Tag: metal roof

Categories
Metal Roofing

What Are Metal Roofs Made Of? A Detailed Look

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.

Categories
Metal Roofing

What’s The Best Underlayment For Metal Roofs?

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.

Categories
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!

Categories
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.

Categories
Standing Seam Metal Roofs Metal Roofing

The Advantages of a Standing Seam Roof

If it’s time for a new roof or you just want a charming update to your home, then choose a standing seam roof. These roofs provide many benefits. Read the details below.

The roofing contractor has some good news and some bad news. On the minus side, the roof is in such bad shape that it would be pointless to spend any more money on repairs. The good thing is that the contractor has the ideal solution: a standing seam metal roof. Since you’ve never considered the idea of metal for a residential roof, you’re initially skeptical. However, the contractor will give you many advantages of this type of roof.

Advantages of a Standing Seam Roof

Are you thinking about replacing the roof on your home? Have you considered adding a striking, beautiful update to your home with a standing seam roof? Standing seam metal roofing is becoming more popular in neighborhoods and there are a number of reasons why. These types of roofs feature continuous metal panels. These panels run from the ridge of the roof down to the eaves. Seams are connected by fasteners that are raised above the level of the metal roofing.

Although the cost of a metal roof is initially higher than a shingled roof, it will likely save you money over the long run. A metal roof can increase your home’s energy efficiency and may never have to be replaced. In some cases, a metal roof can help you save money on homeowners insurance. This is because a standing seam roof is helpful in inhibiting the spread of fire when hot coals fall on these roofs. Metal roofs can also increase the resale value of your home.

Here are the advantages of a standing seam roof made of metal.

Energy Efficient

A standing seam roof is a quite bit more energy efficient than an asphalt roof. It can decrease your energy costs significantly. Standing seam metal roofs reflect sunlight rather than absorb it. This keeps your air conditioner from having to work so hard and reduces energy consumption.

If you like the idea of sustainable roofing, remember that a metal roof can be recycled with ease. When the day finally does arrive that it needs to be replaced, rest assured nothing will end up in a landfill. Instead, the material will be used to create new metal products.

Aesthetically Pleasing

A metal roof is aesthetically pleasing. These roofs are very crisp and add a nice architectural flair to a home. Metal roofs are versatile in design and can complement a variety of architectural styles, from a contemporary home to a turn-of-the-century farmhouse. Homeowners also have a number of color and style options to choose from with a standing seam roof.

Long-Term Maintenance

Did you know that a standing seam roof can last for up to five decades? That means you are not likely to need to replace the roof any time in the future. Thanks to the fact that the roof is capable of withstanding winds over a hundred miles per hour and resists damage from hail and other issues, there’s no reason why the roof will not still look great the day you decide to sell and downsize to a smaller place.

Metal roofs are practically maintenance-free. There really is little long-term maintenance that is required with a metal roof. Metal is durable, tough, and typically lasts a lifetime.

Locking Panels Instead of Shingles

One of the great things about a standing seam roof is that it’s composed of a series of interlocking panels. In terms of installation time, the roofing team will accomplish a lot more in the course of a day. Since you happen to own a standard three-bedroom ranch-style house, there’s no reason the roof can’t be finished in less than a day.

The perks of the locking panels are not just related to the installation. Thanks to the way the panels do lock, a tight seal is created. With most designs, the sealed lock is a slightly raised line between the panels. This helps to create an effective moisture lock. Couple that with the fact that the pitch will need to be no less than 14 degrees, and you have a roof that is virtually impervious to any type of precipitation. Snow and rain will efficiently drain directly into the gutter system. Think of what that will save you in terms of damage from leaks in the years ahead.

Any Color You Want

The sleek design of a standing seam roof is enhanced by the fact that you can have any color that your heart desires. If a forest green roof would work best, that is easy to arrange. Maybe you prefer basic black, with just a hint of a sheen to the roofing. Rest assured the contractor can make that happen.

