(317) 864-6193Every home needs a sturdy and efficient residential roofing system to make your property safe and comfortable – during the blazing summertime or the cold, frosty season. Metal roofing has become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners all over the globe due to its snazzy look and top-notch performance. In this article, we will take a close look at metal roofing, including its different types and important features, and share tips to help you make the most of your roof replacement project.
Metal Roof Materials
A metal roof can be produced from a broad range of materials, including aluminum, steel, copper and zinc alloys. Each one of these has distinct characteristics that influence aesthetic appeal, price and durability. Here is a brief guide:
Steel roofing: Most metal roofing is made from steel. It is usually stronger and heavier than its aluminum counterpart. If you are in the market for steel roofing, check out its gauge to get a grasp of its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. G-60 and G-90 are the two common gauges of steel roofing. The latter is thinner and less expensive, and is normally used for low-end corrugated and ribbed metal roofing panels.
Aluminum: A lightweight and relatively soft metal, aluminum is more prone to denting and damage than steel. However, if the finish is compromised, it will not rust or corrode the way steel can. That said, aluminum roofing is often a better roof replacement option in coastal areas where moisture is notably higher than inland areas.
Copper: Copper metal roofing has been used for many centuries. Copper creates a stunning roof on a high-end home. It will not rust and is soft enough to easily tool. It also does not require a finish that can be scratched or peeled over time and weathers naturally to a beautiful verdigris patina. A copper roof can last hundreds of years and is likely to outlive the building it covers.
Alloy: Alloy roofing products are constructed for strength, durability and graceful weathering. Alloys are among the more refined and expensive metal roofing materials in the market. The cost of an alloy roof depends on the specific material, but generally starts at about $1,800 per square (100 square feet) for labor and materials.
What to Look for in a Metal Roof
Scouting for the appropriate metal roofing for your home is not exactly a walk in the park. If you want to update the appearance and performance of your roof, and have decided to pick metal as the material, you need to consider a few things and evaluate certain features to find the right one.
Here is a list of top things to look for in a metal roof:
- “Self-cleaning” valleys: It may not be easily noticeable, but a large amount of debris ends up collecting on your roof from time to time. As things like tree leaves, seed pods, pine needles, bird droppings, ice and snow glide down your roof, they wind up in any valleys your roof may have. Many metal roofing systems have “closed” valley systems with hidden canals to funnel water off the roof. These hidden canals or waterways, however, will clog up with litter and debris and then block the pathway, resulting in some terrible news – leaks! Opting for “self-cleaning” valleys will greatly reduce the chances of a clogged roof.
- Premium certified products: The Quality Certification Program, which was developed by the The Metal Construction Association (MCA), aims to recognize products and manufacturers that meet high and strict standards in terms of raw materials and processes. It is strongly recommended by a professional roofing contractor to consider products and manufacturing companies that are included in this program to ensure a high-quality and durable metal roofing system for your home.
- Special flashing: Many areas of a roof require special care and attention. With metal roofing, you cannot simply depend on standard sealants to protect your metal roof like they can traditional roofing materials. If you are planning to incorporate dead valleys, skylights, chimneys, flared gables or other equipment, make sure that you fully understand how these will be handled by your contractor to avoid dealing with bigger and more costly problems down the road.
- Ventilation: Every single home can benefit from proper ventilation in the attic. Having consistently adequate ventilation will keep your interior space cool and fresh in the summer season and warm and dry in the winter. It can also prevent the formation of ice dams while ensuring that your insulation is performing soundly in the colder months. Moreover, increased airflow can help avoid rot and mold growth in your house. Re-roofing is a good time to address issues with your home’s ventilation system. Fortunately, a professional roofing contractor can expertly advise and guide you through this process.
- Warranties: Make sure you know exactly what warranties you will be receiving before signing any legally binding contractor. You should receive warranties that cover the installation workmanship and the product as well as the integrity of the raw materials that go into the product.
How to Maximize a Metal Roof Replacement
It is exciting to have a wide array of products at your disposal. However, it can also make finding the best metal roofing for your house a bit difficult and time consuming. Here are the top tips to help you ease the hunting process.
- Consider your roofing design. If you have a rough idea of how you would like your new roof to appear, a certified roofing specialist can help you bring your vision to life. You can choose from numerous eye-popping designs, such as standing seam metal roof panels and corrugated metal roofing panels. There is also an assortment of paints and finishes that can be a lovely addition to your roof replacement.
- Identify the environment. Metal is one of the most durable and weather-resistant roofing materials out there. It can hold up against high moisture levels, strong winds and extreme exposure to sunlight. A metal roofing can also perform well in mild conditions. However, if you live near a coastal area, make sure to consult your contractor to determine which metal roofing type is best for your situation, including all factors like style and budget.
- Get a roof that is sustainable. Because of its strength and durability, metal is regarded as one of the most eco-friendly roofing options for home and building owners. You can easily recycle used metal panels and utilize them in a different building project. In fact, some metal sheets and coils consist of materials that were previously recycled. Moreover, metal roofing has the highest Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) which can help you save big on energy bills in the future.
Contact Us for Top-Rated Roof Repair and Installation Services Today
Upgrade the look and feel of your home with a high-quality and high-performance metal roofing system. Rojas Roofing – a premier source of residential roofing solutions in and around Noblesville, IN – is here to help you. You can trust us to provide you with a smooth and stress-free experience, from installation to repair to maintenance. Our staff is committed to providing top-grade products and services and going above and beyond to ensure a safe and comfortable home for our customers.
If you are ready to transform your home, call us at (317) 864-6193, or fill out our contact form to request an appointment today. We look forward to working with you!