Tag: metal roofing

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Metal Roofing

What is Metal Roof Flashing and Why Do You Need It?

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.

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Metal Roofing

The Benefits of a Standing Seam Metal Roof Installation

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.

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Metal Roofing Snowguard Systems

Snow Guards For Metal Roofs: Everything You Need to Know

When you are replacing your roof, choosing a metal roof comes with a lot of benefits. They are very long lasting, easier to care for than other roof types, and can be amazed to mimic the looks of pretty much any other roof.

They are also very good at letting rain and snow slide off the roof surface, which enables them to resist moisture and water damage over longer periods of time. With a metal roof though, you will often need snow guards if you live in an area that is prone to snow. Here is everything you need to know about snow guards for metal roofs, and why you will want to have them installed.

What Is A Snow Guard?

Firstly, what is a snow guard exactly? These are devices that are often installed on metal roofs, that are designed to sudden heavy snow shift from the roof into your gutters and onto the ground below it. There are several different styles of snow guards for metal roofs available, which will be covered below.

Why Install Snow Guards For Metal Roofs?

For a first time homeowner, they may wonder whether they would need snow guards. Surely, if your metal roof is able to shed snow quickly, is that not a good thing for your roof?

It is true that removing snow from your roof is important, as it will remove that weight from it as well as avoid the potential issue of snow melting and getting into your roof itself. However, metal roofs are very efficient at shedding snow. In fact, they can often be too efficient and that is where the issue lies.

Metal roofs can often be the catalyst for a roof avalanche, where all of the snow on the roof is shared in one go. When this happens, it can cause damage to the guttering on your roof, as well as anything that is on the ground directly below it. Plus, of course, it poses a risk to anyone who is underneath the roof at the time. Because of this, snow guards are an essential safety device for your roof.

As well as this, you will see that snow guards are good at avoiding issues such as ice dams. These happen when snow builds up on a roof and then starts to melt, making its way to the gutters. If your roof doesn’t have great insulation, it is going to be a lot colder at the edge of the roof, so the snow will then refreeze. At that point, it creates a dam that stops further water from escaping the roof, and that leads to leaks. 

So then, snow guards are an essential parts of metal roof installation. Without them, you could be risking damage or safety issues.

Who Needs Snow Guards?

Are you going to need snow guards on your metal roof in particular? If you are considering having a metal roof installed, and you live in an area that is prone to snow, then it is something that you should be having installed at the same time.

If you are not sure whether you would need them, you can talk to your roofer about the issue. They should be able to advise you whether they are going to be needed on your roof.

Types Of Snow Guards Available

There are several different types of snow guards available, so you will be able to pick one that suits your needs. These include the following:

Pad style snow guards: These are probably the most common snow guards you will see on a lot of metal roofs in your area. That is probably because they are one of the most affordable options out there, while still giving you full protection. The pads on your roof cause friction, which will stop snow from sliding off the roof all in one go.

Bar style snow guards: These snow guards are also popular because they can be installed without the need for any special tools. That makes them much easier and quicker to get installed, especially if you are expecting snowy weather in the near future. If you are expecting bad weather soon, and you do not already have snow guards on your metal roof, then these are going to be a good option.

Fence style snow guards: As the name implies, fence styles snow guards create a fence around the edge of your roof, which helps stop snow from coming off the roof all at once. Many people have these installed because they are attractive, as well as provide an essential function for your roof.

Which Snow Guards Are Right For Your Roof?

So if you are considering having snow guards installed on your metal roof, you can see you have lots of choices. How can you be sure you are picking the right ones for you? There are some factors you need to consider when you make that decision, including the following:

Appearance: Different snow guards have different appearances, and you will most likely have a preference over which one you like the look of. If curb appeal and the general appearance of your roof are a concern, you will want to keep this in mind.

Compatibility: As there are different styles of metal roofs out there, these will affect what snow guards can be installed on them. For example, if you have a corrugated metal roof, that will work with some snow guards but not others. Again, it’s a good idea to talk to your roofer about which ones would work with your roof.

Cost: As with all roofing concerns, you will need to take cost into account. If money is a concern, you could always go with pad style snow guards, but if you have more budget to spare, you could go with another option.

Conclusion

Now you know all the basics are snow guards for your metal roof. As snowy weather approaches, it’s a good idea to have them installed now to protect your home and anyone around it.

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

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Metal Roofing Residential Roofing

Metal Roof Types: Which Is Best For Your Home?

For those looking to replace their roof, many will be looking to have a metal roof installed as that replacement. They come with a lot of benefits, making them an excellent option for many different homes. If you have decided to go with a metal roof, you will soon see there are lots of different options available to you. Which metal roof type is going to be best for your home?