Along with ensuring the panels are the ideal hue, the contractor will also apply a protective coating. That helps to make the roof even stronger in terms of weather resistance. Thanks to this extra attention to detail, your roof will look brand new for many more years.

Conclusion

Talk with a reputable roofing contractor about standing seam metal roofing cost and style options available. Remember that the cost will vary somewhat based on the type of metal you choose. Once you have all the information in hand, it won’t be hard to make the right decision.

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
Blog Uncategorized

Signs Your Roof Life Is at Its End

Sometimes a situation makes it obvious that your roof life is at its end, and you need a new roof. This could be a tree branch crashing into it during a storm. Other circumstances are not so cut-and-dry. Issues like water damage may require only a repair. You do not want to jump the gun if you do not have to, but you also do not want to hold out longer than you should, because that could make the problem worse. Here are some signs that you need new roofing in Culpeper.

Signs Your Roof Life Is At Its End

Interior and exterior checks are both important. You probably want to start inspecting the inside of your house first, because it is easier. To check your roof life, head up to the attic and look for any sunlight coming through the tiles. Also look for areas of the roof that are sagging, dark spots of algae, and leakage or other water damage. All of these point to the fact that your roof is getting weaker and needs a replacement.

Exterior Signs

After a thorough interior inspection, look outside for other possible signs of damage that require new roofing in Culpeper. If you can see that the shingles are curling, buckling, or plain missing, your roof has most likely moved beyond its life expectancy. Missing shingles are an especially serious problem if the holes are located near the roof’s valleys, because flowing rain and snow could cause massive leaks. Lots of granules in the gutters tell you that your roof life is at the end, and the tiles have received a lot of wear and tear and need replacing.

If you are unsure, the best thing to do is to call a trusted roofing company to send over some experienced workers to evaluate your roof life. You can get free estimates on what it would cost for a repair and for a new installation,as well as advice on which one to choose. Getting roof inspections twice every year, once in the spring and once in the fall, can keep little repairs to a minimum instead of letting them worsen over time so you can avoid more problems in the future.

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

What to Know About the Benefits of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing comes in a wider selection of styles and materials than many consumers realize. These rugged, beautiful rooftops are perfect for a variety of architectural styles. There are many benefits of metal roofing that many homeowners are unaware of. This type of building material should be investigated, because it can often be the best option for covering a house or commercial building. This is a popular option for both residential and commercial roofing, because of the many benefits of metal roofing.

Style

One of the benefits of metal roofing is the amount of different types of metal roofing options you can choose from. There are multiple styles available in metallic rooftops including shingle/slate, tile, shake, natural and vertical panels. Shingle and slate are smooth and have uniformity to them. Metal tile looks like the clay variety, yet is lighter, more durable, and to maintain it is less costly. Shake looks like wood, but is longer lasting with more color options. Vertical panels give a residence an industrial or farmhouse look, which is very popular today. The natural metals, such as copper, are self-healing, as they gain a protective layering called patina over the years.

Materials

Another one of the benefits of metal roofing is that it comes in multiple materials. These materials include aluminum, steel, copper, titanium and zinc for metal roofing. Each of these metals is strong, durable, and you can choose the desired style and thickness. Metals are manufactured into building materials at mills, where they are rolled out, coated with rust-proofing agents, and covered with paint through a baking technique.

Other Benefits of Metal Roofing

There are other metal roofing benefits that homeowners are not aware of as well. For example, these building materials are 100% recyclable, so are friendly to the planet. You can retrofit them over an existing structure. You don’t have to strip off shingles and tiles. This saves both labor and landfill space. In snowy regions, ice and snow can literally slide right off. In some snowbound regions, it becomes necessary to shovel off roofs, but not with copper, aluminum, steel, zinc or titanium. One final benefit to consider, and it is a substantial one, is that once a you install a metallic roof, it can last fifty or more years before it needs to be replaced. Call a reputable roofing contractor today to learn if metal roofing is right for your home.

