Metal roofs offer a number of advantages to homeowners and building owners. They come in a variety of colors, styles and alignments that provide architects with infinite aesthetic options.
Despite their premium cost compared to traditional asphalt shingles, well-maintained metal roofs will last for generations. This article will help you educate customers about metal roofing and give them the information they need to make an informed decision. Contact Metal Roofing Winston Salem now!
Many homeowners are drawn to metal roofing due to its durability, longevity and attractive curb appeal. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before making the decision to invest in this type of roof. In this blog, we explore the pros and cons of metal roofing so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
The biggest advantage of metal roofing is its durability. It can withstand high winds, hail and other environmental factors that could damage or wear down traditional shingles. In fact, many of the highest quality metal roofs can last as long as 50 years or more. This is largely because steel is one of the most durable materials against physical and chemical attacks. Additionally, most metal roofs are coated in protective finishes to help reduce rust and corrosion.
In addition to its durability, metal is also a fire-resistant material. This is especially important for those living in areas prone to wildfires. Additionally, metal roofs are less dense than most other roofing materials, which means they place far less pressure on a house’s structural integrity.
Another reason metal is so popular for residential use is that it’s easy to maintain. It’s not as susceptible to mold or mildew, which can cause significant damage over time, and it can be easily cleaned with a power washer. Additionally, it isn’t affected by termite or rodent infestations like other types of roofing.
However, while it is relatively low-maintenance, a metal roof does still need regular inspections to identify and address potential issues. This includes removing any debris that can clog the gutters and checking for signs of dents or other damage to the panels.
Depending on the design of the roof, it may be necessary to install additional insulation or underlayment to reduce noise levels from rain or hailstorms. Additionally, the sound of raindrops hitting a metal roof can be louder than other roofing materials, which some people find irritating or disruptive. This can be minimized by installing thicker gauge metal panels or using textured coatings to reduce noise.
Longevity
Metal roofs laugh in the face of harsh UV rays and high winds, surviving years that would put lesser materials on the brink. These resilient metals also reflect radiant heat, lowering cooling costs. They are even fire resistant. They last a long time, making them a smart investment for homeowners eager to skip the expense and hassle of frequent shingle replacement.
You can expect to get at least 30 years out of a steel or aluminum standing seam metal roof, with premium options pushing 50 or more. This exceptional longevity lowers your maintenance and repair costs, as well as reducing the environmental impact of roof waste disposal.
Despite their exceptional durability, a metal roof will still need occasional maintenance. Routine inspections will fend off problems that could compromise its lifespan, such as leaks and hail damage. A thorough yearly look-see will help you spot and resolve any small issues before they become big ones, extending its lifespan significantly.
The best metal roofing will have a coating that protects against rust and corrosion. This coating is typically applied to the underside of the roof surface. Aside from the protective layer, most metal roofs will have galvanized or zinc underlayment.
Aside from boosting longevity, this material will improve the appearance of your roof by keeping it watertight and looking nice. If you prefer a sleeker look, you can choose a painted metal roof with clean lines and exposed fasteners for a modern, minimalist aesthetic.
You can also choose a copper or zinc roof for a more rustic look. The former will develop a green patina over time while the latter has a rich reddish bronze hue. Both options are beautiful, durable, and work well in most climates.
In addition to protecting your home, a metal roof will boost energy efficiency and save you money on your utility bills. Moreover, it will increase the value of your property and protect you against severe weather conditions. A metal roof will last several decades and can withstand strong winds of up to 140 miles per hour. It will also reduce your cooling costs by reflecting sunlight away from the interior of your house.
Energy Efficiency
Many homeowners are choosing metal roofs to save energy and cut down on air conditioning costs. The reason is simple: Metal roofs reflect the sun’s heat rays instead of absorbing them like shingles do. This reduces your cooling costs while also reducing your energy use, and it can even help you qualify for certain tax incentives.
In addition, most modern metal roofs are coated in a special cool paint that significantly increases their solar reflectivity. The combination of these factors makes a metal roof up to 40% more efficient than shingle roofing. This is especially true for ENERGY STAR certified cool-metal roofing systems, which are designed to deliver maximum energy efficiency.
You can also enhance your metal roof’s energy efficiency by installing above-sheathing ventilation (ASV). This adds a layer of ventilation that allows warm air to move through the sheathing and into the atmosphere. Cool air will then replace it, lowering your cooling costs and helping you save money at the same time.
Another way to make your metal roof more efficient is to install a radiant barrier underlayment. This thin layer of insulation reduces the amount of heat that moves up into the attic, allowing your cooling system to operate more efficiently. This can also help you meet ENERGY STAR building requirements and save energy while meeting your green goals.
Lastly, you can further improve the energy efficiency of your metal roof by adding a reflective surface under the sheathing. These specialized insulating sheets will further reduce the amount of heat that moves up into your attic, keeping your home cooler and saving you even more on your energy costs.
In general, metal roofs are better for the environment than conventional shingles because they are made from recycled materials, have longer life spans and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, and are lighter in weight. They also have tight seams and overlapping panels to keep out moisture, which means you won’t have to deal with the water damage that can occur when shingles are exposed to excess moisture.
Aesthetics
Metal roofing offers a seamless blend of durability and style, elevating the look of homes and commercial buildings. While some may still think of corrugated rectangular sheets or flat, industrial standing seams, recent advances in roofing manufacturing have expanded the aesthetic possibilities of metal roofing. For instance, onsite rollforming allows homeowners and architects to create curvilinear roof panels that can make a bold architectural statement or complement the building’s overall design.
The wide range of color options available for metal roofs also makes them a compelling choice for aesthetics. From earthy tones to vibrant hues, homeowners have nearly limitless choices to complement their home’s architectural style and the surrounding landscape. Moreover, metal roofs can be coated with finishes that can give them a matte or glossy appearance. These coatings can further enhance the visual appeal of a metal roof, making it an attractive feature that increases a home’s value and curb appeal.
In addition to the color options, metal roofs can be made from different materials, each providing unique aesthetic qualities. Steel, for example, is often favored due to its strength and cost-effectiveness, while aluminum provides light weight and corrosion resistance. In addition, some types of metal roofs can be made from galvanized or galvalume steel to further enhance their durability and withstand weather elements.
The varying aesthetic characteristics of different types of metal roofing allow for more customization and fit for different architectural styles. For example, standing seam metal roofs are a popular choice for modern architecture due to their clean lines and sophisticated look. This style of roofing also comes in a variety of colors, including sierra tan that coordinates well with stone, brick, and stucco siding. Alternatively, colonial red roofs can add a bold touch to a home’s exterior.
The versatility of a metal roof also allows for further personalization to meet the unique needs and preferences of each homeowner. For instance, many metal roofing manufacturers offer a variety of shingle-style shapes and profiles for those seeking to complement the look of traditional shingles. Additionally, some manufacturers offer cool metal roofing options, which reflect the sun’s rays and help reduce cooling costs in warmer climates.