Tag: metal roofing

A metal roof ridge cap is essential for protecting your roof and everything under it. They shield outdoor elements and keep air flowing through a well-ventilated system. This reduces the risk of leaks, mold, mildew, heat buildup, ice dams, and more. When installed by professionals, you can ensure they are fastened and sealed properly — letting you reap the benefits for the lifespan of your roof. 

A metal roof ridge cap may seem like a small, insignificant piece of a much bigger puzzle, but it is an essential part of the protection your roof offers. How does it work and why is it so important? 

This article explores what a metal roof ridge cap is and why it is essential for durability and ventilation. 

What Does a Ridge Cap Do?

Sitting at the highest point of your metal roof, a ridge cap plays many roles. However, its two priorities are to be an extra durable layer of protection for your roof against all types of weather and keep the roof properly ventilated. 

Durable Weatherproofing

Ridge caps are, as their name suggests, at the top peaks of your roof. And they are sure to come in contact with everything nature throws its way. Depending on where you live, this could be rain, snow, hail, and heavy winds. 

Without a properly placed ridge cap, water infiltration can eventually lead to structural damage and even the growth of mold and mildew. And these things can lead to even bigger problems down the road. 

In other words, investing in a metal ridge cap means you have a strong line of defense protecting your home. 

Ventilation

A healthy roof will maximize its lifespan. But to do that, ridge caps need to be in place to allow the free flow of air within the roof cavity. This is a great way to reduce heat buildup, which can wreak havoc on the roof and, in time, the entire structure. With a ridge cap, heat will no longer get trapped but will be able to dry out. 

Ventilation is also great for keeping the roofing materials dry. They are exposed at all times which means they are at risk of building up moisture and dealing with rot and mold. This addition will allow them to dry out and avoid damaging moisture. 

Finally, during the wintry, snowy months, there is a risk of ice dams. These form when warm air leaks out of the attic and causes snow on the roof to melt. As it does, it then refreezes as it drips down to colder eaves. Unfortunately, this can result in damaging leaks.

With the proper ventilation that comes from metal roof ridge caps, you will not have to worry about this happening as the temperature will remain more consistent. 

Types of Ridge Caps

All ridge caps are not created equal — especially when it comes to metal roofs. However, because these roofs can be made of different metals, this protective layer will vary in the type of metal too. The idea is to have it made of the same materials so that it blends and is aesthetically pleasing. 

Common metals used include: 

• Aluminum
• Steel
• Copper
• Zinc

In addition to metal options, there are other types, as well. It all depends on what material is used for the roof. You can expect traditional ridge caps to typically be made from the same roofing material so that they match the shingles and give a seamless look. 

How are Metal Roof Ridge Caps Installed? 

Metal roof ridge caps are only effective if they are installed properly. Working with experienced roofing professionals is crucial for this to happen. What can you expect when it comes to roof installation? 

Preparation

The site of the roof ridge caps must be thoroughly cleaned and prepared before they can be installed. This means removing any debris that is present, inspecting and addressing any areas that are damaged, and making sure that the surface underneath is smooth and level.

Fastening

Ridge caps need to be fastened securely to the roof to keep water and other outdoor elements out of your home. This needs to be done properly, using the right tools to ensure a tight seal. 

Sealing

As an extra layer of protection, a high-quality sealant should be used to seal the joints between the ridge cap and roofing sheets. This further prevents water from getting in and ensures the seal remains in place. 

Benefits of Using Metal Roof Ridge Caps

Metal ridge roof caps serve a purpose— they keep the outdoor elements from leaking into your home. But they come with so many more benefits, too, including: 

Durable and Long-Lasting. Because of all the protections that come from metal roof ridge caps, having one in place can help you extend the lifespan of your roof. It acts as a protective seal that reduces the risk of something going awry with the roof. 

Better Ventilation. Proper ventilation is so important for a healthy roof. And metal ridge caps play a large role in this. 

Improved Aesthetics. A roof without ridge caps just doesn’t look complete. By adding them, you are greatly enhancing the overall appearance of the roof. 

Low Maintenance. There is not much to do to maintain your roof’s ridge caps. That means you get fantastic coverage without having to put in extra work. 

Energy Efficient. With increased ventilation, you will cut down on your energy costs each month. 

