having a metal roof installed on your home.

If you live in Virginia areas such as Warren, Fairfax, Winchester, or Leesburg, Piedmont Roofing will be happy to help you with your roofing needs.

What Are Metal Roofs Made of?

While asphalt shingles have been the go-to for residential roofs for such a long time, metal roofs are now becoming more and more common. Because they bring you so many benefits, they are well worth considering for your new roof.

So what are metal roofs made of? Metal roofs can be made out of a variety of different metals. Here’s what a metal roof is typically made of, and how the metals used in their production help protect your home.

Aluminum Zinc Alloys

When you start looking into getting a new metal roof, you will see the most common metal used is an aluminum zinc alloy over a steel core. This particular alloy lends a lot of benefits to residential homes, which is why it has become the most popular metal used.

This is because, in the past, steel roofs have been coated with a 100% zinc coating. While zinc will do a good job of protecting that steel core, over time it will eventually get eaten away by the elements. At that point, the steel in the roof is then exposed to the elements, and that can cause issues such as rusting. Of course, that is something that you want to avoid with your roof.

This issue has been avoided by creating an aluminum and zinc alloy. With this alloy, the zinc will still eventually erode, but the aluminum will stay and protect the core of your roof. This creates a metal roof that lasts even longer, ensuring that your home is protected from the elements.

Other Metal Roofing Materials

There are plenty of other metal roofing materials on the market too, so there are plenty of options for you if that’s what you’re looking for. Here are some other options that you can look into for your roof. 

Aluminum: You have the option of having an aluminum roof, rather than a steel roof. There are several reasons why you may want to go with this metal. As you saw in the aluminum zinc alloy, it is a strong metal that can last a long time with the right care. It’s also very lightweight, meaning it won’t put pressure on your roof deck. Plus, once it has reached the end of its lifespan you’ll be able to recycle the roofing material too. 

However, it is worth being made aware of the fact aluminum is a malleable metal, so it is more prone to denting. As well as this, you will see that they can fade over time with exposure to UV rays. 

Copper: Copper has been used in roofing for decades, and many choose it because of its aesthetic qualities. When first installed, the roof will have a pure copper color. Over time, weathering will turn the roof an attractive shade of green. It’s also highly resistant to rust, so you’ll get longer out of the roof with less need for maintenance. 

You should be aware that there’s no guarantee on how long it will take for your roof to achieve the patination needed to change color, or whether it will go through the process at all. It’s also a more expensive material, so you’ll need to factor that in when pricing up your new roof. 

Zinc: Just like aluminum, you’ll see that zinc can be used on its own as a roofing material. It’s especially good for those who live near the coast, as it won’t corrode due to salt in the air. It can last up to 100 years with the proper care, too. 

You will see that zinc takes more care than other options to keep it in good condition though, so you’ll need to be prepared for that if you want to have it installed on your roof. It will also need an anti-corrosion coating on the underside too, to keep it in the best condition. 

Tin: These roofs are becoming less and less common, although you will still see them being used by some homeowners. The panels are not made fully from tin, instead being steel sheets that have a tin coating to add durability. They are resistant to corrosion, and again are light to install. 

You see tin roofs less often now because they aren’t being manufactured in as many quantities as other roofing types. This makes them a lot more expensive, too. 

Coating Your Metal Roof

As well as the actual materials your metal roof is made from, you’ll need to consider the coating used on it. A coating will be recommended by all good roofers, as they help protect the metal and give your roof a longer lifespan. 

In many cases, you will see roofers using acrylic coatings to coat metal roof panels. These are great as they resist scuffing and fingerprints, something that can happen during the installation process. Once your roof is installed, it adds another layer of protection that adds to the longevity of your roof. 

As well as the acrylic coating, you also have the option of adding stone granules. These are coated in pigments of many different colors, so you can have roof panels that suit the style of the rest of your home. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, the granules will help your roof resist UV rays. That stops fading and helps your home be more energy efficient, too. 

Which Metal Roof Should You Choose?

As you can see, you can choose from a wide variety of different metal roofs for your home. Which one will be right for you?

Like many things when it comes to home improvements, it will very much depend on you and your home. That’s why it’s always best to consult with a roofer. They will be able to advise on which metal would work best for your needs, and ensure you get the longest lifespan out of it. 

There are lots of different options when it comes to metal roofs. You can pick any of these above options, and get all the benefits a metal roof provides. 

If you live in Virginia areas such as Warren, Fairfax, Winchester, or Leesburg, Piedmont Roofing will be happy to help you with your roofing needs.

