In the roofing industry, metal roofing has always been a staple. Drive through any neighborhood in the United States, and you will almost certainly see a metal roof in use. These materials have become the most popular due to their durability and classic look. Read on to learn everything you need about metal roofing, whether you’re starting a new roofing project or considering an upgrade!
The Different Types of Metal Roofs
Metal roofing materials are all different. Metals used in roofing come in a variety of types, including:
- Aluminum,
- Steel
- Corrugated metal,
- Tin,
- Copper, and
- Individual metal shingles.
There are other materials, but these are some of the most common. The variety of metal roofing available extends beyond the metal types used. It also includes styles and fits, which can affect the overall cost and effectiveness of the roof. Among the most popular metal roof styles are:
Standing Seam Metal Roofs
You might see these metal roofs on your friends’ and neighbors’ houses. They are by far the most common type of metal roofing system in the United States. This is due to the ease of installation and the durability and longevity of the standing seam panels. Metal roofs outlast asphalt shingles by a decade or more. Large panels and concealed fasteners are used to install a standing seam metal roof. The roof is propped up on supports that enable it to create a watertight seal over the top of the home or commercial building.
Aluminum Shingles
While steel and other metals can be used to make metal roofing shingles, aluminum provides excellent lightweight protection. The shingles do not rust or rot over time. The main reason for replacing them is the structure’s aging, exterior damage, or erosion. The installation process can be time-consuming, but it is well worth it when you consider the finished product’s longevity and durability.
Corrugated Steel Metal Roofs
Corrugated metal roofs are a less expensive alternative to standing seam roofs. These are typically made of aluminum or steel and come in large pleated sheets. Many people in agricultural areas have seen steel roofs used on commercial buildings and homes that require a durable roofing option.
Copper Zinc Roofs
These roofing systems are uncommon and are rarely installed by contractors or larger roofing companies. This is due in part to the high cost of copper and zinc roofing materials and the customized nature of these projects. This metal is known for its extreme durability and typically costs 2 to 4 times as much as other metal roofing. Copper roofs were only included on this list because of their historical applications in architectural projects and high-end buildings.
Why Are Metal Roofs So Popular?
Beautiful Aesthetics
Metal roofing did not have a good reputation in the past. It would often stain or rust, giving the appearance of an unkempt and old home. Metal roofs are now available in a wide range of colors. They can even be designed to look like traditional asphalt or ceramic shingles because of major advances in construction and building materials. Best of all, they no longer rust or stain over time because of new protective metal coatings.
Environmentally Friendly
Today’s homeowners are environmentally conscious. You value energy-efficient appliances and features in your home and are constantly looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Metal roofs are typically made from a combination of metals, such as aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and tin. Most of which are recycled and all of which are recyclable. A metal roof is a recyclable, environmentally friendly roof.
Energy Efficient
A new metal roof can save you anywhere from 10% to 25% on your energy bills on average. Metal roofs, unlike asphalt shingles, reflect the sun’s rays, directing their heat away from your roof and home. As a result, metal roofs on the surface can be up to 100° cooler than asphalt roofs.
Exceptionally Durable
Metal roofing is one of the most long-lasting and durable materials on the market today. When you invest in a metal roof, you can expect it to last between 40 and 70 years. The good thing is that metal roofs require very little maintenance. While you may choose to have your roof re-coated every few years to protect it from UV rays, that is essentially the extent of metal roofing maintenance. Because most metal roofs are installed in sheets, no shingles curl or fall off.
Fire Resistance
Metal roofs are the safest choice for your home. They won’t catch fire and have a Class A rating, meaning flying sparks won’t set them on fire.
But you should be aware of what’s under the surface. If it is put on top of things that can catch fire, like wood shingles, it gets a lower Class C rating in case of a serious house fire.
Perfect For Winter
Metal roofs, as one might expect, are quite slippery. This allows precipitation, particularly snow, to slide off rather than accumulate. That’s a big deal for homes in snowy Michigan. When snow slides off your Denver, Colorado, metal roof, you don’t have to worry about accumulating ice dams or heavy snow and adding extra weight to your home’s structure.
Easily Installed On Top Of Existing Roof
Another benefit of metal roofs that is frequently overlooked is that they can be installed over existing asphalt roofs. Because metal roofing materials are so light, it’s not always necessary to tear off the old roof before installing the new metal roof. This can help you save money and time on your roofing project.
Ease of Maintenance
Metal roofs have a low maintenance cost, which is one of their benefits. Other types of roofing, such as asphalt shingles or tiles, necessitate frequent and costly repairs to keep their appearance. On the other hand, metal roofs only require painting every few years to keep them looking as good as new.
Metal roofs are also better compared to other types in terms of water leaks because they do not absorb any moisture at all: water simply slides off! This prevents the risk of mold growth beneath your home and reduces the likelihood of rotten wood from standing rainwater on your roof.
The Cons Of Metal Roofing
Like any other material, metal roofing has some drawbacks compared to other options. All of these factors must be carefully considered before making your final roofing decision.
The Cost
Metal roofs are frequently twice as expensive as lower-end asphalt roofs. Many homeowners consider this an investment. However, it can be a financial burden if you cannot pay the money upfront. Deciding to install a metal roof can take years of budgeting.
Installation Techniques
Not every contractor or roofing company knows how to install metal roofing properly. Improper installation of a metal roof can lead to leaks and issues with the materials contracting or expanding in adverse weather. Always work with an installation team that has a lot of experience.
Noise Can Be A Factor
If you’ve ever thrown a handful of rocks off a metal surface, you know how loud and annoying the sound can be. Most people with metal roofs don’t complain much about the sound, but debris or rain may make noises in a smaller home with a metal roof.
Maintenance
Maintenance costs for a metal roof are also higher than for asphalt or other common materials. Again, this is another reason why it’s so important to make sure your metal roof is installed the first time properly. Replacing a panel can be time-consuming, and getting the colors right the second time can be difficult. If a manufacturer goes out of business, you may be left with a patchwork roof that does not match the one you envisioned.
Get Professionals To Install Your Metal Roof In Denver, Colorado
Installing a metal roof can be difficult and costly if you don’t know what you’re doing. For the best results, installation should be done by experts who have done this kind of work before. Contractors have the knowledge, skills, and equipment to make sure your job is done right the first time.
Contact our metal roofing company today if you live in Denver, Colorado, and need a professional metal roof installation. You’ll be able to take advantage of reasonable rates and excellent work. Contact us to make an appointment today.
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