Metal Roofing Professionals at Piedmont Roofing

Are you prepared for damage that the weather can do to your roof — and ultimately your home? Don’t put off an important investment. Instead, have your roof inspected, repaired, or replaced, by the team of professionals at Piedmont Roofing. Check out their expert residential and metal roofing services.

Schedule your consultation today. 

Conclusion

Metal roof ridge caps may seem like a minor addition to your roof, but they make a big impact. They are durable enough to stand up to the harshest elements and protect your roof — and they also enable adequate ventilation to keep your roof and overall structure healthy and safe for years to come. 

Metal roof maintenance is essential year-round to ensure durability and performance. Regular inspections and cleaning prevent debris buildup and corrosion. Addressing minor issues promptly helps avoid costly repairs and ensures your roof is ready for any weather, enhancing longevity and reliability.

Your roof is what protects your home from the elements year-round. If you have a metal roof installed, you know that it does a lot to keep the elements out. It can only do that if you keep the roof well maintained and in good condition. How do you do this to ensure that your roof is ready for every season, with everything it can throw at it?

The Importance Of Metal Roof Maintenance

Your metal roof is able to handle almost anything, from harsh UV rays to rain and snow. It can only do that though, if you are keeping it in good condition. When you are inspecting and maintaining your metal roof regularly, you will be able to spot issues quickly, and have them fixed. That allows your roof to keep repelling the elements and keep your home safe. Plus, it ensures that you will not have to deal with more costly issues later down the line.

You will also see that maintaining your roof will also let you get the most out of its lifespan. A good metal roof that has been installed well will last for up to 75 years. To get that full lifespan though you do need to be taking good care of it throughout that whole period. Regular maintenance will ensure that you get as long as possible out of this investment.

Finally, taking good care of a metal roof will give you the best aesthetic. A roof that is not well maintained is not going to look good, and if you are concerned about your home’s curb appeal, then taking care of the roof is vital.

Preparing Your Metal Roof For Winter

Doing maintenance before the winter is essential for your metal roof, to enable it to properly cope with the cold temperatures and rain and snow that it will get. You want to ensure none of this makes its way into the roof, so there are several steps that you will need to take.

Inspect the screws: If there are screws that are holding metal roofing panels in place on your roof, make sure that you are inspecting them. These are the culprits for water intrusion on metal roofs in many cases. Look for any screws that are starting to come up out of the roof, that have begun to rust, or are otherwise damaged.

Clean out the gutters: During the fall, trees will typically drop their leaves into gutters if they are close to your home. You want to be sure to check for any debris in them before the winter, as it can very easily cause blockages. If snow melts off the roof and then refreezes at the eaves, then ice dams will form, leading to further damage to your roof.

Luckily, it’s very easy to clean out your gutters. All you will need is a pair of gloves and a trash bag, to enable you to scoop out anything you find in there. Adding a gutter guard is often a good idea to help prevent blockages as well.

Remove snow from your roof: If you get snow in the winter where you live, it is a good idea to brush it off your roof after a heavy storm. One of the best ways to do this is with a brush or long handled broom. These are the best tools to use, because any metal tools are potentially going to scrape your roof and cause damage.

Preparing Your Metal Roof For Summer

Once the winter has passed, you will need to prepare your roof for the upcoming summer season. UV rays are also responsible for causing damage to roofs, just as much as snow or rain. Here is how you can prepare your roof for the warmer seasons.

Check for minor scratches or scuffs: Over time, your metal roof may take on minor scratches or other damage. These can easily be addressed by using mineral spirits on a clean cloth to buff them out. Rinse the area of water, allow it to dry, and touch it up with paint to repair.

Look for any major damage: Minor scratches or scoffs can be easily handled on your metal roof, but when you are doing your inspection, look for any major damage. That can include things like large scratches, large patches of flaking paint, or overall fading. In these conditions, your roof may need replacing. Talk to your local roofer to see what needs to be done.

Consider repainting your roof: UV damage will weaken your metal roof over time, making it more susceptible to larger issues that will impact your home later. If you want to avoid this, having your roof repainted is a good idea.

There are many different metal roof paints that are designed to reflect UV rays. Not only will this protect your roof, but it will also help you reduce your energy costs as your home will be cooler during the warmer months. Again, it’s a good idea to talk to your roofer to see what needs to be done.

