Benefits of a Metal Roof
It’s not your grandfather’s metal roof! You may be surprised to learn that today’s metal roofs come in a variety of styles and colors. Whether you are looking for cedar shakes, traditional asphalt shingles, slate, or tile metal roofs can now be fashioned to meet these architectural styles! The panels can even be rounded to work on curved or arched structures. They can last for 30 to 40 years, some even longer! Read on to learn about the benefits of metal roofs.
Metal Roofing: A Rising Trend
Metal roofs offer many benefits, making them a superior choice over standard roofing materials. Their durability is unmatched. The installation of the metal panel roofs differs from other roof installations, as the long panels interlock over each other. This is a critical aspect in the longevity of the roof. Shingle and shake roofs are made of many small pieces installed side by side. There are more seams, therefore more opportunity for deterioration due to natural weathering. Leaks and breakage are a result of the corrosion of the fasteners. With metal roofs, the fasteners are shielded from the elements through the interlock installation.
Metal Roofs are Lightweight
You may be surprised to learn that metal roofs are, in fact, lighter in weight than roofs made from other materials! Because they are so light, in most cases, a metal roof can go directly over an existing roof. This eliminates the need to remove the existing roof increases the insulation, the noise reduction and eliminating addition to the landfill.
Metal Roofing Is Eco-friendly
Surprisingly, metal roofs are made from 35%-90 recycled materials and are a GREEN alternative! Typically, aluminum is blended with other elements and compounds to produce the panels. The panels create a lighter-weight protection from the elements than the traditional asphalt or cedar. With the addition of a reflective coating, metal roofs can reduce cooling costs by 20%. At the end of their life cycle, metal roofs are 100% recyclable!
Solar panels are a great compliment to metal roofs. In many cases, the roofs last longer than the solar panels! No worry about voiding the warrantee on the panels! The mountings used for solar panels do not generally need to penetrate the surface of the roof so there is no water leakage potential.
Speaking of electricity, contrary to popular thought, metal roofs do not attract lightening! In the unlikely event of a strike, the electricity will be spread out over the roof and reduce the impact.
The Durability of Metal
When deciding upon a new roof for your home, the part of the country you live in makes a difference in your options. Folks living in northern states have concerns regarding snow and ice. Those in the south and the middle of the country need wind protection during hurricanes and tornados. Western homeowners have the unique challenge of wildfires. Metal roofs will offer superior protection for all these issues. When used in combination with the correct roofing components, metal roofs can meet the Class A rating for fire safety. The weight sustained by snow and ice is calculated into the design and fabrication of the roof. Snow guards can be easily fitted into most styles of metal roofs. In addition to superior protection from flying debris, metal roofs have proven to sustain winds in excess of 140 miles per hour.
You can see that metal roofs have come a long way! A quality metal roof will beautify your home while offering you the safety you need. Your grandfather would tell you there is a sense of peacefulness in knowing your family and your home is protected.
Metal Roof Installation
When deciding upon any renovations on your home, the installer is critical, if not THE most important decision. You need to feel comfortable with and to have confidence in the people working in your home. It is important to speak frankly and honestly about your expectations. You want a company that will follow all local permit/building requirements, offers the products you need, has the education and experience to install the products correctly, and the willingness to guarantee not only the roof but the proper installation of the roof. References from satisfied clients, as well as seeing the work in person is a must. Speak with the contractor about your concerns such as timely completion of work, skilled staff, pricing changes, etc.