Erie Metal Roof is becoming more popular with homeowners as they recognize its energy efficiency, durability, and longevity. But before you invest in a new metal roof, here are four things to consider.
Although steel and aluminum are better able to resist corrosion than other metal types, regular maintenance is still important to prevent damage.
The durability of metal roofs makes them an excellent choice for areas prone to severe weather. Their exceptional wind resistance means they can withstand up to 140 miles per hour, significantly higher than the wind speed required to damage shingles or other roofing types. This level of durability also helps protect the structure of your property and can even reduce homeowner’s insurance premiums.
Another benefit of metal roofing is its energy efficiency. Its ability to reflect heat from the sun keeps your home cool in summer and warm in winter, which lowers energy costs. Additionally, its fire resistant properties make it a safer option for homes in wildfire zones.
Unlike most other roofing materials, metal roofs can be painted to match the color or theme of your home. This flexibility can save you money if you ever plan to remodel your house or business. It also lets you update your exterior without having to worry about replacing your roof.
The durability of metal roofs is largely determined by how well they are installed and maintained, as well as the type of environment and typical weather conditions. Regular maintenance and inspections can extend the lifespan of a metal roof by decades, as they can prevent corrosion, denting, fading, expansion, contraction, and other issues.
A frequent issue with metal roofs is oil canning, a wavy or rippling appearance that can appear in flat areas of the panels. This can be caused by improper handling, installation, or thermal expansion. Incorporating experienced professionals into the project can help minimize this problem and ensure that your metal roof lasts for years to come.
Other common problems with metal roofs include rusting and corrosion, expansion or contraction, and loose fasteners. Proper installation techniques can prevent these issues by ensuring that the panels are securely attached and sealed. In addition, the use of paints enriched with polyvinylidene fluoride can help shield the metal surface from corrosion. Additionally, maintaining proper attic ventilation can mitigate moisture buildup that accelerates corrosion in softer metals. Loose or damaged fasteners can shift during strong winds or storms, compromising the integrity of the entire roof system and causing leaks and structural damage to the building.
Corrosion resistance
The main concern for many homeowners who are considering a metal roof is the potential for corrosion. Although it is true that metal roofing will corrode eventually, this can be mitigated through the use of high-quality materials and proper installation.
In addition, most metal roofs are protected with a coating that helps to shield the structure from the elements. This is particularly important in coastal areas, where salt spray can cause a significant amount of damage to a roof.
When choosing a metal roof, you should look for a galvanized or galvalume substrate that has been treated with a corrosion resistant coating. These coatings will significantly increase the life of your metal roof. It is important to note that not all galvanized or galvalume substrates are created equal, so it is crucial that you choose a product that has been coated with either AZ50 or AZ55 corrosion resistant material. This means that the substrate has 66% more zinc alloy than other products on the market and will protect your roof better for longer.
A metal roof can also benefit from the addition of an underlayment. This is a layer of insulation that is placed between the deck and the metal panels. This will prevent water from seeping through seams and fasteners, which can accelerate corrosion. It will also help to prevent water from pooling on the surface of the roof, which can cause it to rust more quickly.
It is also a good idea to install a ridge vent to help with air circulation and moisture control. A well-ventilated roof is less likely to experience problems with moss and mildew growth, which can shorten the lifespan of your metal roof.
Another consideration is the color of your metal roof. Steel roofs are usually made from iron, which can rust if not properly protected. To avoid rust, steel roofs should be covered with a zinc or aluminum coating. Stainless steel, on the other hand, doesn’t rust because it contains chromium.
Finally, it is a good idea to invest in a metal roof with concealed fasteners. This will protect against leaks and improve the aesthetic of your home. In addition, most manufacturers of metal roofing will offer a warranty that covers corrosion for as long as you own your home. This is a great way to ensure that you get the most out of your investment.
Aesthetics
In addition to durability and energy efficiency, metal roofs offer stunning aesthetics, making them an appealing option for homeowners looking to upgrade their homes or build new construction projects. From sleek and modern to rustic charm, metal roofs come in a variety of styles, colors and finishes to meet any aesthetic preference.
The wide range of color options available for metal roofs offers homeowners an opportunity to select a hue that complements the surrounding landscape, enhancing the home’s architectural character. In addition, some color options are designed with energy efficiency in mind, reflecting sunlight and reducing cooling costs during warmer months.
Metal roofs can also be designed with varying textures, adding dimension and visual appeal to the structure. For example, ribbed or corrugated panels provide a classic metal roof look, while standing seam metal roofs offer a clean and contemporary design. Textured coatings can also be used to mimic the appearance of other roofing materials, ranging from wood and slate to tile.
Additionally, metal roofs can be designed to integrate with other building materials, such as stone and wood siding. This can add visual interest to a home or commercial building, while also highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating a quality metal roof.
Choosing the perfect metal roof color is important, as it will play an essential role in defining the overall character of the structure. For example, a dark gray or black roof can create a sleek and sophisticated look that is well-suited for contemporary homes, while a natural forest green shade blends seamlessly with wooded or rural surroundings. A white metal roof, on the other hand, is a popular choice for those who want to reduce their cooling costs by reflecting sunlight during the warmer months.
In addition, the color of a metal roof can be modified by using specialized paints and coatings that are designed to improve a roof’s durability and appearance for decades. These technologies can also be applied to enhance the structural integrity of a metal roof, further increasing its longevity and value.
Maintenance
A metal roof is a big investment, and like all investments it needs to be properly maintained. This can be done by a roofing contractor or you can do it yourself as long as you follow safety precautions. Regular maintenance can prevent costly issues from arising in the future, and it will help your roof look its best.
Some of the maintenance tasks a homeowner can perform themselves include cleaning and surface inspections. This will ensure that the metal roof looks its best and removes any dirt or debris that may be stuck on the surface. Homeowners should also be sure to inspect for any dents or dimples that might indicate damage caused by hail, falling branches, or other sources of stress.
Another general maintenance task is to check the sealants around pipes and other roof penetrations to make sure they are still in good condition. If the sealant is deteriorating, it will need to be replaced to keep water and other substances from getting into small spaces that could cause leaks or rust over time.
Leaks should always be addressed promptly to avoid expensive repairs and other structural problems, especially if they are found in attic or interior rooms. This is especially important for homes or buildings in climates that experience extreme weather conditions, where leaks can occur more frequently.
Other maintenance tasks can be performed to extend the lifespan of a metal roof, such as removing debris from valleys or other areas with low slopes or horizontal planes. Homeowners should also be sure to check and clean their gutters, as clogged gutters can lead to water build-up on the metal roof, which can rust or stain it over time.
If a homeowner has a screw down metal roof, they should be sure to have the roofing contractor come out and replace all of the screws every five to ten years, as failing to do so can result in leaks from the exposed fasteners. Finally, homeowners should be sure to trim any limbs that hang over the roof, as they can cause scratches and other damage when they rub against the metal roof.