What To Do When You Find Damage

Even the most well cared for metal roofs will start to take on damage over time. If you inspect your roof and find issues, what should you do?

In the vast majority of cases, it is always a good idea to call up your roofer to help you handle them. While there are DIY solutions for a lot of these problems it is always better to have a professional look at them for you.

Not only will they be able to make repairs quickly and efficiently, but they will also be able to advise you on what needs to be done to keep that metal roof in good condition for the next season.

Conclusion

Now you know how to maintain your roof throughout the year. Whether you are preparing for the winter or summer season, you can be sure your metal roof can withstand whatever happens next.

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.

For low pitch roofs, choosing the right panels is crucial for effective water management and durability. Opt for metal panels designed to handle low pitches effectively. Panels with concealed fastening systems offer enhanced weather resistance and longevity, making them ideal for various low pitch roofing applications.

Having a new metal roof installed is often a great idea for your home. They offer so many benefits to you, including a long life span and exceptional weather resistance. While metal roofs are great for many homes, if you have a low pitch on your roof you may be wondering if they are right for you.

Here is everything you need to know about metal roofing for low pitch roofs.

Do Metal Roofs Work On Low Slopes?

Firstly, can you even have a metal roof installed on a low pitch roof? All metal roofing types will work on roofs that have a 3:12 roof pitch, or larger. If your pitch is lower than this, you can still have a metal roof installed, but you will need to use different roofing panels in order to do so.

Just because a low pitched roof is a lot more susceptible to water damage, especially from ponding. This is when water stands on the surface of the roof without running off, allowing it to penetrate through the roofing material and causing damage to the structure.

With specialist metal roofing panels, they will ensure the roof is as water tight as possible to avoid these issues.

What Metal Roofing Panels Should You Use On A Low Slope Roof?

So, what kind of roofing panels should you be using on a low there are three different types of panels that are perfect for roofs like yours:

Snap Lock Standing Seam panels

These are the most common types of standing seam panels out there right now, and they are perfect for low slope roofs.  This is because they have a concealed fastener system, which holds your roof together without the need for anything that penetrates the roof surface.

Because those fasteners are hidden, this ensures there are no places for water to potentially make its way into your roof. Instead, the roof is held together with standing seam clips, which clip the roofing in place.

It is worth noting that this roofing system is not quite as secure as mechanically seamed standing seam roofing panels. This is because these have extra seams, which help secure those panels. Because of this, snap lock standing seams are usually best for those living in milder climates, where you are not going to expect heavy rainfall or heavy snow.

The upside to this is that these roofing panels are quicker and easier to install because there are fewer parts to handle in the installation process.

Mechanically Seamed Roofing Panels

As mentioned above, you also have the option of installing mechanically seamed metal roof panels. Like the snap lock panels, these are a concealed fastener standing seam system. They are installed with a mechanical or hand seamer, which ensures that all the panels are locked together and have the most weather resistance seam possible.

This makes them a great choice for a low slope roof, as it offers the most resistance against potential leaks. If you experience heavier rainfall or snowfall in your area, these are the metal roof panels that you will want to look into.

7.2 Panels

These metal panels, also known as structural box rib panels, are also a great option for lower sloped roofs. Corrugated metal panels have high ribs that allow for extra durability and protection against the elements.

The name comes from the amount of spacing between each rib, with 7.2 inches available on these panels. Essentially, water has to rise to the level of the panel heights in order to penetrate the seam and start leaks.  This ensures that water cannot reach those levels, and so not get into the roof structure itself.

They do have exposed fasteners on the panels, which of course does pose a risk towards leaks. With the high ribs on such camels so, this should most typically not be a problem. They are also one of the most affordable options out of these three, so if cost is the biggest concern to you right now, it will be what you are looking for.

Extra Seam Sealing Concerns

Whatever metal roof panel you choose, you will need to think about the type of sealant used on them as well. If you get a mechanically seemed metal roof for example, you will see they come with single or double lock seams. Double lock seams are considered to be more weather tight than single ones, but you will need to discuss this with your roofer when you are looking at having your roof replaced.

You will also need to consider extra seam sealants as well, since you are installing these panels on low slope roofs. Adding in seam sealant will provide extra weather tightness, adding more protection where it is needed most.

Which Metal Roof Panel Is Right For You?