Metal Roof Types

Firstly, you will need to decide on the roofing type in general that you have installed. There are two different ways that metal roofs are made, and can be used on buildings:

Corrugated metal roof: When you think of a metal roof, this is probably what you are imagining. These roofs are often found on industrial and agricultural buildings and offer a lot of benefits in this regard. When you are looking at adding a metal roof to your home, they will likely not be what you are looking for. They can be noisy when it rains, and the look isn’t going to be the best.

Standing seam metal roof: When it comes to residential metal roofs, this is often the style that you will want to have. They are made up of several panels of metal, which have ribs on the edges that help them connect and create a watertight seal. That not only makes them an excellent option for protecting your home but ensures that they look better too.

It’s also worth noting that you can have a metal roof that is made to mimic the look of other roofs. For example, you can have metal sheets that are molded to look like slate tiles or clay tiles. That’s something you’ll want to keep in mind when you are considering which metal roof you want. Your roofer will be able to advise you on what you could have installed.

Metal Roof Materials

If you are considering a metal roof, you will soon see that there are many different metals you can have the roof made from. It can feel quite daunting to pick the right one, but it’s fairly easy once you know the benefits of each metal type.

Steel: Steel is very commonly used in creating metal roofs, as it offers a resistant material against the elements. It’s also often galvanized or coated with different materials, to give it a longer lifespan. As such, you will often see steel on residential roofs.

Copper: If aesthetics and curb appeal are important to you, then copper would be a good option. As the metal is easily manipulated and formed, it can be used to make several different shapes to make really attractive roof styles. Of course, copper will attain a patina over time as well, so you can get a very attractive look even as the roof ages.

If you do consider copper, you do need to remember that it does come up more expensive than a lot of other metal roofs. If it’s in your budget though, then you could take advantage of what copper can give you.

Aluminum: Aluminum is another popular option when it comes to metal roofing. It’s often used in roofing thanks to its lightweight design, ensuring that no extra stress is placed on your roof. That’s always worth considering, some other roofing types would require you to reinforce the roof before you could have the materials installed. 

You will also see that aluminum roofs are highly fire resistant, something that is often useful if you live in an area that is prone to wildfires, or you are looking to reinforce your home against fire in general.

Zinc: Zinc is another metal that can attain a patina over time, which helps improve the attractiveness of the roof and your home in general. It’s also a naturally occurring and easy to use metal, so you are seeing more and more of it being used on roofs. It is more popular in Europe right now, but more homes in the US are choosing zinc roofs.

While it does look attractive when it does attain the patina, it can take a while to do so, and the color can be inconsistent. Again, this is something to discuss with your roofer as they will be able to tell you more.

Why Consider A Metal Roof?

There are plenty of metal roof types out there. Whichever you choose, they will give you plenty of benefits that you can take advantage of. That includes the following:

Long life span: One of the biggest reasons why homeowners go for metal roofs is because they have one of the longest life spans out there. Currently, a well cared for metal roof can last for anywhere up to 70 years. When you compare that to the average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof, which is typically around 25 years, you can see just how much more you can get out of that roof.

Fire resistance: As noted above, metal roofs have an excellent fire resistance rating, making them the best option for those who are worried about fire. Those who live in wildfire-affected areas are currently changing to metal roofs, as burning debris landing on their roof won’t be able to burn the material there and cause widespread damage.  

Lots of design options: Some may put off the idea of a metal roof because they are picturing the corrugated metal roof used in industrial and agricultural areas. However, a standing seam metal roof can look amazing when coated and shaped in different ways. You can use different paints and shapes to create the look of any other roofing type, so you can make that roof as attractive as you want it to be. 

There are lots of metal roof types for you, so you can pick something that makes sense for you and your home. Talk to your roofer about what you will need.

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Metal Roofing Residential Roofing

Prepare Now To Avoid Future Metal Roof Hail Damage

If you have a metal roof on your home, you know that there’s very little that can actually cause serious damage to it. A well-installed metal roof can withstand fluctuations in temperature, water, snow, and high winds. However, something you do need to be aware of is the effect hail can have on a metal roof.

Here’s what you need to know, and how you can prepare to avoid metal roof hail damage in the future.

How Can Hail Damage Your Metal Roof?

No roof is impervious to damage, and that includes metal roofs. If you are unlucky, you may find that hail can actually cause some real damage if it’s left untreated. Here’s what you need to know and look out for if you have hail storms in your area:

Dents: Most commonly, you will see heavy hailstone storms leaving dents in your metal roof. If the storm wasn’t too severe these dense may be quite light, but if you had a very heavy hail storm you can get some really pronounced denting on your roof.

