Metal roofs are a popular roofing material for both residences and businesses alike. They offer a range of benefits, such as durability, energy efficiency, fire resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Let’s dive deeply into metal roofs.
What is a Metal Roof?
A metal roof is a broad term for roofs primarily made of steel, copper, aluminum, zinc, and alloys. They are available in different styles, such as sheets, panels, shingles, and tiles.
Aluminium Roofs
Aluminum roofs are an excellent choice for roofing materials due to their lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and recyclability. It makes them a suitable choice for different types of climates and environments.
The lightweight nature of aluminum roofs means you can install them without burdening the structure. They are durable and eco-friendly roofs that can be easily recycled. These roofs are also corrosion-resistant, making them a perfect choice for coastal areas with heavy rainfall and salt exposure, such as Florida. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and are a cost-effective roofing solution.
Steel Roofs
Steel is one of the most common materials used for metal roofing. You can select it in different gauzes according to your requirements. Galvanized steel roofs have a zinc coating, giving them more corrosion resistance and a better appearance.
Steel roofs are affordable metal roofing options. They require little maintenance and can easily withstand extreme weather conditions.
Copper Roofs
Copper roofs are known for their aesthetic appeal and longevity. They last over 100 years, and many famous historical buildings worldwide have copper roofs. These roofs are expensive, but the beautiful and unique patina they develop over time and their durable nature make them a coveted roofing material.
Copper, unlike steel, does not rust and is highly resistant to corrosion, fire, hail damage, and mildew. They are lightweight, which reduces the burden on the structure.
Different Styles of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are available in different panel styles that you can choose according to your needs and budget. Some of the popular types of metal roofs are listed here.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing is a popular roofing style. This roofing style has raised seams that rise above the flat panels and uses concealed fasteners. It gives the roof a sleek and modern appearance. The concealed fasteners also enhance the roof’s durability by protecting them from extreme weather conditions. They are customizable and durable, high-quality, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient roofing style.
Corrugated Metal Roofing
Corrugated metal roofing is instantly recognizable due to its distinct wavy patterns. The galvanized steel is hot-dipped, after which it is cold-rolled to give it the grooved pattern. The process of galvanization and corrugation enhances the strength of the material and makes it more resistant to rust.
These panels are easy to install on the roof with screws. They are lightweight and cost-effective materials for roofing.
Metal Shingles or Shakes
Metal shingles or shakes style of roof mimics the appearance of traditional roofing materials such as clay shingles. They give a classic appearance while adding the advantages a metal roof brings. It is also an economical roofing option.
Metal shingles are resistant to fires and extreme weather conditions. It also enhances the curb appeal of your building.
Metal Tiles
Natural stones such as slate are elegant roofing materials but are expensive. They are also cumbersome, which might require you to add reinforcement to the roof. Metal tiles are an affordable option to get the rustic look of a tiled roof as they imitate the look of clay or concrete tiles. It is a lightweight, durable, and aesthetically pleasing choice. Since metal roofs are recyclable, they are eco-friendly as well. These rooms are also able to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Advantages of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs bring many advantages compared to traditional roofing materials. Some of the main benefits of choosing metal roofs are listed below.
Durability
Metal roofs are known for their longevity. They can withstand extreme weather like heavy rainfall, strong winds, and hail better than many other roofing materials. Their qualities, such as resistance to rust, corrosion, and mildew, further add to their durability.
Unlike tiles or shingles, metal roofs are less likely to crack or break apart. With professional installation and proper maintenance, these roofs can last long.
Energy Efficient
Metal roofs can reflect solar radiation, making the house’s interior cooler. Proper insulation and coatings, such as acrylic or elastomeric coating, can help reduce the cooling cost during the hot seasons. For a state like Florida, known for its tropical climate, these roofs are a sustainable way of reducing the overall energy consumption of the building.
Eco-Friendly
Metal roofs can be recycled entirely at the end of their lifespan, making them a sustainable roofing option. Most metal roofs can often contain a significant amount of recycled materials. Also, the energy-efficient nature of metal roofs and their reduced environmental impact make this an eco-friendly construction material.
Things to Consider While Installing Metal Roofs
Metal roofs offer various advantages over traditional roofing materials. However, it is essential to consider these critical points before you choose your metal roof.
Cost
Compared to traditional shingles, metal roofs are more expensive upfront. Although cheaper in the long run as they require less maintenance and are more durable, consider your budget before choosing metal roofs.
Climatic Condition
Consider the climatic condition of your area before you select a metal roof. Metal roofs are available in various materials and styles. Choose a material that is suitable for your area. They must withstand high heat, heavy rain, strong winds, and corrosion.
Weight
Metal roofs are heavy. Before installation, ensuring that the structure can support the added weight is crucial. You must check with professional roofers experienced in installing metal roofs so that you can make an informed decision.
Noise
Metal roofs can be noisy during rain or hailstorms. Therefore, installing metal roofs properly and using underlayment and insulation is vital to eliminate this issue.
Metal roofs are durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance roofs. They are available in various materials and styles that suit different budgets and specifications. When installed by trained roofing professionals, they provide long-lasting protection and increase your property’s aesthetic appearance and value.
Whether you are looking for a metal roof for your residential or commercial property in Florida, ProFormance Roofing can be your one-stop solution. We are the 6th-ranked construction company in Florida, serving Orlando, Tampa, Port Saint Lucie, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, and Winter Garden. Our technicians have years of experience installing and maintaining metal roofs. Fill out the contact form or call us at 1-407-753-1342 24/7 for a free quote to fulfill your roofing needs.