What Is Metal Roofing? Benefits of Installing Steel Metal Roofs

 Metal roofing is composed of metal pieces or tiles characterized by high resistance, impermeability, and longevity. Metal can be used as a roof covering in different ways. The main forms are based on sheet-like panels, which may be flat or profiled, and either prefabricated, or formed on-site, but metal can also be used to create shingles – formed into shapes similar to tiles, shakes, or slates. Metal roofing is a popular option as they come with great insulating properties. Metal roofing provides many advantages, including the ability to withstand nearly any type of weather condition. Metal roofing comes in many different colors and finishes including the look of natural cedar shakes or stone. It has greater fire resistance and the ability to withstand a storm without damage. Metal roofing components include metal coils and sheets, panels which are roll-formed pieces of a metal coil that can even be shaped into the desired profile.

Longer life span, improved energy efficiency, and reduced environmental impact are just a few of the key benefits homeowners consider when choosing a metal roof. The initial cost is often more than a traditional asphalt roof; however, that cost is more than offset by its increased lifespan. Metal roofs can last 40 to 60 years saving significant money (and the hassle of replacement) over the long term. Besides longevity metal roofing typically uses a reflective solar coating designed to minimize heat buildup and reduce air conditioning costs. If all of that isn't enough, metal weighs less and installs more quickly than traditional shingle products. And for homeowners tired of constant asphalt shingle replacement, metal can often be installed over existing shingles which saves the cost/labor of shingle tear off as well as disposal/landfill fees.  

Looks: There’s a reason you spend time mowing the lawn, cleaning up the flowerbeds, or repainting the house every ten years. You want your home to look as good as it can be. Considering it is the largest uninterrupted area of the home, the roof plays a large role in that curb appeal. When you first think of a roof, composite shingles are probably the first thing that comes to mind. This makes sense – house after house after house uses the material. Which in turn means that every roof looks relatively similar. With metal roofing and the variety of profiles or aluminum shingles available, your home will have an immediate upgrade.

Improved Fire Protection: Metal is the most fire-resistant roofing material due to being noncombustible. During a storm or wildfire, a metal roof is not at risk of catching fire. If you live in an area prone to fires or lightning storms, a metal roof should be considered. They add safety and security to your home and provide protection for you and your family.

Longevity: Location may be everything when it comes to real estate, but longevity is king when it comes to roofing installations. High-grade Composite shingles are made to last 12 – 25 years or so, and some other roofing materials can be in place for more than 50 years. Aluminum roofing is made to last upwards of a century! As composite shingles have reached the end of their lifespan, metal roofing will still look the same as it did when first installed. Aluminum won’t rust, chip, or crack. It’s fire-resistant, can stand up to high winds (up to 165 mph), and repels any moss or algae growth. The low-maintenance material means servicing the roof can be as simple as hosing it off every six months. Building a forever home? Why not use a forever material?

Versatility: With standing seam, cedar shake, slate profiles, and aluminum shingles, there is a metal roof for every type of architecture, from farmhouse to Victorian to modern. There are hundreds of colors and a variety of paint finishes to choose from, which means there’s a metal roof for everyone. From the vibrant terra cotta red to the muted Vermont slate, you can choose your roof to match your home – no matter the home. Thinking of remodeling your home, but the roof is still in good condition? Aluminum roofing can be installed over many types of existing roofs. Because it’s so light, additional structure support is rarely needed. Coming in as 42 pounds per 100 square feet, almost any existing roof will have the strength to carry a layer of aluminum roofing. This means no need for engineers or worrying about the structure is up to code.

Martin Contracting, LLC

Pittsburg