Scuffing and scratches: As well as potentially denting your metal roof, you may also see scratches or scuffs in the coating on it. This will be something you need to address quite quickly, as those coatings are used to protect the roof from corrosion. Any gap in the coating can lead to corrosion or water damage, leading to more expensive repairs later down the line.

Damaged fasteners: Fasteners are what hold your metal roof together and onto the roof deck, and these can take on damage too during a hailstorm. Again, this will need to be handled quickly because if a fastener is loose or missing, that will allow water to infiltrate the roof and start causing more issues.

Leaking: If you’ve had a hail storm recently and haven’t checked your roof, the first sign you have of damage to the roof will be leaks in your home. That can be water stains on your ceiling, or mold or wood rot setting in in the timbers of your roof itself. Again, you must check for this quickly because if the damage is left unchecked it’s going to be much worse to repair in the long run.

Metal Roofs And Impact Damage

Seeing all the damage that a hail storm can do to your metal roof is going to be alarming, but the damage that can happen does depend on several factors. You’ll have to consider the following when you are looking to prepare your roof for a coming hail storm:

Metal thickness: This is potentially the most crucial factor when it comes to hail and your roof. If your roof is made of a thicker gauge metal, then it will be less prone to sustaining dents or other damage.

Roof pitch: Something else to consider is the pitch or slope of your roof. If you have a steeper slope on your roof, then that will help reduce damage from hail storms. A flatter roof will take on more damage as it will take the full force of the hail as it comes down.

Roof coating: When you have your metal roof installed, you will see that there is a wide range of coatings that you can apply to it. Many homeowners will choose to use a weather-resistant coating, to help their metal roof resist the elements. These coatings will also help resist impact damage from hail as well.

Prepare To Avoid Metal Roof Hail Damage

With all this in mind, how can you protect your metal roof from a coming hail storm? There are several things that you can do to lessen any potential damage.

Consider hail when having your roof installed: The first thing you need to do is consider future hail storms when you are having your metal roof installed. If you live in an area that is prone to hail storms, then you can take steps to pick the right metal design to resist damage. That could include picking a thicker metal, having the roof pitched higher, and picking the right coating. Your roofer will be able to advise you on what would be best for your home.

Do regular inspections: Whether you are expecting a hail storm or not, you should be doing regular inspections on your roof. These will show you if there are any existing issues, that could be made worse by incoming hail. If you do spot an issue, you can have it put right by a roofer before an incoming storm, so if there is any damage it should be lessened.

Do temporary repairs: If you do find issues with your metal roof before a storm, you may not want to do the full repairs until after the storm has passed. However, you don’t want to leave your roof open to the elements when the hail storm is coming. In this case, you can look at doing temporary repairs to protect your roof until the storm has passed. In some cases, that may simply mean putting down waterproof tarps over the roof to protect it from water damage until the storm is gone and you can have full repairs done.

Look into insurance: In many cases, you will see that your home insurance should cover roof damage and all associated costs. Of course, that will depend on the specific cover you have, and what’s their specific insurer handles. Right now, it’s a good idea to contact your insurer and inquire whether your insurance covers hail damage. If it currently doesn’t, you should look into adding that to your plan so that if there is damage in the future, you can ensure that the repairs are covered by them. 

Conclusion

While a metal roof is at risk of being damaged by hail, there are lots of factors that affect this. If you are aware of them and take steps to prepare your metal roof before any hail storms, you can mitigate the worst of the damage.

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

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Metal Roofing Residential Roofing Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing Seam vs Corrugated Metal Roof: What’s The Difference?

Metal roofs are fast becoming one of the most popular options for residential buildings, and as such you are being given more options than ever before for the type of metal roof you can have installed. Right now, the main two types of metal roofs are standing seam roofs and corrugated metal roofs.

Standing seam vs corrugated metal roof: What is the difference between them, and which one is going to be better for your home?

What Are Standing Seam Roofs?

Firstly, let’s take a look at standing seam roofs first. These are roof styles that are more commonly seen on residential buildings. A standing seam roof refers to a roof that is made up of metal panels, which have raised seams that connect them with hidden fasteners.

There are plenty of benefits to getting a standing seam roof, including the following:

Better protection against leaks: One of the biggest benefits of getting this kind of metal roof is the fact that they are stronger against potential leaks. Fasteners are typically one of the biggest culprits for allowing moisture into your roof, and because these roofs use a hidden fastener system, that means water simply can’t get in. Alongside the clip or nail flange system that connects the panels together, that makes your roof more water-tight than most roofing materials out there.

