In recent times, metal roofing has taken the center stage as one of the most common used roofing
materials. Today, metal roofing comes in various colors and design, making its use ever easier to
employ.
– What is metal roofing?
– How does it work?
– Are there any real benefits to using metal roofing over other materials?
These questions and so many more will receive exclusive attention as we delve briefly into what
metal roofing entails.
What is Metal Roofing?
This is a method of roofing your home that involves the use of metals possessing various
characteristics that range from high durability and longevity to resistance to fire, mold and rot
growth.
Types of Metal Roofing Materials and Finishes
There is an abundance of metal roofing materials, colors and designs for homeowners to choose
from.
Broadly speaking, these materials are usually made from,
– Steel,
– Galvanized steel, or
– Galvalume Steel,
– Zinc and Copper, or
– Aluminum
Below is a brief description of what each material is and how they differ from each other.
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Steel
Generally speaking, two types of roofing materials are made from this metal. They are,
– Galvanized or Hot-dip Galvanized Steel
This is one of the most common metal roofing materials in use today. One primary reason for its
popularity is that it is more affordable, when compared to the metal roofing materials.
Its affordability in no way reflects on its performance as it can easily last you several decades, at
least. One drawback with its use is that it rusts if its galvanized coating gets chipped or damaged.
– Galvalume Steel
As an improved version of the galvanized steel, galvalume uses an aluminum-zinc-silicon based
coating rather than the basic zinc coating present in the former.
This extra protection makes it suitable for use on beachfront properties as it won’t get easily
damaged due to exposure to the salty air.
Aluminum
Similar in terms of price and functionality to the galvalume steel material, aluminum roof
materials have one added advantage. Unlike the former, it isn’t susceptible to damage from rust,
even if the finish is damaged or disturbed.
Zinc and Copper
These are on the high-end of the metal roofing materials spectrum. They command a much
higher price than the other materials previously listed. However, they make up for this by being
twice as durable and long-lasting, even in the absence of a finish.
These materials can come in the shape of,
– Standing-seam panels,
– Shingles, or
– Tiles.
Installation Process
Depending on various factors, you may need to remove the old roofing before installing your
new metal roofing. Several other variables also come into play in determining whether you’ll
have to install battens or not.
The process of putting up metal roofing is actually crucial to how well it serves you. While it
mightn’t pose much of a challenge to you if you DIY very often and well, it is certainly best you
let professional metal roofing experts handle that for you.
Benefits of Installing Metal Roofing
As you would expect, there are several noteworthy benefits to employing the use of metal
roofing to your home’s exterior. Some of these advantages include but aren’t restricted to,
– High resistance to fire.
– It’s resistant to algae stains and rot.
– When properly installed, it can weather the effects of the elements without taking
damage.
– It helps save energy.
– It is eco-friendly.
Considering the fact that no single roofing material can be 100% across board, there are some
limitations to using metal roofing. These include the fact that walking on it can prove very
difficult and proper installation is indispensable, if you want to enjoy its use.
All things considered, the pros far outweigh the cons.
If you’d like to learn more about metal roofing and if it’s the best choice for you, don’t hesitate
to contact us today.
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