These are the three most common metal roof panels used for low sloped roofs right now, but which one is going to be right for your home? This is very much up to you and your needs, as well as where you are located.

If cost is the biggest concern, then you will want to go with the 7.2 panels, as they are the cheapest option available right now while still offering great weather resistance.

You will next need to consider the climates around your home. If you get a good amount of rain or snow, you will want to take the next step up and get the snap lock standing seam panels for your roof. This will be able to keep out the weather, even on low slopes. If you get extreme amounts of rain or snow, then you will want to go one step above that and get the mechanically seamed roof panels.

Conclusion

So as you can see, even if you have a low sloped roof, you can get a metal roof installed on it. There are several different options to you when it comes to metal roof panels, so you will find something here that works for you and your needs.

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.

Are you looking at replacing your roof and improving your home’s siding at the same time?  If so, you will be wondering how to pick the right colors to complement each other and blend in with the other homes in your neighborhood. Choosing the most appealing metal roof and siding color combinations is important!

Here is your guide to picking the best color combinations for you to give your home the best look possible. 

Picking Colors For Dark Metal Roofs

Darker colors are always popular for metal roofs, with black being the most popular being installed right now. Darker shades are very versatile, making it easier for you to pick colors that will complement it properly. When you are thinking about picking these colors, especially with curb appeal in mind, having a darker roof does make the whole process a lot simpler.

So, if you have a darker roof, there are some options that are great for you. Neutrals are always a safe option for your home, as they will go perfectly with that roof color. For example, you can pick a dark gray or dark brown siding, and with a black roof, this will look great.

If you want your siding to make a visual statement against the color of your roof, then picking a contrasting color is the way to go. For example, you can choose a gray siding, to go with the black metal roofing, and it contrasts nicely while still working with the roof.

One color that looks excellent with black roofs is blue, so if you want your home to really stand out, blue siding is a great choice.

Picking Colors For Light Metal Roofs

While dark metal roofs are very popular, many homeowners are now choosing to go with lighter colored ones. These offer a lot of benefits, the biggest of which is they help with energy costs. This is because a lighter roof will be able to reflect more heat, and so warmer air won’t be trapped in your home. This allows you to spend less on cooling your home in warm weather.

So, if you have a light metal roof, what kind of sliding should you be picking? Again, you have a good range of options so you can pick the siding that appeals most to you.

Something a lot of homeowners do is go for a monochromatic. That means matching the roof color to your siding color, so it all works together. That’s also a good idea if you live in a warm climate, as again that siding will help reflect heat and lower those energy costs. 

Picking a light color that compliments the color of the roof will always work well too. As an example, consider picking a white metal roof cover and caring it with a light honey color siding.

Of course, if you have a light color roof, you can go all out with the color of the siding. If you want to make your home stand out, a bright color siding is the way to go. For example, if you have a light galvanized metal roof, then a bright red siding is going to work perfectly. This is another good option for those looking to improve their curb appeal.

Vertical Siding Colors

When you are picking your siding colors, you will want to keep in mind the type of siding you have. Something that is popular with homeowners right now is vertical siding, which is always great on homes as it creates a dynamic look. It also works with the texture of your metal roof, helping everything tie together. Picking a good color for these types of siding is important too.

A very popular option when picking colors for vertical siding is to choose a white colour, to go with a black metal roof. This gives your home the classic farmhouse look that so many people want.

You can also go the other way and go for a very modern look with a monochrome style. Putting black metal roofs and black vertical siding will look very sleek and up-to-date. 

If you want to go for something completely different, you can pick some cool tones for your siding. A charcoal gray metal roof and a steel colored siding will look fantastic together, for example.

How To Pick Metal Roof and Siding Color Combinations

As you can see, there are so many different options when it comes to picking the colors for both your metal roof and siding. They come in so many great colors, and on roofs you can even change colors with specific metal roof paint.

Because there are so many different options, it can be somewhat overwhelming trying to pick the right one for you. Here are some ways you can make that decision:

Personal taste: Like every decision regarding your home, personal taste will always come first. Even if others say a farmhouse look would be perfect for your home, but you really prefer a modern look, then you should be picking an option that you prefer.