Lots of options when it comes to color: When having a roof-installed camera you are going to want it to look as good as possible. A standing seam roof gives you lots of options, especially when it comes to color. That allows you to match the color to your existing home, as well as the homes around you in the neighborhood. In many cases, you can even get metal standing seam roofs made in custom colors.

Stylish designs: Another reason a lot of homeowners choose a standing seam roof is because they are typically seen as the more stylish option. They have a more streamlined look and have sleeker lines.

As well as the benefits of standing seam routes, you also need to know the drawbacks before you decide on having one installed. These include:

A more involved installation process: When compared to corrugated metal roofs, standing seam roofs are more involved when it comes to installation. As such, this does raise the price of having the roof installed, and it can be tricky to find a contractor who is qualified to install them. 

More expensive: Overall, a standing seam roof will be more expensive to have installed than a corrugated metal roof. As well as the raised installation cost, the metal panels themselves are more expensive to obtain. However, they are still worth considering as the higher cost reflects the higher quality of the roof materials.

What Is A Corrugated Metal Roof?

On the other hand, if you are considering a metal roof you can also go with a corrugated metal roof. These are the first types of metal roofs that became available, and you would typically see them on industrial buildings. There are still some benefits of having a corrugated metal roof installed, over a standing seam roof. These include:

Very affordable option: If you want the benefits of a metal roof, but don’t have the budget for the standing seam option, then you can go with a corrugated metal roof. They are typically 50% less to have installed than the standing seam option, meaning they are comparable in price to asphalt shingles.  The cost reflects the relevant ease of installing such a metal roof, as well as the more affordable option when it comes to the materials.

Plenty of color options: Like the standing seam roofs, you can get a corrugated metal roof in a large range of colors. That way, you will be able to get a color that matches your home.

Energy saving option: Something that’s very tempting about having a corrugated metal roof installed is the fact that they are great for saving energy in your home. Firstly, metal roofs like corrugated roofs are partially made from recycled materials. When the time comes to have the roof replaced again, the roofing materials can be recycled again as well. That makes them much more eco-friendly than the similarly priced asphalt shingles. As well as this, you can have a corrugated metal roof coated to reflect heat, which will enable you to reduce your energy costs in your home.

Of course, there are also drawbacks to having a corrugated metal roof installed. These include:

Shorter lifespans: When compared to a standing seam metal roof, you will see that corrugated metal roofs do not last as long. You can get more out of them when you perform regular maintenance, but overall you will be replacing it sooner. You will also see that you need to perform more maintenance overall to keep it in good condition.

More potential for leaks: Unlike a standing seam roof, a corrugated metal roof is more susceptible to leaking. That’s because the fasteners holding the roof to the deck are exposed to the elements, so over time they can wear out and allow water inside your roof. You will also see that temperatures fluctuating can allow the screws to loosen, even if the roof was installed perfectly. 

Not as good-looking as other options: If you are concerned with keeping up the curb appeal of your home, a corrugated metal roof may not be for you. While a new roof will always make your home look better, it is considered that corrugated metal roofs aren’t as sophisticated as other options on the market.

Standing Seam vs Corrugated Metal Roof

If you want to know more about the differences between standing seam roofs and corrugated metal roofs, then it’s always a good idea to talk to your local roofer. They can let you know what would be better for your home, and give you more info so you can make an informed choice.

Now you know the basics about both standing seam and corrugated metal roofs, so you can pick the one that makes sense for your home.

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

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Metal Roofing Residential Roofing

Metal Roof Home Untouched By Maui Wildfire: Here’s Why

By now you’ll be aware of the Maui wildfires that have ravaged the landscape there, fully incinerating hundreds of homes and currently leaving 115 people dead, with the number expected to rise. 

With so much devastation, there is one home that has seemingly avoided the fires entirely. In aerial pictures of the aftermath of the fires, you can see one white house with a bright red roof seemingly untouched by flames. 

This house belongs to Dora Atwater Millikin, a landscape artist, and her husband Dudley Long Millikin II, a retired portfolio manager. They bought the house just three years ago and avoided the fires themselves because they were in Massachusetts at the time, visiting family. 

So how did their house avoid the wildfires when so many other homes went up in flames? Here’s what most likely preserved it. 

Metal Roofing And Fire Resistance

The biggest reason the Millikins’ house avoided burning is because they had recently replaced the asphalt shingle roof on the house with a metal one. Why is this important? Because on most homes, the roof is where a fire will start during wildfires. 

