Standing seam metal roofs or traditional asphalt shingles? Is there a better type of metal roof system for the home of your dreams?
If only this were an easy task, but in today’s market, there are many things to weigh before making a good decision, such as cost, lifespan and energy savings.
Pick among galvanized steel and stainless steel or zinc roof; each of them has its unique advantage.
Cost
Despite the high initial cost of a metal roof, they are some of the most economical investments you can make. Because a metal roof lasts much longer than a shingle roof, replacement costs will be lower, and energy savings from reflecting sunlight and keeping your home cooler can help pay for the investment as well.
The money-saving function of metal roofs can also elevate the market value of a residence and be painted to match its hues and themes; as such, this feature makes metal roofing a perfect accessory for homeowners who aiming at changing the aesthetic design on the exterior but not on the entire roof structure.
The cost of metal roof depends on the thickness of the material you will use and the installation method, for example, 24 or 26 gauge panels cost more. Recommended thickness for your house to withstand the load-bearing could be determined through the engagement of a professional who will help identify the right thickness to withstand the load-bearing capacity of the structure without compromising your budget.
Durability
Whether you are constructing a brand new house or replacing an existing roof, the type of material you choose is vital to the success of the project. Metal might be more expensive up front but, considering it will be there for 50+ years, the additional expense is offset by long term savings.
Steel roofs, including aluminium ones, are strong, durable, corrosion-resistant and resilient in the face of severe weather. Galvanised steel and Galvalume (combinations of zinc and aluminium, respectively) roofs offer an even higher degree of corrosion prevention. Standing seam metal roofs also offer additional support for extreme weather events.
Metal roofs are reflective and reflect heat, so you will use less energy in the winter and the summer. Metal does not insulate, but when you layer your attic you can keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Appearance
Homeowners can choose the look they prefer for their home from a number of styles of metal roofing. Metal roofing helps to reduce energy costs through reflectivity – the sun’s heat is reflected rather than absorbing it, which keeps the home cool in summer, reducing cooling costs and the wear-and-tear on air conditioners.
Metal roofs are extremely durable. They will withstand high winds, torrential downpours, hail storms without chipping, denting or puncture damage, and will protect from the spread of fires thanks to their noncombustibility and fireproofing properties, making them ideal for building in wildfire-prone areas.
Before choosing your colour for a metal roof, the first thing you need to decide is which type of sheet or style (or panel type) you’d like to use. It will influence price and the options you’ll have when it comes to choosing a colour. Pick a starting point by looking online and comparing paint shades side-by-side in a colour chart, or take your search one step further with roofing visualiser software, which lets you upload a photo of your home and see how that hue would look on your house.
Maintenance
Metal roofs do require annual maintenance to ensure top performance and prevent expensive trouble. Some of the maintenance is do-it-yourself, but other projects require calling a professional roofing contractor.
Surface maintenance includes removing leaves, twigs and other airborne dirt from roof panels to minimise corrosion and keep them looking new. Also, gutters need periodical cleaning as they could get blocked with debris which might lead to water spillage and leakages.
Another frequently recommended strategy for maintaining your roof is to examine it in both autumn and spring, before and after the snowy seasons, in order to avoid the expensive buildup of ice dams that can lead to grave structural damage to your house.
If your roof has exposed fasteners, make sure that these are tight and secure and that their washers, which sit over the fasteners to prevent leakage, have not eroded to a point of letting moisture in. Also look at all penetrations points such as chimneys, skylights, and solar panels for signs of wear that could lead to leakage.
Choosing the Best Metal Roofing for Your Home