Check out homes in your neighborhood: Another really good tip is to look at the other homes in your neighborhood. This is especially true if anyone else has had their roof or siding replaced fairly recently. What kind of colors are others using in their homes? As they are likely the same style home as yours, you can see what works together and pick something similar.

Check your HOA regulations: If you have a HOA in your neighborhood, then you need to be checking the terms of it before you pick your colors. Depending on the association, you may have restrictions on the colors or styles that you can use. That will help narrow down your choices.

Conclusion

Now you have lots of ideas when it comes to metal roof and siding color combinations. You have lots of different options available to you, so you can pick something that really works best for your home and makes it look as good as it can. Talk to your local roofer today to start the process of improving 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.

Is it time for you to replace your roof? Right now, you have never had so many options. There are many different materials you can use to replace your roof, and they all have their benefits. Metal roofs are often pointed out to be one of the best roofing options out there. While they are excellent for many reasons, they tend to be quite expensive to install.

For those who would like a metal roof but prefer a more budget-friendly option, don’t worry. Here are some of the best metal roof alternatives you can have installed on your roof right now.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of a Metal Roof

Why is it that metal roofs are often recommended as one of the best roofing options? They do have many benefits that make them a great option for some homeowners. One of the biggest reasons people have them installed is their lifespan. If they are installed properly and well cared for, they can easily last for 50 years or more. Because of that, it will be a long time before you have to consider replacing the roof again.

On top of this, they are also easier to maintain than other roofing options. This is thanks to the fact they are often installed in sheets, meaning there are less seams on the roof, and less places for water to make its way in and cause damage.

While metal roofs offer many benefits, they are one of the most expensive roofing options out there right now. If you are on a budget, then you will likely not be able to squeeze in a metal roof.

Budget-Friendly Metal Roof Alternatives

Metal roofs look good to you but you just cannot justify the cost of them in your current budget. Don’t worry, as there are plenty of different metal roof alternatives that offer many benefits and are much more budget-friendly.

Here are some of the options that you should be considering for your home.

Asphalt Roofing Shingles

These are some of the most common roofing materials you will see across the USA. The biggest selling point is that they are effective at protecting your roof while being especially budget-friendly.

As well as being highly affordable, they are also fairly easy to install. It is always advise that you have a professional roofer handle installing a new roof, but if you’re looking at getting an asphalt roof, pretty much every roofer you can consider will be experienced in doing so.

Another benefit of shingles is that roofing repairs are often very simple. If a shingle has been broken or has been pulled off the roof, all you have to do is replace it with a new shingle. Keeping an extra box of shingles after your roof has been replaced is always a good idea, so you can do these repairs.

If you do consider having an asphalt shingle roof installed, it is worth remembering that their lifespan is roughly 25 years with the right care. Of course, that is not as long lasting as a metal roof, but if you are trying to stay within budget, the asphalt roof will give you everything you need.

Slate Roofing

Another great budget-friendly option for your roof is a slate roof rather than a metal roof. If you are especially interested in improving the curb appeal of your home, then slate is one of the best options for you. As a natural roofing material, no two slate tiles are the same. That ensures that your roof will have a unique look that no one else will have.

One of the biggest benefits of having a slate roof installed is the longevity of them. When will installed, they actually last longer than metal roofs, giving you up to 150 years. That is an incredible lifespan for a roof, and if you want something that has longevity then this is something you should be considering.

If you are thinking of having slate roofing installed, then you do need to be aware that they are heavier than the average roofing material. If your roof is not already reinforced, you will have to do this work before you can have the roof installed. This does add extra cost and time to the roof installation. However, it is worth waiting against the long lifespan you will get from the roof and considering how much you will get out of that one installation cost.

Clay or Cement Tiles

Another good option for any new roof, again if you are looking for a sturdy and long-lasting material, is clay or cement. These kinds of tiles are very commonly found in southern US states, and they are especially good at resisting the elements and UV rays. For those who are trying to reduce energy costs in their home, that makes them a very good choice.

Again, if you were looking at metal roofs for their lifespan, you will want to look at clay and cement tiles as well. Depending on the roofing tiles in question, they can last anywhere from 60 to 100 years. Just like slate tiles, they offer you a very long lasting roof.

Another benefit of these tiles is the fact they need minimal maintenance over time. You will still need to keep an eye on them, and potentially replace tiles if they suffer damage or cracking. Compared to other tiles on the market though, these need much less care. 