That’s because your roof has the biggest surface area for embers and burning debris to land on. It’s very easy for burning leaves or even branches from a nearby tree to land on the roof and cause a fire. Depending on the materials used in your roof, it can go up in flames very quickly. 

With a metal roof though, that isn’t going to happen. As metal isn’t flammable, if burning debris lands there then it will simply burn out there without causing damage to the house itself. This is what’s credited towards saving the house. 

Fire Resistance Ratings

If you’re thinking about replacing your roof and living in an area that’s at risk of wildfires, then you’ll want to consider getting a metal roof over other options, such as asphalt shingles or shakes. Want to know what roof option is the most resistant to fire? You can check their fire resistance ratings. 

These ratings are designed to help you see how much any roofing material can resist a fire before catching fire itself. Metal roofs are one of the options that have the highest Class A ratings, meaning that they’re impervious to fire. Because of this, they’re an option that you should very seriously consider. 

Want a closer look at the ratings and what they mean? You can take a look at the NFPA’s page on fire ratings, and what’s taken into consideration when rating a roofing material.

 

 

Trees And Fire Resistance

As well as the metal roof, the Millikins’ home managed to avoid fire due to the landscaping choices that they had also recently made. They had removed a lot of trees and other greenery from the perimeter of their home, as the 100 year old wooden home was at risk of termites. By removing the foliage, they had aimed to reduce their entry into the home. 

By doing this, they had also incidentally protected their home from fire. When you look at advice for avoiding wildfire damage to your home, it is often suggested to remove foliage so there’s less fuel for wildfires around your home. As well as getting a metal roof, it’s a very good idea to mimic this on your own property. 

There are some other good reasons to remove trees around the home, too. If the trees are very close to your roof, it’s much easier for debris to make its way onto it. In the best case scenario, it will cause moss and algae to build up, or get into your gutters and clog them. They also allow a really good route for pests to make their way into your roof. At worst, if there’s a wildfire it’s so easy for burning leaves or branches to land on your roof. 

Clearing those trees away will help a lot in protecting your home in case of wildfire, so you’ll want to keep this in mind. 

Benefits Of Metal Roofs

While a real benefit of metal roods is their fire resistance, there are lots of other reasons why you should consider them too. Here are a few top reasons to get a metal roof.

Longevity: When it comes to roofs, metal roofs are some of the longest lasting out there right now. When you take good care of a metal roof, it will last for up to 70 years. Compare that to asphalt shingle roofs, which typically last up to 30 years with good care. That makes them work considering.

Ease of maintenance: With any roof, you’ll need to keep up inspections and maintenance on it. Metal roofs are known to be easier to care for, as they are installed in large sheets rather than individual tiles or shingles. There’s less space for water and any other issues to start making their way in, making them easier to care for. 

Quick to install: It’s always recommended that you have professional roofers install your roof, for several reasons. They’ll be able to do it safely and in an expert manner. When you have them do it, you’ll also see that they can install them quickly, too. That’s thanks to the large sheets mentioned above, as they really speed up the process. 

Environmentally friendly: You’ll be surprised to know that a metal roof is made up of around 25% to 95% recycled material, making it highly environmentally friendly. Plus, once they reach the end of their lifespan, they can be removed and recycled again, rather than being put into a landfill. That’s great news for those trying to be more eco-friendly when planning home renovations. 

Conclusion

As you can see, the metal roof on the Millikins’ home may just have been the reason it avoided the wildfires. With nothing flammable on the roof, any burning debris couldn’t cause any damage. If you live in an area at risk of wildfires, you should consider having a metal roof installed yourself.

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Warren, Middleburg, Winchester, or Leesburg, contact Piedmont Roofing. We’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs!

Categories
Metal Roofing Residential Roofing

Pick Your Choice Out Of These Metal Roofing Designs

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

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

Metal Roofing Designs 

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

Standing Seam Roofs

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

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

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

Tile Look Metal Roofs

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

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

Shake Look Metal Roofs

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

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

Slate Look Metal Roofing

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

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

Corrugated Metal Roofing

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

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

Benefits Of Metal Roofing

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

Categories
Metal Roofing

What Is The Weight Of Metal Roofing?

What is the weight of metal roofing?

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

The Average Weight Of Metal Roofs

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

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

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

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

Calculating The Weight Of A Metal Roof

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

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

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

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

How To Pick The Right Roofing For You

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

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

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

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

Other Reasons To Consider A Metal Roof

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

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

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

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

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

Weight of Metal Roofing Conclusion

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

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

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

Categories
Home Improvement Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal Roofs

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

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

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

The Importance Of General Maintenance

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

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

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

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

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

How To Clean A Metal Roof

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should You Hire A Professional?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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