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

Why a Metal Roof is Right for You

After a certain amount of time, installing a new roof is necessary.  Every building will eventually need to have a new roof.  While traditional shingles are the way most people tend to go, there is another option. A metal roof is an amazing and attractive alternative to the traditional option.  There are a few reasons why contacting a metal roofing company may be the right choice for you to make.

Benefits of a Metal Roof

There are many benefits of a metal roof, however the most popular benefits include its attractiveness, eco-friendliness, and low maintenance.

Metal roofing are the strongest most durable material for any roof.  There are usually five options of metal roofing: Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Cooper, and Alloys.  Each type of metal can be used in different styles and colors, making the options to fit your home endless.

Attractive

Metal roofing a gorgeous alternative to traditional, wood shingles.  With an outstanding steel or copper roof, you will be the envy of the neighborhood.  The color of a metal roof, especially a copper roof, is instantly recognizable and eye-catching.  Metal roofing is also more resistant to debris like leaves, branches, or pine needles, so there will not be an issue of people seeing these on your roof or you having to climb up onto your roof to remove them.

Environmentally Friendly

Typically, metal roofs are from recyclable materials.  They are also able to be recycled by a metal roofing company, should you choose to remove or replace your metal roof.  This means that they are more environmentally friendly than traditional wood shingles. Traditional shingles are not made from recyclable materials which means you can’t recycle them after use either.

Low Maintenance

Traditional roofing requires replacing every few years and continual maintenance between replacements.  This is non-existent in metal roofing.  Metal roofs require little to no maintenance over a lifetime.  The most maintenance a metal roof requires is replacement coating, and that is only necessary on certain varieties of metal.  For the most part, you need little maintenance to preserve your metal roof, making it a more cost effective option than traditional roofing.

The option to replace your traditional roof with a metal roof is definitely worth considering.  Metal is an attractive, environmentally friendly, and low maintenance alternative to traditional shingle roofing.  Contacting a metal roofing company will further help you to decide which option is the best for you.

Categories
Blog Metal Roofing

Pricing of Metal Roofing: The Advantages

When you are looking for a roofing material for your home, you should consider metal. It might not be the first type of roof that comes to mind, but a metal roof has several advantages over other more traditional materials. One of these major benefits is the pricing of metal roofing.

Metal roofing is becoming more and more popular. One unique thing about metal roofs are that they are a great option for wet or dry climates.

Metal roofs are known to be wind and fire resistant. They are also know to reflect cold and heat which helps save energy no matter what climate you live in. The reason that metal roofs work so well in wet climates is because they are good at keeping water out of your house by being extremely durable.

Why Is It a Benefit?

While the upfront cost may seem high, a metal roof is extremely durable, which brings down the lifetime cost of your roof. Unlike other roofing materials, metal roofs require very little maintenance. So while the initial cost may seem high, the pricing of metal roofing essentially pays itself off. Many other types of roofs require periodic replacement. However, a roof made of metal is unlikely to need replacing in your lifetime. This also helps bring down the overall cost.

Metal roofing can save you money elsewhere as well. Since metal roofs can be both reflective and insulating, it is likely that you will save money on your heating and cooling bills. The pricing of metal roofing is a steal as it allows you to save money in other places. A roof made from a light colored metal will reflect heat during the summer, and you can install metal roofing on top of other insulating materials to give your home an extra layer of winter protection.

Appearance

As a homeowner, you may worry that the appearance of metal roofing will not fit the style of your home or neighborhood. Fortunately, metal roofs are available in many styles and adapt to coordinate with almost any type of home from 19th century to contemporary. You can even find metal shingles if that’s the look you want.

In the past metal roofs were known for being noisy, especially during heavy rain or hail. Modern construction techniques have eliminated this problem by fitting the metal covering to the underlayment. Modern metal roofs are now no noisier than more traditional types of roofing.

Recycling

Another benefit to metal roofing is that the materials can be recycled. If you decide to replace your roof, it will not end up in a landfill; instead, it will be recycled into things like car parts or even other metal roofs. If you are looking for a practical, durable, and ecologically sound roofing solution, you should consider a metal roof.

Exit mobile version