Just like slate tiles, your roof may need to be reinforced to handle the weight of clay or cement tiles. This is something to keep in mind when you are considering them. 

Conclusion

While metal roofs offer many benefits to homeowners, they do tend to be quite pricey. These metal roof alternatives give you a lot of the benefits of a metal roof but with a lower price point. These options will look great on your home while protecting it from the elements.

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.

When it comes to your roof, there is much more to it than simply the material used in its construction. A metal roof is able to keep out the elements quite easily, thanks to the larger sheets leaving fewer entry points between them. There will be seams between those sheets, though, and that is where metal roof flashing comes in.

So, what is metal roof flashing, and why do you need it?

What Is Metal Roof Flashing?

Flashing is a flat thin piece of metal, which is placed in areas where water could make its way into your roof. For example, it’s placed around chimneys, in valleys, around any vent pipes, and in between seams.

There is a slight difference between metal roof flashing and flashing for other types of roofs. On other roofs, such as asphalt shingle roofs, you will see that flashing is placed underneath shingles. When installed on a metal roof though, the flashing will be installed on top of the panels.

No matter where the flashing is installed, its main job is to keep water out of your roof.

Why Is Metal Roof Flashing So Important?

There are many different parts of a metal roof that work together, so what is it that makes the flashing so important? It’s essential that you have it installed, because water is the number one enemy of any roof. 

Lots of homeowners have metal roofs installed because they are good at resisting the elements, including water. It is true that a metal roof is better at keeping water out than other roofing types, but you still need to consider where those metal sheets meet together, as well as the other potential entry points, such as around your chimney or vent.

Should there ever be an issue between any of those entry points, then water can very easily get under the metal sheets and start to cause damage to the roofing structure. If not noticed for long enough, water can start to leak down into your home and cause damage to your ceilings and walls. You may also see rot and mold damage in your roofing timbers. 

If this is not spotted in time, then repairs are potentially costly. With extensive enough damage, the only other option will be totally replace the roof. Of course, that is a costly repair and you want to avoid that if at all possible. That is why metal roof flashing is so important to have installed on your new roof.

Installing Metal Roof Flashing

How do you install metal roof flashing to avoid any potential water damage later down the line? You can find guides to help you install it yourself online, but with most roofing jobs, the most sensible thing you can do is call on your local roofer to handle the job for you.

Like with most roofing or repairs and installations, installing the roofing flashing correctly is essential to keeping water out. If it is installed incorrectly, then it will not be able to do its job to the best of its ability. Then, you are risking the element potentially getting into your roof and causing any of the issues discussed above.

If you call on a trusted roofer to install that flashing, then you can be sure they are bringing their experience to the job. They will install it correctly first time, so you will get the full lifespan out of that flashing and protect your roof. Plus, they will be able to tell you exactly where it needs to be installed on your roof specifically, so there shouldn’t be anywhere that isn’t protected.

Taking Care Of Your Metal Roof Flashing

Like all parts of your roof, metal roof flashing will not last forever. The best way to get the longest lifespan out of it is to do regular inspections of your roof and look for any issues with the flashing. You can inspect your roof from the ground, using binoculars if you like to get a close look at all of the aspects of that roof. As well as damage to the flashing, you want to look for any damage to the metal panels, such as denting.

You also want to take a look at your roof from the inside, so get into your attic and take a look around. If you see any water damage, such as any mold or wood rot, then that is a sign that flashing has potentially been compromised on the roof.

Typically, it will be fairly obvious if the flashing has been damaged. If you see any flashing coming away from the roof, or having corroded, that is a sign that it has been damaged and needs to be replaced.

For those who have seen damage to the roof or the flashing especially, then the best thing to do is to call a roofer to come do repairs. Just like when you first have it installed, it is always best to have a professional handle the job safely and correctly.

Will A Metal Roof Be For You?

For those who are considering replacing their roof, they do need all the information at hand before they make a decision. If you are considering a metal roof, it’s very important to know that you will still need flashing on it even though it is better at resisting water than other roofing types. 

The good news is if the roof and flashing are installed correctly, you will get a long lifespan out of that investment. If you want to know any more about metal roofing, then talk to your local roofer to ask more about them and whether they are right for you.

