With so many different types of metal roofs to choose from, how do you pick the one that’s right for you?
You’ve got a lot of choices when it comes to roofing materials. Firstly, you’ve got to decide on a metal roof over all the other options out there. There’s lots of reasons why you should do that, as they are incredibly hard wearing and easier to take of than other roofing types.
What Are The Different Types of Metal Roofs?
Metal roofing comes with many benefits. Not only is it extremely durable and weatherproof, but it is also visually appealing and can be customized to meet your style and needs. With a metal roof, you can choose from a variety of colors and applications while ensuring the safety and longevity of your home.
However, once you’ve decided on metal, you have to decide between the different types of metal roofs. Which one is going to work for you? Here are your options, and what you should know about them.
1. Copper
Copper is a roofing material that has been around for hundreds of years, so you know that it’s got staying power. Firstly, it’s an attractive building material that will make your home look amazing once it is installed. When it’s new, it has a beautiful red gold color that will complement your house to the fullest. Over time, the copper will gain a green patina that also looks great too. Many home owners get copper specifically because they want the green look that copper gives them over time.
Structurally, copper is actually very lightweight. That comes with a couple of benefits.
- Firstly, being so light it’s very easy for roofers to work with.
- Secondly, the light weight means that it puts a lot less stress on the house over time. Even though it’s light, it still has incredible staying power. There are copper roofs out there that have lasted for over a hundred years, so you can install it knowing it won’t need to be replaced for decades, if you take care of it.
If you’re going for an eco friendly home, then you’ll want a copper roof. These roofs are able to help you conserve energy, so you don’t have to worry about losing energy through them. You’ll also see they can be recycled. Once you do need to replace it, you don’t have to worry about it going into landfill.
There are some drawbacks to copper that you need to be aware of. Firstly, it’s more expensive than other roofing materials, so you’ll need to be prepared to pay for it. Given it’s longevity though, you’ll see that it can be worth the cost if you can pay it upfront. Also, the roof needs to be installed so rain can run off safely, without making contact with the house. If it does, it can cause staining, so be aware of that.
2. Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum roofing is one of the most common types of metal roofs. It’s incredibly abundant, so it makes it easy to obtain and work with. It’s popular as it can stand up to even the harshest weather conditions. You’ll very seldom see it rust, so it’s the perfect metal for homes near the sea, or for wet climates.
Like copper, aluminum is a very lightweight material. You’ll see that it’s much easier for roofers to install it, and it won’t place a lot of weight on the house itself. If you’re looking to choose between copper and aluminum, you’ll see that the latter is cheaper. Many people choose it as it gives you the same benefits but won’t cost as much in the long run.
As aluminum is so easy to come by, you won’t find it hard to get the materials you need to complete your roof. You’ll also see it’s easy to get roofers who know how to install aluminum roofing, too. It’s a stress free way to roof your home with metal.
When it comes to color, you’ll see that aluminium isn’t as attractive as its copper counterpart. This is because as it ages, it becomes washed out and spotty. This is usually counteracted with resins coated aluminum roofs, so you can get the color you want and the benefits of the metal. It’s also prone to denting if anything hits it, thanks to aluminum being a thinner building material. You won’t be able to use it if there are things like tree branches overhanging your roof.
3. Zinc
You may not have thought of zinc as a roofing material, but it’s one of the most popular types of metal roofs that’s gaining popularity in the construction industry. It’s an element that’s found in the earth’s crust, and so is simply extracted and used to fabricate the roofs. As it’s a pure element, there’s almost no toxicity in it even after it has been processed. It also ensures there’s no toxic run off when it rains, something that’s important for protecting the earth.
Zinc is another metal roofing material that lasts for years, being able to last for up to 100 years in the right conditions. It doesn’t need much maintenance, either. You’ll see that it’s ‘self healing’, thanks to the natural outer layer that it has. It can cope with most minor dings and scrapes, so you don’t have to worry about it. Many people get zinc roofs installed as they can install them and then forget them.
They’re a great option for hot climates, as they reflect heat back into the atmosphere. This reduces cooling needs in your home, saving you on energy costs and helping reduce your effect on the planet.
If you want to get a zinc roof, you’ll need to remember that they are an expensive option. Again like copper, if you want to make an investment that will last for a long time, you can investigate using zinc for your roof. You’ll need the right ventilation for your zinc roof, so you’ll need to include that in your plans to avoid damage to the roof long term. Also, be aware that if the roof is improperly sealed underneath, then it can start to corrode.
Final Thought
Along with standing seam, these three options are some of the most popular types of metal roofs. They’re all long lasting, easy to install, and look great. Pick the one with the best properties for you, and you’ll have a roof that both looks amazing and will stand the test of time.