Any roof is made up of several parts. One of the most essential parts is the underlayment, which sits under the outer layer of your roof. If you’re considering installing a metal roof, there are several different types of underlayment that you can consider. Which one will be right for you?

What is Underlayment For Metal Roofs?

To understand which underlayment is right for you, you’ll first need to know what exactly it does. This material is attached to your roof deck, to act as a barrier between your deck and the other roofing materials. Typically, it should act as a vapor barrier or moisture barrier, to help keep water out of your roof where it could cause damage. 

When it comes to metal roofs, it’s essential that you have underlayment installed. Not only do you need it for the above reasons, but you need it for noise reduction too. Without that layer, rainy days are going to be noisy in your home as the raindrops fall on your metal roof. 

Which Underlayment Should You Choose?

There are several different types of underlayment available, so any one of these will be right for you. Here are the options that are available to be fitted under your metal roof:

Felt underlayment: You may also see this referred to as asphalt felt/tar underlayment, but these refer to the same material. It’s a very common option that’s most often used on steep sloped roofs. Its biggest benefit is that it’s cost-effective. When you’re installing a metal roof you will be paying more for it, so this will be a big benefit for you.

As a material, it’s also water resistant, so it will work to stop water from entering your roof and causing more problems. Also, it’s widely available so it shouldn’t be a problem for your roofer to install it.

It’s worth noting that this underlayment doesn’t have as long a lifespan as others on this list. As a metal roof can last for decades, that’s something that you need to keep in mind. Plus, if you live in an area that gets high temperatures, it won’t last as long. As well as this, the underlayment isn’t easily recycled at the end of its lifespan, like your metal roof is. 

Synthetic sheet underlayment: This is a newer type of underlayment that’s made by weaving together either polyethylene or polypropylene with a polymer, to create that barrier material. As an underlayment, it’s a good material as it has a longer lifespan than felt underlayment, and can handle those higher temperatures if needs be. Plus, it’s much more durable thanks to the polymers involved with its construction. 

You will need to remember that this material will be more expensive than felt underlayment. It also has a low permeability rating. That makes it great at keeping moisture out of your roof, but will also make it harder to ventilate it. 

Self-adhering membrane underlayment: This type of underlayment is made from either rubberized asphalt or butyl-based adhesive with a polyethylene carrier sheet. This membrane uses a peel-and-stick formula that allows it to be stuck down onto your roof deck. 

These offer some good benefits to homeowners. As the membrane is fully stuck down onto the roof deck, it’s a great air barrier. It can also offer protection in high temperatures, which is good for those living in hot climates. Conversely, if you live in a colder climate you’ll get good ice dam protection with this material. 

You will need to make sure that you pick a good quality membrane, as lower quality ones run the risk of peeling away from the roof deck. That leaves your deck exposed to the elements, so consult your roofer about the membrane you should get. It’s also worth being aware that your insurance company may offer a discount for properly installed membranes. Make sure you ask your insurance company, as that could help lower the cost of your new roof. 

Which Underlayment is Best For Your Metal Roof?

Now that you’ve seen the options that are available to you, which underlayment is going to be best for your metal roof? The fact is that there’s no one clear outlier when it comes to quality. As such, it’s always a good idea to talk to your roofer. They’ll be able to give an expert opinion that’s based on their knowledge of underlayment, as well as your roof and your climate. 

For example, if you live in a hotter climate they recommend synthetic sheet underlayment or self-adhesive membrane, as they’re able to cope better in warmer temperatures. If your insurance company offers a discount for self-adhesive membranes, then they may recommend this type of underlayment. Make sure you talk to your roofer about what’s right for your home. 

Other Metal Roofing Barriers

You’ll also want to consider other barriers to have installed under your metal roof. If you live in a cold climate, for example, an ice and water shield will be needed. These barriers are made either of rubberized asphalt or butyl-based adhesive sheets. Typically, they’ll come in a peel-and-stick format. These are used as well as typical roof underlayment to protect your roof. 

If you need extra protection against condensation, then you have the option of using a vapor barrier too. These will help reduce the amount of condensation that accumulates in your roof. These are often recommended to be installed under metal roofs, to help protect your home and give your roof a longer lifespan.

Again, you can talk to your roofer about what’s needed on your roof, and make a plan for what they will install for you. 

Now you have all the details on metal roofs and the underlayment that you can choose from. You will need underlayment to protect from the elements and reduce the amount of noise from your roof. Your roofer will help you pick the one that suits your home best. 

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.

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!