Metal roofing flashing is one of the most crucial parts of the roofing system. This is what stops water from getting through any of the potential entry points and causing damage to your roof over time. Ensure you have metal roofing flashing installed by an expert to get the most from it.

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.

If you are considering replacing your roof, picking the material used is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. So many homeowners are now choosing standing seam metal roofs, as they offer a large amount of benefits.

Here’s how you can benefit from a standing seam metal roof installation, and what they offer to you.

How is a Standing Seam Metal Roof Installed?

If you do get a standing seam metal roof, how is it going to be installed on your home? The process will look like this:

Tear off the old roof: Before anything can be done, the old roof will need to be removed from your home. Any good roofer will tell you the old roof has to come off first, before the new one can go on. This is because they need to check if any damage has been done to the roof structure before they continue.

Put down underlayment: This will be the very first layer of your roof, and we’ll protect against any potential leaks that could get through your roof. And underlayment can either be made of felt, or can use asphalt to protect your home. 

Install standing seam panels: Now, the metal roof panels can be installed. A lock strip will be installed on the edge of your roof, and this is what the first panel locks into. The rest of the panel will look into each other, creating an unbroken barrier.

Add flashing and ridge cap: Finally, the flashing and ridge cap will be added to your roof. These will ensure that no water can get in at any point on the roof.

The Benefits of a Standing Seam Metal Roof Installation

There are a lot of benefits to having a standing seam metal roof installed, so why would you consider this for your home?

Long lasting roofing material: Probably the most important reason homeowners cite when they get a metal roof installed is the longevity of the material. Metal roofing will last for decades when well cared for, with standing seam roofs lasting for 70 years or more.

Metal roofing, in general, will cost a bit more than other roofing materials, but that cost is offset by just how long these roofs will last.

Less maintenance needed: Another great benefit of a standing seam roof is the fact they need less maintenance than other roofing types. That is thanks to the fact there are less moving parts to your roof, meaning there are less ways that they could become damaged or need maintenance.

That allows you to save more money on your roof in the long term, as well as saving you time when you do your regular maintenance checks on your roof.

Great protection against water: Water is the number one enemy of your roof, which is why you want to ensure that it can’t get in. Metal roofs are perfect for resisting water, as the raised seams prevent water from getting in at all.

There’s great news for you, as you will be at less risk of leaks and other water damage in your home, such as wood rot or mold in your roofing timbers.

Top tier fire resistance: This is something you should be considering if you live in an area prone to wildfires. Metal roofing is class A fire resistant, meaning it is fully impervious to fire should it ever break out in your home. Should burning embers or debris land on your roof, then you can be sure the fire will not spread further.

That is good news to those who have to consider the risk of wildfire, as it means that even if debris lands on their home, the damage should be minimal.

Highly customizable: Something else you will be considering when it comes to a new roof is the curb appeal of it. You want your roof to look good and fit in with the overall look of your home.  While many people think of the regular corrugated metal roofs that are used in industry, the fact is that if you get a standing seam metal roof, that is actually highly customizable and attractive.

You can find standing seam metal panels in many different colors, and even more colors can be achieved with specialized coatings. These coatings will also work to protect your roof against rust and other issues.

You can even have standing seam panels made to mimic other roofing types, such as slate tiles or shingles. That way, you can ensure your roof will fit in with the rest of your home.

Energy efficiency: A benefit you may not be aware of when it comes to standing seam metal roofs is the fact that they are more energy efficient than other options out there. This is because it reflects UV rays, which in turn will keep your home cooler and reduce energy costs. That is something that many homeowners will very much appreciate.

Getting an Expert to Fit Your Roof

In this day and age, it is very easy to find guides online that show you how to install a standing seam metal roof yourself. Even if you are very handy at DIY though, a standing seam metal roof is always best installed by the professionals.

This is because a standing seam metal roof installation is inherently dangerous because of the height involved, and professional roofers will have the equipment and know-how to make it safe. Plus, they have the experience to ensure the roof is installed correctly first time, which will ensure you avoid potential damage along the line, as well as the costume involved in repairing them.

Because of this, it is vital that you find a good roofer that you trust to install your standing seam metal roof.

As you can see, there are lots of different benefits to having a standing seam metal roof installation. They are water resistant, fire resistant, and very easy to maintain. If you are interested, talk to your local roofer today about having one installed.

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.